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How Much Should You Tip on Your Yacht Charter

Stress-free tipping: how to determine tip for your crew.

How much should you tip on a private yacht charter ? And how do you leave a tip for the crew? That’s something almost every yacht charter guest wonders. According to the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA) tipping guidelines, the general rule is to tip between 10% and 15% of your weekly charter fee, excluding running expenses and taxes. With that in mind, here are some other tipping “rule” for your charter: Let the captain decide who gets how much.

On your last day on your yacht, it’s customary to put your entire tip in an envelope and hand it directly to your captain. If your trip was wonderful (and why wouldn’t it be?), include a personal note, tell the captain how wonderful the crew was, and leave it to the captain’s discretion on how to split up the tip. Treat everyone equally. Many crew members are involved in the operation of your yacht, from stewardesses refreshing your cocktails, to the deckhands setting up the slide for you. While it may be tempting to leave forward-facing members a more generous tip, it’s not recommended. Remember, the crew works as a team, and it’s important to reward them as a team.

Let your destination be your guide

Tipping rules change by destination. As a general rule, a 10% to 15% tip is customary when chartering in the Mediterranean , while a 15% to 20% tip is more common in the Caribbean .

Your tip should be proportional to the service you received

Ultimately, it’s up to you on how much to tip. Most guests, though, base it on the quality of service. But remember: Most crew members are working 16- to 18-hour days, and a tip rewards them for all that hard work and service. If you have questions about how much to tip, consult with your charter broker – brokers can help you understand what’s customary.

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Tips on Tipping! Here’s How Much You Should Be Tipping Your Boat Captain

Table of Contents

Renting a boat is a great way to enjoy some quality outdoor time, no matter if you’re trying to make a trophy catch or looking to get a nice tan during your cruise. But there are always some tricks, hidden coves, or familiarities with the area that allow you to maximize your boat trip— That’s where captains come in handy.  So let us dive into the responsibilities, the proper tipping etiquette, and the value of having a boat captain at the helm :

Post summary:

• What are duties of a captain

Hiring local captains

• Why you should tip your captain

Recognizing good service with a good tip

Captain tipping explained.

• Boating like a local: The value of captained boat rentals

Discover boat rentals with captains near you—Only at Boatsetter  

Quick disclaimer

Everyone can benefit from even the smallest crew , and of course, the more passengers there are, the more work there is to be done. We encourage you to seek a professional captain and crew on certain occasions like hosting a boat party .

For the record, in this post, we’re talking about USCG-certified captains. That distinction is important. The boat owner could take up captaining duties without carrying an actual license. Who is eligible for a captain’s licenses depends on the laws of the state and country where you’re boating and whether it’s legal to drive a boat without a special captain license or not .

Pro tip : If you’re considering getting a boating licenses, we recommend reading: 7 Things to Consider Before Getting a Captain’s License. 

What are the duties of a captain

In simplest terms, the job of a captain is to make sure everything goes smoothly. Boat charter captains are aware of all the safety precautions and communication with coastal guards to get the weather and safety reports to make any trip worry-free. They assign and monitor duties performed by the crew, keep a well-documented log of the journey.

In the case of international travel, the captain must meet the requirements of local and international customs and inspections. Combine that with their knowledge of how to deal with all kinds of mechanical problems and operate all of the machinery onboard along with first aid training and much more, to get the idea that having a captain on board is definitely something you should think about.

But there is more. When you hire a charter boat captain , his expertise also includes knowing the best places for sandbar partying, snorkeling or fishing, and dockside dining. Also, most can share a thrilling story or two when the sailing goes smoothly. As a general rule of thumb, captains tend to be locals and as such are more familiar with the best spots and even some hidden places of beauty and interest.

In summary, your hired captain should make sure the sailing goes as smooth as possible through the combination of safety protocols, understanding of the local weather, knowledge of the area and of their crew. Captains also supervise passengers and crew as they embark and disembark from the boat. While booking a boat rental with a captain is not required, it can surely be of great help. Especially if you want to kick back and relax or try out watersports .

Why you should tip your boat captain

First, let’s clear up a couple of things. A tip is not mandatory and there are no hard outlined rules. A tip is a customer-driven act that usually shows appreciation of the level of service. The “rates” for how much to tip a boat captain vary from 5-20%. However ,  there is a certain etiquette.The tip is always given to the captain, in cash, who then distributes the tip among the crew equally. If there is a crew, of course, the thing to consider here is that charters aren’t like restaurants. The people who work charters would compare it more with a lifestyle because their shifts are usually longer.

In some countries, seasons are only good for 12-16 weeks. Even when the captain owns the boat, most of the money goes to maintenance of the boat and the expenses of owning a business.

Secondly, as mentioned, the tip is a way to show appreciation of the quality of service. Even inexperienced people can tell a rushed service from a really good one, and it is said that no good deed should go unnoticed. People in this industry are usually devoted to ensuring their customers get the best possible service. Here’s what boat crew members say about tipping.

You can always feel when someone is genuinely giving their best, so you can enjoy your boating summer vacation the most.

These extra things can be small, like giving you an honest drink recommendation or a tip on where to go for a nice meal among boat up bars. They can be bigger things like taking extra care of all the allergies, likes, and dislikes in food preparation and personalized service on a more individual level.

You can tell that the captain is giving his all when he changes the routes to give you a little something extra or to show you some natural wonders like potential whale watching , a secluded location, or “the best” fishing or diving locations. This is in no way an expansive list, but it is a good indicator to give you a feel of what constitutes as a better service.

It is good to look into tipping customs in the specific country where you rent a boat with a captain . Also, while asking the crew members on tipping etiquette may create awkward situations, discussing it with the captain is perfectly fine.

In fact, it is always a good idea to double-check the plan and expenses with the captain before the trip. And yes, it is a good opportunity to discuss the proper tipping etiquette. Usually, if the service was fine, people leave 5-10% of the whole price as a tip, but the more effort they put in and the better quality of service, the appropriate tip can go as high as 20% .

Boating like a local: The value of captained boat trips

Did you know : Not only are Boastetter captains USCG-certified, they’re also local experts!  Yes, indeed. When you rent a boat with a captain, you have a professional who knows the lay of the waterways. So make sure to your captain things like ‘Where is the best sandbar party?’ ‘Can we go somewhere secluded? I want to have some me-time.’ And, they’ll gladly help. The money you’re paying for a captain comes back to you as added comfort, leisure, and that which you can not put a price on, knowledge!

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Chartered Catamaran and tipping etiquette - British Virgin Islands Forum

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Chartered Catamaran and tipping etiquette

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I need some tipping advice. We are chartering a catamaran with a husband and wife captain/crew for a week in the BVI's. There will be 3 couples and the price included full board (meals and drinks). I have not found a clear answer on the tipping etiquette. We are very good and respectful tippers, but this is completely new to me! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

As a captain, typically 15-20% of the charter price is customary. Of course this depends on the level of service you receive.

Tip whatever you're comfortable with. We did a 3 week crewed charter in March/April, husband and wife team and they also own the boat. At the end of the charter we treated them to a nice dinner, with drinks and dessert to show our appreciation for the fabulous time we had.

I think I’d look at it different if they own the boat or if they’re running the boat for a charter company. When I’ve tipped crew who don’t own the boat, I’d be in the 15-20% range. I did do a 1 night with a couple that *did* own the boat and took them out and got them drunk when we got back. They were very happy.

By charter price do you mean the entire cost "full board" ? I am a newby, but plan on doing this more in the future. Thank you!

As mentioned, 15-20% of your charter is the norm. Yes, the entire cost of the boat. Yes, it does add up :)

In addition, we offered to take our captain out for dinner. He mentioned that would be a waste of money as he usually gets comped when he brings guests to restaurants/bars. Now, our captain was a “seasoned” captain and seemed well known, so not sure if that is the general rule of thumb.

I would love to know who you used. We have done this a few time but the crew we used has retired. Thanks so much.

Is the 15-20% per person or divided up between all the passengers? Is 15-20% per crew or both?

15-20% of the total cost of charter is the total amount of the tip to be given, in total, to the entirety of the crew.

So if the charter was $10k, the total tip would be $1,500 - $2,000.

If there were 5 passengers that would be $300-$400 per passenger.

PS - I really wish people would stop offering the advice of "you should tip whatever you are comfortable tipping" when people ask for guidance as to what the customary tip is. Whether boat charter, tour, taxi driver or dinner in a restaurant. When someone says "I have no idea what to tip" telling them "tip whatever you are comfortable tipping" is completely meaningless and absolutely worthless information. Hell, it's not even "information" because the person asking the question STILL has no idea how much to tip.

Thank you!! You answered my question exactly! That’s what I thought

I have one more question...does anyone know if you can start a 7 night charter on Sunday and so a Sunday to Sunday trip

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How To Tip Your Yacht Charter Crew [Travel Guide]

A guide for tipping a successful yacht charter..

Tipping is normal for Americans. We tip after dining at a restaurant, getting a haircut, or riding in a taxi. But for those in Europe, Australia, and Asia, tipping is a big question mark and often not customary as it’s not factored into their daily life. Yet, even for Americans, tipping at a larger scale — say, for a yacht charter — can also raise a few questions. What’s an adequate amount? Who do you tip? Do you have to tip in cash?

Whether you’re chartering a catamaran for a day in Key West or yachting for a week in the Mediterranean, here’s everything you need to know about tipping your yacht charter crew.

How to tip on week-long charters?

Booking a week-long charter in the Caribbean means plenty of sun, relaxation, and fun on the water. But as with staying at an all-inclusive resort, there are people who contribute to the overall enjoyment of your vacation. The captain, stewardesses, deckhands, and chef are all committed to a successful yacht charter. They make sure you’re comfortable, safe, and well-fed, and usually work odd hours to do so.

The Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA) set a guideline so that tipping yacht charter crew isn’t so ambiguous. According to MYBA, yacht tips should be between 5% and 15% of the total cost of the charter. This rule of thumb applies primarily to the European yacht market as those travelers tend to tip less than those in the United States or the Caribbean where 15% to 20% gratuity is closer to the norm.

This guideline provides charter brokers and their clients with a reference point before embarking on the yacht charter. Tipping charter crew — as much as it’s dependent on the quality of service — also depends on the guests’ nationality, location of the charter, and chartering experience of the guests. First-time charterers from France may tip differently than a seasoned charter client from New York.

As a charterer, ask your broker if the yacht you’re booking supports the MYBA recommended guidelines. Then you’ll know what is expected before your vacation.

How to tip on day charters?

There’s not a specific guideline for tipping on day trips, such as a catamaran charter, as they often range in length from 4 to 8 hours. The captain and crew work as they would on a term charter by preparing the vessel, planning the route, welcoming and hosting charter guests, and ensuring the safety of everyone on board. It’s customary to tip between 10% and 20% of the base rate of the day charter. A broker may or may not be involved in the booking process, so you have to remember at the end of the day that a tip is suggested for hard work and a job well done.

How to tip on event charters?

Yacht charters hired for private events are a bit different than a typical day or week-long charter . Event charters are commercial and usually booked for weddings, corporate, or other social events. When hosting a private event on a boat, you may hire additional event staff such as servers, caterers, entertainers, or bartenders who are separate entities from the captain and yacht crew.

The captain’s job is focused on the logistics of travel, navigation, and safety, while the event staff is focused on the guest experience. There’s not a standard guideline as it’s advised to use your discretion based on the level of service you experienced among hired teams, so generally tip between 10% to 20%.

Is there a tipping etiquette on yachts?

As with tipping in other industries, the tip should be proportional to the service you received. It’s an expression of satisfaction and a job well done. Yacht crews usually go above and beyond and work about 16-18 hour days. A professional c r ew will always perform their duties to a high standard as your safety and hospitality onboard the yacht is their priority.

The crew works as a team, so it’s not customary to tip or recognize a specific crew member. The tip should be given directly to the captain at the end of the charter experience. He or she will divide the amount among the crew, including deckhands, stews, engineers, and chefs.

Do you have to pay in cash?

