5 Islands Speedboat Cruise incl. Snorkeling in Blue Bay + Lunch at Ile aux Cerfs

Introduction: What to Expect from This Mauritius Island-Hopping Experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring Mauritius beyond its beaches, this 5 Islands Speedboat Cruise offers a lively way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights in a single day. This tour, rated highly by travelers, combines stunning scenery, cultural insights, and fun activities—all wrapped into a roughly 7-hour trip on a speedy boat. Whether you’re an adventurous snorkeler or just want to relax with new friends, this experience packs in a lot for your money.

What we particularly appreciate about this cruise is the well-balanced mix of stops—from the famous Ile aux Cerfs to historic lighthouse islands—and the all-inclusive amenities like lunch and unlimited drinks. The small group size (max 18 people) ensures a more personal, engaging vibe. That said, a possible snag is the timing of some stops, which might feel a little rushed if you want to linger. This tour suits travelers who love active days, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a taste of both natural beauty and local history.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with lunch, snacks, and drinks, offering great value for a full day out.
• Multiple stops at iconic islands and landmarks, making it ideal for sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Small group setting for better interaction and personalized attention.
• Flexible snorkeling options with equipment provided, no need to rent gear separately.
• Cultural and historical insights from knowledgeable guides.
• Convenient meeting point with parking, perfect for travelers staying nearby or self-driving.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Ile Aux Cerfs: The Iconic Island

The journey begins with a 45-minute stop at Ile aux Cerfs, arguably the most famous island in Mauritius. Here, you get a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy some refreshments, and soak in views of the turquoise waters. The island’s reputation for crystal-clear beaches and vibrant waters makes it a favorite for photos and a quick swim. As one guest noted, “the stops to swim and snorkel were fun,” highlighting how this initial island sets a lively, scenic tone.

Grand River South East Waterfall

Next, the boat heads toward the Grand River South East, offering a spectacular view of a waterfall plunging directly into the Indian Ocean. This is a visual highlight—an opportunity to see the lush landscape meet the sea. Though brief, this stop is appreciated for the picturesque setting and the chance to appreciate Mauritius’ verdant coastlines.

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse

The tour then visits Ile aux Fouquets, known historically as Ile au Phare, where a lighthouse built in 1864 stands as a relic of the island’s maritime past. This island played a strategic role during naval battles, adding historical depth to your trip. While the stop is only 45 minutes, many guests find it fascinating to walk around and imagine the island’s maritime importance. It’s a quick but meaningful peek into the region’s history.

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

Passing by the Ile aux Aigrettes, the boat stops for a short 20-minute break. This is a designated nature reserve and a scientific research station, making it a peaceful contrast to the lively islands. Visitors often enjoy the refreshments and open bar here, appreciating the chance to relax before the main snorkeling session. Travelers who love nature appreciate this stop for its conservation focus and the chance to get a quick taste of Mauritius’ unique flora and fauna.

Blue Bay Marine Park: Snorkeling Highlight

The centerpiece of the trip is the Blue Bay Marine Park, where you’ll spend approximately 2 hours snorkeling. Known for its diverse coral gardens and abundant marine life, this protected area is a snorkeler’s paradise. The calm, shallow waters make it accessible even for less experienced swimmers. The guide might take you near Ilot Mangenie, depending on weather and coral breeding seasons, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. As one review states, “the site offers ideal conditions for snorkelling with a rich biodiversity,” which makes it a real highlight.

Grand River South East Waterfalls Revisited

The final stop takes you back toward the coast with a short visit to the waterfalls at Grand River South East—another chance to capture the scenery and reflect on the day’s adventures. This quick stop reassures travelers that the tour balances sightseeing with relaxation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value considering the comprehensive experience. The price includes snacks, alcoholic beverages, a delicious lunch, bottled water, and use of snorkeling equipment—so you won’t need to worry about renting gear or bringing your own. All fees and taxes are covered, simplifying the process.

You should note that private transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is convenient, with parking available. The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am from the Blue Alizé Catamaran at Trou d’Eau Douce, making early risers happy.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From real reviews, we see a strong consensus on the quality of the guides and the stunning scenery. One guest praised the “great, happy, and friendly skipper,” emphasizing how much a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide enhances the experience. Others raved about the lunch, calling it “the best lunch ever,” which signals the value of the included meal.

Many travelers highlighted the diversity of the stops: “seeing the various islands was great,” and “the stops to swim and snorkel were fun,” add to the appeal. A few pointed out minor inconveniences, such as some stops feeling a bit rushed or the music being loud, but these do little to detract from the overall enjoyment.

A standout review describes the “lovely day” with attentive staff who checked in regularly to make sure everyone was happy. The small group size also received praise for creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere where socializing and sharing the experience felt natural.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, starting early at 8:30 am.
• The maximum group size is 18, promoting a relaxed, personal vibe.
• Price at $110.79 per person offers good value, considering the inclusions and variety.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, as most are able to participate.
• If weather conditions turn poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.
• The meeting point is at Trou d’Eau Douce, with parking available, making logistics straightforward.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for active travelers who want to see multiple islands in a day without the hassle of planning individual trips. It’s ideal if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and cultural history, all wrapped into one. Those who appreciate small-group interactions and a lively, friendly atmosphere will find this trip especially rewarding.

However, if you prefer more time at each stop or dislike rushing through activities, some stops might feel too brief. It’s a great way to get a taste of Mauritius’ natural beauty and history—but not necessarily to linger or explore in detail.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 5 Islands Speedboat Cruise offers a lively, well-rounded taste of Mauritius’ eastern coast. With its beautiful scenery, engaging guides, and inclusive amenities, it provides a fun, relaxing day for those wanting a mix of adventure and cultural insight. The snorkeling in Blue Bay alone makes this tour a standout, especially given the diversity and calmness of the waters.

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the day together. The value for money is solid, considering the food, drinks, and multiple scenic stops. If you’re seeking an active, scenic, and social adventure that introduces you to some of Mauritius’ best sights, this tour is a solid choice.

For travelers who love natural beauty, are eager to snorkel, and want a hassle-free way to explore several islands in one go, this cruise will deliver plenty of memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or less experienced snorkelers?
Yes, the snorkeling equipment is provided, and the waters at Blue Bay are calm and shallow, making it accessible for beginners.

How long is the snorkeling session at Blue Bay Marine Park?
You can expect around 2 hours of snorkeling, giving you plenty of time to explore the coral gardens and observe marine life.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers snacks, alcoholic beverages, lunch, bottled water, and use of snorkeling equipment, along with all taxes and fees.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Private transportation isn’t included, so plan for that if you’re not staying near the meeting point. Otherwise, everything else, including entrance fees and the all-inclusive bar, is covered.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather turns bad?
Yes, cancellations are fully refundable if made at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the active nature and boat ride might be more suitable for those comfortable with water activities and moving around easily.

This 5 Islands Speedboat Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Mauritius’ east coast. With its mix of natural beauty, history, and fun, it’s a great pick for adventurous travelers seeking a full-bodied island experience.