Sailing leisurely through the lagoon on the one and a half hour voyage along the east coast of Mauritius is a delightful experience.
The 42 foot long catamaran operated by a variety of cruise companies leaves the jetty at Pointe d'Esny at Mahebourg at 9.30am daily with up to 30 passengers making use of the expansive deck space for sunbathing.
You enjoy the tranquil scenery where villages nestle under towering peaks and small fishing boats cross your route through the translucent sea. Your destination is L'ile aux Cerfs, the largest of a group of islands half way down the east coast which, for many years, was a haven for seabirds, deer and turtles.
You wade ashore and select either your own secluded spot in one of the bays for a swim or take one of the woodland paths to explore some of the 700 acres of natural forest.
Lunch is served aboard the catamaran at 1pm. It is a splendid feast of salads, venison, fish, cheeses and fruit complemented with wine and an unlimited supply of cold beer and fruit drinks.
When it is time to leave the catamaran noses its way through the mangrove waterway towards the blue water of the lagoon. Sails are raised and the return journey is completed by 5pm.
Some of the larger hotels have their own catamarans and will arrange excursions at the hotel. These also tour the east coast and make L'ile aux Cerfs their destination. Other cruises start at Grand Baie and tour the islands off the northern coast including L'ile Gabriel. All cruises follow the same pattern with opportunities to swim and snorkel, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch or barbecue.
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