Off the coast of Mozambique near Maputo, Portuguese Island is the kind of spot you dream about as a kid. This tiny uninhabited island’s status as a protected area within the Maputo Special Reserve means that the ecosystems and biodiversity are fiercely protected. As a result, it’s still a pristine natural habitat for marine life and wildlife. Naturally, it’s a snorkeller’s dream with colourful fish, coral reefs, and even turtles.
But the powder-soft beaches and Instagrammable sunsets make it a pretty wonderful stop on your cruise, even without going underwater. Beyond the beach, the island is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest, offering a shady retreat and the chance to spot some of the local birdlife. Pull up a beach umbrella, grab a Tipo Tinto, and enjoy the view! Or, you could take a trip on a dhow. In fact, Portgueuse Island is a really small spot – so you can actually go around the entire island on one of these little local boats.
If you’re ready for something with more atmosphere and attractions, you’re in luck. Portuguese Island also serves as a gateway to Inhaca Island. Unlike it’s quieter and more pristine sibling, Inhaca is a thriving tourist hub with plenty of upscale resorts and attractions. It’s known for a buzzing local market, drinks and dining options galore, beach sports, the old lighthouse, and even a research station for marine biology.
- What dining options are on Portuguese Island cruises?
MSC Cruises have several itineraries disembarking from Durban that visit Portuguese Island. Dining options aboard these cruises are plentiful, from a large buffet to several restaurants offering international flavours such as Italian and Japanese.
- Are Portuguese Island cruises family-friendly?
Families enjoy special treatment aboard MSC Cruises' itineraries disembarking from Durban for Portuguese Island. Pools, colourful play amenities and separate Kids and Teens Clubs will keep the cruise adventure going. There are also themed cruises with Kids & Teens Cruise activities like Magic shows, NEON party and a fun treasure hunt on Portuguese Island itself.
- Can I explore the islands independently during the cruise?
Yes, when your cruise ship anchors two kilometres offshore for Portuguese Island day trips, speedboats will regularly ferry passengers ashore. The island is small and uninhabited with beautiful tropical beaches, making it a perfect location to explore on foot in your own time and at your own pace. You won't have to venture too far to find an idyllic beach all to yourself! Be sure to go exploring with some light footwear as the sand can become very hot through the middle of the day.
- What are the onboard amenities like on these cruises?
You can expect a full range of amenities aboard MSC Cruises' itineraries to Portuguese Island. These include two pool areas, a spa, gym facilities, live theatre performances, entertainment bars and lounges, a night club, a casino, Japanese and Italian restaurants, and adventure play areas for children.
- How environmentally friendly are Portuguese Island cruises?
Portuguese Island is part of the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve off the coast of southern Mozambique and as such cruises anchored near the island are required to inform passengers to respect the island's protected wildlife and marine biodiversity before they're ferried ashore for day trips.
- What types of shore excursions are typically offered?
Excursions to Portuguese Island include day trips where you'll be ferried ashore from your cruise ship via tenders (speedboats). Once ashore, you can relax with a drink or from a barbeque buffet under a thatched roof right there on the beach, swim and enjoy snorkeling adventures in the warm, crystalline waters, hire a pedalo boat or even join a dhow sailing cruise around the island.
- How do I prepare for weather variations?
With its year-round tropical climate, Portuguese Island is always warm come wind or occasional rain. Although you can expect to find the island mild and sunny, essential items to bring ashore include a short sleeve shirt or t-shirt, shorts, skirt, swimwear, sunhat, sun protection and comfortable footwear.
- Are there opportunities for water sports?
Yes. You can enjoy the high-speed thrill of towed banana boat rides or hire pedalo boats and kayaks for a calmer on-water experience. For some excellent exploration join a dhow sailing cruise around the island.
- Can I experience local festivals during my cruise?
While Portuguese Island itself is uninhabited save for pop-up food and market stalls and musical entertainment, there are no festivals to catch as part of cruises to the island.
- How do I handle medical emergencies on a cruise?
Emergency services are available onboard 24/7 by calling the ship's medical emergency number. All MSC cruise ships that include Portuguese Island in their itineraries have a well-equipped medical centre, a doctor and other medical staff.