Satellite view of Port Louis

Port Louis

Mauritius

Wander the colorful markets and colonial architecture of this vibrant Indian Ocean capital steeped in multicultural charm and Mauritian heritage.

Currency Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Language English, French, Mauritian Creole
Time Zone MUT (UTC+4)
Best Time to Visit Nov–Apr
Typical Duration 43-54 nights
Price Range From $1,623 pp
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
Tender Port No

Gateway to Indian Ocean exploration with access to African and Asian destinations, offering a blend of French colonial heritage and multicultural island culture.

Cruises that visit Port Louis

Build Your Day in Port Louis

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Bagatelle Mall by Ascencia All modern, clean and well laid out to ensure a good shopping experience. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 18k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden It takes you an hour to walk across the premises and is loads of fun! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 14k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
Casela Nature Parks | Best Nature Parks in Mauritius A lot of activities to choose from but book in advance and go early Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 12k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Central Market Port Louis Upstairs is a great collection of local crafts and souvenirs. Tourist attraction · ★ 4 · 11k
Caudan Waterfront Nice to come with kids and to explore local art and craft. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 8k Closed · Opens 9:12 AM
Riche Terre Mall Large parking amenities, lots of shops, huge variety of product at Jumbo Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 6k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Port Louis Waterfront by Landscope Mauritius And also the trampoline so so fun for kids and adults. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 4k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Citadelle (Fort Adelaide) It is free admission and plenty of parking space available. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 3k Closed · Opens 9 AM
L'Ocean Fantastic food freshly prepared and super cold beer. Seafood · ★ 4.8 · 3k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Curious Mauritius We loved all the clever interactive activities and secret rooms. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 3k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Ocean Basket Port Louis The food was fresh and delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and relaxing. Seafood · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Banana Beach Club The atmosphere was excellent, good lights, good drink and live music. Grill · ★ 4.2 · 2k Closed · Opens 5 PM
Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel The service, the quality of the food, and the ambiance are top-notch. Hotel · ★ 4.4 · 2k
Umbrella Square beautiful for pictures and nice food court plus shopping area . Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 2k
Alexandra Falls Captivating area Very emersive 100% would recommend Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 2k
GRSE Waterfall It was something to do. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Les Jardins De La Compagnie You can sit and relax after a walk around the city. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.6 · 1k
Odysseo- oceanarium (Mauritius) LTD Educational but entertaining, it is great for all ages. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Flying Dodo Brewing Company Great atmosphere and staff and decent beer choices. Brewpub · ★ 4 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Blue Penny Museum If you're a tourist or visitor, add this stop to your list of activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site It's a free attraction so it doesn't kill to go for a visit. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Namaste Restaurant Delicious food, friendly service, comfy atmosphere! Indian · ★ 4.1 · 1k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Wapalapam La Place The food had unique delicious taste and the portions are generous. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Saint Louis Cathedral Inside, it's peaceful and serene — a nice escape from the busy city. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Gift Shop by I-S Lovely atmosphere and good shopping with fair prices Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
Happy World House Very nice places for shopping and coffee shop. Shopping mall · ★ 3.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Citadelle Mall Nice place, very clean and friendly personnel Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 AM
Rajiv Gandhi Science Center There are different games in the outside playground. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Riva Waterfront Restaurant & Lounge Friendly staff, good atmosphere, and tasty food served hot. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Craft Market Lots of varieties locally made products of good quality. Craft store · ★ 3.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Place d'Armes It’s pretty busy during the day. Park · ★ 4.1 · 0k
Côté Jasmin Great service, incredible drinks, cool vibe. Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Lao Zhao Hotpot Restaurant / 老赵火锅 Mauritius Phenomenal food and very kind service! Hot Pot · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Le Courtyard Restaurant Really great modern cuisine, Fabulous service and a great chef. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Hola Cafe The food was delicious, the drink was perfect, not too sweet. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Photographic Museum Of Mauritius Great place to go if you want to escape your daily routine. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Oui Oui Fashion Oui oui fashion provides a wholesome service. Clothing store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Zaika Restaurant Every dish had strong, flavorful taste and felt well prepared. Indian · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
Port Louis Shopping Centre Beautiful waterfront shops and eateries. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Ile maurice Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Santana Bar I love it completely food is super duper delicious Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Miniso Port-Louis The quality of products is good but can be on the pricy side. Gift shop · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Disco resto Good service and food very tasty Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Chez Mevine Spécial Alouda Sorbet Hey...don't forget la mousse and tuc Maria. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Visite guidée Port Louis Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Port Louis

About Port Louis

Port Louis, the vibrant capital of Mauritius, serves as a popular port of call for cruise travelers exploring the Indian Ocean and beyond. With four major cruise lines including MSC Cruises, Silversea, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Oceania Cruises calling here regularly, you'll find plenty of options for voyages ranging from extended 54-night journeys to shorter regional itineraries. The port connects seamlessly to fascinating destinations across the region, from the dramatic coastlines of Cape Town to the exotic shores of Singapore, with peak visiting seasons spanning from March through April and November through January.

When your ship docks in Port Louis, you'll discover a bustling waterfront brimming with colonial charm and modern energy. The nearby Caudan Waterfront offers excellent shopping and dining just steps from the cruise terminal, while the city's rich cultural heritage and warm local hospitality make even a brief port day memorable. Whether you're looking to explore local markets, sample Mauritian cuisine, or simply soak in the island atmosphere, Port Louis delivers an authentic and welcoming experience for cruise passengers.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore Colonial History at Fort Adelaide

Climb to this iconic 19th-century fortress overlooking Port Louis for panoramic views of the harbor and city. The restored citadel reveals Mauritius's strategic military past through its architecture and exhibits, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's colonial heritage. It's just a short walk from the cruise terminal.

2

Savor Street Food at Central Market

Dive into the vibrant Central Market where local vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, spices, and authentic Mauritian street food like dholl puri and gateaux. The sensory explosion of colors, aromas, and flavors captures the island's multicultural essence in one bustling location near the waterfront.

3

Stroll Through Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Wander among giant water lilies, exotic orchids, and towering palms in this lush 60-acre sanctuary just outside the city. The serene garden showcases Mauritius's incredible biodiversity and offers peaceful respite from urban exploration, with plenty of photo opportunities among tropical splendor.

4

Shop Local Crafts at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Street

Browse colorful boutiques and artisan stalls along this pedestrian-friendly shopping street for authentic souvenirs including hand-woven textiles, model sailing ships, and local artwork. The street pulses with energy and offers genuine Mauritian craftsmanship you won't find elsewhere, all within walking distance of the port.

5

Experience Hindu Culture at Jummah Mosque

Visit this stunning architectural landmark that reflects Port Louis's rich religious diversity and multicultural identity. The ornate mosque welcomes respectful visitors and provides insight into the spiritual traditions that shape daily life in Mauritius, showcasing the island's harmonious blend of cultures.

Cruise Lines at Port Louis

Cruises Departing From Port Louis

Cruises Visiting Port Louis

Ship Schedule at Port Louis

Port Louis Location

Other Cruise Ports in Mauritius

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Port Louis known for?

Port Louis is Mauritius' capital, known for markets, the waterfront, and multicultural heritage.

When is the best time to visit Port Louis?

The dry season (May to December) offers cooler weather and comfortable touring.

What are must-see attractions in Port Louis?

Citadel, Blue Penny Museum, Caudan Waterfront, and Le Caudan Market.

How can I get around Port Louis?

Use buses, taxis, or hire a car; walking is pleasant near the waterfront.