Some of these journeys leave a lasting impression on their participants, often for the simple reason that they offer a gateway to the hidden treasures of a given place. When visiting Mauritius, please consider visiting the northern islands of Mauritius by catamaran. This exceptional trip is full of mystery, wonder and unsuspected wonders, ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts, nature lovers and snorkeling aficionados.
En route to the northern islands of Mauritius
As a rule, most of Mauritius’s northern islands are surrounded by nature reserves and remain uninhabited, with the exception of Gabriel Islet and Plate Island.
Ile Plate, a veritable miniature Garden of Eden, is a haven of peace bordered by a turquoise lagoon and lush tropical flora. From the top of the lighthouse, a panorama of the five northern islands literally takes your breath away.
Islet Gabriel also offers fabulous diving and snorkeling opportunities. This natural sanctuary boasts basalt beaches and vertigo-inducing water vantage points. You don’t come here without your mask and snorkel. Diving in this reserve is like immersing yourself in a giant aquarium, surrounded by multicolored coral and tropical fish – a veritable paradise!
Last but not least, we must mention the Coin de Mire, probably our favorite spot in the north of Mauritius. Wilder and less accessible, it’s a haven for birdwatchers thanks to its abundant birdlife, including the prestigious paille-en-queue.
Without further ado, let’s climb aboard the catamaran!
For this adventure to discover the northern islands of Mauritius, we strongly advise you to opt for a trip on a catamaran, which we believe is one of the most popular means of transport in the Indian Ocean. This gives you a privileged view of the islands from the sea, and allows you to land just like the daring pioneers of yesteryear. The excursion starts in Grand-Baie, where you take your place aboard a spacious catamaran and let the sea breeze carry you across the majestic expanse of the Indian Ocean.
After an hour’s crossing, amidst tuna, stingrays and, if you’re lucky, whales, you’ll land on the Coin de Mire, characterized by its striking relief. Although access is restricted by environmental regulations, it is possible to circumnavigate the island by boat, bringing you up close and personal with a veritable aquatic Eden.
Finally, from the deck of our catamaran, we invite you to take a step towards the unforgettable Gabriel and Plate islands. Enjoy a traditional Mauritian meal on board, featuring grilled meats and fish and a variety of exotic salads. Don’t forget to raise your eyes to the sky or scan the water – who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of turtles, dolphins or other extraordinary seabirds.
