One speedboat day, five stops, lots of sea time. I love how this cruise packs island views and snorkeling into a single east-coast outing, with a guide adding context along the way. It’s built for an active, laid-back mix: swim if you want, relax if you don’t.

What really makes it work is the practical value. You get snacks, lunch, bottled water, and an open bar plus snorkeling gear, so you’re not hunting for basics mid-day. I also like the small-group feel, with a cap of 18 people, which keeps stops from turning into chaos.

The main thing to plan around is time. Snorkeling and shore stops are scheduled in short windows, and you may find the music onboard on the loud side, depending on the skipper and setup.

Key things to know before you go

• Small group (max 18): More personal attention during stops and easier managing on a speedboat.
• Snorkeling gear included: No separate rental, just show up and go.
• Blue Bay Marine Park location can vary: You snorkel in the park or near Ilot Mangenie depending on conditions and coral breeding season.
• Lunch and drinks are included: Snacks plus a full lunch, plus alcoholic beverages and an open bar during part of the day.
• Short but varied stops: Each island is planned around quick visits and scenic moments, not long beach time.
• Weather affects the day: The tour requires good weather, and the company can shift plans if conditions are rough.

Mauritius speedboat day: what 7 hours feels like

This is the kind of day that makes Mauritius’ east coast easy to understand. You don’t just “go to one beach and hope for the best.” Instead, you bounce between islands and viewpoints, then get a real snorkeling session in Blue Bay Marine Park.

Timing is the heart of the experience. Expect a full morning start at 8:30 am and roughly 7 hours total, with the pace designed around daylight and water conditions. That means the day can feel busy in a good way, but you won’t be there long enough to turn it into a slow vacation day.

If you like variety—scenery, a bit of history, and then water time—this hits the sweet spot. If you prefer one long snorkeling session or one long lunch with no movement, you might feel rushed.

Getting started at Blue Alizé Catamaran (and why parking matters)

The meeting point is the Blue Alizé Catamaran Ile aux Cerfs in Trou d’Eau Douce. You can also count on parking at the meeting point, which is a small detail that saves headaches if you’re driving yourself or meeting someone who is.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point. That’s a big convenience for a day trip, because you don’t have to plan transport for the return leg.

Because this is a speedboat cruise, you’ll want to dress for sun and sea spray. Water time is part of the rhythm, and you’ll be switching between boat, shore, and snorkeling.

Ile aux Cerfs: 45 minutes of island time and refreshments

The first stop is Ile aux Cerfs, one of Mauritius’ most iconic postcard islands. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, with free admission and refreshments—enough time to orient yourself, take photos, and enjoy the island vibe without falling behind schedule.

On this stop, think of it as your “set the tone” moment. You’re usually still settling in, and it helps to get your bearings fast: what the coastline looks like, where you might want to swim later (if you’re choosing that option), and how the day’s rhythm will feel.

After that, the cruise turns scenic again, aiming for waterfall views on the way to the next islands.

Lighthouse Island at Ile aux Fouqets: Dutch origins and naval battles

Next up is Ile aux Fouqets, also known as Ile Phare because of its lighthouse. This island connects you to a very old timeline: it was among the first places discovered by the Dutch settlers in 1598, and the lighthouse was built in 1864, operating until the beginning of the 20th century.

Even if you’re not a history person, the setting does the work. You’re out on the water, looking at an island that served a strategic purpose during naval battles linked to Grand Port. It’s one of those stops where the story makes the scenery feel sharper.

The visit here is about 45 minutes, again with free admission. It’s not a deep stay, but it’s enough time to appreciate why the island mattered and still keep the day moving.

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve: open bar break on a protected islet

After you’ve been out seeing the islands, you’ll pass by Ile aux Aigrettes for a shorter refresh stop of about 20 minutes. This is an islet off the south-east coast that functions as a nature reserve and scientific research station.

It’s also a popular spot for visitors and Mauritians, so you get that mix of protected area + human access. The key practical detail is that this stop is tied to comfort: you’ll have refreshments and the open bar is part of the moment.

This is the point in the day where I like to slow down for a minute. You’ve had the first wave of stops, and now you get a short break before the main water activity.

Blue Bay Marine Park snorkeling: coral gardens and calm shallows

Now you get to the reason a lot of people book this cruise. Blue Bay Marine Park is a nationally protected marine area, recognized as a national park and also designated as a Ramsar wetland site.

The snorkeling itself is planned for up to about 2 hours. The best part for most people is the setup: near the coastline, the sea conditions are generally ideal for snorkeling because the water is calm and shallow, and you’re working with a coral garden ecosystem that supports lots of marine life.

One important detail: the snorkeling location can change. Depending on weather conditions and coral breeding season, you snorkel either in Blue Bay Marine Park or near Ilot Mangenie. If you’re hoping to see exactly one spot, keep expectations flexible and focus on the overall experience instead.

Practical note: since snorkeling equipment is included, you just need to bring yourself and follow the crew’s instructions. If you’re newer to snorkeling, ask where to start and how to keep a comfortable rhythm in the water.

Grand River South East waterfalls: quick viewpoints plus a battle story

The last part of the cruise circles into the Grand River South East area. You’ll see waterfall views for about 15 minutes before heading back to the meeting point.

This area also ties into a dramatic past. Nearby is Ile de la Passe and the bay area linked to the Battle of Grand Port in August 1810, during the British campaign to capture Mauritius from the French. The outcome was hard-fought and tough on the British, including the loss of frigates—details that make the coast feel more than just scenic.

Even though the stop is short, it’s a good way to finish. You’re closing the day with a view that feels like Mauritius beyond the beaches—water moving into the Indian Ocean, ships in your mind, and the landscape doing that “Mauritius is different here” thing.

Food, drinks, and snorkeling gear: where your money goes

At $110.79 per person, the value comes from what’s already covered in the price. You don’t need to pay extra for the basics that usually add up on day trips.

Included items:

• Snacks
• Lunch
• Bottled water
• Alcoholic beverages (plus an open bar part of the day)
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• All fees and taxes

That combo matters because snorkeling days can be frustrating when you pay for transport, pay for gear, pay again for food, then realize drinks cost extra too. Here, at least the core comfort needs are handled.

One watch-out: music onboard can be a bit loud for some people. If you’re sensitive to sound, bring simple ear protection so you can enjoy the ride without it wearing you out.

Also, snorkeling time can feel short if you’re the type who wants to linger at one reef. Keep that in mind and treat the session as a highlight, not a long swim marathon.

Group vibe and the skipper: small-team energy

A capped group of up to 18 people changes the whole feel. Stops tend to run smoother, and it’s easier to hear directions and get moving when it’s time to shift boats.

The skipper style is also part of the day’s personality. One commonly praised factor is an energetic, friendly captain—skippers like Andy are known for a fun approach and clear narration about what you’re seeing.

That said, if you prefer a quiet boat, you might want to manage expectations about onboard music and energy. Speedboat days usually have a social, upbeat tone because the ride itself is part of the fun.

Best fit: who should book this 5-islands speedboat cruise

This cruise is a strong match for:

• People who want multiple island moments in one day without arranging separate tours
• Anyone who wants snorkeling with gear included
• First-time Mauritius visitors who like structured variety and a guide’s context
• Small-group seekers who don’t want a floating bus

It may not be ideal if you:

• Want lots of uninterrupted time on one beach
• Strongly prefer quiet transport with no onboard party vibe
• Need long, slow snorkeling with no time pressure

It also helps to have a flexible mindset about the snorkeling location and some stop timing. The day is designed around conditions, especially the water.

Should you book this cruise?

If you want an easy, all-in-one east-coast day with snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park, included lunch, and a small-group speedboat format, this is a very sensible choice. The price makes more sense once you add up the included items—especially snorkeling gear plus food and drinks—so you’re not paying surprise extras halfway through.

I’d book it if your dream day looks like: boat ride + island views + one solid snorkeling session + a proper meal at the right time. I’d think twice if you’re looking for a super long snorkeling window or you get bothered by loud onboard music.

If that sounds like you, book it and pack for sun and sea. The format is built for exactly the kind of day that goes by fast—in the best way.

FAQ

How long is the 5 Islands Speedboat Cruise?

It runs for about 7 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 8:30 am.

Where do I meet, and does the tour return to the same place?

You meet at the Blue Alizé Catamaran Ile aux Cerfs in Trou d’Eau Douce. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment.

Where will I snorkel during the day?

You snorkel at Blue Bay Marine Park or near Ilot Mangenie, depending on weather conditions and coral breeding season.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, along with snacks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

Is private transportation included?

No. Private transportation is not included.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Hurghada: Speedboat Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling with LunchFull-Day Trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Samui by SpeedboatComo: Lake Como Private Modern Speedboat Tour with ProseccoSan Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure