Île aux Cerfs Excursion: Choose the Right Boat Trip
Book Now | Call Us
Île aux Cerfs is one of the most visited excursion destinations in Mauritius. Yet very few travellers know why this particular island became so popular in the first place.
From Trou d’Eau Douce, you can reach the island in two different ways: a full-day catamaran cruise or a direct speedboat transfer. Before choosing between them, it helps to understand what makes Île aux Cerfs different from the many other islets around Mauritius.
Prices vary depending on the selected tour. Please visit our pricing page for current rates.
The Story Behind Île aux Cerfs
Despite its name, there are no deer living on Île aux Cerfs today.
The island takes its name from the Javan rusa deer (Rusa timorensis), introduced to Mauritius by Dutch settlers during the seventeenth century. Over time, deer populations spread across the mainland and nearby islets, giving this island its distinctive name.
Although the animals eventually disappeared from the island itself, the name remained and has become one of Mauritius’ best-known geographical curiosities.
Another interesting fact is that Île aux Cerfs is actually made up of two separate land masses: the main island and Îlot Mangénie, divided by a sandbank that becomes more visible depending on the tide.
Tourism began developing here during the 1970s. Before organised boat tours became common, visitors crossed from Trou d’Eau Douce in traditional wooden pirogues. The opening of the Touessrok Hotel in 1978 (now Shangri-La) helped establish the area as one of Mauritius’ leading excursion destinations.
Why Visit Île aux Cerfs Instead of Another Island?
Mauritius offers several island excursions, including Île aux Bénitiers, Île Gabriel and Coin de Mire. Even so, Île aux Cerfs remains the country’s most visited island excursion.
One reason is its location inside Mauritius’ largest lagoon. The surrounding reef creates calmer waters than many other coastal areas, making boat trips generally more comfortable when ocean conditions become rough elsewhere.
The island is also much larger than most nearby islets, covering approximately 87 to 100 hectares. This provides plenty of space to explore beaches, restaurants and quieter corners throughout the day.
These practical advantages explain why Île aux Cerfs has remained Mauritius’ best-known lagoon excursion for decades.
Full-Day Catamaran Cruise
For visitors looking to enjoy the lagoon itself, the catamaran offers a complete day on the water.
Departures are from Trou d’Eau Douce at 9:00 AM, returning around 3:00 PM.
The cruise includes:
- GRSE Waterfall visit;
- snorkeling stop;
- lunch included;
- free time on Île aux Cerfs;
- shared and private options.
→ Learn more about our catamaran cruise
Direct Speedboat Transfer
If you prefer spending more time on the island itself, the speedboat provides the quickest way to reach Île aux Cerfs.
Departures are also from Trou d’Eau Douce, with flexible schedules depending on availability.
This option is ideal if you want to:
- reach the island directly;
- enjoy greater flexibility;
- choose a generally more affordable tour.
→ Learn more about our speedboat tour
FAQ
Where do boats to Île aux Cerfs depart from?
All our excursions depart from Trou d’Eau Douce, the main gateway to Île aux Cerfs on Mauritius’ east coast.
How much does an Île aux Cerfs excursion cost?
Prices vary depending on whether you choose a catamaran cruise or a speedboat, as well as shared or private options. Please visit our pricing page for current rates.
How do you get around Île aux Cerfs?
Most visitors explore the island on foot. Beaches, restaurants and activity areas are connected by easy walking paths.
Ready to visit Île aux Cerfs?
Choose the excursion that best matches your plans or contact us to check availability.
Book Now | Call Us