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Ile de la Passe

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Ile de la Passe is a small, rocky islet perched on the edge of the coral reef, guarding the only deep-water entrance to the bay of Grand Port. Due to this strategic position, it was heavily fortified by the French starting in the 18th century to protect the island's coastline. The islet is most famous for the Battle of Grand Port in August 1810, which stands as Napoleon's only significant naval victory over the British Royal Navy. Today, visitors can explore the evocative stone ruins of batteries, barracks, and ammunition stores built by both the French and the British. The two-hectare islet features massive fortifications that remain remarkably intact despite centuries of exposure to sea spray and storms. As a national monument, it is a popular destination for history buffs, accessible via a short boat ride from Mahebourg. The site combines a rich military legacy with remarkable views of the turquoise lagoon and the jagged mountain peaks of southeastern Mauritius.

Location: Mauritius
Nearby: Bois des Amourettes (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	25	24	23	23	23	23	25	26
Rain mm	130	119	135	90	48	30	25	25	29	31	32	51

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The small rocky island can be accessed and explored as part of organized boat tours from the mainland. The remnants of the fortifications serve as silent witnesses to turbulent colonial naval battles.

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Typical hours

A visit is highly dependent on tides, weather conditions, and the schedules of local boat operators. Tours usually take place during the day on calm seas to ensure a perfectly safe landing.

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Photography

The rugged coastline of the small island and the weathered cannon positions offer dramatic maritime motifs. The sharp contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the turquoise water is truly fascinating.

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Time needed

The boat trip and the stay on the island together usually take up a full half day of your itinerary. A solid hour is often sufficient for the actual exploration of the fortress ruins on site.

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Combine with

This historical tour can be ideally combined with a snorkeling trip in Grand Port or a visit to Mahébourg. Once there, you can learn much more about the naval battles at the local maritime museum.

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Getting there

The island is accessible exclusively by water, with most excursion boats departing from Mahébourg or the nearby area. The crossing can sometimes be quite adventurous depending on the sea conditions.

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Insider tip

Book your boat tour with a licensed and highly experienced operator who is familiar with the local currents. Remember to bring waterproof bags for your camera and apply strong sun protection.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.39750, 57.76750

Facts

The first fortifications were built by the French around 1750.
The island was the focal point for the Battle of Grand Port in 1810.
The British occupied the island after their victory until 1945.
Original 19th-century cannons can still be found on the site.
The island is only about 250 meters long and 170 meters wide.
It is currently protected as a national heritage site.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ile de la Passe Fortifications2 km · NExplore →

Pointe du Diable Battery3 km · EExplore →

Olivier4 km · SExplore →

Fort Frederik Hendrik4 km · SExplore →

Bois des Amourettes6 km · SExplore →

Battle of Vieux Grand Port Monument7 km · SExplore →

Grand River South East7 km · EExplore →

Ile des Deux Cocos8 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ile de la Passe (1)

île au Phare

Ruins of a former lighthouse station on the small island off the coast of Mauritius.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one visit the island?

Only possible with an organized boat tour.

What can be seen there?

Historical fortress ruins from the Napoleonic wars.

How to get there?

Boats usually start from Mahébourg.

Is it safe for children?

Conditionally, the terrain is uneven and rocky.

Do we need food supplies?

Yes, there are no shopping options or restaurants there.

Ile de la Passe: where is it located?

Ile de la Passe is located in Mauritius.

Ile de la Passe: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Ile de la Passe: why is it worth visiting?

Ile de la Passe is a small, rocky islet perched on the edge of the coral reef, guarding the only deep-water entrance to the bay of Grand Port.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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