The west coast of Mauritius faces directly into the setting sun, and the sunset cruise is one of the most romantic and memorable experiences the island offers. Departing 2 hours before sunset, the cruise heads along the Flic en Flac coast and out towards the south-west to catch the full panorama as the sun drops into the Indian Ocean.

Most operators use traditional wooden dhows or modern catamarans. The dhow experience is more atmospheric — the wide wooden deck, the traditional sail rigging, and the gentle roll of the boat create a feeling of timelessness that the newer catamarans can't quite match. Both work well; the catamaran is more stable for those prone to seasickness.

The cocktail hour begins as the light starts to change — the Mauritian rum punch is excellent, and most operators also offer champagne. Canapés include smoked marlin, grilled prawns, and Creole-spiced skewers. As the sun approaches the horizon, the sky turns extraordinary colours — orange, pink, violet — reflected in the glassy western water. On clear evenings this is genuinely one of the great sunset experiences in the Indian Ocean.

The cruise returns to port after dark — most operators have fairy lights strung on the rigging and the return trip has a different, colder atmosphere with the coast lights visible along the shore. Couples book this as a standalone evening; families often combine it with a beach day at Flic en Flac. Advance booking essential in peak season.