Pointe Des Galets, Reunion

The island's most famous attraction is the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active and accessible volcanoes. Reaching the viewpoint requires a lengthy shore excursion, often taking a full day with a 2-3 hour drive each way, but the lunar-like landscapes are breathtaking.

A visit to the Cirque de Salazie, a lush, green caldera, is another must-do. This area is known for its dramatic scenery and numerous waterfalls, including the famous Voile de la Mariée (Bride's Veil). A tour here offers a stunning look at the island's verdant interior.

For a more relaxed day, head to the western beaches like L'Hermitage or Saint-Gilles. The lagoon at L’Hermitage-les-Bains is protected by a coral reef, offering safe and warm waters for snorkeling and swimming amongst colorful fish.

A popular day trip is to Saint-Denis, the island's capital, located about a 30-minute drive from the port. Here you can explore beautiful Creole architecture, visit the lively Grand Marché for souvenirs, and stroll through the serene Jardin de l'État botanical garden.

For a coastal escape, the resort town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is also about a 30-minute drive south. It's famed for its beautiful white-sand beaches and a calm lagoon protected by a coral reef, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

A little further south is L'Hermitage-les-Bains, offering another pristine stretch of beach and crystal-clear waters ideal for families and water activities.

Cruise ships dock at Pointe des Galets, the main commercial and industrial port of Réunion. It is located within the town of Le Port, but it is not a tourist area and is several kilometers from any attractions or city centers.

The port facility itself has minimal to no passenger amenities. Walking out of the port is not permitted or practical due to its industrial nature. Therefore, transportation is required to go anywhere.

Cruise lines typically provide shuttle buses to nearby cities like the capital, Saint-Denis (approximately 25 km away), or the beach resort area of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains (approximately 20 km away). Taxis and pre-booked tours are also waiting outside the port gates. Ships dock directly, so tendering is not used.

The official currency used in Réunion is the Euro (EUR), as it is an overseas department of France. US dollars are not widely accepted, so it is essential to have Euros for purchases, especially at smaller shops and local markets.

ATMs are readily available in all major towns, including Saint-Denis and Saint-Gilles, and are the easiest way to get local currency.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but carrying some cash for small expenses is recommended.

Réunion is generally a very safe destination with a low crime rate, comparable to mainland France. Tourists can feel comfortable exploring the main towns and attractions independently.

Standard precautions should be taken against petty crime, such as pickpocketing in crowded markets or on public transport. Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches or visible in rental cars.

When enjoying nature, be aware of your surroundings. For hiking in the mountains, check the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly. Only swim at beaches with lifeguards and heed all warnings regarding sharks, especially outside the protected lagoons on the west coast.

Réunion has a tropical climate, with a hot, rainy summer from November to April and a cooler, drier winter from May to October. Most cruises visit during the summer months.

During this peak season, expect coastal temperatures to range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with high humidity. Brief but heavy afternoon rain showers are common, so packing a light rain jacket is wise.

The highlands are significantly cooler, so bring layers if you plan an hiking excursion to the volcanoes or cirques. The cyclone season coincides with the hot season, and while direct hits are uncommon, storms in the region can bring windy and wet weather.

Transportation is essential to explore Réunion from the industrial port of Pointe des Galets. Taxis are available outside the port area, but they can be expensive; it is best to negotiate a fare for a day tour in advance.

For independent travelers, the 'Car Jaune' bus network connects the island's main towns and is a very affordable option, though it can be time-consuming.

Many cruise passengers opt for pre-booked shore excursions or private tours for convenience. Renting a car is another popular choice for those comfortable driving on winding mountain roads, providing the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace.

The best shopping can be found in the capital, Saint-Denis, particularly along the Rue du Maréchal Leclerc and in the Grand Marché (Big Market), which is ideal for souvenirs. The resort town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains also offers a variety of chic boutiques and beachwear shops.

Look for local specialties like 'rhum arrangé' (infused rum), high-quality vanilla, spices, and exotic fruit jams. Handcrafted items made from wood or woven from local fibers also make for unique souvenirs.

Prices in stores are fixed, but you may be able to engage in some light-hearted bargaining with vendors at the open-air markets. There is a large shopping center, Grand Port, near the port area for more conventional shopping.