If you’re considering a day out on the water in Mauritius, this private boat tour offers a fantastic way to see multiple islands, enjoy nature, and indulge in some local flavors. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances adventure and relaxation.
Two aspects that stand out immediately are the small group size, which promises personalized attention, and the chance to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat—a rare treat that often makes this tour memorable. On the flip side, a potential consideration might be that additional watersports like parasailing are not included, so if you’re craving high-flying adventure, you’ll need to arrange that separately.
This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and cultural insights—all wrapped into a flexible, fun day. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, friends, or a small family, this private experience aims to deliver a customized day on the water that blends natural beauty with local highlights.
This experience made our article of Grand River South East’s 16 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?.
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Tour
- What Makes This Tour Special?
- Itinerary Breakdown
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Practical Details
- Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
- Potential Limitations
- Who Would Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of Grand River South East!
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Grand River South East
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- More Tour Reviews in Grand River South East
Key Points
- Private, small-group experience ensures personalized service and attention.
- Dolphin sightings are a highlight, with the chance to swim alongside these intelligent creatures.
- The itinerary includes multiple stops: Ile aux cerfs, Light House Island, waterfalls, and monkey feeding.
- BBQ lunch on the beach adds a delicious, relaxed touch to the day.
- Stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters create perfect photo opportunities.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies make planning stress-free.
👉 See our pick of the Grand River South East’s 16 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?
An In-Depth Look at the Tour

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Grand River South East
What Makes This Tour Special?
This private boat trip is designed to maximize your exposure to Mauritius’s natural beauty and local charm. For just $469 per group (up to two people), you’ll enjoy a full day of exploration, swimming, and relaxing—an excellent value considering the personalized service and varied activities.
The small group size means you’ll get more individual attention from your guide or captain, Johny, who is highly praised for knowing all the best spots. As one reviewer put it, “Johny knew all the best spots and made the experience unforgettable,” which is a huge plus when you’re out on the open water where local knowledge can turn a good trip into an exceptional one.
Itinerary Breakdown
Departure and Early Morning
Your day begins around 08:30 at Trou Deau Douce, a popular launch point for boat trips. The early start is worthwhile because you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures while cruising. Expect to return around 15:30—giving you plenty of time for all the planned activities.
Ile aux Cerfs Island
The first major stop is Ile aux Cerfs, a renowned island known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. Here, you can relax on the sand, take a swim, or try your hand at parasailing and other watersports. While these extra activities are not included, the natural setting alone makes this a restful and scenic spot. We loved the way the tour allows for free time to soak up the sun or explore at your own pace.
Waterfall and Monkey Encounter
Next, the boat heads to a stunning waterfall—a photo-worthy site that offers a refreshing splash and a chance to appreciate Mauritius’s lush landscape. Close by, you might encounter monkeys, which some visitors enjoy feeding with bananas provided by the guide. One review highlighted, “they provided some bananas, but I’d suggest bringing extra fruit,” emphasizing how interactive and fun this part of the trip is.
Light House Island and Marine Life
The Light House Island is another highlight, both for its scenic views and its historical significance. The guide shares stories about Mauritius’s past as you explore the surroundings—the perfect way to combine natural beauty with cultural insight.
Wildlife Encounters and Snorkeling
A major draw of this tour is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. As one reviewer enthused, “an exceptional opportunity to see dolphins and possibly turtles too!” The calm waters and attentive guides increase your chances of witnessing these graceful creatures. The tour also includes a snorkeling session, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
The BBQ Finale
After a day full of activity, you’ll enjoy a BBQ lunch on the beach, featuring chicken, fish, bread, salads, and a delightful banana flambe dessert. Many reviewers mentioned how much they enjoyed this relaxed, tasty meal amidst stunning scenery, making it a perfect way to wind down.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour covers most key highlights: island visits, waterfall, monkey feeding, dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and a BBQ lunch. Drinks are also included, such as soft drinks, beer, water, and rum, which add to the relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.
However, watersports like parasailing and other extra activities are not included, so if you want that adrenaline rush, you’ll need to budget separately. This setup allows you to choose how active you want to be without feeling pressured.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details
The tour’s price of $469 for two presents good value when considering the personalized experience, the variety of stops, and the included meals and drinks. The journey is comfortably paced, with enough time at each stop to relax, explore, and enjoy.
Booking is flexible—with a pay later option and a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—which makes planning easier amidst uncertain schedules.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Grand River South East
Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s guides and captain, especially Johny, for his local knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer noted, “He knew all the best spots,” highlighting how the guiding makes a huge difference. The small group size ensures that everyone gets individual attention, making the trip feel intimate rather than rushed.
Guests appreciate the stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to see dolphins—a rare and memorable experience. The BBQ lunch is also a hit, providing a hearty, flavorful meal after a morning of adventure.
Some travelers suggest bringing extra bananas or fruit for the monkeys, which adds a fun, interactive element. The inclusion of soft drinks, beer, and rum makes the day feel festive without feeling overwhelmed or commercialized.
Potential Limitations
While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, some might find that additional watersports are not covered, so if you’re looking for full adrenaline-filled activities, you’ll need to plan separately. Also, the tour’s focus is on natural sights and wildlife, so if cultural or historical sites are a priority, you might need to look for other options.
Who Would Love This Tour?

This private boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day out on Mauritius’s waters. It’s perfect if you’re keen on wildlife encounters like dolphin watching and enjoy relaxing on pristine beaches. Couples or small groups will appreciate the intimate atmosphere, but it’s equally suitable for solo travelers wanting a guided experience with minimal fuss.
If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and good food, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing for those who value authentic encounters—feeding monkeys, swimming with dolphins—and are happy to do a bit of relaxing between the highlights.
The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this Mauritius 5 Islands private boat tour offers a rich, authentic experience that maximizes your time on the water. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment, it strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. The inclusion of a BBQ lunch and drinks further enhances the feeling of a well-organized day trip.
For travelers seeking a personalized, wildlife-focused excursion that captures the natural beauty of Mauritius, this tour provides excellent value. Small groups and flexible booking make it accessible and stress-free, while the itinerary ensures you’ll come away with lasting memories of your island adventure.
Mauritius 5 Islands Hopping Tours – PRIVATE BOAT
FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s priced for up to two people per group, making it a private experience with personalized attention.
What can I expect at Ile aux Cerfs?
You’ll have time to relax, swim, and enjoy optional watersports such as parasailing (though these are not included in the price).
Are dolphins guaranteed to be seen?
While dolphin sightings are a highlight and considered an exceptional opportunity, nature is unpredictable, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
What do I need to bring?
A towel is recommended. Bringing extra bananas or fruit for the monkeys is suggested, as they’re fed during the tour.
How long does the tour last?
The tour departs around 08:30 and returns by approximately 15:30, offering a full day out on the water.
Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, water, and rum are included in the price.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning your trip.
This Mauritius private boat tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and relaxed enjoyment—perfect for those wanting to experience the island’s natural charm in a personal setting.
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