Blue Bay to Ile aux Cerfs, by boat. This South Mauritius day trip mixes snorkeling time with a proper beach BBQ lunch, plus plenty of sea time for views that don’t feel like a slideshow. I like that it’s set up like a day on the water, not a rushed checklist.

The only real drawback is simple: it’s still 6 hours out on the boat and in the sun. If you’re sensitive to motion or heat, bring a hat and plan to take shade breaks when you can.

Key things I’d mark as “worth it”

• Small group feel: limits help the day stay personal and not crowded
• Private boat option: you can privatize the boat and adjust the vibe
• Multi-stop lagoon time: stops along the way for sea-life spotting and photos
• Ile aux Cerfs beach BBQ: lunch is served right on the island
• Snorkeling included in the plan: time in the lagoon to see coral and fish
• French or English guide: live explanations during the sailing

From Chantauvent Guesthouse to Open-Water Freedom

Your day starts at the Chantauvent Guesthouse (Maison d’Hotes) in Blue Bay. Ask reception to point you to Chantauvent’s Beach House, where your guide meets you at the shore. Then it’s off—about 15 minutes of sailing before you’re already in the “South coast” mood.

I like this start because it’s not complicated. You’re not driving all over Mauritius trying to find a pier. You just show up at the beach area, meet your guide, and go.

Ile aux Cerfs: The 3-Hour Window That Works

The main event is Ile aux Cerfs, with about 3 hours on the island. This timing is smart. It’s long enough to swim, walk the shoreline at an easy pace, and actually enjoy lunch without feeling you’re eating on a schedule.

What makes Ile aux Cerfs special for a day trip is the mix: beach time plus lagoon time. You’re not just sitting on a bench. You’re on an island that’s built for water days—shade when you need it, and open beach when you don’t.

Lunch on the island: expect BBQ first

Lunch is a chill-and-BBQ setup on the island. You’ll have food served during the beach time, which is exactly how it should be. The smell of BBQ + salt air is one of those “yes, this is why I came here” moments.

A couple of useful notes:

• Wine is free with lunch on the island, but it’s only one type. If you’re picky, you can ask for your usual favorite with an extra fee.
• If you want a full lobster meal, it costs an additional 600 rs per person.

Multi-Stop Lagoon Sailing: How the Trip Stays Interesting

This isn’t a straight shot from Blue Bay to one beach. You’ll do multi-stop exploration along the way, designed to show you lagoon fauna and coastal sights. Even if you’re not the type who keeps a travel journal, these stops break up the trip and make the day feel like more than “boat, lunch, boat.”

You’ll likely get chances to look for fish and sea-life during sailing breaks. And yes, the weather and water conditions matter, but the structure helps. Instead of one long stretch where everyone stares at the horizon wishing for something to happen, you get little “mini moments” on the route.

Snorkeling time: what to plan for

Snorkeling is part of the day, with time in the lagoon to see coral and marine life. The best way to enjoy this is to treat it like a gentle activity, not a fitness challenge. You’re there to watch. Look for patches of coral, watch the way fish hover around them, and keep your movements calm.

Bring what you can:

• towel
• sunglasses
• hat

If you have your own mask/fins, pack them. If you don’t, this is one of those cases where it’s worth confirming what’s available with the operator ahead of time.

Lighthouse Island Stop: A Short Break With Sea Views

After Ile aux Cerfs, you’ll sail to Lighthouse Island (also referred to as the island with the lighthouse). Expect about 45 minutes there. It’s not a long stop, so think of it as a sea-view breather and photo time rather than a whole second beach day.

The value of this stop is the perspective shift. You get another angle on the South, plus the feeling of moving through the coast rather than staying put in one place. If you enjoy short stops with strong scenery, this is a good fit.

The Small-Group Advantage (and the Privatize Option)

This experience is designed for an intimate group. The listing describes small-group limits (you’ll see it capped at 10 participants, and the experience is also marketed as very small—often up to 6 on the boat). Either way, the point is the same: you’ll spend less time navigating crowds and more time enjoying the water.

And if you want your own bubble, you can privatize the boat and customize your trip. That matters for families, friend groups, and anyone who hates the “one-size-fits-all” feel.

From a value angle: the stated price is $412 per group up to 4. For a boat day that includes snorkeling time and a beach BBQ lunch, it can work out well—especially if you share with just a couple of people and keep the group small. If you’re a solo traveler, it may still be worth it, but it’s less “split the cost” friendly.

Who This Day Trip Fits Best

This is a great match if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and beach time without the stress of planning. I’d especially recommend it if you:

• like water activities but don’t want a full-day mission
• want to see the South from the sea (not just from the road)
• are traveling with kids or family and prefer smaller groups
• enjoy snorkeling enough to want time set aside for it

It also suits friend groups who want a fun day with room to spread out. When the boat isn’t packed, the day feels easier.

Guides and Crew: What Good Service Looks Like

The day runs with a live tour guide in French and English. Based on past experiences from this activity, the crew approach is hands-on—helping with kids, explaining what you’re seeing, and keeping the vibe relaxed.

On boat days, good service is the difference between you fiddling with logistics and you actually enjoying the day. If you value that personal attention, this trip’s small-group setup gives it the best chance to feel smooth.

Practical Tips That Make the Day Go Better

These are the small things that stop a fun day from becoming annoying.

• Sun is the boss: it’s a day on the water. Bring your hat, use sunglasses, and take shade breaks when you can.
• Pack a dry plan: bring your towel and be ready for spray or water on the boat.
• Bring the right mindset for snorkeling: go slow, stay calm, and focus on looking rather than rushing.
• If you’re thinking about lobster or wine: decide ahead of time. Lobster is extra (600 rs per person), and wine is free but comes as one type unless you pay for your preferred one.

Price and Value: What You’re Paying For

At $412 per group up to 4 for a 6-hour boat day, you’re paying for more than transport. You’re paying for:

• a private-feeling small-group setup
• multi-stop sailing (not just point A to point B)
• a structured plan with snorkeling time
• BBQ lunch on the island, served on-site

Is it cheap? No. But it doesn’t aim to be. It aims to be one of those “you’ll remember this” days: sea views, beach lunch, and real time in the lagoon. If your priorities include water time and food done right, it’s likely good value for your budget.

Should You Book This Ile aux Cerfs South Coast Boat Day?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward, well-timed day with the essentials done well: sailing, Ile aux Cerfs beach time, snorkeling, and BBQ lunch—without a huge crowd. The small-group setup (and the option to privatize) makes it feel like your day, not a factory tour.

I’d think twice if you’re very heat sensitive, easily motion-sick, or you only want one long beach stretch with minimal boat time. This is still a boat day. The best results come when you’re happy to spend time on the water and enjoy the rhythm.

If you’re excited by that balance of sea + island lunch + snorkeling, this one is a strong pick for a South Mauritius itinerary.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Chantauvent Guesthouse / Maison d’Hotes in Blue Bay. Ask reception for directions to Chantauvent’s Beach House, where your guide waits.

How long is the trip?

The day trip runs for about 6 hours total.

What’s included in the price?

It includes the multi-stop sailing, snorkeling time, and BBQ lunch on Ile aux Cerfs. You also have the option to customize your cool box, and the guide is available in French or English.

Is it a small group?

Yes. The tour is described as a small group with limits (listed as up to 10 participants, with the trip also described as intimate, sometimes up to 6).

Can I privatize the boat or customize the trip?

Yes. It’s possible to privatize the boat and customize your trip (including your cool box).

Are lobster or extra drinks available?

A full lobster meal costs an extra 600 rs per person. Wine is free during lunch on the island, but it’s described as only one type; you can request your favorite with an additional fee.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel.