On the East Coast, the turquoise glimmer of the lagoon stretches out to the horizon. On this side of the island, the particularly wide reach of the lagoon allows for activities in quiet waters. With Océane, take full advantage of our natural safety zone as you cruise across the Trou d’Eau Douce Bay and experience a paradisiac day, all within the protective arms of the Eastern reef.

It’s 9.00 AM in Trou d’Eau Douce. The village is abuzz more especially near the historic limekiln. The last of the fishermen are offloading their catch of the day while crew teams are carrying boxes full of goodies on board speedboats. It’s going to be a hot day out at sea.

Away from this bustling atmosphere, the Océane crew welcomes you with a gentle smile, to start a cruise as leisurely as can be. Mere minutes after hopping on board, the landscape changes. Where the volcanic mountains tower up against the skyline, try and spot the Cat & Mouse mountains, an important landmark of the Mauritian East Coast. On the beach line, catch a glimpse of the five-star Resorts, highly popular among international celebrities for their private locations and luxurious amenities.

To the west, the seascape’s hues of blue and turquoise intertwine all the way to the horizon. As the waves lap gently against the catamaran, take a deep breath of fresh air and lay back to soak up the tropical sun, an ice cold drink in hand, as the boat glides smoothly towards the waterfall of Grande Rivière Sud Est (GRSE). Jump onto a ferryboat that will take you right under the splash of the waterfall while white-tailed tropicbirds soar above. The waterfall is modest in size, but the surrounding flora is reminiscent of a rainforest, with luscious creeping plants and trees lining either side. Some days, local kids from nearby villages are seen jumping off the waterfall and splashing about in the bubbling ponds beneath. On your way in and out, keep an eye out for the occasional bats and monkeys hiding in the surrounding vegetation!

Time to answer the call of the ocean: out in the lagoon, immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters and snorkel among patches of staghorn coral, populated by minuscule fish and more odd-looking species, such as the elongated trumpet fish and the stunning coachmen, with its white dorsal fin. Swim under the watchful eye of the Océane Crew, who will equip you with a lifejacket or a lifebuoy if you should be uncomfortable in the water. Back on board, the barbecue grill gets going as lunch will be served shortly… and what a great lunch that is: fresh fish and chicken grilled to perfection and served with a selection of salads and a side of garlic bread. The scrumptious menu, attentive service of the crew and incomparable view gives a newfound meaning to the term paradise holiday.

Next stop: the famous Eastern islet we call Ile aux Cerfs. The catamaran slips through a mangrove forest, an ideal nursery for the surrounding marine ecosystems. Look out for tiny moonfish or Trou Loulou crabs, bright red and visible at low tide between the roots. Ile aux Cerfs is unique in many ways: during the low season, the islet is an idyllic desert beach with calm, shallow waters that are safe even for young children. Those with a keen sense of adventure can explore the island on foot and find hidden coves on its other side, where sea shell and sea urchins thrive in small tidal pools. Bear in mind that peak season might bring about many boats and large crowds around the islet. Still, on a sunny day out, Ile aux Cerfs is worth the stop for a tan or a walk after lunch.

The day ends as beautifully as it starts: when the winds are favourable, the sails will be out as the catamaran is steered back to the mainland. Lay back with a last refreshing drink on the catamaran’s trampoline, sun-kissed and satisfied after a day full of unforgettable rejuvenating experiences. And take in the stunning beauty of the East Coast one last time before heading home.