Mauritius: Boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs with Lunch/waterslide

Mauritius: Boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs with Lunch/waterslide

Taking a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs in Mauritius is a popular way to explore the island’s famed coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush scenery. This particular cruise, organized by Societe fernand lacour & fils, has earned a solid 4.7-star rating from 26 reviews, indicating that many travelers find it worthwhile. At just $88 per person, it offers a combination of fun activities, good food, and scenic views that appeal to a wide range of visitors.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the fact that it combines adventure and relaxation—from the thrill of sliding into the lagoon to lounging on the pristine beaches. The snorkeling opportunity allows you to explore vibrant marine life, while the onboard BBQ lunch keeps energy levels high with unlimited drinks. Plus, the friendly crew and lively onboard entertainment really enhance the day.

One aspect to consider is that this tour is quite touristy, which can be a positive or negative depending on your preferences. Some travelers may prefer quieter, less crowded spots, but the lively atmosphere and ease of organized fun often outweigh this for most. It’s particularly suited to families, couples, or groups looking for a full-day, all-in-one fun experience—combining sightseeing, water sports, and good food in a single trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip: Combines snorkeling, watersliding, beaches, and a barbecue lunch.
• Family-friendly: Waterslides and shallow lagoons are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Excellent value: For $88, you get a full-day cruise with multiple activities, drinks, and island exploration.
• Authentic local vibe: Live music and Senegalese dance add a cultural touch.
• Comfort and convenience: Guided tour with snorkel gear and on-board food included.
• Tourist appeal: Expect a lively, well-organized experience, ideal for those who enjoy a social atmosphere.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Departing from Trou d’Eau Douce

Your adventure begins at the jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, where the crew from Societe fernand lacour & fils will be waiting. The meeting point is straightforward—simply look for the team next to the Mauritian flag. The boat itself is a spacious catamaran equipped with a waterslide, ample seating, and a lively crew ready to make your day memorable.

Most tours operate on a full-day schedule, typically lasting around 6-7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The journey across the turquoise waters offers a chance to settle into vacation mode, with stunning coastline views on the way to Ile aux Cerfs.

Snorkeling in the Turquoise Lagoon

Once you arrive at the designated snorkeling spot, the experience is quite rewarding. The provided gear makes it easy to start exploring right away. Reviewers have been impressed by the vibrant coral reefs and marine life, describing the waters as “crystal-clear.”

A guest mentioned that the guides are helpful, making snorkeling accessible even for first-timers. Expect to see colorful fish and perhaps even some small coral formations. Your guides help point out the highlights and ensure everyone is comfortable in the water.

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The Waterslide: A Fun Highlight

One of the standout features is the built-in waterslide. As several reviewers have pointed out, this is a hit for all ages, especially with the chance to splash directly into the lagoon. It offers a playful break from the more relaxed activities and adds a splash of adrenaline.

Multiple reviews describe the waterslide as “fabulous” and “a lot of fun,” emphasizing how it brings out the kid in everyone. Watching adults and kids alike enjoy the slide is part of the charm—no wonder it’s a favorite aspect of this tour.

The BBQ Lunch: Savoring Local Flavors

After all the water fun, it’s time to refuel. The onboard BBQ lunch is described as delicious, with grilled meats, salads, fruits, and unlimited drinks like beer, rum, and soft drinks. Vegetarian options are available upon request—something to keep in mind if you have dietary preferences.

One reviewer appreciated that despite some hiccups with lobster options, the crew handled the situation with reimbursements and apologies, showing professionalism. The lively atmosphere during lunch, with onboard music and friendly crew, makes it more than just a meal—it’s part of the overall experience.

Visiting Ile aux Cerfs

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Ile aux Cerfs, a picture-perfect island with white sand beaches and shallow, calm lagoons. Travelers have the freedom to relax, swim, or explore the island at their own pace. Optional activities like water sports are available at an extra cost, so if you’re keen to try parasailing or jet skiing, prepare to budget accordingly.

