Full Day at Ile Des Deux Cocos

Full Day at Ile Des Deux Cocos: An Authentic Mauritius Experience

Trying to decide whether a day trip to Ile des Deux Cocos is worth it? Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of what Mauritius has to offer. From crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life to mouthwatering local food and laid-back island vibes, it’s an experience that promises both relaxation and adventure.

What we really love about this tour is the chance to snorkel in a protected marine park, the quality of the buffet, and the unlimited open bar—perfect for unwinding and soaking in the scenery. We also appreciate the well-organized pickup and shuttle system, making logistics straightforward.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite focused on leisure rather than active exploration. If you’re not interested in lounging on the beach or sipping cocktails, this might not be your ideal adventure.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxing day in a stunning setting—perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone craving a peaceful escape from busy Mauritius.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Unlimited drinks and buffet make for a carefree day.
• Snorkeling & Glass-Bottom Boat: Options for exploring the marine life, even for non-swimmers.
• Leisure Focus: Plenty of time for sunbathing, walking, or relaxing on the beach.
• Organized Transport: Hotel pickup and shuttle service streamline logistics.
• Authentic Experience: Tastes of local rum and food add cultural flavor.
• Flexible Leisure Time: Visitors can enjoy island walks or simply unwind on the beach.

An Overview of the Experience

The Full Day at Ile des Deux Cocos offers a well-rounded blend of water-based activities, culinary delights, and pure relaxation. This tour is designed to maximize your daylight hours on a small island in Blue Bay, with a carefully planned itinerary that balances adventure and leisure.

Priced at $180 per person, it might seem like a splurge, but considering the inclusions—shuttle boat, buffet, drinks, and activities—it provides good value for those wanting an all-in-one experience. Most travelers book this tour about 43 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity.

The Journey to the Island

The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Mauritius, ensuring a smooth start. The shuttle boat departs at around 9 am from Blue Bay, heading to the jetty of Ile des Deux Cocos. The boat ride itself sets the tone—crisp sea air, a gentle breeze, and anticipation of the day ahead.

Once on the island, you’re greeted with a refreshing local cocktail, a thoughtful touch that immediately relaxes you. The island’s small size means you can easily walk around, explore native woodland, or find your perfect sunbed spot on the soft sands.

Reviewers like Geraldine C highlight the “outstanding service” and “delicious” food, which makes the transition from travel to leisure seamless. The boat shuttle’s timing—returning between 3:30 pm and 4 pm—also provides ample time to enjoy the island without feeling rushed.

Water Activities and Marine Exploration

A highlight of this tour is the snorkeling opportunity with provided gear, or alternatively, a glass-bottom boat ride for those less comfortable in the water. This dual option caters to all comfort levels and interests.

The marine park setting is praised for its clarity and vibrant life; Larsi mentions that snorkeling and the boat tour “were a great experience.” The opportunity to explore undersea life without heavy equipment or complex arrangements makes snorkeling accessible for beginners.

Reviewers also appreciated the well-organized nature of the activity, noting that staff like Ravi helped facilitate everything smoothly and made sure everyone had what they needed. The marine park’s protected status ensures a pristine environment, adding value to the experience.

Culinary Highlights: The Buffet and Rum Tasting

A key part of this tour is the lunch buffet, served on the beach, featuring local dishes. Guests can choose their table, then indulge in a variety of fresh, delicious foods. Paulaandrea_L highlights the “very good menu” and the “excellent” experience of the food, describing it as a highlight of her day.

Complementing the meal is the unlimited open bar, offering local drinks and the chance to sample different rums produced on the island. Geraldine C notes that the service was “outstanding,” and the drinks kept flowing, making it easy to relax and enjoy the idyllic surroundings.

Leisure and Exploration

Post-lunch, you’re free to lounge on the beach, take a walk, or revisit the marine park for additional snorkeling. The island’s native woodland offers a peaceful stroll, and reviewers like Paulaandrea_L appreciated the flexibility, mentioning how Ravi made everything seamless.

The return shuttle operates from 3:30 pm to 4 pm, giving you time to soak up the last rays of sun or take final photos of the turquoise waters.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour’s duration of around six hours makes it an excellent half-day escape but with enough time to unwind fully. The price of $180 includes shuttle transport, snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boat ride, buffet, open bar, and private transportation, making it highly convenient and cost-effective for a day of indulgence.

Remember to bring your towels and sun cream, especially since much of the day is spent lounging or swimming. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews confirming that it’s accessible and well-organized.

What We Love & What to Consider

We love the combination of activities and relaxation options, especially the flexibility to snorkel or simply enjoy the scenery. The delicious local food and rum are added cultural touches that make this experience stand out.

One possible consideration is that this tour is quite leisure-focused, so if you’re seeking active pursuits like hiking or water sports beyond snorkeling, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, since it’s a private tour, it offers a more intimate experience compared to larger group excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want a peaceful day in a stunning setting, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy good food and drinks. It’s ideal for couples, honeymooners, or groups looking for a stress-free escape.

If your priority is water sports or adventure activities—beyond swimming and snorkeling—you may want to explore other options. But if a day of sun, surf, good eats, and unwinding sounds perfect, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The Full Day at Ile des Deux Cocos offers an authentic, leisurely escape into the natural beauty of Mauritius. Its inclusive setup—snorkeling, a scenic boat ride, unlimited drinks, and a hearty buffet—provides fantastic value for those seeking relaxation with a touch of adventure.

The well-organized logistics, the friendly staff, and the chance to explore the marine environment make it a standout choice for visitors wanting a hassle-free, memorable day.

While not geared towards adrenaline junkies, it perfectly suits travelers craving serenity, scenic views, and a taste of local culture. If you’re after a laid-back day in paradise, this tour might just be the highlight of your Mauritius holiday.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price?

The price covers shuttle boat transfers, snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boat ride, buffet lunch, unlimited local drinks, and private transportation.

• Can non-swimmers enjoy the marine park?

Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy the glass-bottom boat ride, which offers views of the underwater world without getting wet.

• Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, hotel pickup in Mauritius is provided, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

• How long does the tour last?

The entire experience takes around six hours, from pickup to return.

• What should I bring?

Bring your towels, sun cream, and a hat for sun protection. You might also want a camera for photos.

• Is the tour suitable for children?

Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the age and swimming ability, especially for snorkeling.

• When does the boat shuttle leave?

The shuttle departs at 9 am from Blue Bay and returns between 3:30 pm and 4 pm.

• How much free time will I have on the island?

Plenty of time to relax, walk, or swim—reviewers report that they felt they had enough time to enjoy everything.

• Are drinks and food included?

Yes, there’s an open buffet and unlimited local drinks, including rum tastings.

• Can I cancel the tour?

Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed review highlights all the reasons why the Full Day at Ile des Deux Cocos is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balance of relaxation, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavor during their Mauritius holiday.