Making the most of Port Louis
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The brand-new, recently opened Christian Decotter Cruise Terminal can receive the world's largest ships.
Passengers and vehicles have two access bridges, and plans are progressing for a walkway linking the jetty with the centre of town.
Most vessels provide a free shuttle to the downtown shopping centre, while a water taxi costs $2.00. These water taxis have no safety standards whatsoever, and at low tide the step from the boat to the pier is almost impossible. Anyone with even the slightest mobility impairment should not make this trip.
Keep a printable map to hand.
Port Louis, the capital and largest city, has a population of 143,000 and a mixture of charming and threadbare Victorian buildings.
Plan a day of sightseeing around the bazaars, spice and vegetable market, and Place d'Armes, a square enclosed by colonial French architecture.
Further attractions include the very modern Caudan Waterfront and its numerous boutiques and restaurants; the Penny Museum, home of the Blue Penny stamp; the 19th-century Citadelle Fortress, with a complete view across Port Louis; and the Mauritius Institute, whose Natural History Museum features the dodo.
The horse-racing track operates from May-November. Inveterate gamblers can also visit L'Amicale, a Chinese-style casino at La Chaussee. Chinatown around Royal Road is another option, with its numerous restaurants.
Getting around
Travel by metered taxi. Taxis are regulated and metered, although the meters are almost never used. Their associated province or hotel is printed on a yellow panel on the driver's door. Tips are not customary for drivers but are appreciated.
Nearby places
Many beautiful beaches lie north of Port Louis, including Pointe aux Piments, Mon Choisy, Pereybere, Cap Malheureux, whose red-painted beach chapel holds a service on Sundays, and Trou aux Biches.
Food and shopping
A large local crafts market is also worth visiting. A few blocks beyond the new shopping district, an underground passage leads to the locals' market, offering plenty of photographic opportunities and many exotic spices to buy.
Money
The currency is the Mauritius Rupee.
Staying connected
Languages include English (official), French, Hindi and others.
There are plenty of free wi-fi locations.