Plan a CruiseToamasina Cruise Port Guide
Toamasina, formerly known as Tamatave, is Madagascar's largest port city, home to approximately 70,000 residents. Cruise ships dock directly at the port, which is located about one mile from the town center. The city retains a "shabby elegance" from its colonial past, offering a bustling atmosphere with various bars and restaurants catering to sailors and visitors. While most significant attractions are found outside the city, the vibrant local market provides a rich cultural experience within Toamasina itself. Important Note: Walking from the port to the town center is not recommended. For your safety, avoid carrying large sums of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, as petty thievery is common in this busy port area.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon disembarking, you will find taxis and pousse-pousse (rickshaws) available for hire only at the port's main gate. Walking to the town center from the dock is not advisable due to the one-mile distance and safety concerns. Pousse-pousse are a common and enjoyable local mode of transport, perfect for a short tour or reaching specific points in town. Be prepared to bargain with the driver to agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Attractions and Activities
Toamasina's main attractions are generally found outside the city, but within town, you can enjoy:
- Pousse-Pousse Town Tour: Experience local life firsthand with a "get-acquainted" tour via pousse-pousse (rickshaw). This offers a fun and authentic way to explore the streets and observe daily activities. Remember to negotiate your fare in advance.
- Local Market Exploration: Immerse yourself in the colorful local market, a hub of activity where vendors display a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and spices like vanilla, cloves, and black pepper. You can also find good quality, locally made straw goods here.
- Hotel Pools: While Toamasina does have beaches, swimming is discouraged due to frequent shark sightings. A safer and more recommended option for a swim is to visit the pool at one of the local hotels.
Dining & Shopping
For shopping, the vibrant local market is a must-visit. Here you can find a diverse selection of local produce, fresh seafood, and a variety of spices, including vanilla, black pepper, and locally cultivated cloves, which are a major export to India. The market also offers quality handcrafted straw articles, which make for great souvenirs. Additionally, a few shops can be found along Boulevard Joffre, Toamasina's main street. The town center provides a selection of bars and restaurants.
Safety
It is important to exercise caution while in Toamasina. Walking from the port to the town center is not recommended. Thievery is common in this busy port town, so avoid carrying significant amounts of cash or wearing valuable jewelry.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Ariary. Historically, it was linked to the Malagasy franc (e.g., 50,000 francs equaled 10,000 Ariary). One Ariary is currently worth about half a U.S. cent. Credit card acceptance can be limited, so carrying some local currency is advisable. The official languages are Malagasy, French, and English. Malagasy, an Austronesian language, is spoken across the entire island, with the Merina dialect being the official standard. French is the second official language, used in government and business, though most Malagasy people have limited proficiency. English became an official language in 2007 but is spoken by very few. Attempts by foreigners to speak Malagasy are generally appreciated and encouraged.