Explore the Tropical Paradise of Mauritius with Cruise1st
Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and crystal-clear waters, Mauritius is an island paradise just waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this enchanting destination offers not only sun-kissed shores but also rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Fun fact: Mauritius was home to the now-extinct dodo bird, which has become an iconic symbol for the island! Choosing to cruise to Mauritius allows you to experience this incredible locale with all the luxury and convenience of cruising, providing access to diverse attractions, exciting activities, and mouthwatering cuisine—all while sailing across the beautiful ocean.
Top Cruise Lines Visiting Mauritius
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Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features 2 that visit Mauritius: Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2. Both of these vessels are renowned for their grandiose décor, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service, making them a fantastic choice for those seeking elegance and indulgence. Cruisers can set sail to Mauritius from domestic ports like Sydney or international hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong, making for a variety of departure choices.
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Princess Cruises: This popular cruise line boasts a fleet of 17 ships, with 2 sailing to Mauritius: Crown Princess and Island Princess. Known for their engaging onboard activities and variety of dining options, these ships provide an immersive experience throughout your journey. While they have departures from domestic ports like Sydney and Perth (Fremantle), most sailings to Mauritius leave from international ports such as Los Angeles or Auckland.
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Norwegian Cruise Line: With a total of 20 ships, Norwegian has 2 dedicated to Mauritius: Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky. Guests can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with flexible dining options, ensuring a relaxed cruise experience. Most cruises depart from Port Louis or Cape Town, presenting a lovely chance to explore these vibrant ports before heading to Mauritius.
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Holland America Line: This line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 1—Zuiderdam—offering itineraries that include Mauritius. Known for their enriching onboard programs and culinary excellence, Holland America ships provide cultural experiences that elevate your journey. Departures typically occur from domestic ports like Sydney or international ports such as Singapore and Fort Lauderdale.
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MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC has 2 ships—MSC Opera and MSC Musica—that travel to Mauritius. These ships offer family-friendly amenities and delightful dining options suitable for every taste. Most MSC sailings depart from Durban or Venice, giving cruisers diverse options to begin their journey to the stunning shores of Mauritius.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Mauritius
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Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea features 2 ships—Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit—that explore Mauritius. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxury experiences, Silversea boasts exceptional service tailored to discerning travellers. Most departures are from Mahe or Tokyo, allowing cruisers to start their journey from beautiful locales before reaching Mauritius.
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Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara operates 2 ships—Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit—visiting Mauritius. These vessels focus on immersive cultural experiences, ensuring clients connect with each destination visited. Departures generally occur from Cape Town or Port Louis, making it easy for cruisers to enjoy the island's splendid landscapes.
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Oceania Cruises: Oceania has a fleet of 8, with 2 ships—Sirena and Nautica—sailing to Mauritius. These ships are famous for their fine dining and destination-focused journeys, providing guests with unmatched culinary experiences. Departures often happen from Cape Town or Lisbon, allowing cruisers to explore the West Indian shores before arriving at the island paradise.
Top Harbour to Explore in Mauritius
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Port Louis: As the capital and largest city of Mauritius, Port Louis welcomes cruisers with a vibrant mix of cultures and stunning natural beauty. While docked, visitors should explore the bustling Central Market for local delicacies and handicrafts. Don't miss visiting the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and taking a stroll along the waterfront promenade for picturesque views of the harbour!
Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Mauritius
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Cape Town, South Africa: A must-see before heading to Mauritius, Cape Town offers majestic Table Mountain and beautiful beaches. While in the city, visitors can take a scenic cable car ride, explore the Cape of Good Hope, or stroll through the vibrant V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining.
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Singapore: This lush city-state is famous for its gardens, cultural diversity, and delicious food. Visitors can explore Gardens by the Bay, enjoy a stroll through Chinatown, and sample local delights at Hawker Centres while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
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Sydney, Australia: Known for its stunning harbour and iconic Opera House, Sydney provides an exciting pre- or post-cruise exploration opportunity. Visitors can walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge or relax at Bondi Beach, enjoying the captivating views and outdoor lifestyle.
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Durban, South Africa: This coastal city is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. Visitors can stroll along the Golden Mile, tour the Ushaka Marine World, or explore the local markets during their stop.
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Walvis Bay, Namibia: Known for its rich marine life and picturesque scenery, Walvis Bay is excellent for outdoor adventures. Cruise passengers can try their hand at kayaking with seals, take a scenic flight over the desert, or visit the unique dunes of Sossusvlei.
Traveling to Mauritius Year-Round
Weather plays an essential role in planning your cruise to Mauritius. From January to March, expect warm temperatures around 25-30°C, perfect for summer beach activities and exploring the island’s natural beauty. April to June brings cooler, more pleasant temperatures around 20-25°C—ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring its rich history. July to September means winter, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C, providing a more serene atmosphere for those looking to escape the crowds. Finally, in October to December, temperatures reach back to 20-30°C as summer returns, perfect for cocktails by the beach and vibrant local festivities!
Pricing Overview for Mauritius Cruises
A cruise visiting Mauritius typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,600 AUD for a week-long journey, while options for two weeks may vary from $3,000 to $5,200 AUD. For a more luxurious experience, expect prices starting around $5,000 AUD for a week and possibly reaching up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are commonly included on cruises; however, if you're dining at local restaurants, be prepared to spend between $20-60 AUD for meals, with drinks ranging around $10-15 AUD.
Alternative Regions to Explore
If you’re considering a cruise to Mauritius, think about these exciting alternatives:
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Maldives: With idyllic beaches and overwater bungalows, the Maldives is perfect for those seeking a tropical getaway. Ideal for relaxation and water sports, it offers luxurious experiences amidst breathtaking scenery.
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Seychelles: A stunning archipelago known for its dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Ideal for diving and snorkeling, it offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
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Reunion Island: Just a quick hop from Mauritius, Reunion offers rugged volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches—perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
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Adriatic Sea: Known for its picturesque coastline and stunning medieval cities. The region is ideal for those interested in a mix of history, culture, and beautiful seascapes.
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Indian Ocean: With rich marine life and beautiful islands, cruising through the Indian Ocean offers a diverse and captivating experience that attracts adventurers and beach lovers alike!
Ready to discover the charm and beauty of Mauritius? Let Cruise1st guide you in planning the ultimate cruise getaway, packed with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories!