Paradise Cruise to Ile Aux Cerf Island from Trou d’Eau Douce

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water, soaking up stunning island views, and enjoying good food with a splash of adventure, the Paradise Cruise to Ile aux Cerf might catch your eye. This 6-hour boat trip from Trou d’Eau Douce offers a taste of Mauritius’s best — calm lagoons, lush mountain scenery, and a lively atmosphere aboard a catamaran.

While it’s not a private yacht, it’s a well-organized excursion that caters to those looking for a relaxed yet energetic day at sea.

We love that this tour includes hotel pickup—a real plus in Mauritius, where transportation can be tricky—and the all-inclusive lunch and open bar make for a hassle-free experience. The chance to snorkel and swim in warm waters adds a fun, active element, perfect for families and couples alike.

But it’s worth noting that the crowd size might limit the sense of intimacy some travelers seek, and the day can run long if you’re not a fan of boat trips.

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy scenic views, good value for money, and lively social atmospheres. If you’re looking for a relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities to take photos, sip drinks, and sample local flavors, this tour could be a good fit. However, those seeking a tranquil, romantic escape might find the group size and vibrant energy a bit too lively.

Key Points

• Convenient hotel pickup makes logistics simple for travelers staying in Trou d’Eau Douce.
• Includes a hearty barbecue lunch and unlimited drinks, making it a stress-free, all-day outing.
• Offers snorkeling and swimming in calm lagoon waters, perfect for a quick dip and underwater photos.
• Scenic views of mountain ranges and waterfalls provide excellent photo opportunities and add depth to your experience.
• Group size is limited to 25 travelers, maintaining a manageable atmosphere but possibly feeling crowded during peak times.
• Reviews highlight friendly guides, tasty food, and good value, but note that the tour may feel busy or less intimate with many participants.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Trou d’Eau Douce, generally around 7:30 to 8:00 am, depending on your location. This service is particularly helpful, saving you the hassle of finding a meeting point or renting a taxi. Once onboard, you’ll cruise towards Ile aux Cerf, a well-known island famous for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and lush surroundings.

The boat ride itself is about an hour, and during this time, you can relax on the deck, sip a drink from the open bar, and enjoy views of the Grand River South East Waterfall and nearby mountain ranges. These vistas aren’t just pretty—they’re worth pulling out your camera for, especially in the morning light.

The key highlight here is the stop at Ile aux Cerf, where you’ll have roughly four hours to swim, snorkel, and explore. The lagoon is calm and inviting, with snorkel equipment available, giving you a chance to see tropical fish and coral. We loved the way the guides manage the snorkeling gear—efficient and friendly, making it easy for beginners and experienced swimmers alike.

Lunch arrives around noon, featuring a barbecue with chicken, fish, salads, potatoes, and tropical fruits. Reviews praise the delicious food and the generous open bar, which includes wine, beer, rum, soda, and water. We’ve heard from past travelers that the wines and local rum are especially good, and the food is described as “tasty” and “filling,” making the meal feel like a proper island feast rather than a quick bite.

Post-lunch, you’ll have more time to relax, take photos, or enjoy some light swimming. The scenic spots like the waterfall and mountain views are great photo backgrounds—a nice way to break up the day. The boat ride back to Trou d’Eau Douce usually wraps up around 3:00 pm.

What’s Great About This Tour

Many travelers, including Tejas_B, have expressed delight with the experience. The friendly guides and live music onboard create a lively, welcoming environment. The good value for money, especially with the included lunch and drinks, makes it appealing for those wanting a full day without worrying about extra costs.

The snorkeling gear is a bonus, letting you explore the vibrant marine life without additional expense or hassle. Plus, the scenic views of waterfalls and mountain ranges dominate the experience, giving you plenty of chances for memorable photos.

Reviewers also mention the efficiency of the pickup service—a real time-saver. The large group size (up to 25 travelers) feels manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere, though some may find it a little lively or crowded.

The Not-So-Great Aspects

While many enjoy the tour, some travelers like Jennifer E have pointed out that large groups on the boat can diminish the sense of intimacy or romance. She notes, “if you’re expecting a romantic, quiet cruise, this isn’t it,” due to the size of the group and lively crowd. The duration of about 6 hours might be a bit long for those with limited stamina or patience for boat trips.

Plus, as with any organized tour, the schedule is fixed, so if you prefer spontaneity or a more personalized experience, this may feel somewhat commercial. The tour does not include souvenir photos, which might be a missed opportunity for a keepsake.

Pricing at around $112.76 per person seems fair considering the inclusions, but it’s worth evaluating whether the group setting and the scheduled stops align with your expectations for a more tranquil day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early for pickup to ensure you’re ready at the designated time.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be strong, especially on the water.
• Pack light—a swimsuit, camera, and a towel are all you really need.
• Consider vegetarian options if you don’t eat meat; advance notice is recommended.
• Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, since the tour is popular and often booked 86 days in advance.
• Be prepared for a lively environment—this isn’t a quiet, romantic getaway but a social, fun day out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is a great fit for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a lively, full-day adventure with scenic beauty and good food. If you enjoy snorkeling, social atmospheres, and all-inclusive meals, this tour delivers on those fronts.

However, if you prefer tranquillity or intimacy, or are traveling solo hoping for a more quiet experience, you might find the group size and energetic vibe less suited to your taste.

The Sum Up

The Paradise Cruise to Ile aux Cerf offers a well-rounded, value-packed day on the water. It combines beautiful scenery, fun snorkeling, and a delicious BBQ meal with an easy pickup service—all good reasons to consider it for your Mauritius itinerary. The lively group environment, however, might not suit travelers looking for a private escape, but for those who thrive in social settings with plenty of activities, this cruise hits the right notes.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice that delivers plenty of memorable moments, especially if you’re eager to experience both the natural beauty and vibrant social scene that Mauritius has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from Trou d’Eau Douce, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel, activities, and meal time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transportation, a barbecue lunch, beverages (wine, beer, rum, soda, water), snorkeling equipment, and the guided boat trip.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll have time to swim and explore underwater life in the calm lagoon.

Are drinks available onboard?
Absolutely. The open bar includes wine, beer, local rum, soda, and water, available throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18, and the experience is generally suitable for most travelers.

Whether you want to capture island beauty, enjoy lively company, or simply relax with a cold drink in hand, this cruise offers a solid, enjoyable day out on Mauritius’s waters.