The big question — how do you pay for a tip if you don’t want to carry a large sum of money with you on vacation ? You can tip the captain via cash, check, or wire transfer. (Although check and wire transfer isn’t advised as it may not get to the crew until a few weeks later.)

When you book your luxury yacht charter , there’s an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), which is an additional amount of money set aside (on top of the charter fee) to be used for consumables during the charter including food, wine, and fuel. Charter brokers usually suggest a high amount up front as a cushion so that expenses don’t run over in the middle of your holiday. At the end of your charter, the captain should sit down with you to discuss what was spent and what’s leftover from your APA. So if you’re left with $5,000 in your APA, you can use that as part of your tip. Talk to your charter broker ahead of time to learn more about different options for leaving a tip.

Yachting is one of the safest ways to travel during the COVID-19. Yet no matter where you’re from, tipping can be confusing, especially in the instance of a charter experience. Gratuity to yacht crew can be anywhere from a couple hundred to thousands of dollars. Whether it’s for a week-long charter or quick day trip, ask your broker ahead of time about what’s expected for tipping the crew. Consider a private yacht for your next holiday — contact Denison Yachting to book your next superyacht charter.

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Tipping Guidelines for Yacht Charters

Wow, am I walking straight into the lion’s jaws, or what? Tipping has been an ongoing topic of discussion between Captains, Crews, Clearing Houses, Management Companies and Charter Booking Agents and Brokers for decades. Recently, with the recession, it has become a hot topic and, as usual, will not be resolved this year either. This is because there is no really comprehensive answer possible.

Is Tipping Mandatory

Tipping is customer driven. There are guidelines, of course but in the final analysis A TIP IS A TIP. It’s not part of the crew’s salary and nor should it be. The crew is paid a salary and tips should fall into the “nice-to-have” department. The amount of the tip will depend on the level of service that the customer feels they deserve and usually involves a consideration of services rendered above and beyond the call of duty.

How Should You Tender This Money

The gratuity should be in cash and paid to the captain, he or she will distribute the gratuity to the other crew members. It does not matter whether the crew are the owner/operators of the boat – chartering is more of a lifestyle choice and doesn’t provide great ROI’s so an owner/operator will appreciate a tip for good service just as much as a salaried crew member.

Leaving a handsome gratuity in the case of larger yachts with more expensive base rates can involve quite a lot of cash that many charterers prefer not to carry with them. The best option is to leave a lump sum of, say, 15% or 20% of the base charter rate in escrow with your Charter Booking Agent or Broker. After your charter has ended, you can simply email, your broker to release all or part of the funds to the boat as a gratuity.  Most brokers will be happy to perform this service.

When booking term charters it is very important that the tipping standard for the region of charter is discussed. So that if a client has a budget of $10,000 for his/her vacation it is understood that they should look for a yacht in the $8,500 – $9,000 range because with a tip added it will then be $10,000. Most charters of this nature are booked through a yacht charter broker and it is the brokers fiduciary responsibility to discuss with a client what extra fees can be expected.

Special Events

Now there is another area of yacht charter to think about and that is  Event Charters . In South Florida and New York there are many party boats that can hold from 2 guests to 500 guests and which are booked for weddings, corporate and all other social events. Tipping is also an expected part of the charter. There are no standards  here to go by except to advise a client that it is discretionary and should be based on level of service experienced.

 Some calculate this by the number of crew on board and allocate X amount per crew member. Some yachts calculate this tip at a rate of $5 per guest. So if you have 50 guests then a tip of $250 would be appropriate. Again if the level of service is outstanding then feel free to leave a bigger amount.

As stated above in the first paragraph there is no hard and fast rule for tipping. Gratuity should not be expected. It is up to the Charterer to decide on this.

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10 Comments

You are out of your mind. You don’t tip a Captain based on the cost of the boat, food, toys etc. You tip a Captain and crew based on the service and perhaps his salary. No one who is an average family going on a vacation computes the cost of the gratuity before they get on the plane. If you have $10,000 to spend you spend $10,000 and add the tip later. Why would anyone pay an additional 15% on every egg, can of coke and swim fins they used. This is really crazy.

I’m not really out of my mind (although my wife is constantly insisting that I am). I’m merely conveying an industry standard. Maybe because typically there are no pension benefits and social security requirements for charter crews in the US or in the Caribbean. The Mediterranean crew tipping standards are much lower because most have these benefits by law. I have to stress that gratuities are always optional and the amount or percentage is based on service, as you correctly point out. The article provides a backdrop and advises charter clients what is customary. TK

Can you please provide some additional direction on tipping in Croatia? If I am chartering a boat through a company but hired a skipper and hostess separately through a friend recommendation, do I tip on the boat cost at all or only on the crew costs? What is the proper way to tip all parties?

We are looking into going on a charter with a private crew in New England this summer, and I’ve had this question about tipping. I hadn’t originally taken this into account when planning our budget, but I can see how this could affect choosing a charter. As you explained, a broker should discuss this, but we will be aware of it as well as we plan for our trip. Thanks for sharing!

I’m a person who spends about $10,000 TOTAL on a vacation, and I can’t imagine doing such a fussy thing as escrow for a thousand or two. Are there REALLY people who pay $10,000 for a bareboat charter, but think a few thousand is excessive pocket money? On a trip to the islands… Where everything is cash…

Good info about the Med being less- just what I was wondering.

Good blog you’ve got here.. It’s difficult to find high quality writing like yours nowadays. I really appreciate individuals like you!

Take care!!

I am a bit stumped on the tipping etiquette for a Catamaran charter in the BVI’s. My husband and I are very good tippers, so I do not want to over tip, but we especially do not want to under tip! The total cost of our 7 day chartered Catamaran is $11,125 for 6 people. The breakdown is accommodations $7525 and full board is $3600 . The crew is the Owner/captain and his wife. He has expressed that the customary is 15-20% of the total. This seems rather high based on my research. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

I didn’t realize that contracting a yacht could be so moderate; however now I consider it, it bodes well. This appears as though an ideal choice for a more distant family get-away. Our last expanded get-away as a family finished being incredibly exorbitant, and we as a whole concluded we would be searching for something that the entire family could appreciate that was somewhat more unwinding. I figure a yacht would be ideal for that.

You are out of your mind. You don’t tip a Captain based on the cost of the boat, food, toys, etc. You tip a Captain and crew based on the service and perhaps his salary. No one who is an average family going on a vacation computes the cost of the gratuity before they get on the plane. If you have $10,000 to spend you spend $10,000 and add the tip later. Why would anyone pay an additional 15% on every egg, can of coke, and swim fins they used. This is really crazy.

When you’re on a charter yacht in the US, it’s sort of the done thing to tip the captain. A regular tip is around $750, but if the boat captain goes all out to make your trip awesome, $1000 is more like it!

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From: US$3,024 (4D/3N)

TIP TOP II CATAMARAN

Tip Top II was built in 2008 and redesigned in 2015-2016 to offer the highest level of comfort and the best experience in the Islands.

Key Features:

• First Class Catamaran
• Double accommodation on Main Deck and Upper Deck Cabins
• Guided expeditions
• Special Sundeck
• Private Balcony on Upper Deck Cabins
• Outstanding service

Gallery | Prices | Itineraries | Other Catamarans

Overall Rating 4.1      

What is this?

• Accom.: 4.4
• Itinerary: 4.1
• Service: 3.8

Prices from: US$ 3,024 (4D/3N)

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Tip Top II Photo gallery

TIP TOP II RATES

• For the latest promotions on this boat and others, please click here .
• Prices are per person in United States Dollars.
• Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Additional Information

• All prices per person in US dollars.
• Prices are subject to change without prior notice
• Gross rates: Children under 12 years, 10% off
• Promotional rates: Children pay same as an adult
• Christmas, New Year Eve and Easter supplement: 20%
• Upper deck 2 dbl cabins with two lower beds: 7&8 and 2 dbl cabins with one king size bed: 9&10
• Main deck: 2 sgl cabins with one bed: 1-2 (only sgl) & 4 dbl cabins with two lower beds: 3-4-5-6

Rates Include

• Airfare to/from Galapagos
• English speaking naturalist guide
• Visit to the islands according to itinerary
• Permanent hot drinks station (coffee, tea, aromatic tea, water)
• Use of kayaks and stand-up paddle boards
• Use of snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, and fins

Not Included

• Migratory Control Card USD20 per person
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Wetsuits for rent
• Galapagos Park Fee USD100 per person
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses

TIP TOP II DECK PLANS

TIP TOP II ITINERARIES

Please note: Itineraries are unlikely to change significantly but are subject to change. Weather, wildlife breeding, instructions from the Galapagos National Park, specific abilities and interests of passengers as well as operational matters may cause your guide or captain to change the time or nature of visits. Your guide will always endeavor to select the best itinerary within these limits....

TIP TOP II CRUISE REVIEWS

Cruise rating: 4.1 /5 - 4 customer reviews

Hi Gabriela, Janice and I had a fantastic time in the Galapagos. The Tip Top experience was great -- very professional and well done. We also felt you did a great job with transfers, hotels, guides, etc in Quito -- everything went smoothly with no hassle at all! Thank you for your oversight of the trip and its arrangements -- we're both very grateful for a truly memorable vacation experience. Thanks again! Bill and Janice Weiss June 2019 4.1

Hi Lilian We returned from Galapagos and Amazon last month and everything was perfect for our honeymoon. I want to thank you very much for all your time helping me to plan things and making such good arrangements so things worked smoothly for us. I really appreciate your services and will be sure to recommend you to friends who are considering a trip to Ecuador. All the best, Thomas Seeto April 2018 4.1

Hello! It was beyond my expectations! The room was larger than any I've had on my previous 8 cruises. Food was healthy, tasty and generous. All on board were helpful and fun. Our travel companions were great. Angelina the guide was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and pushed us hard. I list 4# and joined a gym at home to keep up my new found energy! Our snorkeling trips were,wonderful especially middle Isabela where we swam with penguins, sea lions and turtles laughing while under water! Bellavista room was again great, people helpful, hummingbirds, flora interesting, and hikes prepared us for Galapagos. Termas Papallacta spa was lovely and my massage was top notch. Thank you for a delightful time! Barb Barbara Schmal February 2018 4.1

Hello Diana & Lilian Yes we received the package for our Galapagos cruise. The cruise on Tip Top II was an amazing experience for us and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Our thanks to Lilian for her excellent work, assistance and great service. We wish her well and a speedy recovery. Our Best Regards Rick & Ghiselle Meyers Richard Meyers November 2017 4.1

GalapagosIslands.com - Visitor Point

Tip top ii photo gallery.

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Prices from $3620 (4 Days)

Tip Top II Galapagos Catamaran

onboard confort

The Tip Top II is one of the most stable yachts of its size, making it ideal for those with limited sea experience. In addition to its beautifully renovated cabins, it features an elegant interior lounge, a shaded sun deck, and an alfresco bar and dining area to soak up the vistas.

intimate cruising

With just 16 passengers on board, a Tip Top II Galapagos cruise is an intimate experience, with spacious social areas and a cozy atmosphere while exploring one of the most remarkable parts of the world.

flexible accomodation

From single cabins to interconnected doubles and twins for families traveling together, the Tip Top II offers a range of accommodation to suit all style of travelers. All rooms have private bathrooms, safety boxes and independent air conditioning, together with balconies in upper deck cabins.

what makes this galapagos cruise special

• Excellent stability for passengers with limited experience at sea
• Tip Top II is more stable than other yachts of its size
• This vessel was completely renovated in 2016
• The Tip Top fleet has vast experience in Galapagos operations, belonging to one of the first families that colonized the archipelago
• 4 cabins with private balconies on the upper deck
• The Tip Top catamaran offers cruise departures in other languages besides English
• Since it only carries 16 passengers, the Tip Top II features privacy, cozy atmosphere, perfect for exploring the Galapagos
• Ample social areas

Tip Top II is a beautiful Galapagos cruise catamaran built in 2008 and completely refurbished and renovated in 2016. This fantastic vessel offers first class accommodations and services at very competitive rates, making one of the best value options for a cruise in the Galapagos.

Tip Top Catamaran offers accommodations on two different decks. Each upper deck cabin features a private balcony. All cabins have private bathroom, independent air conditioning, safety box and hair dryers.

SOCIAL AREAS

There is a shaded area on the sun deck with sun chairs and small tables to enjoy the view and a cocktail while navigating.

The Tip Top II is a First Class catamaran built to accomplish with the high standards of our passengers. A great option for travelers wanting to travel the Galapagos Islands in comfort.

ITINERARIES

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ITINERARY “A” MAP

Experience the islands that inspired Charles Darwin’s “Theory of Evolution” on this 8-day Tip Top Galapagos cruise itinerary. Hike through marine iguana and lava lizard colonies to the summit of Bartholomew Island to take in its spectacular volcanic landscapes, spot frigate birds, boobies, herons and mockingbirds in Darwin Bay, go snorkeling and kayaking in wildlife-rich Puerto Egas, and get up close to sea lions, blue-footed and masked boobies on a panga excursion at Punta Vicente Roca. This Tip Top II cruise also includes trekking along the slopes of the Sierra Negra Volcano in the lush highlands of Isabela and a visit to the Arnaldo Tupiza Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to observe these incredible creatures at various stages of life.

Scroll vertically (by clicking the arrows) to see the day by day description of your itinerary)

DAY 1 - FRIDAY

AM: Galapagos Airport - Baltra Island

PM: Mosquera Islet

DAY 2 - SATURDAY

AM: Sulivan Bay - Santiago Island

PM: Rabida Island

DAY 3 - SUNDAY

AM: Punta Espinoza - Fernandina Island

PM: Elizabeth Bay - Isabela Island

DAY 4 - MONDAY

AM: Urbina Bay - Isabela Island

PM: Tagus Cove - Isabela Isalnd

DAY 5 - TUESDAY

AM: Puerto Egas - Santiago Island

PM: Bartolome Island

DAY 6 - WEDNESDAY

AM: Chinese Hat - Sombrero Chino

PM: Dragon Hill - Santa -cruz Island

DAY 7 - THURSDAY

AM: Santa Cruz Highlands - Santa Cruz Island

PM: Charles Darwin Research Station

DAY 8 - FRIDAY

AM: North Seymour Island

PM: Galapagos Airport

ITINERARY “B” MAP

Explore both above and below the water’s surface on this exhilarating 8-day Tip Top Galapagos cruise itinerary. Visit the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the vital conservation work being conducted in the archipelago before getting up close to land iguanas in the cacti forests of Santa Fe Island. Watch the playful antics of sea lions on South Plaza and go snorkeling in the marine species-rich waters of Sombrero Chino, then observe blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans and pink flamingos on Rabida Island. Leave your postcards at historic Post Office Bay and explore the submerged volcano of Devil’s Crown, before navigating the waters around iconic Kicker Rock during this unforgettable Tip Top II cruise adventure.

AM: Galapagos Airport - Baltra Airport

PM: Bachas Beach

AM: Prince Phillip's Steps

PM: Darwin Bay

AM: South Plaza

PM: Santa Fe Island

AM: Santa Cruz Highlands

PM: Interpretation Center Fausto Llerena

AM: Post Office Bay - Baroness Lookout

PM: Cormorant Point - Champion Islet

AM: Suarez Point

PM: Gardner Bay

AM: Cerro Brujo - Kicker Rock

PM: B. Moreno Point Center - Interpretation Center Jacinto Gordillo

AM: Black Turtle Cove

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN M/C ELITE’S ITINERARIES

Itinerary “A” will start at San Cristobal Island to explore the only freshwater lagoon in the Galapagos. On the following days you will walk among birds at North Seymour Island, navigate to Isabela Island where you will swim with turtles, penguins, sea lions and hike to the top of the Sierra Negra volcano. A visit on the coast of the most pristine island on Earth, Fernandina will also be done. Additionally, the most beautiful views of the Galapagos can be admired from Bartolome Island's viewpoint over Pinnacle Rock.

Itinerary “B” will navigate on the Eastern side of the Galapagos archipelago visiting the oldest islands of the Galapagos and the only nesting site of the waved albatroSs on Española Island. Other highlights of this itinerary are the visits to Genovesa Island also known as “bird island” due to its tremendous amounts of bird species, especially the red-footed booby. Learn about Galapagos history and its first settlers during your visit to Floreana Island and snorkel with sharks and rays at Kicker Rock.

Availability

• Air ticket to/from Galapagos
• Daily guided expeditions by naturalists
• Air conditioning and private facilities
• Briefings, lectures and activities on board
• Kayaks and snorkeling gear
• Transfers airport/yacht/airport in Galapagos
• Fuel surcharge
• Galapagos National Park entrance fee
• Transit control card
• Personal expenses and tips
• Alcoholic beverages

PASSANGER´S REVIEWS:

Reg & Mary, United States.

TIP TOP II - DECK PLAN

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It's a Bonnie Thing Lifestyle and Travel Blog

The Perfect Packing List for a Catamaran Charter

in Caribbean , Travel Tips & Resources on 05/19/18

What to bring on a catamaran vacation? This article will help you pack!

Going on a Catamaran Soon? Here is the Perfect Packing List

Have you just booked a Catamaran Charter and wondering what to pack? If so, you will want to read this article.

I was in the same boat like you. It was my bucket list dream to travel the British Virgin Islands by a catamaran. Once the trip was booked it was time to start thinking of packing and buying some new clothes. If you are like me, you have a tendency to overpack. This was one of the first trips I actually wore almost everything I packed. Once on the trip, I learned what I would bring and what I would not.

First things First- A Rolling Duffel Bag

I don’t even own a rolling duffel bag! One week prior to the trip I was convinced I would bring a suitcase. Two days prior to the trip I was convinced I needed a rolling duffel bag by all the packing lists I read. My friend going on the Catamaran strongly suggested not to bring a suitcase. Turns out everyone was right! I would have been sleeping with that suitcase! There isn’t any room onboard to store large bags in a catamaran stateroom.

My wonderful husband took his motorcycle parts out of the only rolling duffel bag that we own the night before our departure. He had to clean it because it smelled of oil and gas. TSA loved my bag! I had a TSA card in the bag when I arrived in Fort Lauderdale and my outfits were not in the order I had packed them in. At the St. John airport five TSA personnel were surrounded all around my bag. My husband used a duffel bag to pack but it didn’t have wheels. He threw his back out and had to book a Massage prior to getting on the boat and a chiropractor once he got back. Lesson learned, buy a rolling duffel bag!

How am I going to bring all of this?

I laid out all the outfits out on my bed. How am I going to bring all of this? Here is what you really need.

Packing List

• Swimsuits- We had a seven-day charter so I packed 3 swimsuits. You will spend a lot of time in the water snorkeling and swimming. 3 swimsuits were the magic number. My husband packed two.
• Rashguard for sun protection- when you spend a lot of time in the water and sun a rashguard will offer sun protection and dry quickly.
• UPF Light Weight Sun Shirt- My favorite one is the Hanalei Full Zip Hoodie from Title 9. I had never ordered from them before and I lived in this lightweight sun shirt every day.

This is the best lightweight UPF shirt for summer

• Another Favorite Item, I wore almost every day and wish I had purchased a second one is the Dream Skort from Title 9   The material is lightweight and dries fast if it gets wet. It is so comfortable you will want to live in it which I did. Sports bras, sports tops from Title 9 or Athleta that dry quickly are the clothes you will want to wear. I did bring yoga pants but it was too hot for them to wear. Stick with the skorts instead. The key is lightweight and breathable materials that dry fast.
• Sundresses- Sundresses are perfect for the evenings whether you visit a restaurant, bar, or stay onboard for dinner. I packed three since we had three dinner nights ashore.

• A Book- If you like to read bring a good book to read. I only had time to read one but if you enjoy reading you may want to bring two just in case. Check out the best seller list of new reads from Amazon
• Sunscreen- A high SPF & facial sunscreen
• When it comes to make up keep it light. You won’t wear as much as you think you will. Lipgloss, eyeshadow, blush, waterproof mascara, and a tinted moisturizer with SPF is all you need.
• The salt water dries out your skin- bring a travel size skin moisturizer.
• You can not bring hair curling irons or hair dryers. Just pack a styling gel or trial hotel sizes of shampoo & conditioner. A coconut hair oil spray helped get the tangles out when I couldn’t wash my hair. Your cute hair ties come in handy with pony tails and braids with wet hair. Tip- put your wet hair in a loose braid and once it dries you have natural, wavy hair.
• Snorkeling Equipment – Check with your charter and see if they supply snorkel gear. I like to bring my own. This is what I travel with.

• Do you have a themed planned? We had a Hawaiian Night, a Colorado Night, and a Nautical Themed Night for the dinners on board. Themed nights create a fun photo opportunity. Pack outfits accordingly. Nautical wear is always perfect for a boat cruising.

A Nautical theme is perfect for a Catamaran Charter.

• A swimsuit cover- up to wear on the islands or on the boat after swimming. Pack one or two.
• A tank top and shorts to sleep in. It can be hot at night all I wanted to wear was a tank top and shorts. I buy mine from Victoria’s Secret. Bring two or three pairs of pajamas for a week long excursion.
• Two pairs of inexpensive sunglasses with a sunglass Croakie cord. You will have a back up pair in case you lose a pair in the water.
• Check to see if your Charter provides Beach towels. If not buy one as a souvenir in St. John or bring one. I didn’t need to bring mine, one less thing I could have packed.
• Shoes- Flip flops and a sturdy water shoe. You will not need gym shoes or high heels. I did not bring water shoes and I wish I did. We hiked rocks and wet rocks and I did it in blingy flip flops. They were definitely the wrong shoes!

Bring sturdy water shoes. I had hiking boots but not good, so I wore blingy flip flops on these rocks as the waves would crash. Really bad idea! (Photograph by Captain Kevin Hughes)

• I seldom wear shorts so I often opt for a skort instead. However, I packed one pair of linen shorts and a t-shirt. It’s a good outfit for day onshore shopping or going to a bar.
• Check the weather, I packed a long sleeve Athleta Beyond Soft sweatshirt for the evenings. I never wore it because it was too hot.
• Wet Wipes- Water is precious onboard. I love showers but wet wipes were easy to use as a substitute shower and to stay clean. Just don’t flush them down the toilet.
• Ziplock bags- aka A Sailor’s Wallet. My friend recommended packing each outfit in a Ziplock bag. This was a great idea. Our clothes stayed fresh. In the case of our friend’s cabin- they forgot to latch their window and their cabin was soaked. Luckily they had packed their outfits in plastic bags so their clothes were dry. You can use these for wallets and cameras when going ashore.

• Pool Floatie – A boating trip is the best excuse to float on the water. Check with your Charter company and see if you can Amazon Prime your float directly to them. I shipped my Gold Swan directly to Soulshine Charters in St. John via Amazon .

I’ve got my Veuve and Goldie Swan

• If you are a light sleeper pack ear plugs. I actually had a hard time sleeping because of the waves and new sounds I was not used to.
• Don’t forget your passport!
• Every restaurant and bar in the Virgin Islands took Visa. American Express not so much.
• The British Virgin Islands will accept US $$. I used my Visa card for the majority of my purchases. Bring cash to tip your crew.
• Your favorite high-end Champagne or wine. Check with your charter on what is included. I knew I wanted to have a Veuve Champagne moment onboard!
• Sun Hat with tie string- It can be windy so bring a sun hat with tie string to tighten it. My favorite brand is Wallaroo. The Julia sun hat is UPF 50+ too. It is worn in the above photograph.
• Games- Our charter had many games onboard to play. Check which ones they have onboard before your trip.
• Sea Bands and Bonine- Everyone swore the Bonine works the best. I wear the Sea bands and I haven’t gotten sea sick wearing them.

After our charter, these are the items I would pack again on a future charter. It’s not fun to pack too much and not wear it. In the case of a Yacht vacation, less is more. Hope this helps. Don’t forget to take a ton of photographs so bring your waterproof camera.

Have you chartered a Catamaran before? What would you add to this list?

One of my favorite outfits to wear on a Catamaran Charter

Is a Catamaran Charter on your Bucket List? Read this article

A Bucket List Vacation to try once in your lifetime

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How To Dress for a Catamaran Cruise

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Now that you have your catamaran cruise booked, you need to make sure your clothing choices suit the occasion. You want to look your best in the photos you share on social media and with your envious friends, but you also want to dress comfortably for a safe cruise. How do you dress for a catamaran cruise?

To dress for a catamaran cruise, ask about a dress code — is it “come as you are,” or black tie? For a casual cruise, wear jeans, sneakers, and a non-collared shirt. Formal cruises require tuxedos and evening gowns. Don’t forget to bring a straw hat and polarized sunglasses for UV protection.

Catamaran cruises offer a chance to relax and unwind. But before you go, there are a few things to learn about catamarans and cruising. You may be a lifelong landlubber, but after reading this article, you’ll be a stylish seadog.

Table of Contents

What Is a Catamaran?

At first glance, a catamaran looks like two boats with a house hanging atop them. Catamarans are broader and boxier than traditional ships. Their width makes them more stable than a single-hulled ship. 

Nautical designers build racing catamarans for speed and cruising catamarans for comfort. Because they rock less than conventional boats, a catamaran ride causes much less sea sickness even in choppy waters. 

Many charter captains rent their catamarans for cruises. They may take guests out for a dinner cruise that features great food and sunset over the waves. They could offer all-day excursions with fishing and swimming. Or they might set sail with their passengers for distant islands.

Whether you’re going for an afternoon ride in the harbor or a catamaran cruise around the world, you’ll want to look your best. But before you ask, “What should I wear?” you should find out if your cruise operator has any rules regarding what you cannot wear.

Check Your Cruise Dress Codes

While many catamaran cruises have a “come as you are” attitude, some expect guests to dress for the occasion. At best, ignoring their dress codes will mark you as the person who showed up to a black-tie event in ripped jeans and a dirty T-shirt. At worst, they’ll turn you away at the dock. 

When in doubt, err on the side of good taste. Cruises are special events. Dress to impress, and you’ll make your cruise more enjoyable for yourself and your fellow passengers. 

Casual Wear on a Catamaran Cruise

Casual catamaran cruises are more about the scenery and the food than dressing up. Jeans, sneakers, and non-collared shirts are acceptable. Tank tops, flip-flops, and swimwear are frowned upon for hygienic and fashion reasons. And just because you can wear a T-shirt on a dinner cruise doesn’t mean that you should.

Boat shoes and leather sandals are more stylish than sneakers. Capris, sundresses, and knee-length skirts work well at a casual wear dinner cruise. Men will look comfortable and stylish in khakis, golf shirts, and button-up shirts. 

This Berydress A-Line Midi Sundress with a lace shawl or cover-up will look casual without sloppy. And men can’t go wrong combining Calvin Klein Stretch Chino Pants with a Lacoste Polo Shirt . 

Semi-Formal Catamaran Cruise Wear

There are many definitions of “semi-formal wear.” Perhaps the best way to approach a semi-formal cruise is to dress like you’re going to a wedding or a 5-star restaurant. 

Flats or low chunky heels will be better suited to a cruise than higher heels. While catamarans heel (rock) much less than conventional boats, waves can still lead to a “rocking horse” motion as the dual hulls rise and fall on the swells. Low heels will be better for your balance. And spike or stiletto heels are right out, as they can cause expensive damage to the decks. 

Combine this Haspel Poplin Sport Coat with these Perry Ellis Linen Pants and a button-down shirt for a look that’s both formal and relaxed. A white Julia Jordan Halter Jumpsuit will look fabulous combined with these blue FASZFSAF Flower Sandals .

Formal Wear Catamaran Cruise Events

When cruising, “formal wear” traditionally meant tuxedos and evening gowns. While some big cruise ships still hold formal events complete with tuxedo rental, the Titanic look has largely gone the way of the Titanic. (Many cruise guests are not happy with this situation).

Still, there may be times when you’ll need to break out the tie and tails or sport your designer best on a catamaran. Many travel-loving couples charter boats for their wedding ceremony . And when your catamaran docks, the yacht and harbor club may hold events where the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers look is de rigueur . 

For an authentic vintage tuxedo look, check eBay’s wide selection of vintage tuxedos . Cruise ship formal wear for women generally works best with simple elegance combined with a showpiece accessory. And when you’re sailing, you’ll find elaborate hairdos hold up more poorly in salt breezes than basic but well-done styles.

England is famous both for its fashion industry and its sailing history. In this British GQ article, Harvey James explains the differences between white tie and black tie dress codes . 

What Clothes Are Best for a Catamaran Cruise?

Whether you’re out for the day or weeks, there are traditional nautical fashions. These styles became popular because they both look good and meet guest and crew needs. What you bring when you set out is what you have until your catamaran docks. 

Here are some pointers for packing or for picking the right outfit for your short catamaran cruise:

• Navy blue , the color of the British Navy’s traditional officer coat, goes well with both neutrals and bright colors like red and yellow.
• Pastels , especially pastel “sea greens” and sky blues, work with khakis, jeans, and white skirts. 
• White matches everything and will keep you cooler on a hot day. Lighter colors should predominate in your outfit.
• Stripes: Stripes pop out against a solid-colored wardrobe. Striped crew necks (named after a style favored by rowers) are popular on yachts and at yacht clubs. This inexpensive Uxcell Striped Crew Neck T-Shirt comes in a wide range of colors and sizes.
• Fabrics: Breathable cotton and linen make your catamaran cruise more comfortable. Dry clean only outfits that might sustain damage from sea spray or a sudden storm should be left onshore. 

The following items may be handy on your catamaran cruise:

Those of us with thinning hair know all too well the heartache of the sunburnt scalp. A hat shields your face, head, neck, and eyes from harmful UV radiation and blinding light. When choosing a hat, look for a 3” to 5” (7.62 to 12.7-cm) brim around the cap. The best materials for sun protection are a very tight straw weave or a thick canvas. 

Bucket hats originally protected Irish fishers and farmers from sun and drizzle. Bob Denver made bucket hats famous on the TV series Gilligan’s Island . A Zero Restriction Gore-Tex Bucket Hat will keep your head dry through a summer squall and ensure you have a better (if shorter) cruise than Gilligan and the Skipper.

Chilly ocean breezes can blow on even the warmest days. And when the sun sets, the air may soon go from balmy to brisk. That light jacket you thought you would never need in midsummer will leave you comfortable while the less-prepared shiver.

Windbreakers like the Under Armour Women’s ArmourStorm Sonar Waterproof Jacket or Under Armour Men’s Scrambler Jacket offer protection against cutting winds and sea spray. They’re also lightweight enough to be folded into a day bag when the sun comes out again.

If your catamaran is sailing in cooler weather, consider a fisherman’s sweater. This Biddy Murphy Aran Knit Sweater is made with soft, non-scratchy Merino wool and comes in various sizes and colors. Irish fishermen wear these while sailing the North Sea. They should keep you fashionable and warm when things get dreary and damp. 

Clean, unripped jeans are acceptable for most cruises. But seersucker pants will be more breathable and look more upscale. If you’re going on a catamaran cruise, why not go that extra mile and wear a nice pair of Brooks Brothers Striped Seersucker Pants ? 

Linen capri pants (also known as “clam diggers”) are a flattering option for women. These LinenMe Linen Clam Diggers will pair with just about anything in your wardrobe. They’re fetching, versatile, and can be used as part of many outfits after your catamaran cruise ends. 

In 1934, Paul Sperry slipped on his sailboat and fell into the cold Long Island Sound waters. Sperry made it safely back to his boat, but the experience shook him. He resolved to create a shoe that would give him better traction when at sea.

The following winter Sperry noticed how easily his Cocker Spaniel, Prince, ran up icy Connecticut hills without slipping. Inspired by Prince’s rough paws, Sperry cut grooves into a pair of gum rubber soles and glued them to canvas sneakers.

Today Sperry’s rubber-soled shoes are still beloved by naval personnel who want to stay on the deck or, in nautical slang, “topside.” Sperry Top-Siders are comfortable and fashionable. And their white rubber soles don’t scuff or mar decks, which makes them very popular with yacht owners too! 

If you want footwear for your cruise, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Sperry Top-Siders. These Sperry Men’s Mako 2-Hole Boat Shoes and Sperry Women’s Rosefish Boat Shoes will be stylish both on deck and dry land. And if any part of your cruise involves a walking tour, bring worn-in shoes to avoid blisters.

For men, button-downs like this Vivienne Westwood Poplin Orb Short-Sleeved Shirt and polo shirts like the Calvin Klein Men’s Quick Dry Polo are solid catamaran cruise options. 

Button-downs and polo shirts also work for ladies on a catamaran cruise. This Agan Traders Women’s Boho Lace Bell Sleeve Blouse is Bohemian enough for a coffee house and sufficiently light for hot weather. The long sleeves will also help protect you from sunburn. 

To cope with the hot, humid weather, early 20th century Bermuda businessmen began wearing trousers cut an inch above the knee. Much of the British Empire was tropical or subtropical, so Bermuda shorts became popular throughout Her Majesty’s realm.

Bermuda shorts are dressier than denim cut-offs but not so formal that you can’t pair them with a T-shirt. Island Trends Victoria Bermuda Shorts will look great with a brightly colored Cicy Bell Casual Blazer or with a Daily Ritual Oversized V-Neck Tunic . And there are few men’s yachting outfits more iconic than Bermuda shorts paired with a polo or golf shirt.

Sunlight glistening off the water can be dazzling, but a little goes a long way. If you’re out on the ocean, sunglasses are a must-have item. Along with a hat and sunscreen, sunglasses can be the difference between a pleasant cruise and a painful one.

Here are a few tips when selecting sunglasses for your catamaran cruise:

• Be sure your sunglasses are polarized; non-polarized sunglasses will do little to keep out the light coming toward your eye from all directions. 
• Also, check to see that your sunglasses block out harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays. 
• Many sailors prefer gray or copper-colored lenses. These provide the best contrast when exploring the water for fish or obstacles.

These Costa Del Mar Men’s FERG Square Sunglasses and Costa Del Mar Women’s Gannet Rectangular Sunglasses will protect your eyes on a cruise or in any other overly bright situation.

Catamarans are great for ocean swimming. Their lower draft (depth below the water) means they can sail into harbors that would ground most conventional sailboats. And their stability makes them excellent platforms for climbing into and out of the water. 

One-piece suits are versatile. Slip on a pair of Joe’s Jeans Bermuda Shorts or an R.Vivimos Cotton Floral Print Midi Skirt , and you’re ready to go from the ocean to a beachfront restaurant. 

For cruises, many experts recommend bringing at least two swimsuits. That way, you can leave one out to dry and wear the other when you want to visit the hot tub or lounge on the deck. And rash guards like the Quiksilver Men’s All Time Ls Surfer Shirt or Land’s End Women’s Crew Neck Long Sleeve Rash Guard can save you from painful sunburn. 

Packing Advice for a Long Catamaran Cruise

If you’re going on a multi-day catamaran cruise, you’ll want several changes of clothes on-hand. You want to bring your most flattering outfits, but don’t bring too many! 

Pack Lightly for Your Cruise

The Hemisphere , one of the largest charter catamarans, is 145 feet (44.2 meters). Charter catamarans typically range between 45 and 70 feet (13.72 and 21.34 meters) long. The Symphony of the Seas , the largest cruise ship sailing today, is 1,128 feet (343.81 meters) long. 

Next to a big cruise ship, cruising catamarans look positively puny! But Symphony carries over 5,500 people on a typical cruise along with a crew of 2,200. The Hemisphere has a staff of eight and can accommodate up to twelve passengers in four doubles and one twin cabin. 

