Mauritius: Ile aux Cerfs Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch and Drinks

Imagine cruising across shimmering waters on a speedy boat, whisked away from the coast of Mauritius to explore some of the island’s most striking sights. That’s exactly what this full-day boat tour promises—an adventure filled with scenic views, delicious food, and a splash of island magic.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches, a taste of local cuisine, or a quick nature fix, this trip offers a well-balanced and memorable experience.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines adventure and relaxation. The thrill of a speedy boat ride along with stops at lush waterfalls and pristine islands caters to those craving a bit of everything. Plus, the BBQ lunch on Ile aux Margenie stands out as a highlight—tasty, plentiful, and served with drinks to match.

That said, if you’re not a fan of water activities or weather-dependent plans, this tour might require a bit of flexibility.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, all-in-one day that mixes sightseeing, cultural touches, and beach time. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a lively group atmosphere, scenic water views, and a bit of indulgence in good food and drinks.

This experience made our article of Trou D Eau Douce’s 16 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Scenic speedboat ride along Mauritius’s coast offers a thrilling start to the day.
• Visit to Grand River South East Waterfall delivers impressive nature sights and monkey-spotting opportunities.
• Relaxing BBQ lunch on Ile aux Margenie provides a tasty meal with local drinks included.
• Time on Ile aux Cerfs allows swimming, sunbathing, and optional water sports (not included).
• Flexible options for hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and a chance to see the island’s natural beauty firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

The Speedboat Ride: A Thrilling Start

Boarding your speedboat in Trou D’eau Douce, you’ll immediately feel the wind in your hair and the excitement of leaving the shoreline behind. This is no slow cruise—think of it as a fun, splashy rollercoaster on water, giving you a quick yet exhilarating way to see the coast. The boat’s speed adds an element of adventure and keeps the energy high from the outset. Travel times are manageable, ensuring you arrive with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Grand River South East Waterfall: A Natural Marvel

Your first stop is at the Grand River South East Waterfall, affectionately called ‘Cascade Diamamouve.’ This isn’t just a quick photo op; it’s a chance to get close enough to marvel at the force and beauty of the cascading water. The guide might point out the lush valleys and the vibrant jungle that surrounds the waterfall, giving you a taste of Mauritius’s green heart.

A key highlight, according to visitor reviews, is the opportunity to spot monkeys along the riverbank—a delightful bonus for animal lovers. One traveler appreciated the “great activity” of seeing the waterfall up close and observing the monkeys among the trees. The location offers a peaceful contrast to the boat ride, with plenty of chances for photos and just soaking in the natural scenery.

Ilot Margenie: Lunch and Leisure

Next, the boat heads to Ilot Margenie, a small, idyllic island where a delicious BBQ lunch awaits. This is where the tour really shines in terms of value—an all-you-can-eat spread of local dishes, complemented by a selection of drinks including soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and local rum. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the tasty food and generous drink options—a perfect way to relax and refuel.

The setting is informal and inviting; you’ll sit on the beach, feet in the sand, with the sound of waves nearby. The BBQ is often described as “super good,” with some mentioning it as a highlight of the day. Vegetarian options are available if requested, making the meal accessible for dietary needs. The presence of halal food makes it even more accommodating for diverse guests.

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Ile aux Cerfs: The Relaxation and Playground

The final major stop is Ile aux Cerfs, the postcard-perfect island famous for its white sandy beaches and clear, calm lagoon. Approaching the island, you’ll see swaying palms and vibrant turquoise waters—an excellent backdrop for photos. The time here is flexible: many travelers choose to relax on the beach, swim in the lagoon, or indulge in optional water sports like parasailing or tubing (note these are not included in the tour).

According to reviews, visitors loved the variety of activities available and appreciated the chance to unwind after the boat ride and lunch. One reviewer noted that despite some less-than-ideal weather, they still enjoyed the “beautiful island” and the “lunch on the small islet.” The waters are described as “crystal clear,” ideal for swimming, and the beaches are pristine.

Sails Back to Trou D’eau Douce

In the afternoon, you’ll cruise back to the starting point, relishing the final views of Mauritius’s coastline. The boat ride back provides a relaxing end to what has been a full day of sights and tastes.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Know

What’s Included

• Speedboat tour: A lively, guided trip across the waters with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun.
• BBQ lunch on Ile aux Margenie: Hearty, local cuisine served beachside with drinks—an excellent value for the price.
• Drinks: A range of beverages to keep you refreshed throughout the day.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Available if you choose this option, making logistics smoother.

What’s Not Included

• Watersports at Ile aux Cerfs: If you want to parasail or rent a jet ski, you’ll need to pay separately.
• Additional activities: The tour is focused on sightseeing and lunch; extras are at your own expense.

Cost and Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers good value—especially considering the all-day length, multiple stops, and included meals and drinks. Compared to standalone excursions, this combo provides a convenient way to see key sights without breaking the bank.

Logistics and Tips

• Timing: Expect a full-day experience, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
• Transportation: Hotel pickup is optional but convenient—check if your accommodation qualifies.
• What to bring: Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, and a camera.
• Weather considerations: Tours can be canceled or rescheduled if weather is poor—check the forecast and be flexible.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and crew. One traveler praised their captain, Aman, as “kind and very attentive,” which helped make the experience smooth and reassuring. Others appreciated how the tour opened up opportunities for monkey sightings at the waterfall or the delicious lunch on the island, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The overall positive feedback—many rating it 5 stars—confirms that this is a well-operated, enjoyable tour. Even those who faced less-than-ideal weather still found value in the stunning views and the quality of the food and service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a lively boat ride, scenic waterfalls, and lazy beach afternoons. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty of charm here, especially if they enjoy seeing natural beauty with a touch of comfort.

If you’re looking for a full-day, all-in-one experience that offers good value, authentic local food, and a chance to see some of Mauritius’s most iconic sights—this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

This Ile aux Cerfs boat tour combines the best of Mauritius’s natural beauty, local cuisine, and fun water activities into a single, affordable package. With highlights like the Grand River South East Waterfall, the beachside BBQ lunch, and the idyllic Ile aux Cerfs, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded day on the water and on the sands.

The experience’s real strength lies in its authenticity and accessibility—no need for complex arrangements, just a straightforward trip that maximizes scenic views, good food, and relaxing moments. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an affordable, enjoyable way to explore Mauritius’s coast without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy photos, a taste of local flavors, or simply some quality beach time, this tour offers a memorable slice of island life—making it a worthwhile addition to your Mauritius itinerary.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option, making the day more convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It is a full-day experience, typically starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon.

Are vegetarian or halal options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and the food is halal, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Can I participate in water sports at Ile aux Cerfs?
Water activities like parasailing and tubing are not included in the tour and are paid separately if desired.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the moments.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This comprehensive review highlights the value and charm of the Mauritius Ile aux Cerfs Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch and Drinks, making it a highly recommended option for those seeking a lively, scenic, and relaxing day on the island.

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