Set sail from Grand Baie for a full‑day catamaran cruise that lands on Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel and snorkels the famed natural aquarium at Coin de Mire. Expect calm lagoons, included lunch and guided snorkeling stops ideal for swimmers of basic ability.
Set sail from Grand Baie for a full‑day catamaran cruise that lands on Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel and snorkels the famed natural aquarium at Coin de Mire. Expect calm lagoons, included lunch and guided snorkeling stops ideal for swimmers of basic ability.
You push off from Grand Baie as the catamaran trims her sails and the northern coast of Mauritius recedes into bands of turquoise and deep blue. Salt spray and wind set the pace; islands appear as low, bright blots on the horizon — Ile Plate’s pale sand, Ilot Gabriel’s scrubby crest and the jagged outline of Coin de Mire, the natural aquarium the crew calls the best snorkeling in these waters.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Vacances Oh Soleil · Grand Baie, Rivière du Rempart
You push off from Grand Baie as the catamaran trims her sails and the northern coast of Mauritius recedes into bands of turquoise and deep blue. Salt spray and wind set the pace; islands appear as low, bright blots on the horizon — Ile Plate’s pale sand, Ilot Gabriel’s scrubby crest and the jagged outline of Coin de Mire, the natural aquarium the crew calls the best snorkeling in these waters.
Geology here is simple and bold: volcanic rock underlies a living coral rim, creating shallow lagoons that host dense reef communities. The islands carry maritime history — waypoints for 18th‑ and 19th‑century sailors — and local Creole fishing culture still shapes rhythms: small boats, seasonal catches, and storied lunch recipes served onboard. Expect clear water, patch reefs, and high visibility in calm conditions; currents can tighten around points and channels.
Practically, this is a relaxed, full‑day sail (about seven hours) with scheduled stops for shore time on Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel and two dedicated snorkeling windows near Coin de Mire. Lunch and drinks are included, and the operator tends to all logistics: masks, briefing, and guided swim zones. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a well‑fitting mask, a light wind layer for the crossing and a dry bag for valuables. If you’re comfortable in shallow reef environments and can swim, the trip delivers straightforward snorkeling and gentle exploration of Mauritius’s northern marine life.
Timing matters: morning seas are usually calmer for the best visibility, and low wind days make the catamaran a comfortable platform for longer swims. Respect the reef, listen to guides, and you’ll leave with clear photos and a day of island‑hopping memories.
Most catamarans depart from Grand Baie (north coast); the full‑day cruise returns to the same harbor by late afternoon.
Operators typically provide masks and snorkels, but many guests bring their own fitted masks for comfort and better seals.
No — basic swimming confidence suffices. Guides supervise swim zones and often mark shallow, sheltered areas for snorkeling.
This tour generally allows a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; check your booking confirmation for exact terms.
Vacances Oh Soleil operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You push off from Grand Baie as the catamaran trims her sails and the northern coast of Mauritius recedes into bands of turquoise and deep blue. Salt spray and wind set the pace; islands appear as low, bright blots on the horizon — Ile Plate’s pale sand, Ilot Gabriel’s scrubby crest and the jagged outline of Coin de Mire, the natural aquarium the crew calls the best snorkeling in these waters.
You push off from Grand Baie as the catamaran trims her sails and the northern coast of Mauritius recedes into bands of turquoise and deep blue. Salt spray and wind set the pace; islands appear as low, bright blots on the horizon — Ile Plate’s pale sand, Ilot Gabriel’s scrubby crest and the jagged outline of Coin de Mire, the natural aquarium the crew calls the best snorkeling in these waters.
Geology here is simple and bold: volcanic rock underlies a living coral rim, creating shallow lagoons that host dense reef communities. The islands carry maritime history — waypoints for 18th‑ and 19th‑century sailors — and local Creole fishing culture still shapes rhythms: small boats, seasonal catches, and storied lunch recipes served onboard. Expect clear water, patch reefs, and high visibility in calm conditions; currents can tighten around points and channels.
Practically, this is a relaxed, full‑day sail (about seven hours) with scheduled stops for shore time on Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel and two dedicated snorkeling windows near Coin de Mire. Lunch and drinks are included, and the operator tends to all logistics: masks, briefing, and guided swim zones. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a well‑fitting mask, a light wind layer for the crossing and a dry bag for valuables. If you’re comfortable in shallow reef environments and can swim, the trip delivers straightforward snorkeling and gentle exploration of Mauritius’s northern marine life.
Timing matters: morning seas are usually calmer for the best visibility, and low wind days make the catamaran a comfortable platform for longer swims. Respect the reef, listen to guides, and you’ll leave with clear photos and a day of island‑hopping memories.