Mauritius cruises, Mauritius

Embark on a scenic drive to the east of the island, where you will join a small speed boat for a short transfer to your catamaran.

Relax and marvel at the beautiful scenery as you sail along the picturesque coastline. A stop will be made where you’ll have the opportunity to take a swim, try your hand at a spot of snorkelling or remain onboard to soak up the sun.

Back onboard the catamaran, you’ll be able to feel the fresh sea air as you skim over the glistening turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Soft drinks will be served on board and beer or rum will be available on the return sail.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat, bus or minibus and on foot. The scenic journey to the catamaran takes approximately 1 hour each way. There is a 5 minute walk to the boat jetty. Passengers must be able to negotiate steps into the transfer boat and catamaran. Snorkel equipment is included. All participants must be competent swimmers. Children under 8 may not participate. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. For safety reasons, passengers will be divided into 2 groups for the snorkel activity, with 1 group in the water at a time. Please refrain from drinking alcohol prior to swimming. Comfortable, flat, shoes are recommended.

Your tour begins with a drive to Moka, where you’ll visit the 19th century Eureka Colonial House, one of the oldest colonial houses on the island. Enjoy a guided tour of the house with its authentic antique furniture, which provides an interesting glimpse into colonial living. After exploring the house and admiring the peaceful garden, you can relax on the terrace with refreshments of a soft drink and local snacks.

Proceed uphill to La Citadelle, (initially an English fortress), to admire the panoramic views over Port Louis and the harbour. Heading further north, you’ll arrive at the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens where your guide will take you on an interesting visit of the gardens. The gardens are reputed for their extensive collection of tropical and indigenous plants, and most commonly known for the ineluctable giant Victoria Regina water lilies, spice garden and the Talipot Palm which flowers once every 60 years before dying. Many trees have been planted by world leaders and royalty, including Princess Margaret, Indira Gandhi and Robert Mugabe.

Following a leisurely stroll around the gardens, a short drive will bring you to L’Aventure du Sucre Museum. This fascinating museum traces Mauritian history back to the 18th century when the islands main commodity was sugar, which was lusted after as much as gold! Sugar has enjoyed an extraordinary existence, leaving a profound impression on the history and identity of Mauritius.

Afterwards, a short stop will be made at Grand Baie to allow you to purchase a souvenir of your visit. Before returning to Port Louis, there will be a photograph stop at Cap Malheureux, which is one of the most picture postcard spots of the north coast.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus. There is around 45 minutes of leisurely walking at the gardens over some uneven terrain including gravel, tree roots and grass. There are steps at each venue. The first floor of L’Aventure du Sucre involves numerous steps, however you can choose to remain on the ground floor and it also dimly lit and extra care should be taken. The venues are not wheelchair accessible. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended.

Soak up the spectacular scenery of Mauritius as you discover the delights that the southern part of the island has to offer. The highlights include Trou aux Cerfs crater, Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges Viewpoint and Chamarel.

The Trou aux Cerfs crater is formed from a dormant volcano. Its position on the central plateau of the island provides a panoramic vista over the rest of the island.

The Grand Bassin is considered a sacred lake for the Hindu community, nestling in a volcanic crater and interesting for both its beauty and legend. It is said that the water in the lake communicates with the Ganges in India, making it a site for pilgrimage for Mauritian Hindus.

At the Black River Gorges Viewpoint, marvel at the breathtaking views over Mauritius’ deepest gorge. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in a beautiful setting close to the gorges.

At Chamarel, there will be a stop to take photos of the beautiful cascading Chamarel Waterfall before visiting the unusual 7 coloured earths. The soil’s colourful hues of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow never erode in spite of torrential downpours and adverse climatic conditions.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. All sites are situated within a 5 minute walk of the bus – the walking at each site is up to the individual. There are around 60 steps to negotiate to reach the lunch venue. Euros, US Dollars and credit cards are accepted at most places.