The south-east of Mauritius has the island's widest, calmest stretch of lagoon. Between Mahébourg, Blue Bay and Île aux Cerfs you find coral gardens, small islands, sandbanks and a waterfall you can only reach by boat. If you only have one day on the water during your holiday, this is the coast to spend it on.
Here is how we, as a local crew based at Pointe des Régates in Mahébourg, would explain the options to a friend.
1. The full-day lagoon tour (the classic)
A full day (09:30 to 15:30 with Southeast Cruises) links the highlights in one loop: the Grande Rivière Sud-Est (GRSE) waterfall, free time on Île aux Cerfs, a stop near the lighthouse island (Île aux Phares, also called Île aux Fouquets), snorkeling over the reef, and a BBQ lunch with grilled chicken, fish, garlic bread, salad, rice and banana flambé. Soft drinks, local rum and beer are on board.
Best for: first-time visitors, families and groups who want "the" Mauritius lagoon day.
2. The half-day trip (morning or afternoon)
Three hours, either 09:30 to 12:30 or 13:00 to 16:00. The route passes Île aux Phares, Île aux Aigrettes and Île aux Vacoas, with two snorkeling stops. Drinks and light snacks are included, there is no lunch.
Best for: travellers with a tight schedule, guests staying near the airport, or anyone who wants the lagoon without a full day in the sun. Read our half-day vs full-day comparison.
3. Langouste lunch upgrade
On a full day you can add freshly grilled Mauritian langouste (spiny lobster) to the BBQ, in 250 g or 500 g portions. It is the most requested extra on our boats. See what the langouste lunch involves.
4. Water skiing and small game fishing
For a more active day, add water skiing on the flat lagoon, or a small game fishing session just outside the reef. Both work for beginners.
5. History on the water: Île de la Passe
The south-east is where France won its only naval battle against Britain in the Napoleonic wars, the Battle of Grand Port in 1810. Our routes pass the fortified islet of Île de la Passe. Read the story.
Private or shared?
Private trips put your group alone on the boat with your own skipper, from 2 guests. Selected days also have group sharing places for couples and solo travellers. Infants aged 0 to 3 travel free.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best boat trip in Mauritius?
For most visitors it is a full-day speedboat tour of the south-east lagoon: GRSE waterfall, Île aux Cerfs, the lighthouse island, snorkeling and a beach BBQ lunch, departing from Mahébourg.
Where do south-east boat trips leave from?
Southeast Cruises departs from Pointe des Régates, the waterfront of Mahébourg, about 15 to 20 minutes from the international airport.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No. Life jackets are on board for everyone and snorkeling is optional. Many stops are in shallow, waist-deep water.
How do I book?
Send an enquiry on southeastcruises.com or message Captain Pascal on WhatsApp at +230 5493 8396. Payment is by Juice or bank transfer after your date is confirmed.
Plan your day with Captain Pascal
Southeast Cruises runs private speedboat days from Pointe des Régates in Mahébourg, on the south-east coast of Mauritius. Tell us your date, party size and what you want to see, and Captain Pascal Bosquet will shape the route around the tide and the wind.
- WhatsApp / phone: +230 5493 8396
- Email: contact.southeastcruises@gmail.com
- Trips and enquiry form: see all experiences