5 Islands Tour: New OCÉANE Private Pontoon Boat cruise

Travel enthusiasts looking for a balanced mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation will find this 5 Islands Tour in Mauritius a compelling choice. Offered by Oceane Cruises Mauritius, this private pontoon cruise promises an intimate, customizable experience along the south-east coast’s turquoise waters.

While the price might seem steep at $666 per group (up to two people), the value lies in personalized service, stunning scenery, and the variety of activities packed into a day on the water.

We love the flexibility of this tour—being private means you can enjoy the itinerary at your own pace, and the beautiful scenery along the coast makes it a memorable way to explore Mauritius from the sea. The snorkeling opportunities stand out, offering a chance to see the vibrant undersea life, while the lunch and unlimited drinks on board make for a comfortable, leisurely day.

One potential consideration is the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, just before the Shangri-La Le Touessrok hotel.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy personalized experiences, stunning coastal views, and a blend of adventure and relaxation. Ideal for couples or small groups seeking an authentic Mauritian day out, it caters equally well to those wanting to snorkel, explore islands, or simply unwind on the boat with drinks in hand.

Key Points

• Private boat experience with up to 11 passengers, ensuring intimacy and personalized service
• Visit multiple scenic spots, including the Grand River South East Waterfall and some of Mauritius’s most beautiful islands
• Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters with provided equipment
• Delicious lunch served on board, with unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Customizable itinerary allows for flexible exploration
• No hotel pickup, so plan your transportation to the meeting point

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 5 Islands Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The adventure begins just before the Shangri-La Le Touessrok hotel, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot for those staying in busy tourist areas. Since there’s no included hotel pickup, you’ll want to organize your own transfer, whether from your hotel or a nearby location. The group size is limited to 11 passengers, which keeps things intimate but also means you might want to book ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day is designed to showcase the best parts of the south-east coast Lagoon—a region celebrated for its vibrant marine life and lush scenery. The cruise heads south from Trou d’Eau Douce, a lively seaside village known as a hub for boat trips.

First, your boat will glide toward the Grand River South East Waterfall — a striking cascade tumbling into the river, surrounded by tropical greenery. While you don’t actually enter the waterfall, the views from the boat are impressive, and it’s a good photo opportunity. The waterfall acts as a scenic backdrop to your journey, a reminder of the island’s lush landscape.

Next, the boat visits the Eau Bleu snorkeling site—a highlight for lovers of underwater exploration. With snorkeling equipment provided, you can swim among colorful fish and coral formations, directly in the clear blue waters. According to reviews, the snorkeling here is one of the main attractions; travelers report ample equipment and plenty of time to enjoy the undersea world. Our review sources mention that the snorkeling spot offers a great opportunity to observe marine life in natural surroundings.

Following snorkeling, the boat anchors for a lunch on board. The meal is typically served at anchor, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. The lunch is described as delicious, complemented by unlimited drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. This part of the day is perfect for unwinding after swimming; it offers a leisurely break under the warm Mauritian sun. One reviewer highlighted the “great BBQ” waiting for them, noting the excellent service and the chance to relax and take in the surroundings.

Visiting the South-Eastern Islands

Post-lunch, the cruise ventures toward some of Mauritius’s most scenic islands, including Ile aux Cerfs—a well-known hotspot famous for its quiet beaches and lush scenery. Reviews describe this as a nearly solitary experience, where you can stroll and explore at your own pace. One reviewer recalled having an hour of alone time at Ile aux Cerfs, which is a real treat for those seeking a peaceful escape.

The tour also includes visits to a private beach—another highlight that offers a more secluded slice of paradise. The scenery along the coast is stunning, with mountain ranges, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches. These views are what make Mauritius stand out as a top island destination.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Final Legs of the Cruise

As the day winds down, the boat continues its scenic cruise, offering aperitifs as you enjoy the views. The return to Trou d’Eau Douce is scheduled for around 3:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Authentic voices from travelers reinforce the quality of this experience. Bettina’s review mentions the friendly crew, monkeys feeding en route to the waterfall, and ample snorkel time, as well as a beautiful private beach and a tasty BBQ. She notes a minor downside: they didn’t visit Ile aux Aigrettes, and drinks at the BBQ were limited, with additional costs for coffee.

Leremy’s review praises the well-paced day and highlights Captain Joey as the “best,” emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable guides and friendly service in making the day memorable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The personalized nature of a private boat means you can tailor the experience to your interests—whether that’s more snorkeling, beach time, or simply relaxing with drinks. The scenic diversity—from waterfalls to islands, to coral reefs—provides a comprehensive experience of Mauritius’s coastal beauty.

The quality of the snorkeling is another selling point. The waters the tour visits are described as crystal clear, offering good visibility and vibrant marine life. For those who love underwater exploration, this is a major plus.

The lunch and unlimited drinks add a layer of comfort, making it suitable for a leisurely, indulgent day. The boat’s capacity of 11 passengers ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and the private nature gives a more intimate, relaxed vibe.

Pricing and Value

While $666 per group might sound premium, it reflects the personalized service, private boat, and all-inclusive drinks and lunch. For travelers seeking a private, customizable day out on the water, this offers good value, especially considering the exclusivity and flexibility.

Practical Considerations

The main logistical note is that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the specified point. The tour lasts roughly until 3:30 pm, so plan your day accordingly. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a towel, change of clothes, and your camera to capture the scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups or couples looking for a private day on the water. It suits travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with snorkeling, enjoy delicious local food, and prefer a flexible itinerary. It’s ideal if you appreciate personalized service and want to avoid crowded tours.

While not suited for those with mobility issues (given the boat-based nature) or travelers seeking a full-day island-hopping experience, it’s a solid choice for those looking for authentic, intimate exploration of Mauritius’s southeastern coast.

The Sum Up

The 5 Islands Tour with OCÉANE Private Pontoon Boat offers a well-rounded, luxurious way to see some of Mauritius’s most beautiful coastal sights. The combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, and a tasty onboard meal makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a personalized, relaxed day on the water.

Travelers who value authentic experiences, stunning vistas, and attentive service will find this tour rewarding. It’s a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty in a private setting, away from the crowds, with all the comforts of good food and drinks on deck.

For romantic couples, small groups, or adventure-seeking travelers wanting an exclusive look at Mauritius’s marine and island treasures, this cruise could very well be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, snorkel activities and boat trips are generally suitable for children comfortable around water. You should check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, and your camera. These items will help you enjoy the day comfortably and capture memories.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol consumption?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are served after snorkeling, and the management reserves the right to cancel snorkeling if alcohol is consumed beforehand.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts just before the Shangri-La Le Touessrok hotel, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise departs in the morning and returns around 15:30, giving roughly a 6-hour window of activities, sightseeing, and relaxation.

What is the boat capacity?
The pontoon boat can carry up to 11 passengers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is indicative and can be tailored to your preferences, making your day as relaxed or active as you’d like.

This private cruise offers a charming, flexible, and scenic way to discover Mauritius’s southeast coast, making it a memorable addition to your island adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby