Mutsamudu Port drops you right on Anjouan’s northwest coast with deep-water docking – no tender boats needed!
For other Comoros Cruise Ship Ports of Calls check out our Cruise Ship Ports of Call in the Comoros page.
The port itself is pretty basic, so pack your essentials and grab some local cash before arriving.
Just a short walk away, you can wander through the old 15th-century medina with its winding cobblestone streets or hike up to the 18th-century Citadel for some killer views.
Need to get around? Just hop in a taxi or catch one of the local minibuses to reach Mount Ntingui’s hiking trails or the gorgeous Moya River waterfalls.
This port is the real deal – a genuine mix of African, Arab, and French vibes without the tourist crowds.
Map of Mutsamudu (Anjouan) Cruise Ship Port
Port Overview & Vessel Accommodation
Mutsamudu Port sits pretty on Anjouan’s northwest coast at 12.1677°S, 44.3909°E, making it the main spot for cruise ships to dock in the Comoros Islands. It’s in the biggest city on Anjouan, putting you right where you need to be near Indian Ocean shipping lanes.
You’ll find walkable jetties, landing platforms, and navigation markers to get you in safely. The port isn’t exactly buzzing with ships as of February 2025, but they’ve got what it takes to handle your cruise ship with the basics. When you pull in, there’s parking for about 20 cars and some multi-purpose buildings where passengers can wait.
Getting Ashore & Transportation Options
Getting Ashore & Transportation Options
When your cruise ship pulls into Anjouan, you’re in luck – Mutsamudu has a deep-water harbor, so you can walk right off without those annoying tender boats. Once you’re on solid ground, you’ll need to figure out how to get around. Your best bet is grabbing a taxi or private driver since public transportation is basically just some minibuses that show up whenever they feel like it.
If you’re just checking out the medina nearby, walking works great. Staying at a hotel? They might have shuttles for activities you’ve booked ahead. Want to hit some snorkeling spots? Look for water taxis along the coast.
Quick tips: haggle your fare before getting in (expect to pay about 7-15 euros for trips around town), bring cash, and don’t count on drivers speaking much English. Most hang out at specific pickup spots, so you’ll know where to find them.
Essential Services for Cruise Passengers
Essential Services for Cruise Passengers
Heads up – Mutsamudu Port keeps things pretty simple, so come prepared. No fancy WiFi networks here, just grab a local SIM card if you need to stay connected. You can use the bathrooms in the admin building, but don’t count on finding medical help onshore if you’re feeling under the weather.
The sun beats down hard during disembarkation with barely any shade, so slap on that sunscreen and bring a hat. Security guys do patrol when ships dock, but keep your valuable stuff close – better safe than sorry. There’s water available dockside through the ASC pipelines, and they’ll take your garbage off your hands (they follow all the rules about that stuff). Oh, and don’t forget your passport and yellow fever certificate – keep them on you at all times.
Top Sightseeing Attractions in Mutsamudu
When your ship pulls into Mutsamudu, you’re in for a treat – this place is packed with cool historical spots and natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. Make sure you wander through the 15th-century medina with its winding cobblestone alleys and those beautiful old Swahili stone houses decorated with coral designs.
Head up to the massive 18th-century Citadel perched on a hill – the ocean views from up there are absolutely spectacular. Check out the Friday Mosque with its gorgeous Omani-style architecture, and swing by the Palace of UjumbĂ© to get a peek into the island’s royal past.
If you’re into nature, hit the trails on Mount Ntingui where you can spot wildlife you won’t see anywhere else in the world. And if you’ve got time in the afternoon, the Moya River waterfalls are totally worth the trip – seriously beautiful!
See what’s on offer from the Port of Moroni (Grande Comore) for a different Comoros Cruise Ship Ports of Call.
Local Cultural Experiences & Shopping
Beyond the historic sites, Mutsamudu offers some really cool cultural experiences you shouldn’t skip during your cruise stop. Take a stroll through the Medina’s narrow cobblestone streets where you can watch local craftspeople making their wares right in front of you.
Hungry? Head to Le Sim Sim Restaurant for some amazing fusion food – their grilled fish with coconut sauce is to die for, and the curry lamb isn’t bad either! If you’re lucky enough to be around during one of the traditional festivals, you’ll get to see some incredible music and dancing.
For shopping, definitely check out the local markets packed with fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. The Medina’s workshops have tons of handmade stuff that makes for way better souvenirs than those tacky magnets everyone else brings home!
Practical Tips for Cruisers Visiting Anjouan
Now that you’ve got a taste of the cultural encounters awaiting you, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of visiting Mutsamudu.
The ISPS-compliant port keeps things secure, but you’ll need passes to access restricted areas. Don’t forget to pack the basics: water, sunscreen, swimwear, and grab some small bills in Comorian Francs (KMF) – ATMs are as rare as hen’s teeth here and forget about using your credit card.
Getting around? Hop in a taxi or catch the shuttle buses from the terminal. When you’re booking those must-do excursions, double-check that the operators have proper certifications and be clear on how long things will take. The boat tours for snorkeling and dolphin spotting are absolutely worth it – most throw in a mouth-watering lobster lunch too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Taxis or Rental Vehicles Available at the Port?
Need to get around? There aren’t many taxis hanging out at the port, and we haven’t spotted any rental car places there either. Most folks just stick with the shore excursions they booked ahead of time since those usually come with transportation. Independent exploring can be tricky without your own wheels.
What Currency Is Accepted by Local Vendors and Attractions?
The local Comorian Franc (KMF) is what you’ll need for most shopping and sightseeing. While euros work in touristy spots, you’ll save some cash by using francs instead. Most vendors prefer the local currency anyway, and you’ll blend in better with the locals!
Is Wi-Fi or Cellular Service Available for Visitors?
Wi-Fi in Mutsamudu? Yeah, good luck with that. It’s pretty much non-existent for the public. You can still use your ship’s internet package while onboard, but once you step off, you’re in a digital desert. Grab a local SIM card for your phone if you need to stay connected, but don’t expect much – the cell service around here plays hide and seek, dropping out when you least expect it.
Are There Any Safety Concerns or Areas to Avoid?
Mutsamudu is pretty safe overall, but you’re better off joining guided tours and steering clear of empty spots once night falls. Just keep in mind there aren’t many emergency services around, so keep your wits about you when wandering through those tight alleyways in the old town.
How Severe Are the Seasonal Weather Patterns for Cruise Ships?
Weather patterns can really mess with your cruise plans – it’s basically a tale of two seasons. From May to October, you’re looking at pretty smooth sailing with calm waters. But watch out from November through April – that’s when monsoons and cyclones kick in, often forcing ships to cancel or change routes. The contrast between the two seasons is like night and day for cruise travelers.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Fomboni (Mohéli) Cruise Ship Port.
