Trou D’Eau Douce: 5 island tour Mauritius with lunch/drinks

A Practical Look at the Mauritius 5-Island Tour

If you’re considering exploring the Mauritian lagoon beyond the usual beaches, the Trou d’Eau Douce 5 Island Tour presents a well-rounded adventure that balances scenic beauty with cultural highlights. Promoted as a full-day excursion, this trip promises visits to some of the most photogenic islands, combined with snorkeling, history, and a hearty BBQ lunch. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to be a solid choice for travelers wanting a taste of everything.

We particularly like the diversity of stops—from iconic beaches and turquoise waters to historic sites—and the friendly local guides who make the experience more engaging. The inclusion of a delicious BBQ lunch and drinks on a secluded beach adds a real touch of relaxation. One potential consideration is the group size and pace, which might be a bit brisk for those wanting a more leisurely, unstructured day. This tour appears best suited for families, couples, and friends eager to see multiple islands without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.

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Key Points

• Comprehensive island-hopping: Visit five different islands, each with unique features.
• Historic sites: See one of the oldest lighthouses and learn about naval battles.
• Snorkeling gear included: Guided sessions provide a chance to explore underwater.
• Delicious BBQ lunch: Enjoy a meal on a quiet beach, with drinks included.
• Expert local guides: Knowledgeable skippers who enhance the experience.
• All-in-one package: Transfers, lunch, and drinks included for ease and value.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins on the east coast near Trou d’Eau Douce, with hotel transfers included. The use of speedboats ensures swift movement between islands, which maximizes your day but also means you should be comfortable with boat rides. The detailed meeting point is by the jetty next to the Mauritian flag, a straightforward spot that most travelers can find without trouble.

Île aux Phares – The Lighthouse Island

Your first stop is Île aux Phares, home to one of Mauritius’ oldest lighthouses. This historic site offers not just a glimpse into maritime navigation but also panoramic views over the Indian Ocean. A quote from a review highlights the appeal: “Rich in history, this lighthouse has stood for over 200 years and provides stunning vistas of the calm lagoon on one side and crashing waves on the other.” The contrast between tranquility and raw power makes this stop visually striking and educational.

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Île aux Cerfs – The Iconic Beach Paradise

Next, you’ll head to Île aux Cerfs, the most famous Mauritian island, renowned for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Here, the focus shifts to relaxation and water fun. Expect plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and perhaps try water sports, depending on your mood. The clear waters and soft sands make it an ideal spot for photos or just kicking back with a cold drink.

Île aux Flamants – The Sandbank for Sun and Snorkeling

A quick stop at Île aux Flamants offers a peaceful sandbank, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the sun. The shallow waters are inviting for families or those new to snorkeling, providing a safe environment to see marine life close to the surface.

Île aux Aigrettes – A Nature Sanctuary

The trip then takes you to Île aux Aigrettes, a protected reserve known for its native vegetation and rare species. While the specific activities here aren’t detailed, it’s an excellent opportunity for nature lovers to observe endemic plants and possibly spot some of the island’s fauna. It adds an ecological dimension to this otherwise beach-focused tour.

Île de la Passe and Île aux Phares – Maritime History and Views

The tour also visits Île de la Passe, a site with historical significance in the naval battles between the French and British, and again highlights Île aux Phares for its panoramic vistas. The storytelling about the naval battle of Grand Port adds depth to the trip, turning it into a mini history lesson as well.

Snorkeling, Lunch, and Refreshments

Included in the tour are snorkeling gear and guided sessions, which many travelers appreciate. The waters around these islands are calm and clear, offering decent opportunities to glimpse marine life like turtles or colorful fish. While snorkeling gear isn’t provided for free, the availability of guided sessions suggests a hassle-free experience for beginners.

The BBQ lunch served on a secluded island’s beach is a highlight, according to reviews. The meal is described as delicious, with soft drinks and local rum included—perfect for winding down after a busy morning. Many travelers note the food quality positively, emphasizing the friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.

What to Bring and Practical Tips

Travelers should come prepared with sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, goggles, and snorkeling gear. The tour’s timing and group size mean that packing light and comfortably is advisable. Since the tour ends back at the starting point, you can plan the rest of your day afterward.

The Experience of the Guides and Group

Names like Oliver and Edgar, mentioned in reviews, point to friendly, professional guides who go above and beyond to make sure guests see dolphins, turtles, and monkeys, often unexpectedly. The small group experience means more personalized attention, which many travelers find appealing. The guides’ local knowledge elevates the tour from a simple boat ride to an educational adventure.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $70 per person, this tour offers an all-inclusive package—transfers, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. That’s a reasonable price considering the number of islands visited and the variety of experiences packed into one day. The inclusion of historical sites, nature reserves, and beach time suggests a good balance of activities and relaxation.

Several reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with mentions of dolphins and turtles seen along the way, which adds an element of surprise and delight. As one reviewer put it, “This was the highlight of our holiday,” reinforcing the idea that this tour provides memorable moments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, couples, and groups of friends wanting a comprehensive day out on the water. If you enjoy scenic beaches, snorkeling, and learning about Mauritian history, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also ideal if you prefer organized, all-in-one trips that save you planning time while still offering flexibility for relaxing or snapping photos.

However, travelers with back problems or who are wheelchair users should note the boat rides and walking involved might be challenging. Those over 95 years might also find the physical demands a bit much. The tour’s pace is generally lively but not rushed, making it suitable for most active travelers.

The Sum Up: Who Is It Best For?

This 5 Island Tour in Mauritius offers a well-balanced day of adventure, history, and relaxation. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a delicious BBQ lunch, it provides excellent value for money. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a full experience of the Mauritian lagoon’s beauty and stories without the hassle of arranging multiple activities themselves. Families with kids, couples, and groups of friends will find it a memorable way to see the islands.

While the boat rides and group pace might not suit everyone, those looking for a lively, engaging day with plenty of photo opportunities and chances to swim and explore will likely be very happy with this tour. It encapsulates the essence of Mauritian island life—beautiful beaches, friendly people, and fascinating history—all in one package.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel transfers, speedboat transfers between islands, snorkeling gear and guided sessions, a BBQ lunch, and refreshments including soft drinks and local rum.

How long is the entire tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is designed as a full-day experience, allowing ample time on each island, with the start and end point back at Trou d’Eau Douce.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling gear is included for guided sessions, but personal gear such as goggles may need to be brought along if you prefer your own.

Are drinks and lunch included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch and drinks are part of the package, making for a convenient and relaxed meal on a quiet beach.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
The tour is not suitable for people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old. The physical activity and boat rides may be challenging for some.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This tour strikes a good balance for those who want to see a variety of islands, enjoy some history, and relax with good food and drinks—all without the stress of independent planning. It’s a lively, friendly, and scenic way to experience the best of Mauritius’s eastern lagoons.

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