Cruise port Pointe des Galets
Info for port Pointe des Galets on 28 Mar 2028
Port information & tips for Pointe des Galets
Pointe des Galets is the spectacular gateway to the French volcanic island of La Réunion and a shining jewel in the Indian Ocean. The surrounding area impresses with dramatic mountain ranges, emerald-green rainforests, and a fascinating cultural diversity, while offering ideal access to untouched nature. Nearby highlights include the colorful market of Saint-Paul, the crystal-clear lagoon of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, and the majestic Le Maïdo viewpoint. Cruise ships dock at the Grand Port Maritime de La Réunion, which provides a first-class arrival thanks to its modern infrastructure. From this central pier, travelers can easily reach the nearby city center of Le Port by shuttle and also explore the charming capital, Saint-Denis.
The port of Pointe des Galets serves as an important gateway to the stunning island of La Réunion in the Indian Ocean. Although the terminal itself is located in an industrial area and offers no pedestrian connection to the surroundings, it is perfectly connected to the attractive coastal towns and the capital thanks to efficient transfers and shuttles. Cruise ships dock here directly at a modern and functional terminal.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is primarily by plane, as La Réunion is a French overseas region. The nearest international airport is Roland Garros Airport (RUN) near Saint-Denis, about 29 kilometers or approximately 30 minutes by car from the port. Air France and Air Austral offer regular connections, often with a layover in Paris. Due to the long flight time, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation to start your cruise experience in a relaxed manner.
Transfer & Shuttle
Taxis are available from Roland Garros Airport (RUN) to take you directly to the port or a pre-booked hotel. In addition, cruise lines often offer organized transfers. Mandatory free buses run from the terminal in Pointe des Galets to the port exit. From there, you can use local buses from the Car Jaune network to reach surrounding cities such as Saint-Denis, with line T connecting the airport and the west coast.
Rental Car
To explore the diverse nature and culture of La Réunion on your own, a rental car is an excellent choice. Rental car companies can be found directly at Roland Garros Airport (RUN) and sometimes also at the cruise terminal. Thanks to the well-developed national roads such as the N1, which connects Saint-Denis with Saint-Pierre and passes through Le Port, you can easily reach the island's spectacular volcanic landscapes, green Cirques, and beautiful beaches. Please note potential traffic on the coastal roads and plan sufficient travel time.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
In port on 28 Mar 2028
