5 Islands Speedboat w/Snorkeling Sea Turtle + Lunch & Drinks

The main draw here is the chance to cover Mauritius’s famous east-coast islands by fast, small-group speedboat instead of spending the day on one crowded cruise. You’ll see a waterfall, snorkel at Blue Bay Marine Park, look for sea turtles and dolphins, and return to Ile aux Cerfs for lunch and beach time.

I like two things in particular: the group limit of eight makes the boat feel personal, and the generous lunch with an open bar turns a busy sightseeing day into a relaxed beach outing. The skipper also gives careful snorkeling instructions, which matters because the current at Blue Bay can be stronger than it first appears.

The trade-off is a long nine-hour day with an early meeting at Trou d’Eau Douce. The sea can be lively, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and the trip does not include hotel transport unless you pay extra.

Key points to know before booking

• Small speedboat groups: The regular group is limited to eight people, and a private boat may be available for groups of four or more.
• Five-island route: You visit Ile aux Cerfs, Ile aux Phares, Ile de la Passe, Ile aux Aigrettes, and Ilot Margenie, with Blue Bay and Grand River South East included along the way.
• Strong snorkeling stop: Blue Bay Marine Park offers clear water, tropical fish, and possible sea turtle sightings, with equipment supplied.
• Beach lunch and drinks: Grilled chicken, fish, rice, pasta, garlic bread, salad, snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, wine, rum, and juice are included.
• Wildlife is possible, not promised: The route gives you a chance to see dolphins, turtles, and wild Mauritian monkeys, but nature sets the schedule.
• Useful planning detail: Meet at Debarcader Trou d’Eau Douce. Hotel and Airbnb transfers are available for an added charge.

Why this speedboat day covers so much of Mauritius

Mauritius’s east coast is best understood from the water. The large lagoon links beaches, reefs, sandbars, river mouths, and small islands, but these sights are spread out. A speedboat lets you connect them in one day without repeatedly packing up and changing vehicles.

This is not a slow, quiet sailing trip. You’ll hear the engine, feel the boat rise over the waves, and move quickly between stops. I see that as part of the appeal, especially if you want an active day rather than a simple beach transfer.

The route also mixes several kinds of scenery. You get open-water views, a river waterfall, historic island sites, snorkeling, wildlife, and a long pause on white sand. That variety helps justify the nine-hour length, though it also means the day has a fairly full schedule.

The boat departs and returns at Trou d’Eau Douce, on the east coast. If you are staying elsewhere in Mauritius, plan your own way to the jetty or arrange the optional transfer. The meeting point is listed as Debarcader Trou d’Eau Douce on Google Maps, so check the route and allow enough time before the stated departure.

Ile aux Cerfs begins the island-hopping route

The first stop is Ile aux Cerfs, where you have about 45 minutes to visit and take refreshments. This early pause gives you time to get your bearings before the longer circuit through the lagoon.

Ile aux Cerfs is also the place where you return later for the main beach break, so the first visit is only a taste. You can expect white sand and open water, but do not think of this first stop as the main beach stay. The day saves the longer relaxation period for later.

That two-part arrangement makes practical sense. You see the island before the route gets busy, then return for lunch and a slower afternoon. If you prefer a tour with one long stay at a single beach, this itinerary may feel too active. If you want to collect several sights in one day, the pattern works well.

Grand River South East brings the waterfall and monkeys

From Ile aux Cerfs, the boat heads to Grand River South East. Here, a waterfall drops toward the Indian Ocean, giving you one of the most distinctive views on the route.

The stop is more than a quick photo from the boat. You have the chance to see the waterfall at closer range and encounter wild Mauritian monkeys. The monkeys are one of the unusual features of this trip, and the supplied itinerary says you may feed them. Follow the skipper’s instructions and keep your movements calm around the animals.

This part of the outing adds a bit of character to what could otherwise be a standard reef and beach trip. The waterfall brings in the island’s river scenery, while the monkeys make the stop feel less polished and more unexpected. Conditions can affect how impressive the waterfall looks, but the river mouth and surrounding water remain a worthwhile change from the open lagoon.

