Mauritius Closes Exceptional 2023/24 Cruise Season

The yearly cruise season, which concluded last weekend, has been deemed exceptional by the reception and operating agencies involved in welcoming passengers on cruise ships docking at Mauritius.

Typically, the season ends in late March or early April, but this year it was extended until mid-May, according to Laura Hitié, General Manager of Summertimes, a local agency that specializes in cruise tourism.

The season’s success can be attributed to the inauguration of the new cruise terminal and the tensions in the Mediterranean, which led to a modification of usual cruise routes and benefited Mauritius.

“We have been working with several major cruise companies, including Royal Caribbean Cruises and Virgin Voyages,” said Hitié. “This has helped us to attract a wider range of passengers and increase our capacity.”

Summertimes, a leading local reception agency, has reported a remarkable performance for the season, with over 15,000 cruise passengers handled.

The agency’s latest clients included the Serenade of the Seas, a 293-meter-long ship owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises, which made its maiden call to Mauritius.

The Serenade of the Seas, which can accommodate 2,490 passengers and 890 crew members, initially planned to stay for only one day but ended up staying for the entire weekend.

This was a significant milestone for Mauritius, as it marked the first time that the country had welcomed a ship from Royal Caribbean Cruises.

The agency’s success can be attributed to its high-quality service and premium offerings, which meet the strict standards imposed by cruise companies.

“We are proud to have positioned Mauritius as a quality stopover for cruises and are now well-established on global cruise routes,” said Ritesh Gaya, Commercial Director of Summertimes.

Summertimes has been working with various international cruise companies, including Royal Caribbean Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.

The agency has developed a strong reputation for its ability to cater to diverse passenger groups and provide tailored experiences.

The agency’s client base is comprised of a mix of nationalities, including Americans, Australians, British, and Germans. “We understand that cruise passengers have different expectations and preferences than traditional tourists,” said Hitié.

“We strive to provide unique experiences that cater to their interests and preferences.”

For the next season, Summertimes is expecting to handle an even larger number of cruise ships, with over 15 vessels planned to dock in Mauritius.

The agency is confident that it will continue to maintain its reputation as a premier reception agency in the region.

Source: Le Mauricien