Trou d’Eau Douce: Southeast 5 Island Adventure

Taking a boat trip around Mauritius’ southeast coast offers more than just pretty scenery—it’s a chance to see the island’s vibrant marine life, learn a bit about its colonial past, and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find. This particular tour, rated 4.8 from over 860 reviews, is known for being a well-organized, value-packed adventure that appeals to travelers craving both excitement and authenticity.

What really makes this trip stand out? The chance to spot dolphins and turtles, the spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, and the knowledgeable guides who keep the day lively and informative. Plus, the variety of stops—from historic lighthouses to waterfalls—means you get a well-rounded snapshot of Mauritius in just one day.

On the flip side, some might find the pace a little tight if they prefer a slower, more relaxed exploration. The included lunch and snorkeling gear are great perks, but the tour’s length and schedule might not suit those seeking a leisurely beach day. This adventure is perfect for active travelers, families, and anyone eager to experience a slice of the island’s natural beauty and history in a single outing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers islands, waterfalls, and historical sites.
• Excellent guide service with knowledgeable, friendly skippers like Olivier and Ranjeev.
• High-value experience with included lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear for just $100.
• Diverse wildlife sightings of dolphins, turtles, and monkeys.
• Beautiful scenery with contrasting lagoons, big waves, and lush island landscapes.
• Limited time for each stop might feel rushed for some travelers.

This full-day tour by speedboat hits a variety of must-see spots along Mauritius’ southeastern coast, blending wildlife encounters, historical insights, and leisure. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll experience, based on traveler reviews and the known itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Overall Experience

Meet at the jetty next to the Mauritius flag—pretty straightforward, and the crew from Societe fernand lacour & fils is known for their professionalism. From there, the boat whisks you along the coast, with most trips lasting around 6 hours.

Expect a lively, friendly atmosphere on board, with music, snacks, and drinks flowing throughout the day. The reviews mention guides like Ranjeev and Olivier, who go out of their way to make guests comfortable, take photos, and share interesting tidbits about each site. This personal touch is a big part of why travelers rate this experience so highly.

Ile aux Phares and Ile de la Passe: Diving into History

Your first stops include Ile aux Phares, home to a lighthouse that’s over 200 years old and now a preserved historic monument. This site offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past and the strategic importance of these islands during the Napoleonic wars. According to reviews, the guide’s explanations make these sites much more meaningful—”the only battle victory of the Napoleonic Navy” being a notable highlight.

Next, you’ll visit Ile de la Passe, known for its role in the naval Battle of Grand Port of 1810. This historic clash between the French and British is a point of pride for Mauritius and adds a layer of intrigue to your island hopping. Many travelers appreciate the chance to learn about these events firsthand, which enriches the sightseeing experience beyond just taking photos.

Ile aux Aigrettes and Marine Encounters

One of the tour’s favorite parts, based on reviews, is a swim at Ile aux Aigrettes, where guests can enjoy snorkeling and possibly spot marine life like fish and sea turtles. Reviewers often mention how clear the water is and how much they enjoyed the chance to see these creatures up close. One guest noted, “We saw turtles, dolphins, and monkeys,” which underscores the diversity of wildlife encountered along the way.

The snorkeling gear provided is generally appreciated, although some reviews suggest the quality could be improved. Still, it’s a great way to beat the heat and see vibrant coral reefs and fish.

Ile aux Cerfs: The Iconic Beach Break

The tour’s highlight for many is Ile aux Cerfs, famous for its pristine beaches, calm lagoons, and vibrant beach atmosphere. Here, you’ll be served a tasty, wholesome lunch—most reviews praise the food, describing it as delicious and plentiful. After lunch, travelers love to relax, sunbathe, or just float in the crystal-clear water.

Several visitors have noted that the beach is perfect for lounging and taking in the scenery. The water’s transparency and calmness make it ideal for snorkeling or simply wading in the gentle surf.

