Over the years, Port Louis Harbour has experienced major infrastructural developments that have enhanced its capacity to accommodate increasing maritime traffic, including larger and more sophisticated cruise vessels. The port is now playing an increasingly significant role in supporting the expansion of Mauritius’ tourism industry through the continuous development of modern cruise facilities and services.

As interest in Indian Ocean cruise destinations continues to rise, Mauritius is positioning itself as both a world class cruise destination and a regional hub for the Vanilla Islands. The cruise industry generates significant economic benefits for the country by creating employment opportunities for Mauritians onboard cruise vessels and supporting local businesses involved in provisioning, bunkering, water supply, transport services and inland tourism activities.

Although the global cruise industry was heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the reopening of borders has contributed to a rapid recovery of cruise activities in Mauritius. During the financial year 2024/2025, the port recorded 45 cruise vessel calls.

To support the anticipated growth in passenger traffic, the Mauritius Ports Authority has developed a modern Cruise Terminal Building adjacent to the Cruise Jetty at La Saline in 2023. The Cruise Jetty was constructed in 2010 with a dredged depth of 12.5 metres and can accommodate cruise ship of LOA 345 metres provided its shell doors fall within the length of the jetty of 124 metres. Spanning approximately 7,500 square metres, the facility is designed to accommodate up to 4,000 passengers, including inter-island travellers.

The development of the new cruise terminal further reinforces the position of Port Louis Harbour as a leading cruise destination in the Indian Ocean region. The port remains committed to providing high-quality services to cruise operators and passengers while continuously striving for excellence and international standards.