Speed boat to Ile aux Cerfs: Full day incl Lunch & Transfer

Travelers often look for a mix of stunning scenery, fun activities, and good value when exploring Mauritius. This full-day speedboat tour to Ile aux Cerfs offers just that—plus a few surprises along the way. It’s a popular choice for visitors seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic island vibes.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the speedboat ride, which promises an exhilarating start to the day, and the delicious 3-course BBQ lunch served on a private island. The added bonus of visiting the Grand River South-East Waterfalls gives you a taste of lush Mauritian nature.

On the flip side, some travelers note that the island’s beaches can be rough with little marine life, and the free time on Ile aux Cerfs might feel a bit limited for those wanting more exploration.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day out, combining scenic boat rides, a hearty beachside meal, and a glimpse of Mauritius’s natural beauty. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, it offers a good balance of activities and relaxation.

Key Points

• Exhilarating speedboat ride through lagoon waters with stunning scenery
• Includes a flavorful 3-course BBQ lunch with drinks, served on a private island
• Visit to Grand River South-East Waterfalls offers a natural pause and wildlife sightings
• Private hotel pick-up and drop-off adds convenience and comfort
• Limited free time on Ile aux Cerfs means you should plan your activities accordingly
• Good for adventure lovers and beach relaxers alike—but note the beach conditions and activity options

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What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour begins with a complimentary hotel pickup—a nice touch that spares you the hassle of organizing transport. From your Mauritius accommodation, you’ll be driven to Trou D’eau Douce, a charming fishing village on the east coast. Here, your adventure really kicks off: boarding a speedboat for a fast, fun cruise across the lagoon toward Ile aux Cerfs.

The speedboat ride is one of the highlights—expect adrenaline-pumping speeds, twisting turns, and splashes of water that wake you up better than any coffee. The boat cruises through clear, turquoise waters, offering picture-perfect views of palm-fringed beaches and dramatic coastlines. Many reviews praise the boat ride for its spirited nature, with one traveler describing it as “thrilling” and “exhilarating,” especially with the Yamaha or Mercury outboard engine powering the vessel.

Ile aux Cerfs – The Beach and Activities

Arriving at Ile aux Cerfs, you’ll see why countless travelers gush about its beauty. Expect white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees—ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, or taking a swim. However, some reviews mention that the beach can be rough with limited marine life and no significant snorkeling opportunities, which might disappoint those craving vibrant underwater scenes.

Once on the island, you’ll have around three hours of free time, which some find sufficient to unwind and explore. You can swim, stroll, or enjoy water sports like parasailing or banana riding—if you pay extra, as these aren’t included in the base price. The tour does a good job at offering a self-guided experience, but if you’re hoping for a guided exploration of the island’s history or ecology, you might feel a bit left to your own devices.

The Lunch – A Tasty Break

Midday, the tour shifts to a private island setting where a 3-course BBQ lunch awaits. The menu caters to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, with an option for a veggie BBQ if requested in advance. The lunch includes unlimited drinks, such as soft drinks, wines, beers, and local rum—perfect for relaxing after the boat ride and soaking up the sun.

Reviewers generally praise the quality and quantity of the meal, describing the fish as “very good,” the meat as “delicious,” and the dessert as a fine finish. One traveler mentions that the lunch was plentiful, though another criticizes the small portions of fruit for dessert, feeling it was a bit light.

Waterfalls and Wildlife

After lunch, the boat continues its journey toward the Grand River South-East Waterfalls, which is a real treat for nature lovers. The canal cruise offers views of majestic waterfalls and lush flora, with the chance to spot monkeys jumping through trees or fruit bats resting on branches—a memorable wildlife encounter. Several reviews highlight the waterfalls as “impressive” and worth the visit, providing a different perspective from the beach-centric activities.

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The Thrilling Return – Speedboat Splash

Later in the afternoon, the adventure hits a peak with a high-speed coastal cruise back toward your starting point. Expect sharp twists, turns, and splashes, delivering the kind of adrenaline rush that appeals to thrill-seekers. This part of the tour is often described as “wild,” “exciting,” or “a blast”, making it a fitting end to the day.

Practical Considerations and Tips

The tour costs around $90 per person, which offers fair value considering the transportation, boat rides, lunch, and sightseeing. However, it’s worth noting that water sport activities are optional and not included, so if you’re eager to snorkel or parasail, plan to pay extra. The tour group sizes tend to be small-to-moderate, and the tour is available in both English and French.

For convenience, pack essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. Bring some fruit or treats for the monkeys if you visit the waterfalls—many travelers find this enhances the wildlife experience.

The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but a full refund or alternative date is offered. Make sure to inform the provider of any food allergies or special needs when booking.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The reviews paint a mixed but mostly positive picture. Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and good food, with some mentioning excellent service from guides and staff. One traveler praised the musicians during lunch, calling it a “very good meal” with “attentive staff,” while another noted that the island’s beaches could be rough with little marine life, making the beach trip somewhat underwhelming.

A few found the free time on Ile aux Cerfs limited—some said they only had about three hours and felt it was too short to explore fully or enjoy all water sports. Others appreciated the wild flora and fauna at the waterfalls and the thrills of the speedboat ride.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a dynamic mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty that appeals to a broad range of travelers. The highlight is undoubtedly the speedboat ride—both exhilarating and picturesque, giving you a real sense of the Mauritian coast. The lunch is hearty and well-reviewed, perfect for refueling after a morning in the sun. The visit to Grand River South-East Waterfalls adds a touch of lush biodiversity to the day, rounding out the experience nicely.

If you’re looking for a fun, active day with plenty of water-based highlights and a delicious meal, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline, scenic boat rides, and a relaxed beach atmosphere. However, if you want extensive exploration of the island or vibrant marine life, you might want to consider adding or seeking alternative options.

Overall, it balances good value and memorable moments—a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Mauritian paradise with a splash of thrill.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour typically lasts a full day, including hotel pickup, boat rides, lunch, and sightseeing, with the main activities concentrated in the late morning through early evening.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the speedboat rides, the waterfalls, and the beach activities. Infants aged 1-3 are free, but travelers should notify the provider about child seats or specific needs.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, and perhaps some fruit or snacks for the wildlife. Sunscreen is also recommended.

Are water sports included?
No, water sports like parasailing or snorkeling are optional extras and not included in the base price.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour operates on a set itinerary, but you can request vegetarian options for lunch or inform about any food allergies in advance.

What about weather?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to rain or rough seas, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people typically go on this tour?
Groups tend to be small-to-moderate, providing a more personalized experience, but exact group sizes vary depending on booking.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the guide is certified and provides commentary on the sights, the waterfalls, and the boat rides, enhancing your overall experience.

In sum, this speedboat adventure to Ile aux Cerfs is a lively, scenic, and tasty way to spend a day in Mauritius—best for those who love a bit of adrenaline, good food, and natural beauty.

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