Mauritius: Full-Day Speedboat Tour to Ile aux Cerfs & BBQ

Mauritius: Full-Day Speedboat Tour to Ile aux Cerfs & BBQ

Planning a day out in Mauritius that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavors? This full-day speedboat tour to Ile aux Cerfs offers just that—plus more. With a solid 4.8/5 rating from hundreds of reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip a fantastic way to experience the island’s best sights without the fuss of planning each detail.

What makes this tour special? First, the diverse itinerary takes you from coral reefs teeming with fish to historic shipwrecks and a lighthouse. Second, the lunch on the beach — a BBQ served in the sand — is a true highlight. Third, the small-group vibe fosters a relaxed, intimate experience with friendly guides.

However, it’s worth noting that the day involves quite a bit of moving around—so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more laid-back, less active day, it’s something to consider. But overall, this tour suits travelers eager to see Mauritius from the water, with plenty of snorkelling, sightseeing, and local treats along the way.

If you love exploring islands by boat, want a well-organized day with delicious food, and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and snorkeling: Swim among colorful fish and coral reefs in crystal-clear waters.
• Historical sights: Wrecks and lighthouse visits add a touch of maritime history.
• Waterfall experience: Cruise along the Grand River to see a picturesque waterfall.
• Beach BBQ: Savor grilled chicken and fish right on Île aux Cerfs’ sandy shores.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides make the day more memorable.
• Inclusive drinks: Enjoy local beer, rum, and soft drinks throughout the trip.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Speedboat Departure and Early Adventures

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am at the Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa. The meeting point is straightforward—just follow the signs to the beach, and there’s parking on-site. From the moment you step onto the sleek speedboat, you’re in for a lively ride with spacious, comfortable seating, and an energetic crew ready to kickstart the adventure.

Traveling by speedboat is a major perk here—it’s faster than traditional boat trips, allowing you to cover more ground and reach the islands quickly. Plus, the open-air design of the boat means you’ll get unobstructed views of the coast and ocean, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Snorkeling in the Lagoon

One of the day’s early highlights is the snorkeling stop in the lagoon. Expect to see brightly colored tropical fish darting close to coral reefs, with many reviewers mentioning the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life. A pair of provided snorkeling equipment makes it easy to get in and out of the water, and guides are on hand with tips or to point out interesting species.

Melissa, a recent guest, called the snorkeling “awesome,” praising the underwater marine life and coral. Some guests advise wearing your swimsuit from the start, so you’re ready to jump in as soon as the opportunity arises.

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Wrecks and Lighthouse: Maritime History and Views

Continuing along the coral barrier, the boat makes a quick stop at the d’ Alblair shipwreck of 1902. This wreck adds a rugged charm to the reef and is great for underwater photographers or those curious about maritime tales. A brief visit to the Lighthouse Island offers panoramic vistas, and guides like Hans and Ashley are praised for their storytelling—adding context to the sights.

The River and Waterfall Adventure

Next, the tour veers inland via the Grand River, the longest in Mauritius. You’ll cruise along its upstream course, passing lush scenery, until reaching a striking waterfall. Reviewers like Debbie loved this part, describing it as “beautiful” and noting that the boat ride along the river was both scenic and peaceful.

Relaxing on Île aux Cerfs & the Beach BBQ

After the river journey, it’s time for the highlight meal: a BBQ on a gorgeous beach on Île aux Cerfs. The meal consists of grilled chicken and fish, served in the sand with a relaxed, picnic atmosphere. Many guests, including Zara and Julia, mention that the food exceeded expectations—delicious, plentiful, and perfectly suited to a tropical seaside setting.

Guests often use words like “delicious” and “perfect” to describe the lunch. You’ll have ample time to relax, swim, or stroll along the pristine shoreline before heading to the final stop.

Final Stop: Ile aux Aigrettes and Starfish Pool

The last segment takes you to Ile aux Aigrettes, a protected nature reserve. Here, visitors can enjoy a drink in a natural swimming pool, surrounded by starfish—an experience praised by Anant and others for its tranquility and natural beauty. It’s a calm, scenic spot to reflect on the day’s adventures and take some memorable photos.

The Return: End of the Day

Around 4:00 to 4:30 pm, the boat heads back to the Shandrani Hotel beach. Reviewers appreciate the smooth transfer and enjoyable atmosphere onboard, often noting that the day felt well-paced and full of variety.

What’s Included & Practical Details

For $147 per person, this tour offers an impressive amount of value. The price covers a full-day speedboat trip, snorkeling equipment, and the beach BBQ. Drinks—soft drinks, local beer, and rum—are unlimited throughout the day, making it easy to stay refreshed and enjoy the lively vibe.

The tour is conducted in English and French, with guides like Giovanni, Hans, and Ashley praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather conditions shift.

What to Bring

It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and your swimsuit. Comfortable footwear is advised, especially for the river and waterfall stops. Photographers will appreciate bringing a camera to capture the stunning scenery—many reviewers did just that.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention the small group size—often just six to ten people—which creates an intimate, relaxed environment. Many reviewers comment on the excellent crew, describing them as attentive, fun, and informative.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

This tour balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive Mauritius experience in one day. The snorkeling, historical wrecks, waterfall, and beach BBQ combine to offer both fun and memorable scenery.

While the price might seem steep compared to more basic excursions, the inclusion of drinks, excellent guides, and the variety of stops make it a solid value for those wanting a hassle-free, all-encompassing day. The fact that guests frequently mention how well-organized and friendly the staff are adds confidence that your day will be smooth and enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a full-day adventure that covers marine activities, scenic sightseeing, and a relaxed beachside meal. It’s well-suited for small groups, couples, or families who appreciate a mix of exploration and comfort.

If you’re interested in snorkeling, island scenery, and cultural sights with a lively yet intimate atmosphere, this tour ticks all those boxes. On the flip side, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a quieter, less active day, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:30 am from the Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet on the beach at the Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa, with parking available nearby.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the full-day speedboat trip, snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, local beer, rum, and the BBQ lunch on Ile aux Cerfs.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested when booking.

How long is the overall trip?
The trip usually ends around 4:00 to 4:30 pm back at the starting point.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and your swimsuit. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited soft drinks, local beer, and rum are available onboard.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, the small group size and variety of activities make it family-friendly, especially with attentive guides.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an energetic, scenic, and delicious day in Mauritius, this speedboat tour to Ile aux Cerfs offers a fantastic way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The combination of snorkeling, historical sites, waterfalls, and beachside BBQ makes it a well-rounded experience.

You’ll love the friendly guides, the pristine waters, and the chance to enjoy Mauritian cuisine in a relaxed setting. While it requires a bit of activity and movement, many reviews highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the day is, making it worth every penny for a memorable tropical adventure.

If your ideal day involves a mix of water fun, scenic explorations, and a good dose of local flavor, this tour should be at the top of your Mauritius bucket list.

You can check availability for your dates here: