Port Mathurin is the capital of the semi-independent island of Rodrigues, which lies approx. 560 km east of the main island of Mauritius. It is surrounded by a reef.
Port Mathurin is on the eastern end of the north coast, while Port Sud-Est and Hermitage Island are on the southern side.
When sailing westward from Cocos Keeling across the Indian Ocean, Rodrigues is the first island you arrive at after approx. two weeks at sea. It is possible to clear into Rodrigues, but if visiting Port Louis you will subsequently have to clear in again there. See Clearance for details.
It is recommended to approach Rodrigues from the east whenever possible. Approaching from the northeast, north, or northwest will result in a very long slog to windward.
Port Mathurin has been dredged and the buoyage no longer accords with some charts. Also, be aware that some electronic charts may not be accurate.
Port Mathurin is closed at night and the Port Captain does NOT permit ANY vessels to enter or depart the port at night. See Docking for more details.
Despite the officialdom and paperwork, you'll find friendly people, relatively cheap food and supplies, remarkable scenery and some unique adventures. Visit the Francois Leguat reserve and get a glimpse of what Rodrigues looked like before the arrival of man.
19° 40'53"S, 63° 25'04"E (port entrance)
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As of April 2017, the fee payable to the Health office is Rs 1400 (approx $40).
It is possible to make some repairs here but searching for the right person to help can be difficult. If you need advice then talk to Louis in the Boutik Artisanale de Rodrigues (corner of rues Francois leguat and Paul Elysee). He speaks impeccable English, has lived on the island for years, and is happy to help yachties.
He directed an American boat to a machine shop which was able to fabricate new tangs for their rigging. We used the same metal-work guy to separate a stainless steel bracket which was corroded to its shaft. Don’t forget to buy something in Louis’ shop afterwards to thank him for his trouble (the products are lovely, reasonably priced, and mostly made by his wife).