Ile Plate Beach
Ile Plate Beach
4.5
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
354 reviews
Excellent
255
Very good
67
Average
13
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9
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10
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Smile189
Milan, Italy210 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
catamaran excursion to visit both islands (Gabriele and Piatta). Without a doubt, the flat island won, incredible wonder... intense blue... seabed perfectly visible (but this depends on the currents). we were lucky to have visited this island first, in the morning, because the colors were truly breathtaking. I can't say the same for Gabriele seen in the early afternoon. However, in my opinion the most beautiful sea excursion, even if tiring because the sea is unforgiving and being open sea it was tough but worth it.
Written October 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Princes of travel
Paris, France6,977 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
The flat island is one of the northern islets of the island. It is accessed by boat. We went there with a private company (La Mouette Martial) for half a day. It takes an hour to cross with their boat but there are probably faster ones.
When you land on the island's beach, you have the impression of arriving in paradise as the sand is white and the water clear. Don't hesitate to go a little further for snorkeling, away from the boats which stir up the water a little too hard and disturb it.
The coral reefs are pretty but not spectacular. However, we see many beautiful fish there and, if you are lucky, you may come across turtles.
A little corner of paradise where life is good.
When you land on the island's beach, you have the impression of arriving in paradise as the sand is white and the water clear. Don't hesitate to go a little further for snorkeling, away from the boats which stir up the water a little too hard and disturb it.
The coral reefs are pretty but not spectacular. However, we see many beautiful fish there and, if you are lucky, you may come across turtles.
A little corner of paradise where life is good.
Written December 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mekvn
Moscow, Russia130 contributions
Sep 2012 • Couples
Sea can be very rough, go for a catamaran instead. There are no towels available at the island, bring your own. Overall very nice, good snorkelling. No bathroom facilities available
Written November 26, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alexandra B
London, UK662 contributions
Aug 2013 • Couples
Before leaving for our holiday, we had done some research on what to do once we were there. Many had mentioned l'Ile Plate as a great day out for snorkeling ( tripadvisor forum, le routard, lonely planet, etc...). So once we got to Mauritius we booked the trip with Martial (La Mouette). We paid 3000 rp/ €75 for the two of us (from 8:45am until 4:30pm, lunch included).
Not going to lie, we didn't have the best time. It was us and another couple.The sea was very rough. We weren't advised to bring a jacket/windbreaker and waves were over 2 meters high. We were soaked to the bones. It took us an 1 hour and 30mins to get to the Ile Plate. That's a long time to be drenched by cold salty water.
We thought things would get better once on the island. We had the biggest shock when we set foot on the island and noticed its very sad state. The beach was littered with garbage. We explored the island and it was equally filfthy (soiled toilet paper, bottles of alcohol, etc...). We were all absolutely appalled. Please check out the pictures taken on the trip.
Our guides seemed very disinterested. We didn't even catch their names. They told us the ocean current was very strong and we were advised against going snorkeling. They spent their time smoking and chatting amongst themselves. When lunch was ready, we offered them to eat with us, they said they would rather not.
We did a little sunbathing, but it was very windy. Sand was constantly blown into our faces. Laying next to so much garbage was a little disheartening.
The way back to Cap Malheureux was just as rough. Wet and cold too. We were told to get up when whales were spotted. It's unfortunate that the boat was wet and slippery and I fell into the boat's open cabin and badly hurt my hip and ankle. The only silver lining was we did get to see two whales.
We sadly won't be renewing the experience and don't recommend the day trip.
Tip: if you do decide to go, take a catamaran and not a speedboat. Don't forget your towel. Bring a extra set of clothes.
Visited on 16th September 2013.
Not going to lie, we didn't have the best time. It was us and another couple.The sea was very rough. We weren't advised to bring a jacket/windbreaker and waves were over 2 meters high. We were soaked to the bones. It took us an 1 hour and 30mins to get to the Ile Plate. That's a long time to be drenched by cold salty water.
We thought things would get better once on the island. We had the biggest shock when we set foot on the island and noticed its very sad state. The beach was littered with garbage. We explored the island and it was equally filfthy (soiled toilet paper, bottles of alcohol, etc...). We were all absolutely appalled. Please check out the pictures taken on the trip.
Our guides seemed very disinterested. We didn't even catch their names. They told us the ocean current was very strong and we were advised against going snorkeling. They spent their time smoking and chatting amongst themselves. When lunch was ready, we offered them to eat with us, they said they would rather not.
