Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
of a swish hotel in 2014 or 2015. The smallest island of the lot,
Cachée
, lies southeast of
Cerf. It's uninhabited.
Activities
The park is fantastic for
swimming
and
snorkelling
, although the coral is no longer as awe-
some as it was. Silting from construction works in the bay has led to significant coral
damage, compounded by several episodes of coral 'bleaching'. There are superb
beaches
lapped by emerald waters, but expect some algae at certain times of the year.
The park is primarily visited on glass-bottomed
boat tours
offered by the main travel
agencies in Victoria and some boat operators based in Beau Vallon. The cost of a full
day's outing including snorkelling and lunch starts at €85/50 per adult/child. You can also
oria)
which charges only €70/40 per adult/child. And yes, there's also
diving
in the park!
There are about 10 dive sites, scattered off the various islands. Contact
Cerf Island Explorer
outfit run by Marseillais Philippe Blanchard, who provides personalised service at afford-
able prices (€60/70 for a single/introductory dive). Dedicated snorkelling trips cost €30
(two people minimum). If you're not staying in the park, he can arrange pick-ups from
Eden Island.
Note that the park authorities charge a fee of €10 per person (free for children under 12
years) to enter the marine park. Tour operators usually include this in their prices.
Sleeping & Eating
Fairy Tern Chalet
OFFLINE MAP
( 4321733;
www.fairyternchalet.sc
; Cerf Island; d €147; )
Run by an affable South African
couple, this is a great place to get away from it all. Digs are in two squeaky-clean, spa-
cious bungalows overlooking the beach. If you don't fancy cooking, the restaurant at
L'Habitation Cerf Island is a five-minute walk away. Free canoes.
APARTMENTS
€€€
L'Habitation Cerf Island
OFFLINE MAP
HOTEL
€€€
