Port Victoria, Seychelles

Port Overview

Port Victoria is located on the northeastern coast of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles, and serves as the country’s principal and only deep-water port. Though small in size compared to major global ports, it is the main maritime gateway for Seychelles, handling nearly all imports, exports, and transshipment activities. Strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean, Port Victoria is vital for regional trade, fisheries, and tourism. Its annual container throughput is modest, with a capacity of approximately 50,000 to 60,000 TEU, reflecting its role as a key but small-scale regional hub.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Port Victoria’s main facility is Mahe Quay, offering a 370-meter berth for containerized, dry, and breakbulk cargo, as well as fishing, tanker, and cruise vessels. The port is equipped with mobile cranes for cargo handling, bunker and water points, and ISPS-compliant security. Expansion projects are underway to increase quay and yard space. The port does not currently use AGVs but focuses on efficient manual and mechanized cargo operations.

Container Terminals

Port Victoria’s container terminal at Mahe Quay has a total berth length of 370 meters, with 5 main berths. The terminal currently handles around 140,000 TEU annually, with planned expansion to 218,000 TEU. Automation is limited, relying mainly on mobile harbor cranes and a port management system rather than full automation. The Seychelles Ports Authority operates the terminal, with no major private operators currently managing container operations.

Port Services

• Container handling: Facilities for loading and unloading containerized cargo.
• Cargo operations: General cargo handling, including bulk, breakbulk, and transshipment activities.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, bunkering (fuel supply), provisions, water supply, limited ship repairs, garbage disposal.
• Warehousing: Storage facilities for various cargo types, including bonded and general warehouses.
• Customs: On-site customs clearance and inspection for import and export cargo.

Global Connectivity

Port Victoria, Seychelles is strategically connected to regional ports across the Indian Ocean and serves as the main maritime gateway for the archipelago. It handles shipping routes linking Asia, Europe, and North America, facilitating trade with major global markets. The port supports regular container, fishing, and cruise vessel traffic, and its ongoing expansion aims to enhance connectivity, efficiency, and sustainability for international and regional shipping operations.

Port Statistics

Port Victoria, Seychelles – Key Statistics

• TEU Throughput: Approximately 85,000–140,000 TEUs annually
• World Ranking: 606th globally by port connectivity
• Number of Berths: Main quay with 3–4 berths
• Port Area: Small; Mahé Quay is the principal facility
• Shipping Lines: Served by Maersk, CMA CGM, Safmarine, and regional carriers

Port Victoria is the Seychelles’ primary gateway, handling regional and international container traffic, with connections to Asia, Europe, and Africa.