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Grande Waterfalls and the Indian Ocean Drama

A visit to the Grande Waterfalls offers a splash of lush scenery and tranquility away from the busy beaches. Many reviews highlight the impressive sight of the cascading water and the peace it brings. It’s a great spot for photos and a brief break in the day’s busy schedule.

The contrast between the calm lagoon on one side of the island and the powerful waves crashing on the other always captivates visitors. Many comment on how surreal this visual contrast is and that it’s something they hadn’t expected.

Wildlife sightings are a major highlight, with reports of dolphins and turtles seen during the boat ride. Many reviewers, like Rashi and Jessica, mention how they “saw dolphins twice,” and “sea turtles while snorkeling,” which adds an element of surprise and wonder.

The guides get consistent praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. For example, Samantha shared how Jeremy kept checking in on her, took photos, and made the experience special.

Scenery and photo opportunities are abundant. Travelers rave about the vivid blue lagoons, lush islands, and impressive waterfalls. Michaela called her trip “spectacular,” while others note the vibrant colors and striking landscapes.

Value for money is another common theme. At $100 per person, including lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear, many feel they received a lot of enjoyment for a reasonable price. The reviews frequently mention that it’s “worth every penny,” especially considering how much they saw and experienced.

Practical Aspects: Schedule, Group, and Comfort

Most tours start early, around 8:30 am, and finish by late afternoon, making it a full but manageable day. The group sizes tend to be moderate, and the guides’ bilingual skills (English and French) ensure clear communication.

Some reviewers note that the schedule can feel a bit tight—”more time per stop would be ideal,” one guest mentioned—yet most accept this as part of the adventure. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with friendly crew members eager to help with photos and tips.

A couple of comments highlight the need to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and towels, since plenty of time is spent outdoors. Also, large bags or luggage are not permitted on the boat, so pack light.

This trip suits active travelers who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of organizing individual transport. Families, couples, and solo adventurers alike find it appealing—particularly those eager to spot wildlife and learn about local history.

It’s ideal for those craving a full experience—from snorkeling and wildlife watching to enjoying a beachfront lunch—without spending a fortune. Beach lovers will appreciate the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs, while history buffs enjoy exploring the old lighthouse and battleground sites.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or a dedicated beach day, this tour might feel a little rushed, as it packs a lot into a single day.

This Trou d’Eau Douce: Southeast 5 Island Adventure offers solid value for anyone looking to combine adventure, culture, and relaxation in Mauritius. With excellent guides, breathtaking scenery, and wildlife encounters, it stands out as a memorable way to experience the island’s highlights.

It’s best suited for those who want a full, action-packed day and don’t mind traveling on a speedboat to see multiple islands and attractions. The food, snorkeling, and wildlife sightings keep the experience lively and engaging, adding layers of authenticity that often get lost in more generic island tours.

If you’re visiting Mauritius and want to maximize your time while soaking in the natural beauty and history, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to bring essentials, prepare for a busy schedule, and keep your camera ready for the stunning views and surprises along the way.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll meet at the jetty next to the Mauritius flag, and most guests arrange their own transport to the meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts around 6 hours, from the morning departure to late afternoon return, giving you a full day of sightseeing and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a towel. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat, so pack light.

Are meals included?
Yes, a wholesome lunch and drinks are included, with many reviewers praising the quality and variety of the food.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided. While some mention the gear could be better, it’s generally sufficient for exploring coral reefs and observing marine life.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most reviews indicate it’s suitable for families, including children around 8 years old. The lively guides and interesting stops make it engaging for kids and adults alike.

What animals might I see?
Expect to see dolphins, sea turtles, monkeys, and possibly flying foxes. Wildlife sightings are a major highlight shared by many travelers.

This full-day adventure offers a compelling mix of history, wildlife, and stunning scenery, making it a top choice for those wanting to explore Mauritius’ southeastern coast efficiently and authentically.

You can check availability for your dates here: