If you’re planning a trip to Île aux Cerfs, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: where do the boats leave from?
The answer is straightforward. Most catamaran cruises and speedboat tours depart from Trou d’Eau Douce, a small fishing village on Mauritius’ east coast. Thanks to its location on the island’s largest lagoon, it has become the main gateway to Île aux Cerfs.
Why Do Tours Depart from Trou d’Eau Douce?
Trou d’Eau Douce is the closest departure point to Île aux Cerfs. From here, boats cross a sheltered lagoon protected by the coral reef before reaching the island.
This is more than just a convenient location. Because the lagoon is naturally protected, the water is generally calmer than in areas directly exposed to the open ocean. In many conditions, this means a smoother and more comfortable crossing for visitors.
Most full-day excursions also depart from Trou d’Eau Douce because it provides easy access to attractions such as the GRSE Waterfall, snorkeling spots and the lagoon surrounding Île aux Cerfs.
How to Get to Trou d’Eau Douce
The village is easy to reach from the main tourist areas across Mauritius.
From the East Coast
If you’re staying in Belle Mare, Palmar or Poste de Flacq, Trou d’Eau Douce is only a short drive away.
From the North
From Grand Baie, Pereybere or Mont Choisy, the journey usually takes around one hour by car, depending on traffic.
From Central Mauritius
Visitors staying in Curepipe, Quatre Bornes or Moka should allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour to reach the departure point.
Whatever your starting location, arriving a little before your scheduled departure is always recommended.
What Will You Find in Trou d’Eau Douce?
Although it remains a traditional coastal village, Trou d’Eau Douce is well prepared to welcome visitors heading to Île aux Cerfs.
Near the departure area, you’ll typically find:
- parking facilities near the embarkation points;
- local shops and convenience stores;
- cafés and restaurants;
- jetties used by catamaran cruises and speedboat excursions.
Boarding is usually quick, and once your boat leaves the jetty, you’ll begin crossing the lagoon towards Île aux Cerfs.
Catamaran or Speedboat: Same Departure Point, Different Experience
Whether you book a catamaran cruise or a speedboat tour, both depart from Trou d’Eau Douce.
The difference lies in the experience itself.
A catamaran cruise turns the journey into part of the day, with a visit to the GRSE Waterfall, a snorkeling stop and lunch before spending time on Île aux Cerfs.
A speedboat takes a more direct route, allowing you to spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the island.
Your choice depends on how you want to spend your day rather than where your tour begins.
In Summary
If you’re wondering where to take the boat to Île aux Cerfs, the answer is Trou d’Eau Douce.
Its location beside Mauritius’ largest lagoon, its easy access to the island and its long-established departure facilities have made it the main starting point for excursions to Île aux Cerfs.
Still deciding between a catamaran cruise and a speedboat tour?
👉 Visit our Île aux Cerfs excursions page to compare both options, or contact us for personalised advice before booking.