Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch

Discover the Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with turquoise waters, lush scenery, and a touch of adventure, the Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch offers a compelling option. Designed for those who love a mix of scenic beauty, exciting rides, and relaxing downtime, this experience highlights some of Mauritius’ most photogenic spots.

While the tour offers incredible views and a fun-filled itinerary, it’s worth noting that the trip can be weather-dependent and involves a fair amount of boat time. However, for travelers craving a lively day on the water with a dash of nature and a hearty meal, this might just be the perfect outing.

This tour primarily suits active travelers, families, and anyone eager to see Mauritius from a different perspective—all while enjoying a delicious barbecue and the chance to swim on a deserted beach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery and watercolors that change with the light.
• Exciting speedboat rides combining adventure and sightseeing.
• Authentic experience of local waterfalls at the end of the island’s longest river.
• Relaxing beach time on Ile aux Cerfs with plenty of free space.
• Delicious BBQ lunch served on a nearby island, far from crowds.
• Weather-dependent schedule might alter the trip length or stops.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The journey begins in Trou d’Eau Douce, a charming coastal village that serves as the launch point for the adventure. From here, your boat whizzes across the shimmering Indian Ocean, offering panoramic views of Mauritius’ rugged coastline, lush green mountains, and vibrant blue waters. This initial leg alone sets a lively tone, especially if you appreciate the thrill of a speedboat ride, which most reviews describe as “sensational” and “a lot of fun.”

The Waterfall at Grand River South East

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to a natural waterfall, which is actually the endpoint of the island’s longest river. As you approach, you’ll notice the magnificent scenery of green mountains flanking the riverbanks, creating a striking contrast with the sea. The waterfall itself may not be a towering cascade, but it’s certainly photogenic and offers a great opportunity to see how the river meets the sea. Our reviews note that the views at this stop are “breathtaking” and offer a glimpse of Mauritius’ less-touristy wild side.

Beach Time and Swimming at Ile aux Cerfs

After the waterfall, you’ll be dropped off on the beautiful sandy beaches of Ile aux Cerfs. Expect ample free time here to swim, relax or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. Several reviews mention enjoying the peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds, with plenty of room to spread out.

While the water’s color might not always match the sparkling photos online—some reviewers note the lagoon is “not as blue as expected”—the overall experience of being on such a pristine island is still genuinely enjoyable. If you’re into water sports or exploring, you’ll find enough to keep you busy during your free time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch on Ilot Mangenie

Later in the day, the boat will whisk you away to Ilot Mangenie, a smaller island where a barbecue lunch is served. Unlike typical buffet-style meals, this is more of a relaxed picnic, with drinks included and a menu featuring tasty grilled fare. Many hikers found the meal to be a highlight and appreciated the chance to eat in a quiet, scenic spot.

If you’re craving a lively atmosphere, be aware that the meal might feel quite basic—some guests have described the menu as “really simple,” but the warm hospitality and fresh food more than make up for it.

Return Journey and Optional Additional Stops

After lunch, if time permits, the boat may return to Ile aux Cerfs for a bit more sightseeing or relaxation. Alternatively, the boat will head back to Trou d’Eau Douce, rounding off a day packed with spectacular views, gentle adventure, and relaxed beach vibes.

Unpacking the Value: What’s Included and What’s Not

At $55 per person, this tour offers good value for money considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day. Your ticket includes:

• Speedboat rides to the waterfall, Ile aux Cerfs, and Ilot Mangenie
• Drinks during lunch
• A knowledgeable skipper and guide to help navigate and share insights

However, it’s important to note what’s not included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off, which could add to your overall transportation costs
• Extra meals such as lobster, which are available but not part of the standard fare
• Snorkeling equipment, which is discouraged since Covid-19, and the boat does not stop for snorkeling during the trip

This means that while the core experience is well covered, travelers should plan for additional costs if they desire more personalized excursions or amenities.

The Experience on the Water: What You’ll Love

The speedboat rides are consistently praised as the highlight by travelers. Reviews describe the sensation as “sensational”, with plenty of opportunities for photos and just feeling the wind in your hair. The views of mountains, lush riverbanks, and the shimmering sea are stunning from the boat, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The guide’s knowledge adds value, with many guests noting that their skipper was friendly, helpful, and informative. One review fondly mentions the guide’s “friendly welcome” and the way he took the boat close to monkeys and other wildlife, adding a personal touch to the adventure.

The Beaches and Water: Realistic Expectations

While the photos of Ile aux Cerfs often show a brilliant blue lagoon, some reviewers have been slightly disappointed when the water appears less vibrant in person. The lagoon is still beautiful and inviting, but the color can vary depending on weather and time of day.

The beach itself is described as “lovely”, with fine white sand and enough space for relaxing away from other visitors. The water quality and clarity are sufficient for a casual swim, but guests should not expect the crystal-clear perfection seen in some promotional photos.

Food and Refreshments

The barbecue lunch on Ilot Mangenie is generally well-received, with many describing it as “delicious” and “welcoming”. The inclusion of drinks makes it a relaxing break in the day. Still, some mention that the menu is quite basic, and if you’re a foodie craving gourmet fare, this might not satisfy your culinary expectations.

Review insights:

• “The meal is too long and the menu really basic,” notes one guest, but others appreciated the generous portions and friendly service.
• Guests also appreciated the opportunity to enjoy their meal in a peaceful setting, far from crowds.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Arrive prepared: Light breakfast is advised to maximize your energy for the day.
• Weather watch: The schedule can shift if weather conditions are poor, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Timing: The trip duration might vary slightly, so plan your day accordingly.
• Snorkeling: Remember, the boat doesn’t stop for snorkeling, but you can snorkel during your free time on the island if you bring your gear.
• Language options: Guides are multilingual, speaking French, English, Urdu, Hindi, and Arabic, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those craving a lively day full of scenic views, boat rides, and beach relaxation. It’s especially suited for families, adventure lovers, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a tasty meal.

If you’re after a quieter, more secluded experience or highly vibrant lagoon waters, you might find this tour somewhat less satisfying. But for a well-rounded, fun-packed day that offers both excitement and downtime, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation at a reasonable price point. The speedboat rides are a definite highlight, giving you a sense of excitement and freedom on the water. The waterfalls and beaches provide scenic beauty and photo opportunities, while the lunch on Ilot Mangenie rounds out the experience with a laid-back vibe.

While the water colors might not always match the glossy photos, the overall setting remains stunning and worth exploring. The tour’s value lies in the variety of highlights packed into a single day, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a full, fun, and picturesque Mauritian adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to Trou d’Eau Douce or the designated meeting point.

Can I snorkel during this tour?
The boat does not stop for snorkeling as it has been discouraged since Covid-19. You can snorkel during your free time on the island if you bring your gear.

What should I bring for the trip?
Light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, and water. Light breakfast before the trip is recommended for energy.

How long does the entire tour last?
While the exact hours can vary, expect around half a day of activity, with some flexibility due to weather and operational factors.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy boat rides and beach time will likely enjoy this experience. Just be mindful that it’s a boat trip with some movement.

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

In essence, this tour delivers on its promise of scenic beauty, fun boat rides, and a peaceful beach escape—all wrapped into a value-packed day. If adventure, stunning views, and authentic Mauritian beach vibes appeal to you, this trip is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: