Mauritius: Boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs with Lunch/waterslide

This Mauritius day trip is interesting because it mixes big-ticket fun with real island time, all on one catamaran. You get the classic east-coast sailing vibe, then you turn it up with a built-in waterslide right on the boat.

I especially like the combination of snorkeling gear provided with crew guidance, plus the onboard BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks. That means you can spend your energy on the water, not on logistics.

One consideration: this outing is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so if getting on and off the boat is a challenge for you, plan a different option.

Key things that make this tour worth your time

• Built-in waterslide access on the catamaran so water fun is built into the day
• Snorkeling stop with provided gear and on-hand guidance for an easier first try
• East-coast sailing from Trou d’Eau Douce with scenic views during the cruise
• Grand River South East swimming plus a river boat segment to break up the day
• Île aux Cerfs free time for beach lounging, a walk, or optional water activities (extra cost)
• Crew entertainment with local music and Sega-style dancing that keeps the vibe light

Why This Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran Day Feels Like a Water Park

I love tours that hit multiple moods in one go, and this one does. You are not stuck doing just one thing for hours. You sail, you swim, you snorkel, you slide, you eat, you chill on the sand. It is the kind of plan that works even if your group has mixed energy levels.

The standout for me is that the waterslide is not a random shoreline attraction you only get to see from afar. It is on the catamaran, and the day is structured so you can use it more than once without feeling rushed. The sea is right there, so jumping in is part of the rhythm of the trip.

Also, Ile aux Cerfs is famous for a reason. Even with a packed day, you still get real time on the island, not just a quick photo stop. If you want a taste of Mauritius that feels easy, this delivers.

Getting From Trou d’Eau Douce to the East Coast

Your day starts in Trou d’Eau Douce, with the crew meeting you at the end of the jetty next to the Mauritian Flag. This matters because the exact meeting point can be the difference between arriving calm or arriving stressed.

From there, you head out on a full-day catamaran cruise along the east coast. Expect about one hour of sailing with local snacks and scenic views while the boat finds its rhythm. This is the stretch where you can get settled, grab your towel, and decide where you want to spend your time once the water starts calling.

There is also a live tour guide who works in English and French, and that helps if you have questions about snorkeling, timing, or what to do when you arrive at Ile aux Cerfs.

The Snorkel Stop and Onboard Waterslide Time

The tour’s water highlights are built around two different kinds of fun: seeing marine life and playing in the sea. First comes the snorkeling part. You sail to a snorkeling spot, and the crew provides snorkeling gear. Guides are on hand to help you get comfortable, which is a big deal if you have not snorkeled much before.

What I like about this setup is that it is not just gear and hope. Having someone nearby makes it more likely you will actually enjoy the experience, especially when you are figuring out fit and technique.

When the catamaran is back in motion, you get unlimited access to the onboard waterslide. This is the most universally enjoyable segment. Kids tend to love it for the obvious reasons, and adults usually end up loving it because it is simple, fast, and a great way to cool off without thinking too hard.

Practical tip: bring biodegradable sunscreen and apply it before your water time. Reef-safe guidance is not mentioned directly, but biodegradable is called out for a reason, and you will thank yourself later.

Grand River South East Swimming, Then a River Boat Segment

After the sailing and snorkeling portion, the day shifts into another “in the water” mood. There is a stop at Grand River South East with about 40 minutes to swim. This is a good segment for people who want water time that feels less focused than snorkeling. You can float, swim, or just enjoy the sun and the sea.

Then you transition to a river boat segment for roughly 20 minutes. That short ride does two things. It breaks up the day so you are not only thinking about the sea, and it gives you a change of scenery before you reach the island.

One small drawback to keep in mind: this portion can be tiring if you are already worn out from water time. Bring water and plan on a slower pace for a bit once you are done swimming.

Île aux Cerfs: Lunch, BBQ, Beer, and Island Time

Now for the reason most people book: Île aux Cerfs. You arrive and you get a solid island block, including food. The plan includes about one hour focused on lunch with BBQ, plus a bit of time to settle in.

Food first. Lunch is served onboard, and it is a BBQ meal that typically includes grilled meats, salads, fruits, and it comes with unlimited drinks. Drinks listed include beer, rum, soft drinks, and water.

Then you get free time on Île aux Cerfs, with a mix of relaxation and sightseeing, including a walk. This is where you can decide how you want to spend your time:

• If you want calm, lounge on the beach and swim when conditions feel right.
• If you want movement, use the walk time to get a feel for the island.
• If you are itching for more action, optional water sports are available, but they cost extra.

The value here is that you are not just eating and leaving. You get enough time to enjoy the island experience, not just check it off.

Food, Drinks, and the Crew Entertainment That Keeps It Fun

A good boat day stands or falls on the vibe, and this one leans hard into upbeat energy. You will hear music and see onboard crew entertainment, including Sega dance and traditional Mauritian dance and music. From the way the day is described and the feedback from people who did it, this is one of the best parts if you want the outing to feel more like a shared celebration than a timetable.

The other big win is the food and drinks. You get a full BBQ lunch onboard plus unlimited beverages for the meal period. That is not a small thing on an island day, because refills can add cost fast when you are on vacation.

I also like that vegetarian options are available if you request them. You are not stuck hoping the BBQ magically includes something that works for your dietary needs.

One note for planning: unlimited drinks sound great, and they are, but keep an eye on your energy level if you plan to snorkel and use the slide. The day is built for fun, but it is still a full 6 hours.

What to Bring for a Smooth, No-Stress Day

This kind of day is easy when you pack smart, and a little annoying when you forget one small thing.

Bring:

• Swimwear (you will want it on early)
• A towel
• Sandals (something you can wear on deck and around the water)
• Biodegradable sunscreen

Also, think about comfort. If you like having dry land time, bring a dry shirt change for the end of the day. It is not listed, but it is a practical move for a boat outing.

If you are sensitive to sun, plan on reapplying sunscreen after swimming. The day has multiple water moments, so one application is rarely enough.

Price and Value: Is $88 Worth It for This Much Water Time?

At $88 per person for about 6 hours, I think the key question is whether you get enough included value to justify skipping other activities.

Here is what you are paying for, and why it matters:

• A full-day catamaran cruise out of Trou d’Eau Douce
• Snorkeling gear provided and crew help for the snorkeling stop
• An onboard waterslide with unlimited access
• BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks listed as beer, rum, soft drinks, and water
• Île aux Cerfs time, with free time for a beach and walk experience

When you add that up, you are not just booking transport to an island. You are buying a whole package of water experiences plus food. The BBQ and drinks are often the part people feel most immediately, because they remove the expense and planning of meals.

Could you do parts of this cheaper on your own? Possibly, but you would still be coordinating snorkeling, a boat, and island time. For many people, the included waterslide plus guided snorkeling is the difference between a fun day and a stressful one.

Who Should Book This, and Who Might Want a Different Day

This is a strong fit for:

• Families who want a mix of calm island time and high-energy fun on the slide
• Couples who want a scenic day with a clear structure and included lunch
• Groups that want shared experiences, music, and a plan that keeps everyone busy

It is also ideal if you like the idea of sailing, not just getting in and out of transport.

Who should reconsider:

• If you have mobility issues, this is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so you will want another option.
• If you hate getting wet, this tour may feel like too much. You will swim and snorkel, and the waterslide is a big part of the experience.

If you are someone who loves a structured day, but still wants freedom once you reach Île aux Cerfs, you are in the right place.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?

The experience lasts about 6 hours.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is at the end of the jetty next to the Mauritian Flag in Trou d’Eau Douce.

Is snorkeling included, and is gear provided?

Yes. There is a snorkeling stop and snorkeling gear is provided, with guides on hand.

Does the cruise include the waterslide?

Yes. You get onboard waterslide access, and it is described as unlimited.

What is included for lunch and drinks?

You get a BBQ lunch served onboard, with unlimited drinks including beer, rum, soft drinks, and water. Vegetarian options are available on request.

Is there time on Île aux Cerfs itself?

Yes. After lunch, you get free time on Île aux Cerfs for relaxing, sightseeing, and a walk. Optional water sports are available for extra cost.

What languages are the live guides?

The live tour guide is available in English and French.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sandals, and biodegradable sunscreen.

Should You Book This Tour?

If you want one day that mixes snorkeling, a real waterslide experience, BBQ lunch, and actual island time, I would book it. The biggest reasons are the included food and drinks, the waterslide that makes the day fun for a wide range of ages, and the added energy from the crew entertainment with Sega-style dancing and traditional music.

Skip it only if mobility is a concern, or if you prefer a quieter plan with less water time. If your ideal Mauritius day includes getting out on the water and coming back fed, this one is a strong match.