Boat Trip to Gunner's Quoin, Mauritius: Worth It?

Gunner's Quoin is the striking rocky island visible from northern Mauritius. Most visitors reach it as part of a full-day catamaran cruise that also stops at Flat Island and Ilot Gabriel. Expect a lively trip with loud music, a big group (often 30-50 people), plenty of rum punch, and a short 15-20 minute stop near the Quoin for photos. The actual landing is on the other islands where you swim, snorkel in often shallow water, and eat a barbecue lunch on the beach. The scenery is dramatic and the boat ride itself can be bumpy if the wind is up. It's a classic Mauritian day out, but it's more party boat than peaceful nature trip.

Best time is October to April when the sea is usually calmer and dolphin sightings are more likely on the way. Avoid June-August if you get seasick easily. Expect to pay around $80-130 per adult for a full-day trip including lunch and drinks; half-day options focusing only on the Quoin are rarer and usually $50-80. Book through your hotel or directly at Grand Baie for better choice of departure times.

Tip: Choose a smaller catamaran if possible; the big party boats get chaotic and the music never stops. Skip the trip altogether if you want quiet wildlife viewing or serious snorkeling; head to the west coast or Blue Bay instead. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, sea-sickness tablets, and earplugs for the return journey.