Reviewers have praised Ile aux Cerfs for its beauty and tranquility, with one noting that despite tourist crowds, quiet spots still exist to enjoy a peaceful swim. The island’s iconic scenery makes it a perfect backdrop for photos or simply soaking up the sun.

Cultural Touches and Return Journey

Back on the boat, enjoy live Senegalese music and dance, adding a local flavor that many travelers find delightful. As the cruise back along the coast, the views of the shoreline and the setting sun create a picturesque closing scene.

The entire experience is well-organized, with friendly crew members ensuring everyone is comfortable and entertained. The relaxed return ride is a great chance to reflect on a day packed with fun, food, and scenic beauty.

Practicalities and Tips for Your Trip

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $88, the package covers practically everything you need for a memorable day: full-day cruise, snorkeling gear, BBQ lunch, unlimited drinks, and onboard entertainment. It’s a very competitive price considering the activities and the all-inclusive nature.

However, optional water sports on Ile aux Cerfs are not included, so if you’re eager to try jet skiing or parasailing, you’ll need to pay extra locally. Also, remember to bring essentials like swimwear, towel, sandals, and biodegradable sunscreen—the environment-friendly choice to protect the coral reefs.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at the jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, with the group gathering next to the Mauritian flag. The cruise usually lasts most of the day, so plan to start early to maximize your time on the water. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your other activities around it.

Accessibility and Considerations

The activity isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves boat travel and some walking around the island. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Booking and Payment

Booking is flexible—pay later and secure your spot in advance. This is especially helpful during busy travel periods, ensuring you don’t miss out on this popular tour.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides—a big plus, as they help make snorkeling easier and the whole day more enjoyable. Comments like “the staff amazing” and “super équipe” reflect the welcoming crew that keeps the atmosphere lively.

The entertainment onboard, including local music and dance, adds to the vibrant vibe. Guests also appreciated the well-organized logistics, which made the day flow smoothly from start to finish.

Despite being a popular tourist activity, the tour manages to keep it fun and engaging, with several guests mentioning how much they enjoyed the local flavor and atmosphere. One traveler even noted that the experience was “better than going there by catamaran,” indicating the value of the organized cruise over self-arranged transportation.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs is perfect if you’re after a full-day adventure blending water sports, scenic island exploration, and good local food. It’s especially suited for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for lively, social fun in a spectacular setting.

While it leans toward the touristy side, the quality of activities, the professionalism of the crew, and the vibrant atmosphere make it a solid choice for a memorable Mauritius experience. If you want to relax on a picture-perfect island, splash into the lagoon via waterslide, and enjoy unlimited drinks and a tasty BBQ, this tour delivers excellent value.

However, if you’re seeking a quieter, more secluded escape, you might find the busy vibe a bit overwhelming. Still, for most travelers looking to tick off the must-see sights with a dash of fun, this cruise hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is snorkeling gear included in the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, making it easy for you to explore the vibrant underwater life.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise is a full-day experience, typically lasting around 6-7 hours, giving plenty of time for all activities and relaxation.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed. The tour includes a BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks onboard.

What is the waterslide like?
The waterslide is built into the boat and offers a fun way to splash into the lagoon. It’s a hit for both kids and adults, with reviews calling it “fabulous” and “very fun.”

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the waterslide and shallow lagoons make it family-friendly. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sandals, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment and your skin.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested for the BBQ lunch, so inform the tour operator when booking.

Is there any local entertainment?
Yes, the crew provides onboard music and Senegalese dance, adding a local cultural touch to the experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, next to the Mauritian flag—easy to locate if you arrive a bit early.

This boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs offers a lively, full-on taste of Mauritius’s coastal charm. With activities suited for all ages, excellent food, and stunning scenery, it’s a great way to spend a day on the island—whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.

You can check availability for your dates here: