Mesmerizing Ile aux Cerf: Speed Boat, GRSE, Lunch & Undersea walk (Full Day)

Discovering the Magic of Ile aux Cerf: Speedboat, Undersea Walk, and More

Diving into the island life of Mauritius practically requires a day spent on Ile aux Cerf, and this tour covers all the essentials — with a few extras thrown in. From the thrill of a speedboat ride to the tranquility of sunbathing on white sands, it offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Mauritius special.

What we love about this experience is its blend of adrenaline and relaxation: cruising in crystal-clear waters, exploring marine life with an undersea walk, and enjoying a mouthwatering barbecue by the water. The small group size ensures more personal attention, which makes the day feel intimate rather than a crowded cruise.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s pace can feel a bit hectic, especially with multiple activities packed into one day. If you prefer a slow, unhurried vibe, this might be slightly overwhelming, but overall, it’s a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a taste of Mauritian cuisine and natural beauty without sacrificing comfort. It’s particularly great if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of active and relaxing moments.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines adventure (speedboat, undersea walk) with relaxation (beach time, lunch).
• Small Group: Enriches the experience with more personalized attention from guides.
• Official Highlights: White sand beaches, turquoise waters, waterfalls, and marine life.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch, drinks, and activities are well-coordinated for maximum enjoyment.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Perfect if you crave a day full of different outdoor activities.
• Consideration: The itinerary can feel busy; patience and flexibility help enjoy all aspects.

A Deep Dive into the Ile aux Cerf Experience

Starting from Trou d’Eau Douce: Smooth Transfers and Set-Up

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up, usually in the morning around 8:30 am, making it easy to start without stress. The pickup service is noted to be punctual, with a comfortable transfer to the small village of Trou d’Eau Douce on the East Coast. This fishing village provides a charming and authentic Mauritian backdrop before heading out to the island.

Travelers have mentioned that the guide and driver were friendly and knowledgeable, making the initial transfer smooth and informative. It’s a good sign that the team keeps the experience well-organized, crucial for a day packed with activities.

The Speedboat Ride: Scenery and Thrills

Once at Trou d’Eau Douce, you’ll hop onto a speedboat that whisks you over the clear waters toward Ile aux Cerf. The boat ride itself is often cited as a highlight, not just for its speed but for the stunning views. As noted in reviews, “sailing through the lagoon with breathtaking scenery all around” is exactly what you’ll experience.

Travelers report the ride is fun and exhilarating, with some mentioning “crazy spins” that add a splash of adrenaline. The boat is typically equipped for comfort but expect a lively, energetic start to your island adventure.

Ile aux Cerf: A Beach Paradise

Arriving on the island, the scene is postcard-perfect: swaying palm trees, pristine white sand beaches, and vibrant turquoise waters. The island’s natural beauty is the first thing you’ll notice, making it clear why it’s regarded as a must-see in Mauritius.

Most guests find ample time to relax, sunbathe, swim, and snorkel. The shallow lagoons are ideal for floating around or spotting marine life without needing a full scuba gear setup. One reviewer noted, “You can explore the island or just enjoy the beach,” highlighting the flexibility in how you can spend your time.

Undersea Walk: Unique Marine Encounters

A major highlight is the undersea walking activity. As one reviewer enthused, “The underwater walking was amazing,” and it’s easy to see why. This experience allows you to walk along the coral reef garden, feeling the sensation of walking underwater without needing a snorkel mask or tank.

The view of colorful fish and vibrant flora in their natural habitat creates a mesmerizing moment. However, some reviews mention that the activity can be a little chaotic at the start—lines for gear, changing into wetsuits, etc.—so patience is key.

Lunch at Islet Margenie: A Feast by the Sea

Midday brings a much-anticipated barbecue lunch, served on a separate islet. The menu includes grilled chicken, fish, salads, and more, with generous soft drinks, beer, wine, and of course, plenty of local rum for those interested.