We did a little sunbathing, but it was very windy. Sand was constantly blown into our faces. Laying next to so much garbage was a little disheartening.
The way back to Cap Malheureux was just as rough. Wet and cold too. We were told to get up when whales were spotted. It's unfortunate that the boat was wet and slippery and I fell into the boat's open cabin and badly hurt my hip and ankle. The only silver lining was we did get to see two whales.
We sadly won't be renewing the experience and don't recommend the day trip.
Tip: if you do decide to go, take a catamaran and not a speedboat. Don't forget your towel. Bring a extra set of clothes.
Visited on 16th September 2013.
Written October 13, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LPP2013
Fort Lauderdale, FL138 contributions
Jan 2015 • Friends
This is probably one of the most popular activities in Mauritius. You will take a catamaran boat and it will take about two hours until you get to the Island. You wont be the only catamaran - a minimum of 10 others will be there with you.
There are two islands, one in front of each other. Most people will go to the one on the right (Plate), but I highly recommend that you go to the one on the left - it is just as beautiful but a lot more private.
There are two islands, one in front of each other. Most people will go to the one on the right (Plate), but I highly recommend that you go to the one on the left - it is just as beautiful but a lot more private.
Written January 31, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dreamer101Sydney
United Kingdom360 contributions
Jan 2012 • Couples
The north of mauritius is know for its rough waters.
We made the mistake of going on a red speed boat. We booked in grand baie by the super U. It was 1500rs. but you can get a catamaran for 1300rps.
Please book a catamaran.
The engines couldnt do speed. we had waves of over 2m and its was very uncomfortable being constantly drenched for an hour.
The current is strong and I advise only strong swimmers to swim in the middle and be aware of boats.
If you want to go to coin de mire go with a dive company as the water there is crystal clear and the coral is not bleached and intact. We snorkelled here but really wished we had dived there.
We made the mistake of going on a red speed boat. We booked in grand baie by the super U. It was 1500rs. but you can get a catamaran for 1300rps.
Please book a catamaran.
The engines couldnt do speed. we had waves of over 2m and its was very uncomfortable being constantly drenched for an hour.
The current is strong and I advise only strong swimmers to swim in the middle and be aware of boats.
If you want to go to coin de mire go with a dive company as the water there is crystal clear and the coral is not bleached and intact. We snorkelled here but really wished we had dived there.
Written January 7, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ik Wil Emigreren.nl
Singapore, Singapore633 contributions
Aug 2011 • Couples
A small island behind Coin the Mire island. Yet again white beaches and blue water. A good place for snorkeling. Although the current was very strong when I was there.
There are some grills on the island and a table to eat on, but that's it. no toilet, no nothing. So getting on the island is free. Going there you need either your own boat or you can make a trip. Lots of travel agencies go there, but I can recommend Captain Rodrigo (Bain Boeuf Beach, Coin the Mire hotel). Takes you to ile plate, coin the mire (just for snorkeling) and ile gabriel. We didn't went to gabriel, because it was too crowded (i guess). You get free drinks/food and it taste good. And the ride back and forward in a speedboat is lots of fun! Email: sellapen@mail.com if you are interested.
There are some grills on the island and a table to eat on, but that's it. no toilet, no nothing. So getting on the island is free. Going there you need either your own boat or you can make a trip. Lots of travel agencies go there, but I can recommend Captain Rodrigo (Bain Boeuf Beach, Coin the Mire hotel). Takes you to ile plate, coin the mire (just for snorkeling) and ile gabriel. We didn't went to gabriel, because it was too crowded (i guess). You get free drinks/food and it taste good. And the ride back and forward in a speedboat is lots of fun! Email: sellapen@mail.com if you are interested.
Written August 22, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OrestePaven
Cluj-Napoca, Romania442 contributions
Jan 2019 • Couples
Our best choice while in Mauritius, definitely! We were between going or staying on the common beaches but we decided to give it a try.
I haven't seen in my life water clear as here. Be aware that there is nothing on the island, restaurants or things like this, there are only the people coming with the boats and small places where the speed boats are cooking for the people.
I highly recommend speed boat! Beside we arrived there much earlier than all the catamarans, they took us first to Gabriel island where we saw two turtles swimming really close to our boat and then Ile Plate. Where we arrived first ones. Was so nice and chill, enjoying all that beauty only few people. Started snorkelling and another turtle at max. 5 m distance from us was passing! Amazing experience.
Then all the catamarans arrived and a lot of people and loudness was around. Not bad but comparing with the early moments of the day, not the same thing.
Food was excellent, plenty of drinks and then they took us to Gunner's Quoin for snorkelling. Again we arrived faster and there weren't that many people.
We booked through Ebrahim Tours!
I haven't seen in my life water clear as here. Be aware that there is nothing on the island, restaurants or things like this, there are only the people coming with the boats and small places where the speed boats are cooking for the people.
I highly recommend speed boat! Beside we arrived there much earlier than all the catamarans, they took us first to Gabriel island where we saw two turtles swimming really close to our boat and then Ile Plate. Where we arrived first ones. Was so nice and chill, enjoying all that beauty only few people. Started snorkelling and another turtle at max. 5 m distance from us was passing! Amazing experience.
Then all the catamarans arrived and a lot of people and loudness was around. Not bad but comparing with the early moments of the day, not the same thing.
Food was excellent, plenty of drinks and then they took us to Gunner's Quoin for snorkelling. Again we arrived faster and there weren't that many people.
We booked through Ebrahim Tours!
Written January 28, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard T
London, UK3 contributions
Oct 2013 • Couples
One of the best day trip of my life. If you are looking for a piece a paradise you find it there. Stunning beaches. Incredible snorkeling. Exellent catamaran trip to reach this island. Perfect day under the sunshine of one of the best part of Mauritius. Go and simply enjoy.
Written October 22, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maria L
2 contributions
Jul 2019 • Family
When we booked a trip through a tourist office, we were told to be at the public beach at around 8:30, so we decided to go at around 8:15 - the first boat left at around 9:15, and the second even later. (This is not my main complaint however)
My father has trouble walking properly due to various factors (and his shoes cannot get wet), but we were told at the tourist office that he could be carried aboard the catamaran (which is believable since a lot of other businesses are willing to do this for their costumers, and we have done this before). We had given the crew notice when we arrived that special attention was needed, and we were given the impression that it would not be a problem. When it came time to board the catamaran however, then it was suddenly a problem and they would not do it. We were supposed to have been on the first catamaran, but it left without us because we had to argue with the crew. After it had already left, we came to an agreement, that we would go on the catamaran (my dad included) and it wouldn’t be a problem. Alle the problems were seemingly solved, but alas, they had overbooked and suddenly there were not enough room for us.
Jean Pierre was busy smoking all of this time, and being all together very impolite and agitated.
We have since been able to book a catamaran trip with Coral Belle, but this experience was terrible!
My father has trouble walking properly due to various factors (and his shoes cannot get wet), but we were told at the tourist office that he could be carried aboard the catamaran (which is believable since a lot of other businesses are willing to do this for their costumers, and we have done this before). We had given the crew notice when we arrived that special attention was needed, and we were given the impression that it would not be a problem. When it came time to board the catamaran however, then it was suddenly a problem and they would not do it. We were supposed to have been on the first catamaran, but it left without us because we had to argue with the crew. After it had already left, we came to an agreement, that we would go on the catamaran (my dad included) and it wouldn’t be a problem. Alle the problems were seemingly solved, but alas, they had overbooked and suddenly there were not enough room for us.
Jean Pierre was busy smoking all of this time, and being all together very impolite and agitated.
We have since been able to book a catamaran trip with Coral Belle, but this experience was terrible!
Written July 14, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bonjour avec quel organisme êtes vous parti?
Written August 24, 2019
Hello. What about the waves in December? I get very fast seasick and can not handle high waves very well.
Written November 1, 2018
it will depend on the wind at sea.
more wind there is, more waves there will be ...
I think we should go to Ile aux cerfs, because we had no waves to go there. But lot of people...
Written November 3, 2018
Which catamaran island should to opted to go to this beach??
Written June 9, 2018
On peut vraiment chevaucher les tortues géantes? Ça n’ai pas interdit?
Written June 8, 2018
BRIGITTELEMANS
bonjour Brigitte ;)
Qui est Martial?
Est-ce un privé qui vous a fait la traversée?
Merci d’avance pour votre réponse :)
Sandra
Written March 24, 2018
BRIGITTELEMANS
bonjour Brigitte ;)
Qui est Martial?
Est-ce un privé qui vous a fait la traversée?
Merci d’avance pour votre réponse :)
Sandra
Written March 24, 2018
chloesa91
Athis-Mons, France
Bonjour,
Vous étes partis avec quel organisme ? que nous ne prenions pas celui là
Merci
Written March 6, 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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