From Blue Bay: Ile aux Cerfs Speedboat Excursion with BBQ — A Practical Guide for Explorers
If you’re after a day filled with sunshine, sea, and a taste of local flavor, the Ile aux Cerfs Speedboat Excursion from Blue Bay offers an engaging way to explore Mauritius’s southeastern coast. This tour promises a mix of snorkeling, island hopping, waterfalls, and a laid-back beach BBQ all in one day.
While it’s not a private charter, the organized nature and variety of stops make it a solid choice for anyone eager to see multiple highlights without stress.
What we particularly like about this experience is how smoothly it combines adventure with relaxation—snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and then enjoying a hearty BBQ right on the beach. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to see dolphins or monkeys, depending on the day, add a layer of authenticity and personal touch.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s itinerary is somewhat flexible, which might mean you miss out on spending extensive time on each stop.
Still, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day trip that hits the key sights with good organization, this tour fits the bill.
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a balance of active sightseeing and leisure. It caters well to those who want to see Mauritius from the water, indulge in local flavors, and explore the natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves.
This experience made our article of Blue Bay Marine Park’s 6 Best Tours & Things To Do.
Key Points
- Snorkeling in Blue Bay Marine Park offers a chance to see colorful fish and corals, perfect for marine life enthusiasts.
- The visit to Ile aux Phare provides an authentic glimpse of lighthouse history and a quiet walk on a small island.
- The Grand River South East Waterfall features lush scenery and cheeky monkeys, adding an element of jungle adventure.
- The Ile aux Cerfs stop, while brief, rewards visitors with stunning beach scenery and a chance to relax by the lagoon.
- The BBQ lunch is a highlight, with fish and chicken options, plus drinks included—vegetarians can request a meal beforehand.
- The overall value is high, considering the inclusive snorkeling gear, drinks, and the variety of on-water and land experiences.
👉 See our pick of the Blue Bay Marine Park’s 6 Best Tours & Things To Do
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
The tour begins at approximately 09:30 am at the Blue Bay Public Beach, a convenient starting point for those staying nearby. The group gathers at a small stand under a grey parasol—a simple but effective meeting spot. From here, the adventure kicks off with snorkeling in the Blue Bay Marine Park, noted as the largest coral reserve in Mauritius. The waters are generally calm, and the marine life vibrant, making it an ideal spot for both experienced snorkelers and beginners. Many reviews highlight the quality of snorkeling gear provided, including masks and snorkels, which simplifies packing for travelers.
As we glide along the coast, you’ll appreciate the scenic views of Point d’Esny and Mahebourg, the island’s former capital. The boat trip itself is often enjoyable, with the opportunity to spot dolphins or other marine creatures, especially if you’re lucky. Several travelers mention the crew’s attentiveness and knowledge, with one reviewer praising their ability to adapt the program based on weather conditions—an important factor in Mauritius’s sometimes unpredictable coastal weather.
Next, the tour takes you to Ile aux Phare, home to an old lighthouse ruin. This island is a quiet spot for walking and exploring, and it’s a great photo op. The guide typically provides brief explanations—though the tours are not heavily educational, the stories about the lighthouse’s history add a touch of local lore. Some visitors enjoy walking around and taking in the peaceful scenery, while others might find the island a bit small for a long stay.
The highlight for many is the Grand River South East Waterfall. Here, the boat stops at the river’s edge, and you can hike a short distance to see the cascade. The scenery is lush, with rainforest-like surroundings, and you might see the playful monkeys that are known to inhabit the area. A reviewer noted that “for the landscape alone, it’s worth the trip,” and others appreciated the chance to stretch their legs during this nature stop.
The final stop is Ile aux Cerfs, famed for its postcard-perfect beaches and clear lagoon waters. The boat docks at the entrance to the lagoon, and guests are free to relax on the beach or take a quick swim. The tour doesn’t linger here long—enough to enjoy the scenery and have a BBQ lunch. The meal is served right on the beach, with grilled fish, chicken, and a vegetarian option available if specified in advance. Drinks—both soft and alcoholic—are included, which many guests find makes the experience more festive.
The BBQ is a real crowd-pleaser, with many reviewers calling it “excellent” and well-organized. The setting—right on the shore of Ile aux Cerfs—adds to the relaxed ambiance. After lunch, there’s a chance to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
On the way back, the boat makes a short stop near Ile aux Aigrettes for more snorkeling and swimming, giving you one last chance to enjoy Mauritius’s warm waters. The return journey usually ends around 16:00 at the original meeting point, leaving you with a full, satisfying day of adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Practical Details and What to Expect
The tour is priced at $88 per person, which many reviews consider good value given the inclusive nature of snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch. It’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Blue Bay Public Beach. This is generally straightforward if you’re staying nearby, but it’s something to plan for.
The entire day lasts roughly six and a half hours, which balances enough time to see major sights without feeling rushed. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience, and the guide’s knowledge about marine biodiversity and local landmarks adds educational value.
What to bring is simple: swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and snorkeling gear if you have your own. The provided gear is generally praised for its quality, but bringing your own might be preferable for comfort. Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended—Mauritius can be quite sunny—and a waterproof camera is always handy for capturing the scenery.
Language options include English and French, making it accessible for most travelers. Booking flexibility is available, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect for flexible travel plans.
What Reviewers Say
Multiple reviews praise the guides for their attentiveness and knowledge. One traveler appreciated the “extremely attentive, professional skipper,” who was “very knowledgeable about marine biodiversity,” even mentioning dolphin sightings. Others enjoyed the variety of the trip, citing the different stops and activities as making the day “very varied,” with some disappointed only that they didn’t spend more time on Ile aux Cerfs itself.
The snorkeling is often described as “beautiful,” with colorful fish and corals, and the chance to see dolphins from a distance is a bonus. The BBQ lunch is a recurring highlight—well-organized, tasty, and conveniently located right on the beach.
Some reviewers note that the tour’s program can be flexible based on weather conditions, so expectations should be set accordingly. Yet, everyone agrees that the overall experience offers a fantastic overview of Mauritius’s coastal beauty, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
This speedboat adventure is an excellent way to see several of Mauritius’s highlights in one day without feeling overwhelmed. It offers the perfect mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach time, all wrapped in a well-organized package. The inclusive BBQ and drinks add to the value, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking good food and scenic fun without extra hassle.
If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates natural scenery, and enjoys a laid-back vibe, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for those staying near Blue Bay or the southeast coast, as transportation isn’t included. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it offers a good balance of activities and relaxation.
While it’s not a private tour and the schedule is somewhat fixed, the reviews demonstrate consistent satisfaction, largely thanks to friendly guides and a beautiful setting. For a reasonably priced, authentic, and fun day out in Mauritius, this excursion hits many of the right notes.
From Blue Bay: Ile aux Cerfs Speedboat Excursion with BBQ
FAQ
Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point opposite the Blue Bay Tuck Shop. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Blue Bay Public Beach.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes, snorkeling gear if you have your own, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but personal gear might be more comfortable.
How long does the tour last?
The entire excursion runs from about 09:30 am to 4:00 pm, giving you roughly six and a half hours of activities and relaxation.
Can I request vegetarian meals?
Yes, vegetarians can request a vegetarian meal when making the reservation. The BBQ lunch generally offers fish, chicken, and vegetarian options.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, masks and snorkels are provided, and several reviewers have praised the quality of the gear.
How flexible is the itinerary?
The crew can adapt the schedule based on weather conditions, but generally, you will visit Blue Bay Marine Park, Ile aux Phare, Grand River South East Waterfall, Ile aux Cerfs, and Ile aux Aigrettes.
In all, this tour offers a balanced slice of Mauritius’s natural beauty, marine life, and cultural highlights. It’s a practical choice for those wanting a hands-on, fun-filled day with enough variety to feel like a full experience.
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