Guests have praised the lunch as “delicious,” and the setting as “lovely,” with many noting that sitting outdoors, listening to the waves, makes the meal even more enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned, “We had enough time to enjoy the food and swim afterward,” emphasizing the relaxed pace of the meal.

Visiting Grand River South East Waterfalls

Later in the day, the tour takes you past the Grand River South East Waterfalls. This scenic stop offers a chance to see Mauritius’ longest river and its beautiful waterfall, often accessible by boat.

Reviewers enjoy the chance to spot monkeys and fruit bats along the riverbanks, which adds an authentic wildlife encounter. The view is described as “magnificent,” and it’s a peaceful spot to appreciate the island’s lush landscape before heading back to the boat for the fun speed ride.

The Return: Speedboat Thrills and Scenic Views

The journey back is just as lively as the morning ride, with many describing it as “fun and enjoyable,” thanks to the high speeds and spins. The entire day is a mix of adrenaline-pumping moments and tranquil scenic vistas, making it a well-rounded adventure.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration, Cost, and Group Size

The full-day tour runs approximately 7 to 8 hours and costs around $139.37 per person. Its capped group size at 12 travelers helps maintain a personal feel, with small groups often leading to more interaction and tailored attention from guides.

Transportation and Accessibility

Pickup from your hotel is included, with timings that can vary based on your location. The tour operates most days with confirmation provided at booking, and the schedule is structured to maximize your time on the island.

What to Bring and Wear

It’s recommended to bring your own towels and an extra set of clothes for after water activities. Since the tour involves water-based fun, waterproof shoes or sandals, as well as sun protection, are advisable.

Food and Drinks

The lunch is a highlight, especially for those appreciating local cuisine. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, and unlimited drinks keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.

Considerations and Limitations

While most enjoy the experience, some reviewers noted that the activity schedule can feel a little hectic, particularly with the boat transfers and multiple activities packed into a day. Also, the undersea walk isn’t suitable for children without parental consent, and some found the initial chaos at the start slightly frustrating.

In case of bad weather, the tour is canceled with a full refund, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The positive feedback consistently highlights knowledgeable guides and the variety of scenic, fun, and delicious moments. Yondela_Y called it a “very well organized day,” with the undersea walk and BBQ being the standout parts.

Other travelers appreciated the mix of activities, noting the crystal-clear waters, the gorgeous beaches, and the friendly, attentive guides who made all the difference. A few mentioned that the activity can feel a little hectic, but overall, the experience is worthwhile for those seeking a lively, diverse day out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adventurers who want a day full of excitement and natural beauty without the need to organize multiple activities themselves. It’s ideal if you enjoy water sports, scenic boat rides, and good food. Families with children who can handle water activities will find it particularly suitable, while couples or friends looking for a fun, engaging day will also love it.

Those seeking a slow-paced, relaxed day might find the schedule a bit too busy, but for anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Mauritius’ best features, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from your hotel, with timings based on your location.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple stops and activities.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if advised at the time of booking.

Can children participate in the undersea walk?
Children’s participation depends on parental discretion, as the activity is not included for children in the package.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, an extra set of clothes, sunscreen, and waterproof footwear for water activities.

What is the weather policy?
In case of cyclone or heavy rain, the tour will be canceled with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This isn’t explicitly stated, but given the water-based activities and boat transfers, mobility limitations might pose a challenge.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are fully refundable if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour to Ile aux Cerf offers a lively mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor that fits well with a variety of travelers. The balance of heart-pumping water activities, stunning scenery, and delicious food creates a memorable slice of island life. Although the schedule can be busy, the authentic experiences, personalized guides, and the chance to enjoy Mauritius’ natural beauty make it a worthwhile choice.

If you’re someone who loves exploring with a dash of thrill, appreciates good food and scenery, and doesn’t mind a packed day, this tour is likely to deliver exactly what you’re looking for. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, consider whether you’d prefer spreading activities over multiple days.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded way to tick off many of the island’s highlights in one go, offering genuine moments of awe and enjoyment in the process.