Martinique Cruising Itinerary

One of Martinique’s most beloved beachside towns, Grand Anse d’Arlet offers an array of activities and attractions for travelers of all ages. Pick a spot and kick back on the half-mile strip of golden sand where the protected clear-blue waters provide an idyllic location for swimming. A handful of hotels and restaurants line the coast and there’s a local art gallery about a half-mile into town, but ultimately the beach reigns supreme in Grand Anse’ d’Arlet.

As the largest city in the French Antilles and the centrally-located capital of Martinique, Fort de France can be conveniently accessed from almost anywhere on the island. Filled with rich history and 19th century architecture, Fort de France has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike, including a full-range of shops, dining experiences, and sights to explore. Stroll the iconic vegetable market established in 1901, tour the luminous Saint-Louis Cathedral, visit the grand Fort Saint-Louis, or wander through one of the local museums. 

Enjoy a short northbound cruise to St. Pierre, where you can visit the iconic volcano site of the former “Paris of the Caribbean” and learn about its unique history at the affiliated museum. There is also a guided train tour available in St. Pierre, which highlights the significance of this once-named cultural capital of Martinique, prior to the volcanic eruption. And for the animal lovers in your crew, plan a visit to the Saint-Pierre zoo.

Sitting pretty on the northernmost part of west coast Martinique is Anse du Ceron. Sink your toes into one of the island’s most popular beaches, where you can indulge in picture-perfect peace and quiet while sunbathing on the soft sand, swimming, or snorkeling in the serene Caribbean waters. Surrounding the gentle sloping crescent of Anse du Ceron, you can sometimes encounter northern swells large enough for surfing. The adventure-seekers in your group can swim out to Ilet la Perle, or Pearl Island, and jump off the rugged rock formations.

Pointe du Bout is a petite man-made beach that is home to a number of marinas and resorts. There are picnic tables, umbrellas, lounge chairs, concession stands, and public restrooms available on the beach, which is also lined with an assortment of shops and charming restaurants. Just about a mile and a half away, the town of Trois Ilets is the place to be when the sun goes down. Visit Casino Trois-Ilets and challenge yourself with classic games like roulette, stud poker and craps. Designed in the style of New Orleans’ famed French Quarter, the Casino offers everything from live music to dancing, refined cuisine and more. Pointe du Bout is a busy port so make your way to Anse Noire in the evening and drop anchor for the night in this lovely harbor located on the southwest end of Martinique. 

A popular access point into the island of Martinique, Sainte-Anne is a bustling community of postcard-worthy beaches and a bounty of things to do during a yacht charter vacation. Cruise to the nearby anchorage and take the dinghy to La Pointe Marin, a breathtaking blue-water beach with dozens of bars, restaurants and shops nearby. Snorkel and swim among the vibrant reefs near the shore, or venture inland and explore the small-town streets lined with painted wooden houses and one-of-a-kind shops.

Head back to The Moorings base at La Marina du Marin, which is not far from Saint-Anne, so you can enjoy one last leisurely breakfast on board. Depending on your travel plans, you may wish to extend your Martinique vacation by spending some additional time in Le Marin soaking up the local French-Caribbean culture.