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Martinique is a sprawling island, and it's simply too vast to cover everything in a day. Narrow down your choices (beach day at Pointe du Bout for one visit, a trip to the rainforest and Saint-Pierre on another visit, etc.). Martinique is one of four French overseas territories in the Caribbean. This can make a visit challenging, especially in the quick time of a day's call, but it's also part of what makes this island so intriguing.
The French Port of Call in the Caribbean
In 2019, the port handled 193 ship calls and a total of 285,423 passengers (393,157 pax were received in 2018). Turnaround/homeporting operations (roundtrip itineraries) out of Martinique (Fort-de-France) were offered by 6 cruise shipping companies- AIDA, Costa, MSC, Ponant, Sea Cloud/fleet, and Club Med/fleet. Besides cruise ship tourism, Fort-de-France Port (locode MQFDF) serves most of the country's cargo shipping traffic, including the exports of cacao, rum, sugar, tinned fruits. Martinique is a French territory in the Caribbean, so French is primarily spoken here.
Popular Travel Advice
Here is where you will find fresh produce, spices, rum, crafts, and souvenirs. Budget has an office at 30 Rue Ernest-Desproges, La Faie, Cruise Terminal, Fort-de-France. Although the price list as stated on the sign is a bit contradictory, it is a good indication on what you are most likely to pay when you are planning your own taxi tour. Don’t forget, unless you have arranged with your bank about foreign transaction fees, that it is always cheaper to be charged in foreign currency than to allow the ATM to convert to your home currency. The roads are good here – this is, for all intents and purposes, just like being in France, in Europe.
Fort De France Shore Excursions
Take cash (Euros) in small denominations for purchases and admission fees, and make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For a rum distillery, Habitation Clément is a superbly-run visitor attraction near Le François with a sculpture garden, historic buildings and tastings. This is a good pick if you like to be independent, just take a taxi there and maybe a picnic as there is plenty to see. Among the organised group shore excursions within four hours, the stand-out is one that travels north along the inland Route de Trace to St-Pierre then returns via the coast to Fort-de-France. The Pointe Simon pier is now the most used dock in the center of town.
Find Cruises to Martinique's Fort de France Port
Martinique Opens 2023-24 Cruise Season with Seabourn Pursuit - Cruise Industry News
Martinique Opens 2023-24 Cruise Season with Seabourn Pursuit.
Posted: Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
The island historically has averaged three to four inches a rain per month during the best times to visit—February through April. Rainfall starts to climb in May and reaches a high point of as much as 10 inches a month from August through November. If taking an excursion trip, be sure to find out the amount of travel time versus the amount of time on the beach.
For a taste of history, visit the church of Sainte-Anne, Église Sainte-Anne. This charming church, dating back to the 18th century, features a blend of colonial and local architectural styles. Step inside to admire the beautiful interior and experience a moment of peace and reflection.
Serene and Authentic... Anses d'Arlet
It doesn’t have the same high level of ship visits such as Nassau, Grand Cayman, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and others. Pointe du Bout is 30 minutes south of the city, and Anse DuFour is 45 minutes away. A few operators offer visits to Les Anses d’Arlet beach, which is about 40 minutes away, for about $75 to $100. Tours of the entire island will cost about $75 to $100 per person including transportation and depending on the length of the tour.
Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Saint-Pierre, which have been preserved as a historical site. Take a guided tour through the ruins to learn about the city’s history and the impact of the volcanic eruption. Visit the Musée Vulcanologique, which houses artifacts and displays that chronicle the events leading up to the eruption. If you’re interested in exploring the underwater world even further, consider taking a boat trip from Les Anses d’Arlet to nearby Diamond Rock. This unique rock formation, rising dramatically from the sea, is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. Marvel at the marine life that call the rock home, including colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe even some turtles.
Prior to the eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902, Saint-Pierre was the cultural and economic capital of Martinique. It was a bustling city with theaters, luxury shops, and a vibrant social scene. However, the volcanic eruption completely destroyed the city, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives. As you're in the EU, there's no roaming charges on your phone so feel free to make some calls, pay bills and maybe book your next cruise.
At some distilleries, you can also explore museum exhibits that provide historical context and showcase the tools and equipment used in traditional rum production. Learn about the importance of sugarcane cultivation, the role of the distillery in the local economy, and the impact of rum on Martinique’s cultural identity. For those seeking adventure, various water sports are available at Les Salines Beach. Rent a paddleboard or a kayak and explore the coastline at your own pace, or try your hand at windsurfing as you catch the gentle breezes. As one of the most popular beaches in Martinique, Les Salines attracts both locals and visitors seeking a tranquil escape.
Spend an afternoon at Rhum Clement, where you’ll learn about the history of rum in the Caribbean dating back to the 17th century. You’ll discover the differences between French and Spanish-styles rums and how the area’s sugar cane affects the rum’s flavor. You can also lounge on the beach, rent water sports equipment and try fly boarding. Be sure to say hello to owner and chef Guy Ferdinand, a beloved local character affectionately known as "Chef Hot Pants." Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or natural exploration, Martinique offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
A one-way ticket (you must buy before you get on the tram and validate your ticket once you get on) costs 1 Euro 45 cents. You can buy from ticket machines at the tram stops or from authorized sellers (see signs outside stores that sell these tickets). We’ve marked on the Fort-de-France map where the tram stops outside the cruise terminal are.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters, or try your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing. The beach is also known for its snorkeling opportunities, so don’t forget to bring your gear and discover the vibrant underwater world. After immersing yourself in history, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and soak up the captivating views of the Caribbean Sea. Indulge in some local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor the flavors of Creole dishes and fresh seafood. For those seeking a culinary adventure, indulge in the local seafood dishes that Les Anses d’Arlet is famous for. From grilled fish to savory lobster, the restaurants in the village offer a wide range of delectable options.
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