Catamarans have a rectangular deck that offers more space than a traditional boat of comparable length. This design gives passengers more room for walking about and for activities. Many of the largest catamarans have hot tubs and even pools! But storage space on a catamaran cruise will still be at a premium. 

You should be able to fit your cruise wardrobe in one large or two small soft-sided bags or duffel bags which you can store away easily. Soft bags are easy to fold away once you unpack, taking up less room. Hard suitcases are more challenging to pack away and may even scratch and damage cabin woodwork.

This Gonex 150L Foldable Duffle Bag comes in various colors and will give you plenty of room to store your things. 

Ask About Cruise Washing Facilities

Washing machines require lots of electricity and freshwater. They’re bulky and heavy. While cruising catamarans offer many luxuries, most don’t have onboard laundry facilities. That means you’ll probably need to wait until your catamaran docks to do your wash at a laundromat. Make sure you bring along enough clothes to tide you over between ports of call. 

If all else fails, you can always use the time-honored sailing tradition of washing your clothes in soapy salt water, rinsing them in a bit of freshwater, then hanging them out to dry. The ocean breezes will dry your garments in no time and leave them smelling like the sea.

The Tangie Stain Remover Bar is small, but if you need to get a stain out while traveling between ports, it’ll be a big help. 

Leave Your Expensive Jewelry at Home

Heirlooms and irreplaceable jewelry can easily get lost on a cruise. Expensive rings and necklaces may impress your cruise mates, but they’ll also draw the attention of thieves and ne’er-do-wells in port. 

You should also avoid long necklaces on sailing catamarans. If your chain gets tangled in the rigging, it could break. And be careful near the railing. If your diamond bracelet falls into Davy Jones’ locker, Davy keeps it. 

If you absolutely must bring expensive jewelry for a special night out, check to ensure that your cruise has a safe to store your irreplaceable heirlooms. Keep them safely stored away until you need them, then lock them back up until you return.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what to wear on a catamaran cruise. Catamarans are chic and often comfortable sailing in almost every sort of weather. With the pointers that you’ve learned from this essay, you can be fashionable and comfortable too! Happy (and stylish) sailing! 

• Astorino & Associates Eye Care Center: Sailing and Sunglasses
• Intimate Weddings: Romantic Wedding on a Boat
• Sperry: Our Story
• The Vivienne Files: Start Here

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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This boat is ideal for those who want to travel the Galapagos in comfort and intimacy, but still receive exceptional, personal services. Each cabin is equipped with a private safe, a bathroom and a wardrobe. Eight double cabins allow for sixteen guests to enjoy a memorable stay.

This luxurious, first-class yacht was built with the comfort and luxury in mind of its passengers during their voyage. This motor yacht can carry 16 passengers and measures 125 feet in length. It cruises at 12 knots.

This is the Tip Top's proud new member, looking forward to providing unforgettable adventures for its guests.

We have the best seats in our house and the Galapagos Islands is the most popular wilderness destination. You can see and approach giant tortoises, sea-lions, penguins and marine iguanas  as well as other  bird species . Although the landscape is barren and volcanic, it is still beautiful.

Natural historians both professionals and amateurs love the islands. Every year, thousands of wilderness travelers visit the Galapagos. To protect the natural habitats, strict controls are in place on tourist access . All visitors must be accompanied and certified by a naturalist tour guide.

7 Itineraries

Itinerary A

Itinerary B

Cruise To Galapagos On An 8 Day 7 Night Itinerary On Board The Tip Top Iv

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Expedition cruise itinerary b north and south galapagos.

Galapagos Cruise On Board Tip Top V Catamaran

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Tip Top V: A new first class catamaran

Days: 8, 5, & 4 | From: $3,418/per person

The Tip Tov V is part of the family of Tip Top vessels (including the Tip Top II and the Tip Top IV ). Two are catamarans and one is a yacht. The Tip Tov V is the newest catamaran in the fleet and includes 8 cabins for up to 16 people. Onboard social areas include a dining room, salon room, comfortable lounge, bar & salon, and observation and sun deck. All excursions are done in the company of a bilingual naturalist guide. Activities available on the Tip Top V include hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking.

• Regular departures throughout the year
• Available for private charter

We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting ships, excursions and length as desired.

We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.

Vessel Information

Accommodations.

Construction: built in 2019 Type: First Class Catamaran Length: 112 feet Beam: 43 feet Draft: 5 feet Speed: 12 knots Engines: Twin Baudouin 6W126 Marine Diesel Engines 350 HP Crew: Captain, Bilingual Naturalist Guide, Engineer, International Cook, Barman & waitress, two sailors

Yacht Specifications

There are 4 Main Deck cabins (210 square feet each). Two cabins are with one king size bed (cabins 1 & 2) and the other two (cabins 3 & 4) are with two single beds. All are 210 square feet.

There are 4 Upper Deck cabins. Two are with one king size bed and are 200 square feet each plus they include a 70 square feet balcony (cabins 5 & 6). The other two are with single lower beds are 170 square feet plus a 35 square feet balcony (cabins 7 - 10).

All cabins have a private bathroom, individual climate controls, and ample storage space for clothing and luggage.

Itineraries & Pricing

Itinerary west (8 days).

Friday Arrive to Baltra / Mosquera Islet

Saturday Sullivan Bay (Santiago) / Rabida

Sunday Espinoza Point (Fernandina) / Elizabeth Bay (Isabela)

Monday Isabela: Urbina Bay / Tagus Cove

Tuesday Egas Port (Santiago) / Bartlome

Wednesday Chinese Hat / Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz)

Thursday Santa Cruz: Higlands / Interpretation Center

Friday North Seymour / Return to Mainland

Itinerary East (8 days)

Friday Arrive to Baltra / Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz)

Saturday Genovesa: Darwin Bay / Prince Philip Steps

Sunday South Plaza / Santa Fe

Monday Santa Cruz: Higlands / Interpretation Center

Tuesday Floreana: Post Office Bay / Comorant Point

Wednesday Española: Suarez Point / Gardner Bay

Thursday San Cristobal: Cerro Brujo / Kicker Rock / Interpretation Center

Friday Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) / Return to Mainland

(800) 342-1796

Displayed itineraries are just summaries. Our travel specialists will help you select the best cruise based on your interests, timing and budget.

Trip length: 8, 5, & 4 day itineraries

Max number of passengers: 16, in 10 cabins

Prices 2024

Included: All meals, guides & activities, Galapagos airfare (to/from Quito or Guayaquil), water, coffee and tea, snorkeling equipment, use of kayaks

Not included: Park fees (about $220 per person), gratuities, fuel surcharge (when applicable)

Price in parenthesis is for single occupancy.

8 day cruise

Main Deck Cabin: $5,922 ($8,936) per person

Upper Deck Cabin: $6,589 ($10,007) per person

5 day cruise

Main Deck Cabin: $4,263 ($6,290) per person

Upper Deck Cabin: $4,772 ($7,103) per person

4 day cruise

Main Deck Cabin: $3,418 ($4,935) per person

Upper Deck Cabin: $3,801 ($5,549) per person

Children 11 years and under receive a 50% discount

Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter departures are 20% higher

Charters: from $50,978 (4 days), $63,210 (5 days), $89,506 (8 days)

Call us to start planning your journey today:

1 (510) 548-8487

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We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.

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From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.

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Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.

Galapagos Islands Vessels

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About this vessel

• Vessel Type:  First Class Motor Catamaran
• Length:  112
• Speed:  12
• Passenger Capacity:  16
• Crew Capacity:  7 + 1 naturalist guide
• Cabin Count:  10

Private bathrooms with shower, safety box, air conditioning.

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Tip Top V Galápagos Cruise+Flights

Brand new first class catamaran, launched in june 2019, a galápagos cruise on board the tip top v.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the famous and well-renowed Galápagos Tip Top Fleet, the Tip Top V. This new vessel is a beautiful motor catamaran and will take over operations for its older brother Tip Top III.

• Flight tickets to and from Galápagos included;
• Long-established, local Galápagos operators;
• Light and airy lounge and communal spaces;
• Experienced and friendly crew;

Note: All prices already include your flight tickets from and to the Galápagos Islands (from Quito or Guayaquil).

There will be 10 cabins on Tip Top V spread across 2 decks. Each cabin is tastefully decorated with bright and airy colors and natural wood finishes, and each features a private bathroom with shower, air conditioning, personal safe, vanity unit and hair dryer. An internal phone system is available for your use.

Water Activities There are two kayaks on board for your use as well as snorkeling equipment to use for the whole cruise including masks, snorkels and fins (sizes 3-5 to 11-13). The crew thoughtfully provides a bag for each passenger to store and carry their gear. Wetsuits are available to rent upon request when you book your cruise.

The well-trained, friendly and professional crew of 8 always do their best to make your Galápagos Islands visit an unforgettable experience. Each one of them will ensure a safe cruise, as they are well prepared to offer a first-class and personalized service. The Tip Top fleet is well known throughout the Islands for being one of the best run and managed. Tip Top’s crew and guides are known to go out of their way to make sure everything is as good as it can be.

Dates & Prices on board the Tip Top V

When do you want to travel.

Could not find your preferred date?

Amenities on board the Tip Top V

-10% for children ≤ 11

Transfers to and from ship

Private Balcony

Snorkel gear (free of charge)

Travel for good: Your Each booking contributes to Ventura’s Conservation Project.

Kayaks on board

Air conditioning & private bathroom

Single travellers can share cabin

Wetsuits (can be rented)

English guide

Flights to and from Galapagos

Internet/Wifi

Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices

German guide possible

Food & Drinks on board the Tip Top V

The food on our Galapágos Cruises is among the very best you will find in South America. Most of the on-board chefs are internationally trained and have prior experience working in the best hotels and restaurants in Ecuador and indeed around the world.

You can expect a first-class selection of food, including a good variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, locally sourced poultry and fish/seafood, rice and pasta dishes. Most boats will always include some typical Ecuadorian dishes on the menu during your cruise. If you have specific dietary requirements then these can usually be accommodated by the chef providing you have given advance notice. Please make sure you tell us about any allergies or dietary requirements you have at the time you book with us. If you leave it until you arrive at the dockside, then it may well be impossible to accommodate your needs.

Most boats serve a range of options at meal times in a relaxed buffet-style. At the first class and luxury end of the market, some boats have more formal dining where you will be served at your seat. However the atmosphere is always relaxed on board our cruises, and never stuffy or formal.

At Galapatours we love and respect the pristine ecosystems and fascinating wildlife of the Galápagos Islands. To protect the archipelago, all vessels in Galápagos must have sophisticated water filtration systems, modern, efficient engines, and strict maintenance schedules to minimize pollution. Furthermore, The Galápagos National Park authority defines exact cruising routes that dictate which ships can visit which highlights at what day and time, as well as limiting passenger numbers.

But at Galapatours we like to go even further: We voluntarily offset all the CO2 emissions of every cruise we sell - at no cost to you. You can also play your part by traveling responsibly and following our Eco Guidelines during your stay. Click here to find out more about these guidelines, our commitment to sustainable tourism, and the Galápagos National Park rules.

Cabins categories on board the Tip Top V

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy :

More about this cabin

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Technical details of Tip Top V

Motor catamaran, reviews of tip top v.

Tip Top V Galapagos Cruise+Flights

Trip of a lifetime We travelled as a family on the TipTop V southern/Eastern cruise for 8 days. It was not cheap, but then no Galapagos cruises are. Nonetheless, it was worth every cent. The crew was kind, responsive and generous. They really spoilt us. They took us to incredible places in which we could do a wide range of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, walking on the beach and more. Felipe, our guide, was absolutely excellent. We had a lot of fun with him as well as learning so much from his extensive knowledge about the islands. Pablo, the cruise director, always made sure everything was perfect. If your coming to Galápagos for a trip of your life time, we would say from our experience that you couldn’t go wrong with Tip Top V. Source: TripAdvisor

Trip of a lifetime We booked an 8 day cruise on TipTopV with Babette at Galapatours. It was really the trip of a lifetime. Galapatours were extremely helpful in all aspects of the planning. There was at one point a mix up for which we shared responsibility, but Galapatours ensured it was quickly sorted out and that we were happy. I would not hesitate to book through them again.

Similar Ships

The Motor Catamaran Treasure of Galápagos is a spacious, first class vessel boasting large, elegant cabins and excellent amenities. Featuring a wonderfully eclectic decor that sumptuously blends art deco with modern styles, you will feel perfectly at home as you cruise around the enchanting archipelago. Amenities on board are excellent. Every cabin features its own private balcony, allowing you to sit and drink in the islands' beauty in perfect privacy if you wish. Individually controlled air conditioning, delightful private bathroom, and a writing desk/vanity and plenty of storage complete the thoughtful touches. Communal areas on board are large, bright, and airy, and facilities include a jacuzzi on the upper sun deck, outdoor lounge and bar with shade as well as an elegant indoor lounge bar. Treasure of Galápagos features a reading room with its own Natural History library, where your highly experienced naturalist guide will make the habitat and wildlife of the Galápagos come alive for you. Dining on board is a first class experience, with a varied and plentiful menu that features the best of Ecuadorian and world cuisine, served buffet style. The well-stocked bar provides excellent local beers and wines, as well as premium spirits and cocktails. There is complimentary tea, coffee and water available 24 hours. With only 16 guests maximum, your expert crew and naturalist guide will ensure your every need is catered for, and all your questions are answered. Complimentary snorkelling equipment allows guests to experience the marine habitat for themselves, and a wide range of excursions means you will truly come to understand the unique islands of the Galápagos.

The Motor Catamaran Anahi is a delightfully comfortable yacht, built specifically for Galápagos cruises in Ecuador in 2006. This first-class vessel has been designed with stability in mind, offering you a wonderfully relaxed and calm cruise experience. Although a thoroughly modern ship, Anahi is richly decorated throughout with natural wood finishes, including beautiful teak decks and flooring for a real touch of luxury. **Stateroom or Suite?** Taking a maximum of only 16 passengers, Anahi gives you an exclusive experience. Her 6 twin bed cabins have been designed to provide a cozy, “home-from-home” feel, and all offer private en suite bathrooms and large windows, letting light flood in. If you want to treat yourself to something grander, there are two suites onboard on the upper deck. These feature superb king size beds, plenty of extra space, and windows across an entire wall with remarkable views over the bows of the catamaran. All cabins feature independent air conditioning for your comfort. **Space to take in the islands** A huge benefit to the catamaran design is the amount of additional space compared to a traditional single-hull Galápagos cruise boat. The lounge and indoor dining area offer plenty of space for eating, relaxing, and learning about the fascinating wildlife and habitats from your naturalist guide. Make your way to the upper level and you are greeted by a vast open stern deck which features a fantastic alfresco bar, and plenty of space for dining outside under the equatorial sun - or, more sensibly, under the shady canopy! There’s even a jacuzzi big enough for 6 at a time here - a real treat on a Galápagos cruise of this class. Sun-worshippers aren’t forgotten. Just make your way up to the top of the boat where the unobstructed sundeck awaits. With comfortable loungers and faux-grass flooring, this deck offers uninterrupted views of the Galápagos. **Your every whim catered for** The Anahi’s 9 crew will ensure that everything you need is taken care of. Your cabin will be serviced several times a day, you will enjoy an excellent range of gourmet-quality food, served in a relaxed atmosphere as either buffet-style or full-service meals. When the weather is suitable, you will eat under the shade of the main deck bar - a perfect place to share a meal with like-minded travelers. The bar is very well stocked, and complimentary waters, teas and coffees are available at all times. **Bringing you closer to the Galápagos** The Anahi offers a great range of itineraries, including the ability to put two of her 8 day Galápagos cruises together to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime 15-day experience - the ultimate way to see everything Galápagos has to offer. Anahi’s bilingual National Park naturalist guide will lead you on a wide variety of activities, designed to bring you as close to the wildlife, flora and unique habitats of the Galápagos as possible. As well as guided hikes on the islands, you will also enjoy snorkeling (with use of complementary masks, snorkels and fins), panga rides and sea kayaking. **Our thoughts** We do like first-class catamarans like Anahi. They are much more stable than traditional yachts and can travel faster, meaning you get to see more for any given number of days. Naturalist guide Gallo is consistently rated as one of the best by travellers, and the entire crew is always ready to go the extra mile for you. We particularly like the stern deck jacuzzi just across from the bar - the ideal place to watch the sun go down. The choice of itineraries is more extensive than most ships in her class, and we love the flexibility this brings for you to choose the perfect match for what you want to get from your Galápagos experience - if you need some help to choose, just speak to one of our friendly Galápagos experts today.

Reina Silvia Voyager

With wildlife widely undisturbed by humans, Galápagos cruising can sometimes feel like stepping backwards in time, but aboard a modern vessel like our custom-built Reina Silvia Voyager catamaran, the experience feels entirely 21st century. 16 passengers can cruise together and let the Naturalist Guide introduce you to all the wonders of these islands. Enjoy the view from a spacious sun deck, a private balcony (available with most cabins), or from the Jacuzzi. This is the Galápagos like Darwin never could have imagined. Cabins: 4 main deck twin cabins (twin side-by-side beds) with balcony, 1 double cabin (double bed) no balcony, 2 upper deck twin cabins (twin side-by-side beds) with balcony, 2 upper deck single cabin (single bed each) with balcony. Boat layout: Boat layout: All cabins on the main and upper decks. Spacious indoor dining area and lounge with TV and DVD player for briefings. Covered bar and seating area on the upper deck as well as a spacious sundeck with a covered area, seats, and lounge chairs, as well as a barbecue area and Jacuzzi. Crew: 1 expert CEO Naturalist Guide, 8 crew

This popular motor catamaran is a popular choice for those looking for the increased stability that twin hull boats can provide whilst still wanting a delightful ambience and luxury accommodation. Tip Top is also one of the faster boats in the Galápagos with a true 12 knots cruise speed that means you can spend more time on your excursions and adventures, and less time travelling between them. Captain Jimmy has been at the helm for 5 years, and a professional sailor for over 12. We could talk with Jimmy for hours (and we did). Listening to this proud father of two, it's soon obvious that there are few who know the local waters like he does. The chef, Wellington, is fantastic - he won't just give you his ceviche recipe, he'll invite you into the kitchen and show you exactly how he does it! Despite its luxurious feel, this is a really personal and friendly boat, and we love spending time with her. ####Personal Service Limited to only 16 passengers, Captain Jimmy and his 8 crew provide the very highest levels of comfort and service for you to enjoy. Our crew specializes in giving a personal touch that you don’t get on any other boat. ####Spacious Charm A great benefit of the catamaran design, a Galápagos cruise on Tip Top II won’t leave you feeling hemmed in. This is a boat with a lot of space, and the stunning new decor using solid woods and natural materials enhances this even more. Cabins are airy with high ceilings and panoramic windows, making them an astounding place to relax. Communal areas on Tip Top are delightful with a stunning outdoor bar, saloon lounge and dining room all with superb quality furnishings. The upper sun deck is an amazing place to soak up the sun or to watch the stars come out over the nighttime ocean. ####Our Comments This is a beautiful boat for those who are looking for a personal experience on their Galápagos cruise. The crew are knowledgeable and friendly, and you really can’t beat Wellington’s ceviche! The new refit last year looks absolutely stunning, and we love spending time on board. This is one of our Galápagos favorites. Tip Top II operates two unique 8-day Galápagos cruise itineraries, which can be shortened into 4- or 5-day cruises or combined into more comprehensive 11- or 15-day cruises.

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Mauritius Catamaran Cruise & Ile aux Cerfs Tour Review (+ Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2024

Looking for a boat trip, a speedboat excursion or a catamaran cruise in Mauritius, but not sure which one to choose or what to expect? Then read on!

Mauritius is a paradise-like island destination, but I had no idea that there are quite a few smaller islands nearby that are just as picturesque and just as dreamy as Mauritius itself. Obviously, the best way to see some of those little islands is by taking a boat trip. So we joined a catamaran cruise in Mauritius…

In this article, you can read about our experience with a speedboat/ catamaran cruise in Mauritius , the places we visited, and whether it was worth it. Spoiler alert – it was!

In addition, at the bottom of this article, you can find our suggestions for the best boat tours in Mauritius – both by speedboat or catamaran. We also included some practical tips for your Mauritius boat trip.

One of the most popular day trips from Mauritius is a boat tour to the picturesque island Ile aux Cerfs ( see all the boat tour options here ). We opted for a sightseeing catamaran cruise that visited several nice places in one day, in addition to this popular island.

Our catamaran cruise itinerary included snorkeling, a visit to Ile aux Fouquets (the Lighthouse Island), BBQ on the boat, an excursion to the GRSE waterfall, as well as some free time at Ile aux Cerfs.

Below you can read all about this catamaran trip. It will give you a good idea of what to expect on a speedboat or a catamaran cruise in Mauritius. This should also help you decide which Mauritius boat tour is right for you. Find out!

Update: The exact same tour with the company we traveled with isn’t available anymore, but this highly-rated tour offers pretty much the same itinerary as you’ll see described below. This is another very similar tour , and – at the moment of the last update – is quite a bit cheaper. The main difference with the one we did is that these tours use speedboats rather than catamarans.

Mauritius Catamaran Cruise & Boat Trips – OVERVIEW

• What to expect – our catamaran cruise itinerary and review
• Is a boat trip or a catamaran cruise in Mauritius worth it?
• Catamaran vs. speed boat
• Practical tips
• Best Mauritius catamaran cruises and boat trips

Mauritius Catamaran Cruise Review & Ile aux Cerfs Tour Itinerary

You are probably wondering what is Mauritius catamaran cruise or speedboat trip like and what to expect?

Well, first of all, you can expect a very relaxing day full of sunshine, stunning scenery, white sand beaches, and azure-blue water. In addition, you’ll probably meet some really friendly people, dance to some great music (because… why not), get to taste some delicious local food, and – depending on the tour – maybe even get drinks à volonté . Mauritian rum & coke included. Vacation at its best!

The review below is based on my personal experience with a Mauritius catamaran cruise. Most catamaran trips in Mauritius seem to be very similar, so this gives you a good idea of what to expect.

Snorkeling on a Boat Trip in Mauritius

Our catamaran cruise departed on the southeast side of Mauritius. While it was raining on our way there, the sun was shining on the coast. The scenery here is amazing – the azure-blue water of the sea and lush deep green mountains in the background…

We hardly installed ourselves at the front of our catamaran as the captain announced that we’d be stopping to go snorkeling . It’s probably a good thing that they start with the snorkeling before anyone had a chance to enjoy Mauritian rum anyway…. Equipped with snorkels and flippers, we jumped into the incredibly blue and clear water.

I have to say that snorkeling here was just ok, though. There isn’t much coral and we only saw small fish. It was nice, but definitely not wow. A few days before that, I took a free snorkeling tour from my hotel in Bel Mare (on the northeast side of Mauritius) and snorkeling there was much better.

Anyway, it’s always fun to be in the water and watch the fish. I had a great time and, since snorkeling wasn’t the focus of this catamaran excursion for me, I wasn’t disappointed.

Ile aux Fouquets – The Lighthouse Island

Our next stop on this catamaran day trip in southeast Mauritius was the so-called Lighthouse Island . Its official name is Ile aux Fouquets – named after a bird species that live here. However, there is an old abandoned lighthouse on this tiny island and so locals call it the Lighthouse Island.

There are many boat trips visiting this tiny island, with tourists coming and going all the time. However, the island itself doesn’t feel busy because all the boats are parked at a distance.

The water is really shallow here, so you have to take a smaller motorboat to get to the island. You also have to walk the last few meters in the water. Water shoes would be really handy here!

The lighthouse standing here was built in 1864 and witnessed several sea battles between the English and the French in the bay. It has long been abandoned and is now no more than a ruin. It also looks better from a distance than from close by. But it’s definitely an interesting place to visit and gives you some insight into Mauritius’ past.

The guide gives you a quick introduction to the history of the island and after that, you are free to explore on your own. The island is so small that you don’t really need more than 10-15 minutes. You can take some pictures of the lighthouse, watch the waves crashing against the rocky shore, or try to spot some birds.

Before you know it, the guide calls you back to a small boat that brings you back to the catamaran. It’s a really interesting short stop and a part of Mauritius that most vacationers never even heard about.

TIP: If you want to visit Lighthouse Island, there are just a few tours that come here. This is the tour that’s very similar to the one we did , and here you can find the other options.

BBQ Lunch on Catamaran

While we were snorkeling and exploring the Lighthouse Island, the staff of our catamaran was busy preparing food.

They set up a bbq on the deck and baked meat and seafood. It was served with traditional flatbread and fresh vegetables. Absolutely delicious!

There was a vegetarian in our group and there was plenty of choice for him as well.

Sailing on the East Coast of Mauritius

After lunch, we set sail to Grand River South East, which is quite far away and took about an hour to get there by catamaran. This gave us a chance to lie down on the net and the soft cushions in the front area of the catamaran. It’s such a great way to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and the wind in the sails.

TIP: Make sure you use sun protection when lounging on a catamaran or you might start to look like a boiled lobster in a matter of half an hour…

Grand River South East Waterfall

GRSE waterfall is one of the most impressive natural landmarks along the southeast coast of Mauritius. Many boat tours visiting Ile aux Cerfs also stop here. There are also tours from Ile aux Cerfs to this waterfall.

The waterfall itself is located a bit further from the coast, up the river, where large catamarans can’t get. So you have to change to a smaller boat that brings you all the way to the waterfall. In fact, it brings you so close that you can get a shower under the waterfall without leaving the boat…

It’s a short side excursion and the scenery here is nice, with mangroves and high rocks next to the river. The waterfall itself is also quite impressive, although this depends on what you compare it to, of course.

Ile aux Cerfs

The last stop of our catamaran cruise in Mauritius was the beautiful island Ile aux Cerfs . If you see aerial pictures of this island, it looks like paradise: white sand beaches, lush green interior, and azure-blue waters. Picture-perfect. From the boat, it also looks really nice, but once you arrive, you realize that it’s also quite touristy.

Ile aux Cerfs seems to be one of the most popular destinations for boat tours on the East coast of Mauritius. So don’t expect to be alone here.  There are many boats coming and going to the tiny harbor of Ile aux Cerfs. Otherwise uninhabited, this tiny island comes to life during the day.

There are several restaurants and a bar on the island and a small market right by the harbor. Here you can find all the beach necessities as well as a big variety of Mauritian souvenirs.

The moment you disembark from your boat, you’re surrounded by local guides inviting you to try all kinds of water sports on the island. Sailing, banana-boat rides, water skiing… you can find it all here.

If you just take a boat to the island, you’ll have a lot of time here. You can go walking and explore the island without the crowds. Alternatively, you can just stay at the beach (which is what most people seem to do), go snorkeling or do some fun water sports…

If you are staying at a really nice resort in Mauritius (I can recommend The Ravenala Attitude with its all-in formula), you’ll have all these water sports available at your hotel as well. But if you are staying at a more local hotel that doesn’t have all this included, Ile aux Cerfs is a wonderful place to enjoy all that Mauritius beach has to offer.

Good to know: Catamaran cruises and boat trips that also visit other places on the same day, tend to spend just 1-1,5 hrs on Ile aux Cerfs. This gives you enough time to enjoy the beach, but probably not enough to explore the island further.

Speedboat Trip

I had even less time on the Ile aux Cerfs island because I got a unique chance to take a semi-private speedboat ride back to the mainland and so I opted for that instead.

I love speedboats! And having one just to myself and a friend was a really special experience.

Other friends stayed on the island longer and came back with the catamaran instead. They said it was fun, but they didn’t see much of the island and just spent the time at the beach and did a few water activities.

Best Mauritius Catamaran Cruises and Boat Trips

I was surprised to see how many options there are when it comes to taking a boat trip or a catamaran cruise in Mauritius. To help you easily choose the boat tour that’s right for you, I made a small selection of the best Mauritius boat trips that have a good itinerary, as well as great customer reviews.

Take a look at my hand-picked selection below. You can’t really go wrong with any of these.

• This speedboat tour has the same pretty much the same itinerary as the trip that I did and described in this article. It includes snorkeling, a visit to Lighthouse Island, the waterfall, and Ile aux Cerfs. In addition, it stops at Ile aux Aigrettes. That’s an advantage of a speedboat – they can cover more ground at the same time.
• Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ lunch . This catamaran cruise is one of the most popular boat trips in Mauritius. The itinerary includes snorkeling, sailing, bbq lunch, and Ile aux Cerfs visit. It starts and ends at Pointe Jerome in the southeast of Mauritius. TIP: This boat trip has pretty much the same itinerary but departs from the northeast of the island, so it might be a better option if you are staying on that part of the island.
• Private Catamaran Day Trip to Ile aux Cerfs . This is a great option if you can share the costs of a private boat with a bigger family or a group of friends (or if you don’t mind splurging a bit). Private boat trips also include snorkeling, BBQ lunch, a visit to the waterfall, and free time on Ile aux Cerfs. Imagine a whole day on a private boat with an amazing crew, incredible scenery, and unlimited food and drinks… Life doesn’t get much better than that.
• Catamaran Cruise to the Northern Isles . This is a great boat trip for those staying in the North of Mauritius (Grand Baie area). You can visit the most beautiful islands without having to spend a lot of time in the car.
• Sunset cruises are also popular in Mauritius. Here you can find more sunset tours .

Is a Boat Trip or a Catamaran Cruise in Mauritius Worth It?

Well, as always, I guess it depends on what you compare it to and what the alternatives are.

There is so much to do in Mauritius that the choice can get really overwhelming. So if you only have a few days on the island, you may want to spend your time exploring more of Mauritius itself.

However, if you are looking for a relaxing day trip that combines beach and sightseeing, then a Mauritius catamaran cruise or a speedboat tour is a great choice. After all, that’s what an island vacation is all about – sea, beach, sunshine, stunning scenery, good food, drinks, music, and wind in your hair…

I really enjoyed my catamaran cruise in Mauritius. Snorkeling, visiting the historic Lighthouse Island, seeing a beautiful waterfall and the famous Ile aux Cerfs – we covered quite a lot of ground without much effort. I would have never been able to visit these places without a boat tour.

Furthermore, the combination of sightseeing with some relaxing time on the catamaran, delicious food, drinks, music, and good company made it a really fun and relaxing day. I’d do it again!

Mauritius Catamaran vs. Speed Boat

The catamaran cruise that I did was a bit different than the standard catamaran tour in Mauritius because it combined a catamaran cruise and a speedboat. Normally, you have to choose one of the two, and they both have advantages and disadvantages.

On a catamaran , you have more space to walk around, there is a bathroom, and a big net in front where you can lie down to read a book, sunbathe, or simply relax. But it’s also busier as catamaran cruises take more people on board. A catamaran is also slower. If you opt for a group tour, a catamaran cruise in Mauritius is cheaper than a speedboat trip.

Speedboat goes much faster, so you can do more sightseeing in less time. That means that you can spend more time on the islands instead of on the boat or see more places in one day. You can’t really walk around the speedboat a lot, so it’s really more of a means of transportation rather than a place to relax. That being said, it can be really relaxing and luxurious. If you can afford a private speedboat tour , I wouldn’t hesitate. Contrary to group tours, a private speedboat costs less than a private catamaran.

Another advantage of a speedboat is that you don’t get seasick in it. A catamaran is, in general, also ok and I never got seasick on a catamaran. But then I never took a catamaran in rough seas. However, that shouldn’t be an issue in Mauritius anyway.

Catamaran vs. speedboat. I really like both – speedboat and catamaran. They are very different, but each fun in its own way. When it comes to choosing a catamaran cruise in Mauritius vs. a boat trip, I’d first look at the day trip itinerary and choose a boat tour based on that rather than on what type of boat it is.

Higher above, you can find our hand-picked selection of the very best boat trips in Mauritius. And below are some practical tips and things you may want to know when planning a day excursion like this.

Practical Tips for a Boat Trip in Mauritius

• Research and book a boat trip in advance. That way you can compare itineraries and prices, and read real customer reviews. Here you can find a big selection of boat trips and tours in Mauritius (or see our hand-picked selection of the best Mauritius boat tours higher above).
• If you don’t like to spend a lot of time in a car, pick a boat trip that departs from a place that’s not too far from your hotel .
• Wear your swimsuit , so that you don’t have to change on the boat.
• Bring water shoes if you have them – it comes in very handy when you have to disembark in the water or for water activities or at the beach.
• Sun protection. Make sure that you have a sunscreen lotion, a sun hat, sunglasses, and – ideally – also a long-sleeved summer shirt or a UV t-shirt to wear on the boat.
• Check if towels are provided and otherwise bring one from your hotel.
• Bring some cash if you’re planning to do any water activities on Ile aux Cerfs or buy souvenirs. Tips for your boat crew are also appreciated.

More tips for your trip to Mauritius:

• Airport transfers:  Private and shared Mauritius airport transfers
• What to see: Best Things to Do in Mauritius
• Private tours:   Private Day Tour of the South West of Mauritius  or  Private Day Tour with Customizable Itinerary
• Must-visit: L’Aventure du Sucre in Mauritius
• Where to stay:   The Ravenala Attitude Review

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Wednesday 24th of August 2022

Please can you tell me the company you booked the catamaran trip through as I cannot find this specific itinerary with any of the links provided in the article.

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

Hi Julie, since we did this tour, a lot has changed and it wasn't offered anymore, so I took away those links. However, after doing some research now, I found a few tours that have pretty much the same itinerary as we did: this is the most popular tour and this tour is very similar too. The main difference is that they are speedboat tours and not catamaran. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Friday 6th of December 2019

Wow, it looks so pretty! I want to go there SO badly. I was never that interested until I saw your post (don't forget the AMAZING pictures). Anyways, quick question. My family would fly there, but want to make our trip more unique, you know? Do you reccomend any cruise lines that would take me from anywhere in the U.S. to there? Thanks so much!

Tuesday 10th of December 2019

Hi Melody, I really don't think that a cruise is the best way to visit Mauritius. Those ships just dock on the island for one day and you hardly have the time for one short excursion... That being said, it's a nice way to see many islands at once, and I'm sure there are some cruise lines that stop in Mauritius. But you'd have to research that yourself, because I have no experience with it. Also, it's so far from the US, so I think you'd have to fly somewhere in the area first and get on a cruise ship there (maybe in Seychelles or Maldives - I really wouldn't know where they start).

If you just interested in visiting Mauritius island and are not sure where to start, you should know that it's really not that hard to visit on your own. Book a flight and a hotel (you can read about one of the hotels I stayed in here: The Ravenala Attitude, but there are countless other options in a variety of budgets - check on Booking.com). And then either rent a car and explore the island on your own or book some day trips. The island isn't too big and if you stay somewhat around the middle of the island (West coast is most popular), transfer times to all the attractions will never be longer than an hour or so. Here you can read about what there is to see and do in Mauritius.

Hope this helps.

17 Things to Pack for a Week on a Catamaran (Helpful List)

Posted on May 25, 2022

If you’re like me, the first time I went to sea for several days, I had no clue what to pack beyond swimwear and sunblock. I’m like, do I need dress clothes for dinner, blankets, beauty supplies and the list(or lack of one) goes on. While you’re bound to have an amazing experience, don’t picture your last cruise vacation or resort stay in the Caribbean. 

Turns out that I couldn’t even bring a suitcase, so all the ideas I had, or at least a large percentage of them, were ridiculous. First of all, packing for a cat cruise means bare essentials and having a list is key to not forgetting anything or overpacking.

A duffel bag is ideal for cat cruises because you can tuck them away. Your lightest clothing,(as few as possible) a light jacket, natural skincare and protection, insurance, charter contract, plastic bags, and more are among the essential items you’ll need. If you’re on a budget, take food items too, since eating at each stop can cut into your budget.

Here’s a helpful list of what to bring when going on a catamaran cruise for several days.

Personal Documents and Boat Paperwork

Do not leave home without the necessary paperwork for your boating trip, including your driver’s license and boat registration, and your passport if you’re traveling outside of the United States. Read up on the different types of boating licenses that exist.

Small Daily Bag

An emergency kit should contain the following items: an emergency wallet or purse that you can quickly take and go to; a cell phone; a passport; prescription medications; credit cards. Also, carry a written list of emergency contact names and phone numbers, your insurance policy number and number, and the names and phone numbers of your doctors.

Duffel Bag (no suitcase)

First and foremost, keep in mind that catamaran storage space is typically limited, so bring only one large or two compact soft-sided bags or backpacks that can be easily folded away.

Make sure you pack lightly and only bring duffel bags, which are easy to store.

Putting hard baggage into closets and cabinets is more challenging. In addition, they are hard to store or might potentially scrape or harm the wood.

Skin Protection

This one should be self-explanatory. Pack more sunblock than you think you may need. Non-oil-based sunscreens should be used to protect the upholstery and woodwork of your yacht. Insect repellant and sun protection lip balm are also advised.

Sunglasses & Goggles

Passengers should wear sunglasses, but drivers should always wear them. When you’re out on the water, the reflection of the sun’s rays might make it difficult to see. The eyes of a boat operator are protected from splashing water by sunglasses as well.

UV-protected Polaroid sunglasses can help keep your iris open wider and improve your vision by reducing the amount of reflected light that enters your eyes.

When the weather is very terrible, some sailors swear by keeping goggles on board for protection from rain but without tinted lenses.

Resealable Plastic Bags

When going to the beach for the day, ziplock or dry bags come in handy for more than simply keeping cash and devices dry. If you have opened snack packages that need to be sealed, Ziplock bags are an excellent solution. Ziploc bags can be used for a wide range of purposes on any type of trip.

Medicines for Motion Sickness & Prescriptions

Bringing motion sickness or anti-nausea medication is a good idea if you’re vulnerable to seasickness, which is common no matter how much you go sailing. Always have plenty of your prescription drugs with you when traveling for an extended period.

Medical Kit

Before embarking on a trip, ensure sure your airtight or weatherproof first aid box is properly equipped with the obvious ones like gauze and band-aids. In addition, you’ll want to stock up on things like flares, matches, a waterproof flashlight, and fire extinguishers.

Make sure you have an extra flashlight on board, one that isn’t part of the first aid box. Hands-free map reading, as well as engine bay inspections, are even more convenient with a headband light. Spare batteries should always be present.

Electronics and Entertainment

There’s the iPod, the E-reader, and so on. All the things that can keep you relaxed or entertained during the downtime.

It is always better to bring your DVDs or CDs than to rely on streaming services because they are more reliable and don’t necessitate the use of specialized equipment that needs to be recharged. 

Pack the tablets and cell phones too, as most vessels have charging ports. Keep in mind a few novels and periodicals in addition to games, decks of cards, and a few writing instruments. Birdwatching binoculars and cameras might also come in handy.

Flotation Devices

There should be adequate personal flotation devices (PFDs) for everybody on board in the correct sizes. Everybody on board should be made aware of the location of the personal flotation devices (PFDs).

Carry many hats to shield your head from the sun, wind, and rain. Keep your head and neck warm in the winter with a microfibre cap, and keep your head cool in the summer with an oversized hat. Also, you might lose it to the wind, so we recommend at least three. 

Light Clothes 

Onboard a catamaran vessel, light summer attire is suggested, like swimsuits, lightweight t-shirts, skirts, plus shorts.

As a result, it’s pleasant and sunny throughout the day but might get chilly at night, necessitating the wearing of a sweater or light jacket while sailing.

We suggest taking a few extra pieces of clothing, such as backup shoes and a second swimming suit, to avoid overpacking. Being prepared for the possibility that things will get wet on a boat means that you’ll be more comfortable in the water.

Gear for Inclement  Weather 

You’ll need more than a hat while it’s raining. When going on a long boat journey, make sure to pack a raincoat as well as bib-pants, thick socks, plus appropriate sea boots. Carry synthetic pieces, such as thermal underwear as well as a neck warmer, regardless of the weather. This will ensure a more comfortable experience.

Gloves are essential if you plan on sailing and handling ropes, which can cause blisters and rope burns. To protect your hands when working with sails, halyards, and anchoring rides, you should wear full-length sailing gloves.

EPIRB/Locator

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to get in touch with the authorities, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) can help. Personal EPIRBs can be purchased if desired to supplement your yacht’s EPIRP.

Strobe lights are offered on some of these gadgets, which can be quite helpful if a person falls overboard.

Portable GPS device

As a backup to the captain or for day-hiking on land, a portable Gps device might be useful.

Ensure the galley is filled with enough food for the course of your expedition, sufficient to get you to the port if you insist on hunting your daily meal each day.

Don’t Forget the Shoe Rules When Going on a Cat Cruise?

While on board, we ask our passengers to adhere to the bare feet guidelines. It’s best to wear tennis shoes or a pair of white rubber-soled sandals when on the deck. 

However, stiletto heels can harm the wood flooring while black-soled shoes can create unattractive scars, earning them an automatic no. If you’re going ashore, don’t forget to remove your land shoes when you return to the ship.

Never Go to Sea Without a Knife

Consider wearing a lanyard-attached knife and marlinspike for added security and portability. The marlinspike can be used to force open threads of rope for splicing with the knife. 

Three-inch folding knives with marlin spikes function in crises. However, straight blade rigging knives with their sheath and marlinspikes are preferable.

How to Pack for Children on a Cat Cruise

We recommend that you bring everything you’ll need for your infants, including:

• Bottles 
• Their favorite toys 

To avoid damaging the boat, do not bring pens, or small toy pieces. Someone could step on them and get seriously injured from falling. Also, pack:

• Backpack, 
• Sunglasses, 
• Beach sandals, 
• Children’s sunscreen, 
• UV-protection swimming suit,
• Goggles, and 
• Bug repellent 

All these items you may wish to include in a small bag for the children.

Catamaran Essentials to Keep Onboard

When you initially buy your Catamaran, you only need to pack a few things into it. They consist of:

• Bath towels, 
• Beach towels, and 
• Kitchen utensils 
• Cleaning supplies including a vacuum
• First aid kit

Anything personal item that helps you survive daily must always go on a trip with you. Otherwise, once you get to most ports, you’ll get the things you need but they won’t be cheap. This is particularly the case in popular tourist towns. Enjoy!

6 Carnival Jubilee cruise tips: How to skip lines, peek behind the scenes, save at the spa and more

I'm just back from the christening sailing on Carnival Jubilee , Carnival Cruise Line's newest ship. In addition to six zones that include everything from a digital octopus to a roller coaster, the vessel offers fantastic food and great service, but you can make your experience even better with a few insider tips.

During my weeklong voyage, I picked up a few pointers that I found useful and want to share with future cruisers. Here are six little-known tricks that you can use on Carnival Jubilee (and, in some cases, on other ships, too) to help you steer clear of lines, save money and even avoid embarrassment.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Look beyond the main dining room

For those who don't know, Carnival offers two types of dining on its ships: set seating, which assigns you to a specific dining time at a set table with the same waiters every night, and Your Time Dining, which allows you to eat at any time in your assigned dining room between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

If you opt for the latter, you could be in for long lines to enter the main dining room during peak times, even if you check in ahead of time using Carnival's Hub app .

If you want to avoid the wait and dodge the extra fees that come with eating in most specialty restaurants, consider dining in Italian restaurant Cucina del Capitano or Mexican-meets-Asian Chibang! instead of the main dining room. Originally designed as overflow eateries for Carnival Jubilee's sister ship Mardi Gras , they allow Your Time Dining passengers to enjoy their evening meal at any time during regular dinner hours for no additional charge.

Both restaurants will remain free to all guests through the ship's inaugural season. Your Time Dining guests receive priority, and passengers with traditional set-seating dining aren't allowed to eat there until after 7:45 p.m.

Use the line's app to request a table shortly before you're ready to head to your restaurant of choice.

Head to the Marina Bar for coffee

If you can't function without your morning coffee and the complimentary stuff in the buffet won't cut it, take note. Carnival Jubilee's main cafe, JavaBlue, almost always has a line that spills out into the Grand Central area on Deck 6. If you're in a hurry and don't feel like waiting, check out the Marina Bar on Deck 8, where you can snag the same coffee beverages with a shorter (or nonexistent) line. The ladies there made my almond milk coconut lattes perfectly every time.

Bonus tip: Make sure to ask for a punch card and bring it with you each time you visit the Marina Bar (or JavaBlue). If you buy six specialty coffees, your seventh is on the house.

Related: The best cruise ship cafes for coffee and tea

Look for second-day spa deals

It's no secret that deals abound at cruise ship spas if you know where to look and when to book. Whether you're yearning for a facial or have your heart set on a massage, you can often bag bargains when you reserve more than one treatment or schedule yourself for services on port days, when most passengers are ashore.

But, when a spa attendant flagged me down on the pool deck to offer me a same-day appointment on the second day of the voyage, I discovered there were potentially decent savings to be had on the first full day on board (the day after embarkation). Because everyone is so busy exploring the ship (or port, if it's not a sea day), they're generally not thinking about the spa.

In my case, it was a sea day, and I saved 30% — about $60 — on an excellent 75-minute full-body Swedish massage. Later, I learned that, by taking the offer, I made out better than a travel companion who saved only 20% on the same service by attending a spa seminar a couple of days later.

Hang out in Grand Central

Are you the type of cruiser who loves to look behind the scenes? I am, but I hate to pay for the privilege. Several cruise lines, including Carnival, allow a peek behind the proverbial curtain if you pay for tours that take you to places the average passenger can't go — the galley, the bridge, the laundry and engine rooms and maybe even backstage in the theater.

But who needs backstage when there's a theater right in the atrium? In Carnival Jubilee's Grand Central zone, Center Stage takes ... well, center stage. The performance space isn't enclosed like a typical theater, so there's no way for it to be shielded from passengers' view during rehearsals. If you stick around during the day, you can watch some of the ship's performers practicing their blocking, their vocals and, occasionally, acrobatic routines before that night's show.

Don't miss special dining room events

Unless you're in the know, it's possible to miss some of the fun meal options in the main dining rooms on board.

The first is brunch. There are two types: Seaday Brunch, held in the Pacific dining room on sea days only, and the Dr. Seuss-themed Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast, which was held on the last sea day during my sailing in the Atlantic dining room. The former is free, while the latter is $15 for adults and $10 for kids. Both require reservations; check the daily schedule for days and times.

Note: Some Carnival ships have the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast instead of the Thing 1 and Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast. It's a similar experience with a slightly different menu for the same price. Check the daily schedule for details.

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

The second daytime dining room event I enjoyed was afternoon tea, which is free (unless you choose to upgrade to a gourmet tea option for $3). You can choose from green, black and chamomile tea and a selection of sandwiches and pastries, including scones with cream. Check the daily schedule, or meander over to the Atlantic dining room around 3 p.m. on sea days.

Stop guessing in public restrooms

It's always awkward to use public restrooms if you aren't sure whether a stall is in use, especially if there's a line. On Carnival Jubilee, if you're wondering whether a stall is occupied, check the door. If the cutouts in the silver disc below the door handle are white, the stall is unlocked (and likely available, but proceed with caution). If they show red, the door is locked, and the stall is occupied.

When you're finished and washing your hands, if the water temperature seems off, you can control it using the small handle to the right of the spigot — a secret I didn't learn until halfway through my sailing, when a kind fellow passenger clued me in after I unwittingly scalded myself.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• 5 ways cruise lines are nickel-and-diming worse than ever
• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin