FAQ | World of Seashells

Since when does the Gallery exist?

World of Seashells opened in December 2019 with Africa’s largest seashells collection consisting of more than 8000 shells and 1500 species.
How large is the Gallery?

Our surface area is about 420 m2 comprising 5 visiting zones (Myths & Legends, The Shell Theorem, Coming Out of Your Shell, Eco-Shells and The Shells Collection) and a retail corner.
Is there free WIFI at the Gallery?

Yes. Wireless internet access is free inside the gallery.
Where is the Gallery exactly situated?

We are situated in the vestige of Bel Ombre Sugar Factory at Place du Moulin. Our ‘Hours, Admissions and Directions’ page will direct you to our Gallery.
Are there other attractions to visit nearby?

We are situated in the old Bel Ombre Sugar factory (dated 1870) and you are able to visit ‘Bel Ombre d’Antan’ and learn about the history of sugar industry in Mauritius and particularly in Bel Ombre. You can explore the south through various activities at Bel Ombre Nature Reserve https://www.belombrenaturereserve.com/ You can lean more on glass recycling at Plankton Recycling Co-operative Society Ltd at 5 mins drive from World of Seashells.
Are there any restaurants in the area?

Yes. We highly recommend ‘Lakaz Mama Restaurant’ at Kaz’Alala hosted B&B for tasty Mauritian flavours
Does the Gallery have a parking area?

Yes. Indications will guide you to the parking area of Place du Moulin.
Are there any rules in Mauritius regarding collection of seashells on the public beach?

Yes. To protect our coastal ecosystem, regulations have been put in place since 2006 regarding removal of coral and seashells in Mauritius: No one is allowed to remove seashells in the maritime zone of MRU unless holding a permit. No one is allowed to have seashells in possession for sale unless holding a permit. A person is not allowed to collect more than 10 seashells (dead ones) from a public beach. World of Seashells however does not recommend to remove shells from the beach. More information here
Are we allowed to remove shells from the lagoon?

Yes. Some seashells may be removed from the marine zone of Mauritius mostly for consumption. These are: Betay Bigorneau Bouche d’argent Gono gono Hache d’Arme Mangouak Tek Tek
How could the removal of shells from beaches damage the ecosystem and endanger organism that rely on shells for their survival?

Seashells are an important part of the coastal ecosystem as they help to stabilise beaches. They provide materials for some shorebird’s nest. Seashells are used as a home or attachment surface for algae, seagrass, sponges, and a host of other microorganisms. Fish use them to hide from predators. Hermit crabs use them as a temporary shelter. Most shells are made of calcium carbonate and in many coastal habitats they dissolve slowly and recycle back into the ocean.
Can we buy coral, shells and shell products as souvenirs to bring to other countries?

If you have legally bought a shell, it should be declared at the airport together with the permit given to you by the seller. It cannot be guaranteed whether you will be granted permission or not to bring it to your country as it is recommended that you know the laws of your country before buying the shell. Otherwise, it could be confiscated, or you may have to pay a fine at the customs in your country.
Can I come to your Gallery just to visit the shop? If so, do I have to pay for admission fee?

Yes. Our retail corner is accessible to the public without any entrance fee.
How long will it take to visit the Gallery?

The length of the visit depends on the person and on how passionate you are about shells. We recommend that you plan to spend from 45mins to 1hr.
Is your museum accessible to pram and wheelchair?

The Gallery is on ground floor and easily accessible. Our team will be delighted to assist whenever needed.
Is photography and videography permitted in your Gallery?

Yes. Do not forget to tag us in your selfies and videos on social media.
Do you provide guided visits?

It is a self-guided tour which enables you to discover the Gallery at your own pace. Our Team will introduce you the different visiting zones and will be pleased to assist with any query during your visit.
I would like to arrange a visit for a group of school aged children. How can I do this?

We do propose special rates for groups, associations and schools. You can view details on the entrance fees on our ‘Plan Your Visit’ page and send your request to operations@worldofseashells.mu.
What are the opening hours of the Gallery?

We are opened from 09am to 5pm (last entrance at 4pm) from Monday to Saturday and 09am to 4pm (last entrance at 3pm) on Sundays and public holidays.
How much is admission to your Gallery?

Our public rate is Rs 250 per adult and Rs 125 per child (from 5 to 12yrs old) and free of charge for child below 5yrs old. We provide special rates for residents. Stay tuned on our ‘Entrance Ticket” page for promotions.
Since when does the Gallery exist?

World of Seashells opened in December 2019 with Africa’s largest seashells collection consisting of more than 8000 shells and 1500 species.
From where does your collection comes from?

The collection was acquired from the passionate Mauritian conchyophile Mr. Eric Le Court de Billot. The collection started more than 60 years ago by his family. The shells have been collected from around the world.
Can I purchase shells in your seashells’ Gallery?

Our seashells collection is only for exhibition. You may find an array of souvenirs inspired by shells in our retail corner.
Can I donate or sell my seashells collection to your Gallery?

Our shells have been classified as per WORMS (World Register of Marine Species). All our seashells are documented and registered and our aim is to conserve a 60-year old collection. You may contact us on operations@worldofseashell.mu for any query you may have.