Mauritius Cruises

Explore the Stunning Beauty of Mauritius with CruiseAway

Welcome to Mauritius, an idyllic island that boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes the Indian Ocean has to offer. With its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush green mountains, this tropical gem is a true paradise. A cruise to Mauritius is a fantastic way to experience its beauty and vibrant culture, all while enjoying luxurious amenities aboard your ship. Fun fact: Mauritius is home to the famed Dodo bird, which is now extinct, yet serves as a testament to the island’s unique biodiversity! Immerse yourself in rich local traditions, explore vibrant markets, or simply unwind on a sun-drenched beach while soaking in the breathtaking views.

Must-Visit Harbours in Mauritius

When cruising to **Mauritius**, you’ll discover several charming ports teeming with local culture and stunning scenery. Here are five key harbours to include in your itinerary:

• Port Louis: The capital city of Mauritius, Port Louis is a lively blend of history and modernity. While docked at this bustling port, explore the vibrant **Central Market**, where you can find local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss out on the beautiful **Aapravasi Ghat**, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the history of indentured labourers. Insider tip: Visit the **La Citadelle** for panoramic views of the city and the harbor!
• Grand Baie: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, this tourist hotspot is perfect for cruisers seeking relaxation or adventure. Enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, diving, or sailing, or simply unwind on the beach with a cocktail in hand. Pro tip: The nearby **Cap Malheureux** offers striking views of the **Church of Cap Malheureux** against the backdrop of the ocean, ideal for unforgettable photos!
• Mahebourg: Rich in history and local charm, Mahebourg sits on the southeast coast of Mauritius. Visit the **National History Museum** to learn about the island’s past or explore the charming streets lined with Creole architecture. Be sure to check out the vibrant local markets where you can sample delicious street food and buy handcrafted souvenirs. Insider tip: Take a stroll along **Mahebourg Waterfront** for breathtaking views of the lagoon!
• Blue Bay: This paradise is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and extensive coral reefs, offering unbeatable snorkeling opportunities. Visit the **Blue Bay Marine Park** to witness its stunning marine life first-hand. Pro tip: Consider a glass-bottom boat tour for a more leisurely experience of the marine life without getting wet!
• Pointe aux Piments: This picturesque beach offers a quiet escape for cruisers looking to relax. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. After a day of sun-soaked fun, enjoy a beachside dinner with fresh seafood at local restaurants. Insider tip: Head to the nearby **Trou aux Biches** for a stunning sunset on the beach!

Best Times to Cruise to Mauritius

The ideal time to visit **Mauritius** is during the shoulder seasons of **April to June** and **September to December**, where temperatures hover between **20°C and 28°C**. These months offer pleasant weather and are less crowded, allowing you to explore the islands more leisurely. Be aware that from **January to March**, the climate can become hot and humid with occasional rain, but this is also when you’ll find more budget-friendly cruise options. July and August evenings can be cooler, but daytime temperatures remain mild, ideal for outdoor activities.

Cost of Cruising in Mauritius

When budgeting for your cruise, a one-week standard cruise to **Mauritius** averages between **$2,000 and $3,500**, while two-week options can range from **$4,000 to $7,500**. Luxury cruises typically start around **$6,000**. The cheapest times to cruise are during the shoulder seasons, while July and August tend to see prices at their highest due to summer travels. While enjoying the local cuisine on the island, ensure you budget around **$15 to $35** for a meal, depending on where you choose to dine.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Cruises to Mauritius

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, only **two** of them can take you to Mauritius, namely **Crown Princess** and **Island Princess**. Typically departing from **Sydney** or **Los Angeles**, Princess Cruises is well-regarded for its exceptional onboard service and wide variety of dining options, making it a delightful choice for cruisers of all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line has a fleet of **20 ships**, with **two** frequently sailing to Mauritius: **Norwegian Dawn** and **Norwegian Sky**. You can expect departures often from **Port Louis** or **Doha**. Known for their “freestyle cruising” philosophy, Norwegian Cruise Line allows guests to dine and schedule activities on their terms, providing maximum flexibility during your holiday.
• Cunard: With a famously luxurious fleet of **four ships**, only **one**, **Queen Anne**, offers routes to Mauritius. Departing usually from **Sydney** or **Singapore**, Cunard stands out for its timeless elegance and world-class services, including acclaimed dining, luxurious accommodations, and imaginative entertainment options onboard.
• Holland America Line: This line operates **11 ships**, but only **one** ship, **Zuiderdam**, includes itineraries to Mauritius. Departing mainly from **Sydney** or **Singapore**, Holland America boasts enriching activities and themed cruises that allow you to delve into local cultures as you sail.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, only **one**, **MSC Musica**, sails to Mauritius. Departures occur mainly from **Durban**. MSC Cruises is family-friendly and offers exceptional onboard experiences, with a focus on entertainment and a variety of dining options inspired by Mediterranean and international cuisine.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Silversea: This luxury cruise line has **13 ships** in its fleet, with **three** sailing to Mauritius including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Muse**. Most commonly departing from **Mahe** or **Cape Town**, Silversea excels in providing high-end, all-inclusive experiences where personal service and catered excursions are paramount, ensuring a memorable journey throughout the Indian Ocean.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of **six ships**, they feature **one** to Mauritius, the **Seven Seas Voyager**. Departures mainly from **Cape Town** or **Port Louis**, Regent is known for its ultra-luxury experience with all-inclusive packages that encompass fine dining, shore excursions, and listed beverages—a true indulgence for the discerning traveller.
• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line operates **eight ships**, with **two**—**Sirena** and **Nautica**—making voyages to Mauritius. Familiar ports of departure include **Cape Town** and **Lisbon**. Oceania is well-regarded for its destination-rich itineraries and focus on culinary excellence, offering you the chance to savour regional dishes while experiencing local culture.
• Ponant: With **11 ships**, only **one** visits Mauritius, the **Le Dumont-D’Urville**. Departing typically from **Port Louis**, Ponant offers an intimate cruising experience with an emphasis on exploration and immersive cultural voyages that highlight the region’s stunning landscapes and traditions.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re captivated by **Mauritius** but want to explore other incredible destinations, consider these five regions:

• Caribbean: With its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, the Caribbean offers similar tropical beauty and exciting adventures for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Africa: Known for its diverse wildlife and vibrant cultures, Africa is a thrilling destination that combines stunning landscapes with fascinating opportunities for safari adventures.
• Canary Islands: This group of islands features volcanic landscapes, pleasant weather year-round, and a unique blend of Spanish and North African culture—perfect for those seeking island experiences with variety.
• Asia: An exhilarating region offering a rich tapestry of cultures, you’ll find everything from bustling cities to tranquil beaches, presenting endless exploration possibilities.
• Australian Coast: With stunning beaches and rich fauna and flora, exploring Australia’s coast offers unique marine experiences as well as opportunities for adventure.

Taking a cruise to **Mauritius** ensures you’ll experience breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and exquisite culinary delights—all from the comfort of your ship. Don’t miss the chance to make these memories; book your cruise with **CruiseAway** today and start your adventure!