Trou d’Eau Douce: 5 Islands Tour with Snorkeling and BBQ

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Mauritius’s most captivating spots, this Trou d’Eau Douce: 5 Islands Tour might be exactly what you need. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to savoring a mouthwatering BBQ on a secluded island, this excursion offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island beauty. And with an average rating of 5 out of 5 from over 22 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers consider it a highlight of their Mauritius trip.

What we especially like is how accessible and well-rounded this tour feels — it packs in diverse sights, multiple island stops, and some genuine local flavor. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, dolphin watching, and a delicious BBQ lunch makes it a comprehensive package. One thing to consider, though, is that the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. This experience suits active travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and fun in a day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkeling equipment, drinks, lunch, and dolphin watching are included, offering great value.
• Multiple Island Visits: Get a taste of Mauritius’s diverse scenery across five islands, each with its own charm.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides make the day smooth and entertaining.
• Authentic Local Flavor: BBQ lunch and drinks help you enjoy the island vibe to the fullest.
• Flexible and Convenient: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; ideal for spontaneous plans.
• Limited Transport Included: You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the Fish Landing Station in Trou d’Eau Douce.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 5 Islands Tour

A Quick Overview of the Day’s Flow

This tour kicks off early at the Fish Landing Station in Trou d’Eau Douce, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a speedboat ready for a full day of island hopping. The journey is designed to give you a taste of Mauritius’s stunning marine and terrestrial environments, all wrapped into a roughly 6-hour adventure.

The Islands You’ll Visit

Lighthouse Island and Île de la Passe: These are your initial stops, giving you a chance to soak in scenic views and learn about the area’s maritime significance. The lighthouse island is particularly photogenic, with rugged coastlines and a lighthouse standing sentinel over the Indian Ocean. The Île de la Passe has historical significance and offers great photo ops.

Île aux Aigrettes for Snorkeling: The first major activity is snorkeling in the clear waters next to Île aux Aigrettes. Guests often mention the quality of the snorkeling sites, with plenty of marine life and calm waters ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Ayen, who makes sure everyone feels comfortable in the water.

Phare Island and Deer Island: These spots are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and spotting wildlife. Deer Island, in particular, offers a peaceful retreat with limited crowds, making it easier to enjoy some quiet time.

Île aux Cerfs: Known for its pristine beaches, Île aux Cerfs is a highlight for free time, where you can swim, relax on the sand, or explore the island’s small shops and cafes. Many guests appreciate the chance to unwind after the morning’s adventures.

Îles aux Margénie and Grèse Waterfall: The trip includes a visit to the waterfall for a quick nature walk, adding some terrestrial beauty to the marine exploration. Lunch is served here, with a BBQ featuring chicken, fish, sausages, and vegetarian options available on request, plus garlic bread, salads, and flambéed fruits — a treat for the senses.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling is a key part of this tour, and the reviews confirm that the sites are excellent. One guest, Tim, loved the snorkeling spots and raved about the entertainment provided by guide Ayen. The waters are described as “crystal-clear,” with plenty of marine life, including turtles and dolphins (if you’re lucky). The guides take care to ensure safety and fun, making this accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.

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Lunch and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is a major highlight, with many guests praising the quality of the food. The menu includes grilled chicken, fish, sausages, garlic bread, and salads, all served in a relaxed island setting. Vegetarian options are available, and you’re free to bring your own drinks if desired. The inclusion of alcohol, such as rum, beer, wine, and fruit juice, adds to the festive atmosphere.

Dolphin Watching and Additional Highlights

Dolphin sightings are frequently reported, with many guests noting the thrill of seeing these playful creatures. The guides, like Danilo, are praised for their enthusiasm and ability to spot dolphins, making this a memorable part of the trip.

The Experience’s Pace and Group Size

The tours are generally small, with some guests mentioning just five to nine people on their boat, which creates an intimate and friendly environment. The timing is relaxed enough to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, although the overall duration is typical for a full-day outing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Transportation: Since transport isn’t included, plan how you’ll get to the Fish Landing Station. Arranging a taxi or shared transfer is usually straightforward.
• What to Bring: Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen — the sun can be intense, especially on the boat and on the beaches.
• Health & Safety: Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand.
• Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian options are available upon request, so be sure to inform when booking if you have specific dietary needs.
• Weather Considerations: The tour can be affected by weather conditions; some guests, like Freddy, noted that less favorable weather impacted snorkeling, but the trip remained enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring multiple islands, and trying their hand at snorkeling. It’s great for those who appreciate authentic local food and a relaxed, small-group vibe. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this experience accessible and fun. If dolphin sightings and BBQ lunches sound appealing, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $94 per person, this tour offers a substantial taste of Mauritius’s diverse marine and island environments. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and dolphin watching makes it a well-priced option, especially considering the number of stops and activities packed into one day.

The positive reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Ayen and Danilo, who ensure everyone feels safe, informed, and entertained. The quality of the food and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat are big pluses.

If you’re looking for a fun, well-organized day that combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic Mauritian flavor, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s especially suited for those who want to make the most of their time exploring the islands while enjoying a delicious meal and some marine magic.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides a speedboat ride across five islands, snorkeling equipment, dolphin watching, a BBQ lunch, and drinks including rum, beer, wine, and fruit juice.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Fish Landing Station in Trou d’Eau Douce and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, travelers need to arrange their own transport to the meeting location.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack any personal items, and consider bringing your own drinks if you prefer.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be requested when booking; inform the provider of any dietary restrictions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages under 95, but always check physical limitations and consult with the provider if unsure.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience is around 6 hours, including stops, snorkeling, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a variety of drinks such as rum, beer, wine, and juice are included during the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact snorkeling; while the trip can still be enjoyable, some activities may be limited if conditions aren’t ideal.

This Trou d’Eau Douce: 5 Islands Tour provides a lively, scenic, and satisfying taste of Mauritius’s coastal charm. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking to relax on a beautiful island with new friends, it’s a day designed to deliver plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: