Explore Flat Island In Mauritius

The History Of Flat Island

The island became famous during the British era. The British used it as a quarantine station in 1816. During that period, Smallpox and Dysentery were rampant among slaves coming from Madagascar by ship. A few decades later, the British government officially made the island a quarantine station in 1857. After slavery was abolished, Indian indentured laborers worked in our economy. Unfortunately, hundreds had Smallpox, Cholera, Malaria, etc. The island experienced several epidemic outbreaks throughout the years, beginning in 1816 with Smallpox and Dysentery, followed by Cholera outbreaks in 1819, 1854, 1856, and Malaria, until the 20th century.

Due to the quarantine station, the island has experienced few infrastructure developments. Among the examples are a medical warehouse, a distilling house, a colonial house, a hospital, indentured labor camps, a cemetery, and so on. Few historical ruins have remained today, even they have not been protected properly like it should be by the authorities.

Moreover, in 1855, a lighthouse was built to warn sea sailors of the dangers of crashing against the island. The lighthouse is still active today. For more information regarding lighthouses in Mauritius, see here.

Due to the number of victims who died from epidemics, the island had a cemetery on the coast. It is believed that more than 100 bodies were buried in it. Today, the cemetery has been abandoned and only a few tombs are visible. We are unsure if all have died in those epidemics. Among them, is Joseph Henri Mélotte, born in 1892 and died from the Spanish flu. He was buried on Flat Island in 1919. He was a nurse.

Unfortunately, we have lost several ruins, and a few of them are forgotten in the thick bushes somewhere. There were few archaeological researches which have been carried out, and from them, we know some historical facts associated with the slaves, indentured laborers, etc.

So, how do I get to Flat Island? It is very simple! Firstly, sign up to the booking page, select Sharing – Full Day Northern Isles Catamaran Cruise or if you want a private journey, select Private Full Day Northern Isles Catamaran Cruise, read the trip details, input your date and number of people, and you are done. You will receive your trip details via email. The shared trip to Flat Island takes around 8 hours as it includes other destinations. If you plan to visit only Flat island in a private trip, the duration will be different.

On trip day! It is important that you arrive at Grand-Bay beach, next to Sunset Boulevard, by 07:45am. The crew will validate your booking details. You will have to remove your shoes before boarding. They will be disposed of in a basket by the crew. A small boat will transport you from the beach to the vessel.

Relax, it is enjoyment time! While onboard, the crew will introduce themselves to the passengers. You will receive a warm welcome. You will be guided and briefed on how to behave on the deck. Not only that, but you will also be briefed on the safety measures in place, what you can do and what you should not do, etc. Once onboard, you will have a light breakfast, which includes coffee, tea, and snacks. During your trip, it is advisable to be cautious onboard, particularly on the trampoline.

How long is the trip? Flat Island is 1.5 hours away. The catamaran will sail from Gunner’s Quoin. From this region to Flat Island, the sea is rough sometimes. So, expect some up and down movements. Rough sea conditions can make you seasick, vomiting. You will already be instructed by the crew about what to do if you feel motion sickness earlier. The rough sea lasts for a couple of kilometers, then you will be fine once you reach Flat Island.

The Flat Island Journey! The crew will brief you again before disembarking to Flat Island. In addition to 1.5 hours of free time on Flat Island, they will provide you with information about lunch and other things. A small boat will take you to Flat Island. During these 1.5 hours, you can choose one or two things to do on the list above. If you are considering a hike to the lighthouse, make sure you have your shoes. Be on the beach before the crew comes to fetch you for lunch. You can hike to the lighthouse and back in 1.5 hours if you are physically active. You can also visit a few historical ruins, or have a walk on the coast, but it is sufficient for swimming and snorkeling. Then, the crew will take you back to the catamaran for lunch.

What do you get for lunch? A large variety of foods and drinks are offered for lunch. Be sure to inform the crew beforehand if you are a vegetarian. Lunch includes macaroni, grilled chicken, marinated sausages, grilled fish, salads, sauces, and others. Alcoholic drinks such as rum and beer are served. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, they will have the choice of water, soft drinks and juice or soda. Please do not hesitate to ask for food or drinks at any time.

What happens next? For the Northern Islands shared package, the crew will bring you to Gabriel Islet. This is optional. After that, you will continue to visit Gunner’s Quoin, and you can snorkel if you are a proficient swimmer. Then, they return to the mainland. During your return trip, you will be served some fruits and drinks. At around 16.30pm, the catamaran will be at Grand-Baie.