Port Louis is the capital and main port of entry on the island of Mauritius. It lies between a well-sheltered, deep water harbour - accessible to vessels through a break in the coral reef - and a semicircle of mountains. It is known for its French colonial architecture and with its lively Caudan Waterfront is an interesting place to explore. Sailing down the NW coast of Mauritius to Port Louis is a welcome relief after the endless swells of the Indian Ocean.
There are two harbours here; the southern one is the main port and it is where yachts enter. Entrance is straight forward and well marked. However, cruisers have reported that some electronic charts show a shallow area in the inner basin of the harbour, while others do NOT show anything. As a result, a large number of yachts have hit this “inner basin rock” which is located southeast of the Customs House. It is recommended to hug the wharf when going to Customs and when departing the wharf, back out the same way you approached. Do not loop out and away from the wharf or you will most likely hit the rock. Even catamarans have hit the rock as there is very little water over it.
The range of tide in Port Louis is not considerably high with an average of 60 cm above mean sea level. The flood stream runs NNE and the ebb stream runs SSW reaching 2 to 3 knots. Tidal information for Mauritius can be obtained from Mauritius Meteorological Services.
Cruisers who have crossed the Indian Ocean recommend a stopover here, where you'll find a huge marketplace for vegetables, fruit, fish, meat and poultry within walking distance of the marina. There is a fuel dock in the commercial port and a dry dock that undertakes some repair work, however marine supplies are extremely limited.
020° 08' 49"S, 57° 28'54" E
Last updated: November 2025
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