Full Day Tour 5 Island to Ile Aux Cerfs Incl. Lunch and Transfer

Expect a full day on fast water. This Mauritius excursion packs snorkeling at Blue Bay, a 1902 shipwreck, old lighthouse ruins, the Grand River South East waterfall, and Ile aux Cerfs into one long outing. I especially like the small speedboat format, which gives you more time in the water than a slow cruise, and the beach barbecue with Mauritian sega music and an open bar. The main catch is that this is a lively, alcohol-friendly trip, so it may not suit families or anyone seeking a quiet, tightly managed history tour.

The advertised price is $151.21 per person, including hotel pickup, a private road transfer, guide services, equipment, lunch, and drinks. That is fair value if you use the whole package, but the day can feel rushed, and communication about pickup times has caused trouble for some customers. Check the final pickup details carefully before bed, and bring serious sun protection.

Five things to know before booking

• Blue Bay snorkeling reaches about 5.5 meters: You can see coral and fish in clear water, with equipment supplied.
• The speedboat is the star: It covers a wide stretch of Mauritius’s southeast coast and feels more energetic than a catamaran.
• The stops mix nature and history: You see the Dalbair shipwreck, Ile aux Phare, Ile de la Passe, Ilot Flamants, and GRSE waterfall.
• Lunch is served on Ilot Margenie: Expect a three-course barbecue, salads and sides, drinks, sega music, and banana flambé.
• The mood leans festive: Rum, music, dancing, smoking, and vaping may be part of the atmosphere.
• The day is long and weather dependent: Allow eight to nine hours, with a minimum of two people and a maximum group size of 15.

Starting at Blue Bay with a long day ahead

The day begins with hotel pickup at about 8:00 a.m., although pickup times may vary by accommodation and actual operating plans. The service includes an air-conditioned private vehicle and a certified guide or driver for the road journey to Blue Bay on Mauritius’s southeast coast.

That transfer is more useful than it sounds. Blue Bay is not simply a launch point for the boat. It places you near the marine park, Pointe d’Esny, Mahébourg, and the historic islands of Grand Port. A good driver can add local context before you even reach the water. Several highly praised guides and drivers include Chris, Nelson, Donovan, Kavi, and a captain called Kevin, also known as Jack Sparrow.

Allow extra flexibility in the morning. One booking experience involved a very early collection, followed by a wait at the port. Another involved several changes to the pickup time. I would not treat the stated 8:00 a.m. time as the only detail that matters. Use the current message in your booking app, confirm the time with the operator, and keep your morning free.

The boat usually carries no more than 15 people, which is a useful limit for a full-day sea trip. You are not signing up for a giant floating party boat, but the experience can still become lively once the music and drinks begin.

Blue Bay Marine Park and the first snorkeling stop

Blue Bay Marine Park gives you the clearest underwater portion of the day. The boat stops over a reef area with an average depth of about 5.5 meters, and snorkeling equipment is included.

The water is described as clear, with good visibility, coral, and fish. More than 50 coral species are recorded in the park, so this is not simply a quick swim beside the boat. You should have time to look around at the reef rather than being dropped into the water for only a few minutes.

You do not need to be an expert snorkeler to enjoy this stop. One highly positive account came from someone who did not snorkel, while companions explored the reef. You can stay in the boat or swim and enjoy the surroundings, depending on the crew’s arrangements and sea conditions.

The usual stop lasts about an hour. That sounds generous, but you need to allow time for instructions, putting on equipment, entering the water, and returning to the boat. Bring your own mask if fit matters to you, although supplied equipment is part of the package.

The Dalbair shipwreck at Pointe d’Esny

The next stop is the Dalbair shipwreck, also spelled Alblair in some tour details. The wreck has been on the coral reef near Pointe d’Esny since 1902, and the guide is expected to explain its troubled history.

This is one of the more distinctive parts of the cruise. You are not merely looking at another beach. A shipwreck in a shallow tropical setting gives the boat ride a sense of purpose, especially when the captain or guide explains what happened and answers questions.

Plan on roughly 30 minutes here. The stop may combine viewing the wreck from the boat with nearby snorkeling, but the precise conditions can depend on the tide, wind, and water visibility. If the historical side interests you, ask the guide to explain the wreck before everyone gets busy with cameras and swimming.

Ile aux Aigrettes and its natural swimming pool

At Ile aux Aigrettes, the plan is simple: enjoy a cocktail and swim in a clear lagoon pool. Starfish may be visible in the shallow water, adding a small but memorable detail to the stop.

This is a pleasant change of pace after the reef and shipwreck. You get time to float, cool off, and enjoy the bright water without needing to follow a formal sightseeing schedule. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, so think of it as a swim break rather than a full island visit.

The name can cause confusion. The experience includes a stop near Ile aux Aigrettes, a cocktail, and swimming, but the supplied information does not promise a guided tour of a protected nature reserve. If you are booking specifically to see wildlife or conservation projects, ask the operator what access is planned.

Ile aux Phare and the story of Grand Port

Ile aux Phare, also called L’Île aux Fouquets, is a small rocky island in Grand Port Bay. Its lighthouse was built in 1864 to guide ships toward Mahébourg, and the remains still provide a strong visual landmark.

You get about 45 minutes to walk around or inspect the old lighthouse ruins. This is one of the best stops for people who want something beyond sun and water. The island was important during the Battle of Grand Port between French and British forces, so the ruins connect the scenery with Mauritius’s colonial past.

Do not expect a restored museum or a polished historic site. The appeal is the setting, the old masonry, and the chance to walk on an exposed island in the bay. Wear shoes that can handle uneven ground, and keep an eye on the weather. The island is rocky and open, with little reason to linger if conditions turn rough.

Ile de la Passe and a short lesson in coastal defense

Ile de la Passe is a small islet with old French and British defensive ruins. These fortifications once helped protect the entrance to Grand Port, and the island played a role in battles linked to the famous Battle of Vieux Grand Port.

The stop generally lasts about 30 minutes. You can walk among the ruins and look back toward the mainland and turquoise sea. An inscription commemorating the Battle of Vieux Grand Port appears on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, a detail that gives this otherwise tiny island surprising historical importance.

There is a practical limitation. Access to Ile de la Passe depends on the tide. It is listed as part of the experience, but nature decides whether you can land. If you cannot get ashore, you may still pass near it, but you should not assume a full walking visit.

The cruise also passes Ilot Vacoas. This is a passing sight rather than a scheduled long stop, so keep your camera ready but do not expect time to explore.

Ilot Flamants and the turquoise lagoon

Ilot Flamants is a small white-sand island in the lagoon. The boat usually allows about 30 minutes here, with time for swimming and another snorkeling session.

After the historical islands, this stop returns you to the classic Mauritius picture: pale sand, shallow clear water, and open views. It is a good place to cool off before lunch and Ile aux Cerfs.

The day includes several water stops, but they are not identical. Blue Bay is the main coral reef experience. Ile aux Aigrettes is a natural pool and cocktail break. Ilot Flamants is more about white sand and lagoon swimming. That variety helps justify the packed itinerary, though you should expect short visits rather than hours on each island.

GRSE waterfall, monkeys, and fruit bats

The Grand River South East waterfall is reached by speedboat through the river channel. Here, the sea and river meet, and the boat moves close to the falls for a view of the water and surrounding vegetation.

The riverbanks may be home to monkeys, and Mauritian fruit bats can sometimes be seen resting in the taller trees. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but this is one of the few parts of the trip where you are looking inland rather than across open sea.

The waterfall stop lasts about 30 minutes. Weather matters here. Poor conditions have caused some trips to skip the waterfall or alter the route. If you are especially eager to see GRSE, understand that the captain must put safety first.

Ile aux Cerfs and two hours of free time

Ile aux Cerfs is the main beach stop and the place where you get the most unstructured time. The island is known for white beaches, palm trees, and bright lagoon water. You have about two hours to swim, stroll, snorkel, rest on the sand, or pay extra for water sports.

That free time is valuable because the first half of the day moves quickly. You can finally stop checking the clock and choose your own pace. If you want a quiet swim, claim time for it early. If you want water sports, remember that these cost extra, with the supplied information listing an optional price of about 40 EUR.

I would not book this excursion expecting a private beach. Ile aux Cerfs is a well-known stop, and the experience focuses on seeing its famous shoreline rather than finding an empty strip of sand. Still, two hours gives you enough time to enjoy the place without reducing the rest of the day to a single beach visit.

A beach barbecue with sega music and Mauritian rum

Lunch is served on Ilot Margenie, described as a beach barbecue stop near Ile aux Cerfs. The meal usually includes chicken barbecue, fish barbecue, garlic bread, salads, and other side dishes. Vegetarian and halal meals are available, but you need to request a vegetarian meal in advance.

Drinks are included, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices advertised as unlimited. The lunch program also includes sega dancing, live music, entertainment, and banana flambé for dessert.

This is where the tour’s personality becomes clear. Some people love the friendly, musical atmosphere, free-flowing rum, and chance to dance on the beach or boat. Others find the drinks warm, the food portions modest, or the party mood too strong. One account described lunch as a small serving of chicken, fish, bread, and pineapple, while other accounts praised the barbecue and generous drinks.

If you want a calm meal, this may not be your ideal setting. If you enjoy a social lunch with music, it can be one of the day’s best moments. Carry a snack anyway. The day is long, and the food service may not satisfy everyone equally.

What the $151.21 price really covers

At $151.21 per person, this is not a budget boat ride. The value comes from combining several costly elements in one day: hotel pickup and return, a private air-conditioned road transfer, a speedboat, a certified guide or driver, snorkeling equipment, lunch, cocktails, and drinks.

You also cover a large area. The route links Blue Bay, Pointe d’Esny, the historic islands, Ilot Flamants, GRSE, and Ile aux Cerfs. A cheaper half-day outing might give you one beach or one snorkeling site, but it would not include this much variety.

The price makes the most sense if you will use the boat’s full program and appreciate the transfer service. It makes less sense if you mainly want Ile aux Cerfs, dislike alcohol-focused entertainment, or plan to skip most water activities.

The average booking lead time is about 22 days, which suggests you should not leave this choice until the last minute during a busy holiday. The operator requires at least two people, and the maximum group size is 15.

Comfort, weather, and the party atmosphere

A speedboat lets you cover more coastline and reach small islands quickly. It also means wind, spray, engine noise, and a more physical ride than a catamaran. You may spend much of the day exposed to the sun, so pack high-factor sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and sun-protective clothing.

Bring a dry bag for phones and cameras. Take water-resistant footwear for rocky island stops, and bring a snack even though lunch is included. The boat may provide drinks and snacks, but one account specifically advised carrying extra food.

The weather can change the day. The experience requires good conditions, and bad weather may lead to a different date or a full refund. Even with decent weather, cloud can affect snorkeling visibility and make some stops impossible.

The crew quality can shape the outing. Captains such as Emmanuel, Joel, and Kevin received especially warm praise for keeping people comfortable, explaining the route, and creating a fun mood. There have also been reports of late pickup, poor communication, a boat problem, and weak equipment. One boat breakdown ended happily after a replacement arrived, but it still shows that sea trips are not entirely predictable.

Who should book this speedboat day?

I would recommend this trip to couples, groups of friends, and active families who want a busy day with swimming, snorkeling, history, music, and fast boat rides. It suits you if you would rather see many different places than spend one quiet day at a single beach.

It is also a good fit if you do not snorkel confidently. You can swim, stay aboard, walk on the islands, or simply enjoy the views while stronger swimmers use the equipment.

I would be cautious if you are traveling with young children, need a peaceful atmosphere, or avoid alcohol and smoking. One especially negative account described drinking, smoking, and vaping throughout much of the day, with several advertised stops not visited. The experience may be enjoyable for a social group but uncomfortable for someone expecting a nature-focused excursion.

Should you book the five-island tour?

Book it if you want maximum variety in one day and like the idea of a small, fast boat with a festive crew. The strongest parts are the Blue Bay snorkeling, the historic lighthouse and defense ruins, the GRSE waterfall, and the beach lunch. Sightings of dolphins, turtles, monkeys, and fruit bats can add extra excitement, but they are not guaranteed.

Think twice if you want quiet, exact timing, or a carefully paced cultural tour. Before paying, confirm your pickup time, vegetarian or allergy requirements, boat type, and what happens if tide or weather removes a stop.

For the right mood, this is a memorable way to see Mauritius from the water. Just pack sunscreen, patience, and a sense of humor. The sea gets the final say.

FAQ

Where does the five-island tour take place?

The excursion uses Blue Bay on the southeast coast of Mauritius as its main departure area and visits several nearby islands, coastal sites, and the Grand River South East waterfall.

How long does the experience last?

The tour lasts approximately eight to nine hours. The planned return to the mainland is around 4:30 p.m.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included from hotels or accommodations anywhere in Mauritius, using a private air-conditioned vehicle.

What time does pickup begin?

The stated start time is 8:00 a.m. Pickup details can vary, so confirm the final time with the operator before the tour.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, including the planned stop at Blue Bay Marine Park.

How deep is the Blue Bay snorkeling area?

The snorkeling area has an average depth of about 5.5 meters and is described as having clear water, coral, and fish.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A three-course barbecue lunch is included at Ilot Margenie, with chicken, fish, sides, salads, and garlic bread typically offered.

Can I request a vegetarian meal?

Yes. A vegetarian option is available, but you must request it when booking. Halal food is also included in the tour information.

Are drinks included?

Yes. A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is included, and the lunch program includes an open bar.

Can I take part in water sports at Ile aux Cerfs?

Yes. Water sports are available on Ile aux Cerfs at an additional cost. The listed optional price is 40 EUR.

Can every stop be guaranteed?

No. Access to Ile de la Passe depends on the sea tide, and the trip requires good weather. Poor conditions may also affect the waterfall or other water stops.

How many people can join the tour?

A minimum of two people is required per booking, and the tour has a maximum capacity of 15 people.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before departure are not refundable. If poor weather or insufficient bookings cancel the tour, you are offered another date, another experience, or a full refund.