Private Charter Full Day Cruise: Île aux Cerfs

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water exploring Mauritius’s stunning coastlines and islands, a private charter cruise to Île aux Cerfs might just be the perfect choice. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what makes it special. This 7-hour voyage aboard the Island Hopper, a sleek 45-foot catamaran, offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife spotting that’s hard to beat.

What really excites us about this experience are three main aspects: the exclusivity of a private tour, the opportunity to snorkel and see dolphins in their natural habitat, and the chance to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Île aux Cerfs without the crowds. Plus, the added thrill of spotting monkeys and giant bats along the riverbank makes it feel more like a mini safari on water. That said, there’s a small consideration to keep in mind: this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transport to the meeting point. This cruise suits travelers looking for a personalized, intimate day on the water with plenty of options for swimming and exploring.

Key Points

• Private yacht experience: Enjoy exclusive access aboard the 45-foot Island Hopper for a more intimate cruise.
• Wildlife sightings: Spot dolphins, monkeys, and giant bats in their natural environment, making it a nature lover’s dream.
• Versatile stops: Relax on pristine beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, or try parasailing on Île aux Cerfs.
• Cultural and scenic highlights: Cruise up the Grand River to see the historic GRSE Waterfall and lush riverbank wildlife.
• Flexible options: Choose from standard or VIP BBQ lunches, including lobster, for a personalized dining experience.
• No included transfers: Remember, transport to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The cruise kicks off at 9:00 AM from Pointe Jerome, located at HPGF+496 Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point, in Mauritius. The duration is approximately seven hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop and the journey itself. Since the tour is private and limited to your group of up to 15 people, it feels more like a day out with friends than a crowded boat ride.

The Vessel: Island Hopper

The Island Hopper is a purpose-built catamaran, 45 feet long, that promises a comfortable and stable ride even in slightly choppier waters—ideal for those prone to seasickness or looking for a smooth sailing experience. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, and the crew is noted for being friendly and knowledgeable, providing a safety briefing that puts everyone at ease.

First Stop: Île aux Cerfs

The highlight for many, this island is a postcard-perfect paradise, featuring white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Guests disembark onto the island to relax, swim, or indulge in water activities like parasailing, which can be booked on-site. Reviewers mention that swimming in the crystal-clear waters is a major highlight: “The crew was outstanding and friendly, with good knowledge of the sights we were seeing,” one reviewer shares.

You’ll have around an hour here, which is ample time to soak up the sun, paddle in the shallow waters, or explore the island’s natural beauty. It’s worth noting that the island can get busy, but as this is a private tour, your group will enjoy a more exclusive experience compared to regular day trips.

Scenic Waterway and Wildlife Watching: Grand River & GRSE Waterfall

After enjoying the beach, the boat cruises along the Grand River, a serene waterway lined with lush greenery and inhabited by monkeys and giant bats. The highlight here is the GRSE Waterfall, where you can see the cascading waters—an ideal photo spot.

Reviewers mention the thrill of wildlife spotting: “You might find monkeys, giant bats, and other wildlife in the trees on either side of the river bank,” which elevates this part of the trip from just scenic to a wildlife safari on water. The 20-minute stop isn’t long, but it’s enough to take in the sights and perhaps snap a few photos.

Wildlife and Natural Habitat Encounters

A unique aspect of this tour is the chance to see animals in their natural environment. Guests have reported seeing dolphins during the cruise, which adds an element of excitement. One review notes, “The crew was good at spotting dolphins, and we even saw some jumping near the boat,” making it clear that wildlife watching is a genuine part of the experience.

Optional Activities and Dining

Back on Île aux Cerfs, you can choose to relax or indulge in activities like parasailing (which is available on the island). For lunch, you have the option of a standard BBQ menu or a VIP option with lobster—both available for an extra fee. Drinks are also extra, allowing for customizable dining depending on your preferences.

End of the Day

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Pointe Jerome, usually around 4:00 PM, providing a full day of exploration and relaxation without feeling rushed. Since the tour is private, you set the pace and can linger longer at favorite spots if desired.

What We Love About This Experience

The beauty of this tour lies in its personalized nature, allowing you to tailor your day to your interests. The snorkel gear being included for free means you can quickly hop into the water to see vibrant marine life, and the chance to spot dolphins and wildlife adds an adventurous touch.

Plus, the scenic river cruise and the visit to the waterfalls provide a peaceful escape into nature, contrasting nicely with the lively beach scene on Île aux Cerfs. The option to upgrade the lunch menu means you can indulge in fresh seafood or lobster, elevating the day beyond just sightseeing.

And, from genuine reviews, we learn that the crew’s friendliness and safety focus made many feel comfortable and well cared for, which is crucial when exploring in a private boat setting.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to coordinate your transportation to the meeting point. This isn’t a major issue, but it’s worth planning ahead. Also, while the tour offers snorkeling and wildlife viewing, there’s no mention of snorkeling gear being available on the boat—so if you’re an avid snorkeler, you might want to bring your own gear just in case.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a fantastic choice for couples, families, or small groups looking for an exclusive, relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized experience without the crowds, and who enjoy wildlife sightings, snorkeling, or simply lounging on a beautiful beach.

Travelers who love scenic river journeys and water-based wildlife encounters will appreciate the diverse stops and natural beauty. Food lovers will enjoy the chance to upgrade to premium lunch options, making it suitable for those seeking a touch of luxury.

If you’re after a full-day, flexible itinerary with plenty of opportunities for swimming, wildlife, and a splash of adventure, this private charter is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families. The private nature of the cruise makes it easier to tailor activities and ensure safety for younger guests.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Pointe Jerome.

What is the best time to start the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 AM, which is ideal for catching the best light and avoiding the afternoon crowds.

Are snorkel masks provided?
Yes, free snorkel equipment is provided for you to use during the stop at Île aux Cerfs.

Can I upgrade the lunch?
Yes, you can opt for a VIP BBQ lunch with lobster and drinks for an extra Euro 74 per person, or stick with the standard menu.

How long are the stops at each location?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour on Île aux Cerfs and 20 minutes at the GRSE Waterfall, enough for relaxing, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.

Is wildlife guaranteed to be seen?
While no wildlife sighting can be guaranteed, reviews indicate a good chance of spotting dolphins, monkeys, and bats during the cruise.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s entirely private—only your group will participate, providing a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

A private full-day cruise to Île aux Cerfs offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife encounters, all aboard a comfortable, purpose-built yacht. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive, flexible itinerary with plenty of opportunities to swim, see animals, or simply soak up the sunshine on idyllic beaches. The ability to customize the experience with premium lunch options and optional activities makes it a versatile choice for a special day in Mauritius.

While it’s not included with hotel transfers, the overall value lies in the privacy, personalized service, and unique access to natural sights. If you love the idea of a tailored, scenic day on water with good chances of wildlife sightings, this cruise could be the highlight of your Mauritius trip.

References

• Viator Tour Page