Ile aux Phares and Ile de la Passe add a sense of place

The speedboat continues to Ile aux Phares, then passes Ile de la Passe on the way toward Blue Bay. The itinerary presents this section as an island and sightseeing cruise rather than a long land visit at every stop.

That distinction matters. You should expect views from the boat and short visits where specified, not a full historical tour of each island. The route is designed to show you several famous points along the east and southeast coast while keeping the boat moving.

Ile aux Phares and Ile de la Passe are especially useful for anyone who enjoys island geography and coastal history. You see how small offshore islands sit within the larger lagoon system, and the speedboat gives you changing angles that you would miss from a single beach.

If you want detailed archaeological or colonial history, ask the guide what can be explained during the ride. The tour is promoted for people interested in history, adventure, and exploration, but its strongest focus is still the water, wildlife, and scenery.

Blue Bay Marine Park is the day’s main water stop

Blue Bay is the key snorkeling portion of the trip. You receive snorkeling equipment and enter clear water filled with tropical fish. The area is described as an aquarium-like setting, which gives you a fair idea of why this stop receives so much attention.

The tour also includes the chance to see sea turtles. That is an appealing extra, but it should remain a possibility rather than a promise. The same applies to dolphins, which the skipper will try to spot during the wider cruise. One outing may produce several dolphin sightings, while another may produce none.

Pay attention to the safety briefing here. The current can be stronger than expected, and the skipper gives instructions before people enter the water. The skipper also keeps an eye on the group and may move the boat closer to anyone who wants to return. That kind of supervision is particularly useful in a small group, where the guide can keep track of each person more easily.

Bring sunscreen and a camera, as requested, but protect your phone and camera from spray. The supplied equipment covers snorkeling, so you do not need to bring your own mask and fins unless you prefer your personal gear.

Blue Bay is not the right place to rush. If the water is calm and visibility is good, take time to look beneath the surface rather than treating the stop as a quick swim. Still, the exact amount of time in the water can depend on sea conditions and the needs of the group.

Ile aux Aigrettes opens the drinks portion of the day

After Blue Bay, the boat passes by Ile aux Aigrettes for refreshments. This is where the all-inclusive open bar begins, with water, juice, soft drinks, beer, wine, and rum available.

The drinks are valuable because this is a full day in the sun. Water is especially important, even if you plan to enjoy the alcoholic options. The combination of snacks and drinks helps bridge the time between the morning activity and the main lunch on Ile aux Cerfs.

I would treat the open bar as a pleasant addition rather than the reason to book. The best parts of the day are the island route and Blue Bay. Still, having drinks included means you do not have to keep searching for a café or carry enough refreshments for nine hours.

The route then heads back toward Ile aux Cerfs, passing Ilot Margenie. This gives you another stretch of lagoon cruising, with the boat moving between the offshore islands before the final beach period.

Ile aux Cerfs is where the pace finally slows

The return to Ile aux Cerfs is the relaxing half of the day. You can swim, sunbathe, drink coconut water, and spend time on the white sand. If you want more action, parasailing and a tube ride are mentioned as available choices, though you should confirm their price and availability before counting on them as part of the $125 package.

The beach stop is important because the speedboat route can feel full. After the waterfall, island views, and snorkeling, you get time to stop moving. I like that the itinerary does not finish immediately after the final sightseeing stop. Instead, it leaves room for a swim and a slower lunch.

A beach setting can also mean sun exposure, wind, and sand around your belongings. Use sunscreen often, keep valuables secure, and bring only what you need. You will enjoy this part more if you treat it as genuine downtime rather than trying to squeeze in every possible water activity.

The BBQ lunch offers solid value at the beach

Lunch includes grilled chicken, grilled fish, rice, pasta, garlic bread, and salad. Snacks and nonalcoholic drinks are included as well. That is a substantial meal for a day on the water, and it gives the $125 price more weight than a tour that only supplies a sandwich and bottled water.

The food is prepared on the beach while you relax, and the stated entertainment may include live music or a sega show. Those details give lunch a distinctly Mauritian setting rather than making it feel like a quick refueling stop at a generic restaurant.

Food quality can vary with timing and conditions, so I would not book this solely as a culinary experience. The practical advantage is clear: you do not need to arrange lunch yourself, and the menu includes both meat and fish along with several filling sides.

The bar includes beer, wine, rum cocktails, juice, soft drinks, and water. Drink responsibly, especially before returning to a fast boat and after time in the sun. The speedboat ride is more enjoyable when you stay hydrated and do not overdo the alcohol.

What $125 buys you

At $125 per person, this is not the cheapest way to reach Ile aux Cerfs. You are paying for much more than a boat transfer, though. The price covers a nine-hour guided route, snorkeling equipment, a waterfall visit, island stops, a beach BBQ, snacks, and unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.

The small group is the strongest value point. A maximum of eight people gives you a better chance to hear the guide, ask for help in the water, and avoid the feel of a large excursion boat. If you are a group of four or more, ask about making the speedboat private. That can change the experience considerably, especially if you want more control over the pace.

Hotel pickup is not included in the listed price. Since transport from hotels and Airbnbs costs extra, include that fee when comparing this tour with other options. The meeting point is straightforward if you are already near Trou d’Eau Douce, less so if you are staying on the opposite side of Mauritius.

I think the price is fair for someone who wants a full east-coast day with food and drinks already handled. It is less attractive if your main goal is simply to spend several hours on Ile aux Cerfs or if you do not care about snorkeling and boat speed.

Who will enjoy this tour most

I would recommend it to active couples, families, and small groups who want variety. You should be comfortable with a fast boat, a long day, sun, and several changes of scenery.

It suits people who enjoy mixing nature with light adventure. The waterfall, monkeys, fish, turtles, dolphins, and islands give the day enough range to keep it interesting. The snorkeling guidance also makes it a reasonable choice for people who want to try the activity but appreciate clear instructions.

Families should consider the age and swimming confidence of everyone in the group, since the snorkeling stop can involve current. The operator supplies equipment and supervision, but the sea is still the sea. Children and weaker swimmers should follow the skipper’s directions closely.

This is less suitable if you want a quiet, slow cruise, a detailed history lecture, or guaranteed wildlife. It is also not ideal if you dislike early starts or would rather avoid a full day in direct sun.

Booking details worth handling early

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and reserve now while paying later. Starting times vary, so check availability before planning the rest of your day.

Guiding is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Romanian. The normal group is limited to eight people, and a separate entrance is available to help the group move through the activity without the usual waiting line.

The tour starts and ends at the Trou d’Eau Douce jetty. Confirm the exact meeting instructions before setting out, especially if you are arranging your own taxi. If you need a transfer from an Airbnb or hotel, request it in advance and add the cost to your budget.

Should you book this east-coast speedboat tour?

Book it if you want to see several of Mauritius’s best-known east and southeast coast sights in one well-filled day. The combination of a small group, capable boat handling, careful snorkeling guidance, beach lunch, and included drinks gives the outing real value.

I would be especially inclined to book for a group of four or more, since a private boat may be available. That can make the route feel more flexible and personal. Just remember that turtles and dolphins are possible sightings, not scheduled attractions.

Skip it if you want one quiet beach day, dislike speedboats, or would rather arrange your own food and snorkeling at a lower cost. For most active visitors, though, this is a strong way to experience the lagoon, islands, wildlife, and beaches without spending the whole day in one place.

FAQ

Where does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts and ends at the jetty near Debarcader Trou d’Eau Douce. Search for that name on Google Maps to find the meeting point.

How long does the activity last?

The full experience lasts nine hours. Check availability for the specific starting time.

How much does the tour cost?

The listed price is $125 per person.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel and Airbnb pickup and drop-off around Mauritius are available for an additional cost.

How many people are in the boat?

The regular small group is limited to eight participants. For groups of four or more, a private speedboat may be available.

What food is included?

The beach BBQ includes grilled chicken, grilled fish, rice, pasta, garlic bread, and salad. Snacks are also included.

Which drinks are included?

The package includes water, juice, soft drinks, beer, wine, rum, and rum cocktails through the open bar.

Is snorkeling equipment supplied?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Can I see dolphins and sea turtles?

The route includes opportunities to view dolphins and sea turtles, but sightings depend on nature and are not guaranteed.

Which languages are available for the guide?

Guiding is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Romanian.