Catamaran adventure in Mauritius: the best moments of the year
Mauritius is a dream destination. Many people choose to spend their holidays here and have been doing so for quite a few years now. If you’re one of them and you’re thinking of taking a catamaran trip to Mauritius, it’s important to know the best time of the year to guarantee the best possible experience.
I. Mauritius: A Paradise for Catamaran Lovers
Why do people say that Mauritius is the ideal spot for catamaran outings? To find out, just look at the location of this island in the Indian Ocean. It is surrounded by a multitude of islets, all accessible by boat. It’s worth noting that some of them are classified as ‘nature reserves’, and therefore off-limits to visitors, but it’s still possible to sail close to them, like Coin de Mire. The most popular cruise in the north of Mauritius includes a diversion to this ancient basalt volcanic cone. Tourists are then taken to Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel. The islands to the east (Ile aux Cerfs), south-east (Ile Aux Aigrettes) and west (Ile aux Bénitiers) are also popular.
If you’re wondering what to do on a catamaran on this idyllic island, you’ll be amazed at the choices available. Whether you fancy swimming with dolphins or snorkelling, you’ll be more than happy. There are also a range of water sports available on the beaches, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, water-skiing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Yes, board sports are also on the programme.
II. Seasons in Mauritius
Summer (November to April)
Unlike European countries, there are only two seasons in Mauritius: summer and winter. Catamaran trips in Mauritius are best taken in summer, which normally starts in November and ends in April. The temperature varies between 27°C and 33°C. It can even reach 38°C in the hottest months. You’ll have the chance to visit the above-mentioned islands while sunbathing from the comfort of your boat. What’s more, it’s the perfect time of year to watch the sun set during a boat trip. Sea fishing is another activity you can enjoy. Marine life is abundant in summer.
It’s important to point out that the summer season means high levels of humidity across the island, but rest assured that this is unlikely to affect your outings at sea. Although there are a host of advantages to enjoying Mauritius by catamaran in summer, there are also a few disadvantages to consider, such as the risk of cyclones. In the event of cyclonic weather, we strongly advise against going out to sea.
Winter (May to October)
It is definitely possible to sail and even swim in the waters of Mauritius in winter. So don’t hesitate to charter a catamaran in winter. The winter season starts in May and ends in October. The average temperature is around 22°C during this season, especially in coastal areas. Given that the water temperature is not very cold, you can go scuba diving when you go out to sea. Another positive point is the weather. It doesn’t rain much in winter and the sea is calm. You’ll have no problem visiting the more remote islands. In addition, the whales are most active between July and November.
You have a good chance of seeing them during this period. And don’t forget that there are fewer tourists in winter. So the tourist spots will be less crowded. Finally, winter is the perfect season for water sports, especially kitesurfing, as the wind is stronger.
III. Events not to be missed
Mauritius is a multicultural place, which means that there are various cultural festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. Apart from these festivals, there are large-scale events organised at sea, such as regattas. These are speed races between boats on a set track. In Mauritian culture, these races take place aboard pirogues. This is the type of boat that was mainly used in Mauritius before the advent of luxury yachts and motor boats. If you find yourself aboard a catamaran in Mauritius when the regattas are taking place, take the opportunity to admire the spectacle up close. Of course, you won’t be able to get too close so as not to disturb the participants. However, you’ll be close enough not to miss anything.
And if you like to party at sea, we recommend a trip to Mauritius around December. Many service providers organise private catamaran cruises with a disc jockey on board at that time.
IV. Tips for Choosing the Best Time
People who choose Mauritius for unforgettable moments at sea should consider several factors before embarking on their trip. Firstly, it is essential to determine the type of trip in question. If it’s a family trip, the end-of-year period could be attractive. However, if it’s a romantic getaway, it would be better to opt for a season when there are few tourists, such as winter.
Secondly, from a financial point of view, it’s worth pointing out that ticket prices vary according to the season, as do catamaran rental prices. For the record, prices are more expensive from September/November onwards. Prices generally fall around May. So take all this into account when planning your trip to Mauritius.
V. Preparing for Your Catamaran Adventure
Before setting off on your catamaran adventure in Mauritius, make sure you are well prepared. In summer, it is advisable to take various types of sun protection with you. Apply sun creams and sunglasses. If you plan to go scuba diving, take the necessary equipment with you. When it comes to safety, there are a whole host of checks to be carried out, especially if you’re the skipper. For example, you’ll need to make sure that your pleasure craft is equipped with lifejackets, distress flares and a sound signalling device, among other things.
VI. Conclusion
Cruising the waters of Mauritius on a catamaran promises an unforgettable adventure, whether as a family or as a couple. Don’t forget that each season has its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to weigh up the pros and cons and decide whether you’ll enjoy it more in summer or winter.
Are you looking for a catamaran to charter in Mauritius? If so, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Yacht Mauritius. This group has a range of models to suit your needs. They also organise private cruises.
