Full Day Tour 5 Island to Ile Aux Cerfs Incl. Lunch and Transfer

A fast day at sea, in the best way. This Mauritius speedboat tour strings together coral snorkeling, shipwreck drama, and beach time on Ile aux Cerfs. I especially liked the snorkeling in clear Blue Bay water with gear provided, and the big on-island feel of Ile aux Cerfs plus a proper BBQ lunch with live entertainment. One thing to weigh: the day can feel high-energy (music and alcohol onboard are part of the package), so it’s not ideal if you want a quiet, low-key nature crawl.

Pickup runs from your hotel anywhere in Mauritius, and the crew keeps moving with a tight schedule and short stops that still feel worth it. You also get practical extras that matter on a long boat day, like round-trip transfers, a certified guide/driver, and an all-day drink setup with your lunch. Still, the route depends on sea conditions for some elements (including Ile de la Passe), so not every stop may land exactly as described.

Key things I’d plan around before you go

• Blue Bay Marine Park snorkeling with provided equipment and great visibility at around 5.5 meters depth
• Ile aux Cerfs for real beach time plus optional water sports (extra cost)
• A full lunch on Margenie Islet with BBQ options, drinks, and live sega-style entertainment
• GRSE waterfall by speedboat with chances to spot monkeys and fruit bats near the banks
• Ile de la Passe ruins timing that can depend on sea tide
• A small group cap (max 15) which makes the day feel less chaotic

Speedboat-to-islands rhythm: how this tour actually feels

This is built for motion. You start with an air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your accommodation, then head to the coast for a speedboat day focused on speed, scenery, and frequent “short but sweet” stops. The total time is listed at roughly 8–9 hours, with a return to the mainland around 16.30.

What I like for you here is that it doesn’t just toss you onto a boat for one big destination. You get multiple habitats and settings—reef, lagoon, rocky islets, waterfall views, and finally a full beach island. The tradeoff is that you won’t have hours to linger in any single spot, so come ready to move.

Consider the mood

This tour includes unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks onboard, plus live entertainment at lunch. That can turn the ride into a party-leaning day. If you’re traveling with kids, want a very calm day, or hate the idea of alcohol being part of the itinerary, you may find the atmosphere more boisterous than you expected.

Hotel pickup and dock timing: the first make-or-break detail

Pickup is promised anywhere in Mauritius, and you’re met by a certified guide/driver. The day starts at 08:00, so you’ll want to be ready early at your hotel—especially if you’re staying far from the coast.

One practical tip from the way the day is run: confirm pickup timing in the same day-of communication channel you’re given, because delays (or mismatched timing) show up in some unhappy reports. If you’re the type who likes buffers, plan to be fully ready 10–15 minutes earlier than the stated pickup window.

Blue Bay Marine Park snorkeling: clear water, real reef variety

The morning highlight is Blue Bay Marine Park, where you spend about 1 hour snorkeling. The water conditions are described as ideal, with an average depth around 5.5 meters and crystal clarity for reef viewing. You’re also told there are more than 50 coral species, which is a big deal if you care about variety rather than just “seeing fish.”

Snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own mask and fins. For your comfort, wear something that dries fast, plus reef-safe sunscreen (and a rashguard if you burn easily). Since you’re in open sun much of the day, a hat and polarized sunglasses help more than you’d think.

What to expect in the water

You’ll start on the boat, then get a chance to snorkel around the reef, with a mid-marine-park stop for more focused snorkeling. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, this is set up as a swim-and-watch experience rather than a deep-water dive plan. For non-snorkelers, the boat ride itself is often the point—cool breeze, fast coastline, and easy viewing from the surface.

Pointe d’Esny shipwreck stop: history plus a shallow-reef moment

Next up is Pointe d’Esny and the Dalbair (also spelled Alblair in places) shipwreck on the coral reef. You get about 30 minutes at this stop, and the guide is positioned to explain the wreck’s story—its contested background tied to the year 1902.

Why this is valuable: shipwrecks tend to attract fish and create interesting underwater structure. Even if you don’t go all in for snorkeling at every stop, the combination of a landmark and a reef setting makes the stop feel more meaningful than a random photo break.

Île aux Aigrettes: cocktail in a natural swimming pool

From the wreck, the route heads to Île aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve. Here you get about 40 minutes, including a cocktail and time to swim in a natural swimming pool in the lagoon. This is specifically described as a place with starfish, which means it’s not just for lounging—it’s another “look down and explore” moment.

This stop is also short, so use your time smart:

• If you want photos, bring a waterproof phone pouch or a dry bag plan.
• If you want swimming, put on your swim gear fast and avoid late changes.

Ile du Phare (Ile aux Phare): lighthouse ruins and battle-era context

Then comes Île aux Phare, also called the lighthouse island. You’ll have about 45 minutes, with time to walk around and see ancient lighthouse ruins.

The details you’re given matter here: the lighthouse was built in 1864 to guide ships to the port of Mahébourg, and the island was significant during the Battle of Grand Port between French and British forces. Even if you’re not a “ruins person,” the setting is what makes it work—rocky coastline, lookout potential, and a story you can actually read into the architecture.

If you hate walking

Don’t worry too much. This isn’t a long hike. It’s more about taking in the views and the old structure. Still, wear shoes with grip, not slippery sandals, because rocky islands can be slick.

Ile de la Passe: defense ruins, and yes, tide can matter

Next is Île de la Passe, with around 30 minutes on the islet and the chance to view ruins from the colonial-era defenses. The key idea here is that the French and British built defenses here, and those remnants still exist. The route notes that this stop depends on sea tide, so there’s some day-to-day variability.

If this is the kind of place you’re excited about—small ruins, sea views, and a sense of how the island was defended—you’ll likely feel it’s worth it. If you show up and the sea doesn’t cooperate, don’t panic. The tour still has plenty of major stops after this.

Îlot Flamants: short lagoon time and quick snorkeling

After the defense-islet portion, the boat passes Ilot Vacoas and then heads to Îlot Flamants. You get about 30 minutes, focused on the white-sand island and lagoon. The tour also highlights snorkeling in the turquoise lagoon here, which lines up with the idea of getting another quick burst of underwater viewing.

This segment is brief by design. So for you, the best move is to treat it like a “refresh and reset” stop: rinse off if needed, take photos while the light is good, then get back into the snorkeling window if you want it.

GRSE waterfall by speedboat: where river meets sea

One of the more nature-feeling parts of the day is the Grand River South-East Waterfalls (GRSE). You’ll spend about 30 minutes, with the speedboat sailing along the canal for close viewing.

The description you’re given is vivid in a practical way: the place is where land and sea merge, and wild flora fills the edges of the scene. You may even spot monkeys jumping on the trees near the banks, and fruit bats resting higher up as you approach the waterfall.

Photo and timing tip

Keep your camera ready during the boat movement. The scenery changes quickly as the boat passes along the canal view. And because this is still a speedboat day, don’t plan on “perfect tripod photos.” Plan on capturing good angles while the boat is moving.

Ile aux Cerfs: the main beach-and-break time

Now you reach the real payoff: Île aux Cerfs. This is where most people feel the “Mauritius postcard” effect—palm-lined shoreline, white sand, and that bright turquoise lagoon look.

You get about 2 hours of free time. That means:

• Beach time and lagoon swimming
• A stroll around the island
• Snorkeling options
• Optional water sports, listed as extra cost

For most readers, this is the part you’ll remember most because it’s unhurried compared to the rest of the day. It’s also a good place to slow down if the earlier stops felt rushed.

If you want water sports

The tour lists optional watersport activities at an additional cost (40 EUR is referenced). If you think you’ll do something, bring extra cash/card and don’t assume it’s included.

Lunch on Margenie Islet: BBQ, drinks, and live entertainment

Around noon, lunch lands on Margenie Islet (listed as the lunch stop). Expect about 1 hour here. The lunch is described as BBQ with chicken and fish, plus sides like garlic bread. A vegetarian BBQ option is available if you inform the operator in advance, and the listing notes Halal food.

What makes this lunch feel like value is the combination:

• You’re eating on the beach, not a roadside restaurant
• Your drinks are part of the package, including non-alcoholic and alcoholic options
• There’s live entertainment during the meal (including sega dance and live music)
• Dessert is prepared for you, described as banane flambe

Food expectations

From the way the day is structured and the size of the group (max 15), lunch is meant to be an experience, not a five-star tasting menu. Keep your expectations realistic. You’re getting a filling BBQ meal with drinks and show, and that’s the point.

Drinks onboard: fun for some, not for everyone

Unlimited drinks are part of the included package. That’s great if you want the day to feel like a celebration. It’s less great if you’re sensitive to alcohol being around most of the group or you prefer a quieter vibe.

A couple of the lower ratings you may run into criticize drink quality (like temperature and plastic cups) and the level of alcohol focus. So if you care about drink presentation, pace yourself and consider bringing your own water bottle too (if allowed by the crew, since rules can vary).

Group size and guide/crew energy: why 15 people changes the day

The tour caps at a maximum of 15 travelers, which is a big practical advantage. It helps keep loading and snorkeling transfers smoother and keeps time from turning into a parade of delays. You’ll also get more consistent attention from the guide and crew during quick transitions.

The reviews include praise for different crew members by name—like Chris, Nelson, Donovan, and captains referenced as Emmanule and Kevin (aka Jack Sparrow)—and the common thread in the positive notes is organization and keeping things moving without losing the fun.

What to bring so the day feels easy

You’ll likely be in sun, salt spray, and shifting weather conditions. Plan accordingly:

• Sunblock and sun-factor clothing (you’ll be exposed for hours)
• A hat and sunglasses
• A small snack if you tend to get hungry between quick stops
• Dry bag or waterproof pouch for your phone
• Your own reef-safe habits even though gear is provided for snorkeling

If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider medication ahead of time. Speedboat + waves are not gentle for everyone.

Price and value: why $151-ish can work if you want a full day at sea

At about $151.21 per person, this isn’t a “cheap and cheerful” half-day. But you are paying for a stack of included pieces: transfers, guide/driver service, snorkeling time with equipment, cocktail/snack experiences, multiple island stops, lunch on a beach with entertainment, and onboard drink service.

The value gets even clearer if you’re the type who would otherwise pay separately for:

• transport to the coast,
• a boat trip,
• snorkeling gear,
• and a beach lunch with drinks.

If you’d rather do one island slowly, or you already have your own snorkeling gear and don’t care about the entertainment, then a shorter private arrangement might feel better value. But if you want one day that hits reefs, islands, ruins, waterfall views, and beach relaxation, this price can pencil out.

Should you book this 5-island speedboat day?

I’d book it if you want a high-activity day that covers a lot of Mauritius East Coast highlights in one go, and you’re happy to snorkel in a few different spots rather than focus on just one long session. The pairing of Blue Bay snorkeling plus Ile aux Cerfs beach time plus GRSE waterfall is a strong combination for a first-timer.

I wouldn’t book it if you want a quiet, minimal-drink experience, because the included onboard vibe can lean social. Also, if your top priority is seeing every single stop exactly as described, keep in mind that Ile de la Passe depends on sea tide, and weather can affect what the operator can safely run.

If you do book, go in with the right expectations: this is a fast, fun day built around short stops, clear water snorkeling, and a beach lunch that’s more party than picnic.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and when do we return?

The tour starts at 8:00 am and you’re expected to return to the mainland around 4:30 pm.

How long is the full-day experience?

It’s listed as 8 to 9 hours (approx.).

Do you get hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes. Pick-up and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius is included.

What snorkeling is included, and is gear provided?

You get snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park (snorkeling gear is provided). The itinerary also includes snorkeling at the Eau Bleu crystal clear lagoon during the island stops.

Is lunch included, and does it have vegetarian or halal options?

Yes. Lunch is included and described as a 3-course lunch on Margenie Islet, with veg & non-veg meals. It notes Halal food and says you should inform them in advance if you want a vegetarian option.

Are drinks included?

Yes. The tour includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks onboard, and drinks are also mentioned as part of the lunch experience.

Do we pay extra for water sports?

Yes. Watersport activities are listed as optional and cost 40 EUR.

How many people are on the tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers.

Does the itinerary depend on sea conditions?

Yes. Ile de la Passe depends on sea tide. The experience also requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.