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50 Verified Facts about the Mauritian Maritime Ecosystem
A sourced reference covering Mauritius' coastline, blue economy, maritime industry, activities, equipment and services. Every fact cites a public, verifiable source.
Source disclaimer: All facts on this page are attributed to their original public sources. Dockyard.mu presents these as cited information only — we are not the originating authority for any factual claim. If you believe a fact is incorrect, please check the cited source directly.
Geography & Coastline
How long is the coastline of Mauritius?
The coastline of Mauritius measures approximately 177 km. It is fringed by a coral reef that creates a sheltered lagoon around most of the island.
What is the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius?
Mauritius has one of the largest EEZs in the world at approximately 2.3 million km², including areas jointly managed with other states. This vast ocean territory is central to the country's blue economy strategy.
Where is the "underwater waterfall" optical illusion located?
The famous "underwater waterfall" is located near Le Morne Brabant on the south-west coast of Mauritius. It is an optical illusion created by sand and silt being swept off the continental shelf into the deep ocean. Best seen from a seaplane or helicopter.
How far is Rodrigues Island from the main island of Mauritius?
Rodrigues lies approximately 560 km east of the main island of Mauritius. It is an autonomous outer island with an area of about 108 km². Its lagoon is approximately twice the size of the island itself.
Where is the Blue Bay Marine Park located?
Blue Bay Marine Park is on the south-east coast of Mauritius, near Mahebourg. It is one of the most important coral reef ecosystems in the Indian Ocean and is a Ramsar wetland site. The MV Wakashio oil spill of 2020 occurred in the same area.
What is the coral barrier reef length of Mauritius and Rodrigues?
The coral barrier reef covering Mauritius Island and Rodrigues extends approximately 230.6 km, making it one of the largest reef lagoon systems in the Indian Ocean.
When was Le Morne Brabant designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Le Morne Cultural Landscape was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The rugged mountain juts into the Indian Ocean in the south-west of Mauritius and was historically used as a shelter by runaway slaves.
What is St Brandon (Cargados Carajos Shoals)?
St Brandon is a group of over 50 small islands, coral ridges and sand flats belonging to Mauritius, located approximately 430 km north-northeast of the main island. It is considered one of the premier sport-fishing destinations in the Indian Ocean.
How far north of Mauritius is Agaléga?
Agaléga is a dependency of Mauritius consisting of two outer islands located approximately 1,050 km north of the main island in the Indian Ocean.
What happened with the MV Wakashio in 2020?
The MV Wakashio, a Japanese-owned bulk carrier, ran aground on the reef at Point d'Esny on 25 July 2020, spilling approximately 1,000 tonnes of fuel oil into the ocean near the Blue Bay Marine Park — Mauritius' worst ecological disaster.
Industry & Blue Economy
What percentage of GDP does the Mauritius blue economy represent?
The blue economy activities of Mauritius (excluding coastal tourism) represent 10.3% of GDP and employ around 10,000 people.
What is the Mauritius Container Terminal (MCT)?
The MCT is the primary container facility at Port Louis Harbour, with a capacity of over 750,000 TEUs, serviced by 7 ship-to-shore cranes (2 super-post-panamax, 5 post-panamax). It operates 24/7, 365 days a year.
How many berths does Port Louis Harbour have?
Port Louis Harbour has 16 berths across three terminals, including the Fishing Port at Trou Fanfaron.
What was the total fish catch in Mauritius in 2022?
The total fish catch in 2022 was 3,384.8 tonnes, consisting mainly of yellowfin tuna (47.8%), bigeye tuna (27.2%) and albacore (15.2%).
When was Port Louis first used as a harbour?
Port Louis was first used as a harbour by Dutch settlers from 1606, who called it the "Harbour of Tortoises." It was formally developed into a city under French Governor La Bourdonnais from 1735.
What type of flag state is Mauritius for ship registration?
Mauritius is considered a reputable and neutral flag state, an increasingly attractive jurisdiction for ship registration and marine finance in the Indian Ocean region.
Activities & Recreation
What is the biggest Blue Marlin ever caught off Mauritius?
The biggest Blue Marlin caught off Mauritius weighed approximately 615 kg (1,355 lbs), caught off the island's west coast — just 9 kg short of the IGFA world record of 624 kg.
When is the best season for big-game fishing in Mauritius?
The peak season for big-game fishing in Mauritius runs from November to April, when warm Indian Ocean currents bring marlin, yellowfin tuna, dorado and wahoo close to the island.
What is the underwater visibility when diving in Mauritius?
Visibility when diving in Mauritius can reach up to 50 metres (164 feet) on an excellent day. Depths range from 12 to over 40 metres, making it suitable for all levels.
Which bay is famous for dolphin watching in Mauritius?
Tamarin Bay on the west coast is the most famous spot for dolphin encounters, particularly spinner dolphins. Tours typically depart early morning when the dolphins are most active.
When do humpback whales visit Mauritius?
Humpback whales migrate through Mauritian waters between July and September, coming to the warm Indian Ocean waters to breed and give birth. They are most commonly sighted off the south-west coast.
Which sea turtle species are found in Mauritius?
The Green sea turtle and the Hawksbill sea turtle are the two most common species found in Mauritius. Both are protected species; swimming with them is permitted in certain areas such as Balaclava Marine Park.
What is the famous Djabeda dive site?
The Djabeda wreck is one of the most famous dive sites in Mauritius, located off Coin de Mire (Gunner's Quoin) in the north. It is known for its rich marine life and excellent visibility.
What is Le Morne known for in water sports?
Le Morne is internationally acclaimed as one of the world's premier kitesurfing destinations. The consistent south-easterly trade winds and the shallow lagoon create ideal conditions for all levels. Le Morne Brabant is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How long has the pirogue regatta been held in Mauritius?
Pirogue regattas have been held in Mauritius since approximately 1874. The traditional races take place between September and March, with the Mahebourg regatta being one of the most celebrated.
Equipment & Mechanics
What is a pirogue in Mauritian fishing?
The pirogue is the traditional fishing boat of Mauritius, typically made of wood and measuring between 19 and 23 feet. It has been used by Mauritian artisanal fishermen for generations and is an iconic symbol of the island's maritime culture.
What is VHF Channel 16 and why does it matter?
VHF Channel 16 (156.800 MHz) is the international maritime distress, safety and calling channel. All vessels with VHF radios are required to monitor Channel 16 at all times. It is the first channel to use in any maritime emergency.
What does antifouling paint do?
Antifouling paint is applied to the underwater hull of a boat to prevent the attachment and growth of marine organisms such as barnacles, algae, mussels and weed. Without it, a hull in tropical waters like Mauritius can become heavily fouled within weeks.
What does SOLAS stand for?
SOLAS stands for Safety of Life at Sea. It is the most important international treaty covering the safety of merchant ships, setting minimum standards for construction, equipment and operation.
What does MARPOL stand for?
MARPOL stands for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships. It is the main international treaty covering the prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships, including oil, chemicals and garbage.
What is GRP in boat construction?
GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic (also known as fibreglass). It is the most common material used for recreational and commercial boat hulls in Mauritius due to its durability, light weight and resistance to saltwater.
What is a knot as a unit of speed?
A knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour, approximately 1.852 km/h or 1.151 mph. It is the standard unit of speed used in maritime and aviation navigation worldwide.
Services & Professionals
Which authority issues the skipper's licence in Mauritius?
The Tourism Authority of Mauritius issues the skipper's licence (permis de conduire nautique). Applicants must be Mauritian citizens or hold a valid residence/work permit, and must pass a theory examination and practical assessment.
What is the emergency number for the National Coast Guard of Mauritius?
The National Coast Guard of Mauritius can be reached at +230 212 2747 for search and rescue emergencies. At sea, VHF Channel 16 should also be used to broadcast a distress call.
What does a ship chandler supply?
A ship chandler is a specialist marine supplier who provides vessels with everything they need while in port — food provisions, bonded goods, spare parts, technical stores, safety equipment and other supplies.
What does bunkering mean in maritime services?
Bunkering refers to the process of supplying fuel (bunker fuel) to a vessel. Port Louis is a significant bunkering hub in the Indian Ocean, with several operators providing fuel to vessels transiting the region.
What does the Mauritius Maritime Training Academy (MMTA) do?
The MMTA is the main institution providing maritime education and certification in Mauritius, offering courses for seafarers, officers and maritime professionals.
What is the role of Reef Conservation Mauritius?
Reef Conservation Mauritius is a non-governmental organisation focused on coral reef monitoring, coral restoration, marine biodiversity surveys and public education about marine conservation. It is one of the key "Keepers" of the Mauritian sea.
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