A different island from the lighthouse stop
Île de la Passe is a small islet at the entrance to the Grand Port lagoon, in the bay of Mahébourg. It is not another name for Île aux Aigrettes or for the lighthouse island, Île aux Fouquets. Boat-trip descriptions sometimes group several southeast islands together. Ask for their individual names and whether each is a viewing stop, a landing or simply part of the route.
Look at the landscape as well as the buildings
The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation’s restoration project describes an islet of 2.4 hectares beside the main reef passage, with historic fortifications. Its 2025 account connects the ruins with the Battle of Grand Port in 1810. The location helps explain that history: access through a reef opening and views across the bay were strategically important. Ask your guide to explain the setting as well as the surviving structures.
Heritage and nature share the same space
The Wildlife Foundation documents habitat restoration and work to protect the islet’s native biodiversity alongside its historical remains. Its 2025 education programme brought skippers here to learn about both. Approach the place as a historic site and a sensitive natural setting. Keep to the access instructions you are given, leave structures and vegetation undisturbed and take everything you bring back with you.
Confirm the landing rather than assuming it
An excursion mentioning the island does not guarantee a landing on your chosen date. Ask what the operator proposes, how boarding and disembarking work, and whether the visit depends on conditions or access instructions. Describe mobility needs before booking. Agree the landing arrangements and any charges with the organiser before departure. Follow the route permitted on the day around the historic remains.
Choose a balanced southeast itinerary
A visit can be considered alongside time in Mahébourg, where the bay’s history can be explored from land. Do not try to add every island merely because several appear close on a map: boat routes, landing time and the return journey determine the day. Ask how much time the programme allocates to this island and what happens if a stop is omitted. Keep your transport back from the actual arrival point clear.
Plan your visit
Questions before you go
Is Île de la Passe the same as Île aux Fouquets?
No. They are different islands. Ask a boat operator to identify each proposed stop by name.
Is a landing included in every southeast boat trip?
No. Confirm the exact programme, access arrangements and conditions attached to any landing before booking.
Can I visit it independently by swimming?
Do not plan to swim to an offshore island. Arrange an appropriate authorised outing and follow the local access instructions.