Marvelous Ile aux Cerf island: Speed Boat, Parasailing, Lunch & GRSE waterfall

Travelers looking for a splash of adventure mixed with scenic beauty will find this tour to Ile aux Cerfs a compelling choice. With its combination of speedboat thrills, aerial views from parasailing, a hearty barbecue, and a visit to the impressive Grand River South East Waterfalls, this excursion packs a lot into a single day.

While this experience offers stunning vistas and lively water sports, it does come with some considerations—like the potential for long waiting times or limited activities for children. Still, for those who enjoy active days filled with natural beauty and good food, this can be a memorable way to spend a day in Mauritius.

We love the way this tour balances adrenaline-pumping activities with moments to relax and soak in the scenery. The small-group setting means more personalized attention, and the inclusion of a delicious BBQ makes the trip feel well-rounded. However, some reviews suggest that organizational hiccups can happen, so being flexible helps.

If you’re someone who craves fun on the water, appreciates scenic views, and enjoys trying multiple experiences in one day, this tour is likely to suit you. It’s especially appealing for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to explore with a lively guide.

Key Points

Impressive Views: The speedboat ride offers breathtaking sights of clear lagoons and beaches.
Active & Relaxing Mix: Parasailing and waterfalls provide adventure and serenity in one package.
Authentic Food: A well-prepared barbecue lunch with drinks adds local flavor and satisfying nourishment.
Small Group: More attention from guides and a less crowded experience.
Potential Drawbacks: Long waits and some organizational issues noted by travelers.
Ideal For: Water enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and those wanting a full-day scenic escape.

The Experience: What You Can Expect on This Tour

Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel — a convenience that saves you from logistics headaches. From there, it’s a short 15-minute drive to Trou d’Eau Douce, a charming fishing village on the island’s east coast. Here, the excitement begins with a speedboat ride.

The Speedboat Journey

This part of the trip is a highlight for many. The boat slices through the turquoise waters, offering fantastic views of pristine beaches and brightly swaying palm trees. It’s a quick but exhilarating ride—think high speeds, sharp turns, and lots of splashes. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this part, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way the boat whipped us through the water, feeling like we were flying.”

The boat also sets the tone for the day’s vibrant, energetic atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to kick off a day full of water-based fun.

Exploring Ile aux Cerfs

Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself on a white sandy beach that looks like a postcard shot. Here, you can relax, swim, sunbathe, or just take in the stunning surroundings. Many travelers appreciate the peaceful yet lively atmosphere of the island, with some noting its “magnificent beaches” and “beautiful setting for a family day.”

Snorkeling opportunities are available, allowing you to see marine life close to shore. The island’s calm waters are perfect for a gentle swim or just soaking up the sun.

Parasailing: A Bird’s Eye View

Next, the tour ramps up with parasailing. This activity offers an exhilarating perspective of the island from above—an experience many find both peaceful and adrenaline-fueled. Expect to soar over the marvelous lagoon and vivid beaches, capturing fantastic photos and creating unforgettable memories.

From reviews, we know that parasailing lasts around three minutes, so it’s quick but sweet. One traveler confirmed, “The view from above was worth every penny; it’s peaceful and exhilarating at the same time.”

Note that parasailing is not included for children in this package and depends on parental approval, which is worth planning for if you’re traveling with young ones.

Lunch at Islet Margenie

Midday, the group heads to Islet Margenie for a barbecue lunch. The menu features grilled chicken, fish, salads, and more. The food is described as delicious and plentiful, providing a satisfying break from the water activities. Soft drinks, beer, wine, and local rum are served, adding a festive touch.

Several reviews praise the quality of the food. One said, “The meals on the islands let us sample each island’s flavors — it was a true feast.” The live dance performances during lunch add a lively, authentic atmosphere.

Visiting the GRSE Waterfalls

In the afternoon, a boat takes you to see the Grand River South East Waterfalls. The river is the longest in Mauritius, ending in a striking waterfall accessible by boat. During your ride, you might spot curious monkeys jumping through trees or fruit bats roosting high above.

This stop offers a quieter, scenic moment amidst the high-energy activities. The waterfalls are a great photo opportunity, and many appreciate the chance to see a different aspect of the island’s natural beauty.

The Logistics: How the Day Runs

The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickups, which are usually punctual and convenient. Expect the entire experience to last about 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure. The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Transportation is comfortable, and the tour includes all transfers, so you don’t need to worry about logistics once onboard.

Price and Value

At $138.60 per person, the price includes speedboat rides, parasailing, lunch, water activities, and waterfall visits. This bundled approach offers value, especially when considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.

However, some reviews hint at organizational hiccups, like long wait times for boats or miscommunications about parasailing locations. One reviewer remarked, “This trip isn’t perfectly organized,” but many still enjoyed the overall experience despite these issues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love water sports, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a full day of varied activities. It’s perfect for those seeking adventure combined with relaxation, and for families or groups eager to explore multiple aspects of Mauritian nature and culture in one trip.

It may be less ideal for travelers who prefer slow-paced sightseeing or less physically active days, and those with very young children should check parasailing age restrictions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Mauritius’s stunning coastlines, waters, and natural attractions. The speedboat ride alone is worth the price for its exhilarating views, and the lively atmosphere during lunch and activities makes it a memorable day.

While the organization could be smoother—some reviews mention waiting and itinerary miscommunications—the core experiences are genuine and enjoyable. The small-group setting enhances the experience, providing more attention from guides and less crowded moments.

Overall, if you’re after adventure on the water, beautiful scenery, and good food, this tour can be a highlight of your Mauritius trip. Just keep a flexible mindset and a sense of humor for those unexpected delays.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from anywhere on the island, making logistics easier.

What is the duration of the tour? Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel, activities, and lunch.

Are children allowed to participate in parasailing? No, parasailing is not included for children, depending on their parents’ approval and age.

What should I bring for the tour? Pack towels and an extra set of clothes, especially for water activities.

Is the price per person? Yes, $138.60 covers one person, including all activities, lunch, and transfers.

Are activities suitable for non-swimmers? While swimming is not mandatory, comfort in water is recommended for water-based activities.

What might cause the tour to be canceled? Bad weather, such as cyclones or heavy rain, can lead to cancellations with full refunds.

How many travelers are in each group? The tour limits group size to 12 for a more personalized experience.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, vegetarians should advise when booking; a vegetarian meal is available.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance receive a full refund.

In sum, this tour provides a lively, scenic, and activity-packed day suited for water lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty—all at a reasonable price with plenty of authentic experiences.