Planning a day trip to Mauritius that combines stunning scenery, adventure, and a touch of luxury? This small-group tour to Ile aux Cerfs and other South Island highlights promises just that—and more. With a maximum of 10 guests, it offers an intimate experience designed for those eager to explore the natural beauty of the island while enjoying personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the multi-stop itinerary introduces you to diverse coastal and marine environments. Second, the privatized boat ensures comfort and flexibility, letting you customize your journey. Lastly, the blend of snorkeling, beach lounging, and a delicious BBQ makes it a well-rounded day designed to balance adventure with relaxation.
A potential consideration is that the tour is priced at $329 per group, which might seem steep for some travelers, but when you consider the inclusive nature of the experience—private boat, multiple stops, lunch, and snorkeling—it offers solid value. This trip is particularly suited for adventure lovers, families, and small groups seeking an authentic, personalized experience without the crowds.
Key Points
- Small group size ensures a personal, relaxed experience.
- Multi-stop exploration uncovers diverse marine and island environments.
- Private boat offers flexibility and comfort during the day.
- Includes snorkeling, beach BBQ, and island visits for a well-rounded adventure.
- Customizable options like cool boxes add a personal touch.
- Ideal for active travelers and families wanting fun, nature, and relaxation combined.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look at What to Expect
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Meet at Chantauvent Guesthouse in Blue Bay
Your adventure begins at the charming Chantauvent Guesthouse, where you’ll meet your guide and board your private boat. The location is easy to find—just ask at the reception—and sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. From here, it’s all about discovery, with the boat ride kicking off a series of stops that showcase the South’s varied coastal scenery.
Multi-Stop Exploration: Discovering the Lagoon’s Fauna and Islands
The core of this tour is its multi-stop nature, allowing you to explore several spots around the South. Reviewers have praised guides like Lucas and Sebastian for their attentiveness and knowledge, making each stop informative and fun. One guest noted, “Lucas was super nice and a great guide,” which highlights the personal touch of this experience.
You’ll visit enchanting islands like Île aux Aigrettes and Île au Phare, along with other coastal highlights. These stops aren’t just scenic—they’re opportunities to observe local fauna and vibrant marine life. Think colorful fish, corals, and maybe even dolphins if you’re lucky, as one reviewer mentioned spotting dolphins from afar.
Snorkeling in the Lagoon
A highlight for many travelers is the snorkeling experience. You’ll have the chance to don your gear and explore coral reefs teeming with life. The underwater world here is described as colorful and diverse, with multiple stops designed to maximize your chances of encountering marine species. Many guests appreciated the opportunity to snorkel at different spots, making this a key part of the adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyRelaxing and Dining in Paradise
After some active exploration, there’s nothing quite like relaxing on a pristine beach. The tour includes a mouthwatering BBQ lunch right on the beach, where you can indulge in delicious local and possibly international flavors. One reviewer raved, “The meal was quite complete and served on the beach,” emphasizing the quality and setting.
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Optional Customizations
For those who want to elevate the experience, boat privatization and customization are available. You can choose to bring your own cool box, and even upgrade your meal to include a lobster, for an additional fee. This flexibility means your day can be tailored to your preferences, whether that’s adding extra luxury or sticking to the essentials.
Why This Tour Delivers Value
Compared to larger, crowded boat trips, this experience’s small-group approach offers more personalized attention and fewer crowds. The private boat means you can relax without feeling rushed, and the multiple stops allow for a varied day—no one wants to spend hours on just one island, right?
While the $329 price tag might seem high at first glance, it covers transportation, meals, snorkeling gear, and personalized service. Guests have consistently expressed satisfaction with the value, especially given the quality of guides and the beautiful locations visited. Notably, the reviews mention how attentive and professional the guides are, making the day not just fun but also informative.
The Guides: Knowledge and Hospitality
Reviewers like Mariana and Axelle highlight the importance of guides like Sebastian and Lucas, who go above and beyond. From sharing insights into the local environment to ensuring safety during snorkeling, their friendliness adds a layer of comfort and authenticity. One guest noted a dolphin sighting, which the guide might have facilitated or at least pointed out—adding a memorable touch.
The Food and Drink Experience
The beach BBQ is more than just a meal; it’s part of the immersive experience. Many guests say the food is delicious, with some opting to upgrade to lobster for a special treat. During lunch, free wine is available, although limited in variety, but you’re welcome to bring your own.
The Flexibility and Customization
One of the tour’s strengths is its flexibility—you can customize your day with optional upgrades or private arrangements. Whether you want to extend snorkeling, add a special lunch, or just relax more on the beach, the team is equipped to accommodate.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This trip is perfect for adventure seekers and families who want a mixture of active and relaxing moments. If you enjoy snorkeling, beach lounging, and discovering new islands in a small group, you’ll love the personalized attention and scenic diversity.
It’s also ideal for those who value authentic experiences over large, commercialized tours, and are happy to pay a bit more for a special, tailored day out. If your goal is to see the South of Mauritius from the sea while enjoying good food and excellent company, this tour ticks all those boxes.
Final Thoughts
This small-group day trip to Ile aux Cerfs and other South gems offers a genuine, well-rounded way to experience Mauritius’s coastal beauty. The combination of multi-stop island visits, snorkeling, and a picture-perfect BBQ on the beach makes it a memorable adventure for both nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed escape.
The attentive guides and private boat service ensure you experience the best of the island without feeling crowded or rushed. While the price might be a consideration, many find the inclusions—especially the personalized service and flexibility—well worth it.
In essence, this tour is a fantastic choice for small groups, families, or anyone eager to explore Mauritius’s stunning southern coast with comfort and authenticity. Expect beautiful scenery, lively marine life, and a memorable day that captures the essence of this tropical paradise.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes multiple stops along the coast to explore fauna and islands, snorkeling gear, a beach BBQ lunch, and a private boat. Customization options like cool boxes are available.
Can I upgrade the meal?
Yes, for an additional 600 rs per person, you can enjoy a full lobster meal during the lunch. You can also bring your own favorite wine, which is not provided but optional.
How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 10 people, ensuring an intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Chantauvent Guesthouse in Blue Bay, with guides waiting at the beach house. The tour ends back at the same point.
Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Most likely, yes. The tour emphasizes snorkeling at various stops, and the guides are experienced and attentive, making it suitable for different skill levels.
How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed as a full day trip, allowing plenty of time for stops, snorkeling, and lunch.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel—essentials for sun protection and comfort on the beach.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the reviews mention young children joining comfortably, with guides taking extra care, making it family-friendly.
Is the tour conducted in English and French?
Yes, the tour is offered in both languages, accommodating a broader range of travelers.
This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this Mauritius day trip. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it promises a memorable experience in one of the world’s most beautiful islands.
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