Dzaoudzi’s port isn’t deep enough for the big cruise ships, so you’ll hop on tender boats to get between your ship and the shore.
For other Call in Mayotte (France) Cruise Ship Ports of Calls check out our Cruise Ship Ports of Call in Mayotte (France) page.
Want to see the main sights? You’ll need to catch a tender over to Mamoudzou on Grande Terre island.
The terminal itself is pretty modern with places to grab a bite, some duty-free shopping, and spots to exchange your money.
Getting around is easy – grab a taxi-brousse for under €5, rent a car for about €50 a day, or jump on the ferries connecting the islands for just €1.50.
Check out this guide for all the details you need for an awesome Mayotte adventure!
Map of Dzaoudzi Cruise Ship Port
Getting to Shore: Tendering and Port Access
Getting to Shore: Tendering and Port Access
When your ship pulls up to Dzaoudzi, you’ll need to hop on smaller boats to reach land since cruise ships can’t actually dock here. The harbor’s just too shallow for those massive vessels, so tender boats shuttle everyone between ship and shore to reach Mamoudzou on Grande Terre island.
You’ll catch a ride on either the ship’s own lifeboats or local boats that pack in about 200 people per trip. Your cruise line might hand out numbered tickets with specific time slots to keep the crowds manageable. Once you step off the tender, you’re just a quick stroll from downtown Mamoudzou.
Getting back to the ship? Just jump in the queue for the next tender heading out – no need to stress about reserving a specific return time.
Transportation Options Around Mayotte
Getting around Mayotte is pretty straightforward once you step off the boat. Taxi-brousses are the way to go if you’re watching your wallet – they’ll zip you around on set routes for under €5 a ride, plus you’ll get to mix with the locals.
Want to do your own thing? Grab a rental car for about €50 a day and you can hit up those hidden beaches and trails that most tourists miss. Just remember you’ll need to fork out €15 (plus extra for passengers) when taking your vehicle on the ferry between Petite-Terre and Grande-Terre.
The passenger ferries between Dzaoudzi and Mamoudzou run like clockwork every half hour until 10 at night, and they only cost €1.50 each way. If you’re just cruising around the flatter coastal spots, electric bikes do the job nicely.
Essential Port Facilities and Services
Essential Port Facilities and Services
Dzaoudzi’s cruise operations revolve around a slick, modern terminal with all the basics covered. Inside, you’ll spot a restaurant, bar, duty-free shopping, and a place to exchange your currency.
Since ships anchor offshore, you’ll hop on tender boats that shuttle passengers over to Mamoudzou on Grande Terre island. Just a short walk away, the tourist info center hands out maps and points you in the right direction for exploring.
Need to handle official stuff? The Port Captain’s office sits near the ferry ramps and can walk you through clearance procedures. Immigration and customs are in separate spots, with customs tucked away on the western side of Dzaoudzi Island close to Le Barge ramp.
Top Attractions and Shore Excursions
Beyond port basics, you’ll want to check out what makes Dzaoudzi truly special. Dive into the world’s largest lagoon teeming with over 200 fish species through Nyamba Club PlongĂ©e or Mayotte OcĂ©an. Night dives are mind-blowing – you’ll see glowing underwater creatures with visibility up to 30m!
Feeling adventurous? Hike up Mount Choungui for killer views or spot some cute lemurs along 40km of trails. The historic Dzaoudzi Fort is worth a visit, and don’t skip the buzzing Mamoudzou Market where 150+ vendors sell everything imaginable.
Between July and October, hop on a whale watching trip – absolutely unforgettable. Or rent a traditional dhoni sailboat for your own mini-adventure. Getting around is easy with local “taxi brousse” vehicles that’ll take you anywhere on the island.
Navigating Between Petite-Terre and Grande-Terre Islands
Moving between Petite-Terre (home to Dzaoudzi) and Grande-Terre is something you’ll definitely do during your Mayotte cruise. Don’t worry – regular barges run between the islands, making it super easy to visit both spots.
If you’re in a rush, grab one of the speedboats that’ll get you across in about 40 minutes. Got time to spare? The catamarans take around 90 minutes but offer a more relaxed ride. Pro tip: head out in the morning to make the most of your day exploring. Lots of visitors have spotted dolphins during their afternoon trips back – keep your eyes peeled!
Practical Information: Currency, Timing, and Local Customs
Practical Information: Currency, Timing, and Local Customs
Before you hit Mayotte’s shores, get the lowdown on a few practical details to make your trip run smoothly. The Euro rules here, so bring enough cash with you – those onboard exchange rates will rob you blind.
- Pack light clothing – it’s hot and sticky year-round
- Carry Euros in small bills for markets and taxis – plastic won’t get you far here
- Dress modestly in public – it’s an Islamic culture, so leave the tiny shorts at home
- Watch your timing with tender transfers and market hours – miss the boat and you’re stuck!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wi-Fi Available Near the Port Area?
The port doesn’t have public Wi-Fi, unfortunately. Like everyone else, you’ll need to grab a coffee or bite to eat at one of the cafĂ©s or restaurants nearby if you want to get online – they’ll give you their Wi-Fi password when you buy something.
Are There Any Health Concerns or Vaccinations Required for Visitors?
You should make sure your routine vaccines like MMR and Hep A/B are up to date. Malaria isn’t a big worry here, but still pack some bug spray to be safe. Throw together a basic first aid kit, and think about getting travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation since the medical facilities aren’t great if something serious happens.
What Languages Are Commonly Spoken by Locals and Service Providers?
French is the official language you’ll hear everywhere on the island. Most locals chat with each other in Shimaore (a Comorian dialect) during their everyday conversations. You’ll also notice Kibushi (a Malagasy dialect) being spoken in many communities around the island.
Are There Any Cultural Sensitivities Visitors Should Be Aware Of?
When visiting, just remember to respect the local Islamic customs – this means covering up appropriately (no shorts or tank tops), keeping the PDA to a minimum, and holding off on munching in public during Ramadan. Also, grab permission before snapping photos of locals, and kick off your shoes when you’re heading into someone’s house or a mosque.
What Unique Souvenirs or Local Products Can Visitors Purchase?
Looking for cool stuff to take home? Mayotte’s got some real gems. Check out the handcrafted ceramics with local designs, woven baskets that locals actually use, and pretty jewelry made from seashells. If you want something really special, grab one of those 3D quilling frames – they make awesome personalized gifts. The traditional pottery is definitely worth snagging too – each piece tells a story you’ll appreciate long after your trip.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Mamoudzou Cruise Ship Port.
