Northern Isles Adventure Cruise

Full-day cruise with lunch and refreshments

Travel in comfort to the magnificent Northern Isles aboard one of our brand new and stunningly beautiful catamarans (Wind Dancer 1 or Wind Dancer 2) with a chance to encounter dolphins and whales on this highly informative and unforgettable adventure cruise.

A major highlight of the voyage is the spectacular scenery of Gunner’s Quoin and Flat Island, with high sea-cliffs towering into the sky which serve as nesting grounds to large colonies of tropicbirds that are seen soaring and gliding by. Built on Flat Island’s highest point is a historical white lighthouse which is still a beacon for fishermen and other seafarers entering Mauritian waters from the north. In the distance, the highly distinctive shapes and colours of Round Island and Snakes Island beckon. The northern isles are precious remnants of Mauritius’ former natural state and important refuges for the country’s rare and endangered species – many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

After approximately one hour of easy cruising you will discover the magic of Gabriel Island, Mauritius’ very own island getaway and a Government-declared Nature Reserve featuring a pristine white sandy beach, crystal clear waters, a beautiful coral garden, a rich birdlife, spectacular coastal scenery, and a casual atmosphere.

On the Island you will have your own private dining table, shaded and overlooking the sea. There is an open bar, and a delicious BBQ lunch is served at 12 noon. You also have access to a range of exciting activities, including a highly recommended 45-minute hike that circles the island along a well-marked coastal trail; this trail is layered with stunning viewpoints from which you will be able to observe the spectacular aerobatics of the graceful Tropic birds – don’t forget your camera! You can also snorkel or kayak in the lovely lagoon, treat yourself to a beach-side massage, or simply laze in the sun on the beautiful sandbar that Gabriel Island is best known for.

If you are interested in a visit of Flat Island – another popular hiking destination – we will be happy to take you there in our motorized dinghy and pick you up at the time of your choosing. You may also ask for our guide to lead you to some of the most spectacular viewpoints.

On the return journey to Grand Bay, we make a stopover at Gunner's Quoin and its natural aquarium where you get to swim and snorkel among a multitude of colourful reef fish.

Whether you are looking for adventure or leisure, our aim is to make this the best day of your life!

Notes:

(1) We are the only company offering meals, refreshments and activities on Gabriel Island. All island activities and facilities (including dining tables and open bar) are for your exclusive enjoyment.

(2) This cruise is also available as a private charter and can be customized to your wishes.

Schedule:

Every day – 09h00 to 17h00

Itinerary:

08h45	Arrive at the Grand Bay Public Beach for registration
09h00	Boarding and pre-departure briefing by your Captain
09h15	Guided cruise to the Northern Isles – Sail past Fort Malarctic, Cap Malheureux and other important historical sites, the high sea cliffs of Gunner’s Quoin and Flat Island’s lighthouse
10h30	Arrive at Gabriel Island where you will be briefed on all the facilities and activities at your disposal. Included in your package: Your own private thatch-roofed, ocean-facing dining table Open bar serving unlimited drinks all day (wine, beer, rum, punch, soft drinks, mineral water) 45-minute guided exploration hike of Gabriel Island along a well-marked coastal trail with spectacular vistas – you can also choose to go on your own. Water sports (swimming, snorkeling and kayaking) Optional activities: Beach-side massage by a professional therapist Exploration hike of Flat Island just across the lagoon
12h30	Lunch: BBQ Buffet on Gabriel Island
15h00	Boarding – Sail to Gunner’s Quoin
15h45	Arrive at Gunner’s Quoin for swimming and snorkeling in a wonderful natural aquarium
16h30	Boarding - sail to Grand Bay
17h00	Arrive at the Grand Bay Public Beach

Rates:

Adult	50 €
Child (2-10 yrs)	25 €
Baby (<2 yrs)	Free

Note: Group rates are also available

Optional activities:

1) Beach-side massage by a professional therapist

Foot massage or back massage: 12.50 € (500 Rs) / 15 minutes or 25 € (1,000 Rs) / 30 minutes
Full-body massage: 25 € (1,000 Rs) / 30 minutes or 35 € / 1,500 Rs) / 45 minutes

Receive a 10% discount on those fees if you pre-book your massage.

2) Exploration hike of Flat Island

Flat Island, just a short boat ride (5 min) across the lagoon from Gabriel Island, is also home to a large breeding colony of tropicbirds and classified as a Nature Reserve to ensure the protection of its many unique species. The one-hour hike to the island's well-preserved historical lighthouse is well-worth the effort for any keen photographer as it offers spectacular viewpoints of the entire northern region of Mauritius!

Entry fee: 3 € or 115 Rs (paid on arrival on Flat Island)

We provide a guide free of charge if you so choose.

What to bring:

We recommend a soft carry bag, sand shoes, sun screen, a hat, a towel, swimsuit, change of clothes, a camera, binoculars, and cash for optional activities.