Fort de France
Exclusive tropical forest surrounded by numerous picturesque bays. Don’t miss the Salines beach and its colorful fish.
Popular cruises
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
FOLKLORIC MARTINIQUE & RUM DISTILLERY TOUR
For an authentic taste of Martinique, step off the ship, board a coach and travel through the rainforest to one of the island s rum distilleries. On the way, a stop will be made at Balata Church, an exact miniature replica of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paris that affords a view of Fort-de-France and the bay. After driving through the rain forest road, A visit to the Depaz rum distillery will not only give you a chance to learn a little about the process of making rum, but also let you sample the special rhum agricole, which is distilled only in Martinique and is made using freshly squeezed sugarcane juice rather than the conventional molasses. A 10-minute drive from the distillery will take you St. Pierre, the former cultural capital of Martinique that was tragically destroyed in a major outbreak of Mount Pelée in 1902. The modern-day town of St. Pierre is France s 101st "City of Art and History". After visiting the Ruins of the theatre and the new museum of St Pierre (memorial), your return trip to Fort-de-France will take you through Le Carbet, the spot where Columbus landed in 1502 and the town that inspired Gauguin to paint some of his most beguiling canvases. Also, on the itinerary are Bellefontaine and its famous boat-shaped house as well as Schoelcher, a seaside resort that was named after a 19th-century French abolitionist writer. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate.
Please note: The tour itinerary may be reversed. As this tour involves travelling along winding roads, it may be unsuitable for guests who are susceptible to motion sickness. Shooting videos and taking photos are not permitted inside the St Pierre Volcano Museum. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. <-p> <-p>
PROTECTOURS: HIKING & PEACE OF MIND
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Stretch your legs and soak up the sights of Martinique s countryside on this hiking excursion of about three hours. Begin with an approximately 25-minute drive from the port to the Fontaine Didier hiking trail, where you ll receive a short briefing on the hiking route before setting off.<-p> The trail measures almost two and a half kilometres and takes around two hours to complete. Along the way you ll encounter a variety of tropical scenery that showcases Martinique s nature-rich lands, including thick forests, blankets of greenery, wild vegetation and several waterfalls. Make sure you have a camera to hand, as there are plenty of worthwhile views to capture.<-p> Alongside the array of plant life on your route, you may also spot some of the area s wildlife, although please note that wildlife sightings can t be guaranteed. During the walk you ll also be given some water to keep refreshed.<-p> The hike ends near Absalon before back to the pier a quick photo stop at Le Sacré Coeur , a functioning church that s also a scaled-down replica of Paris s famous Basilique du Sacré-C¿ur in the city s Montmartre district. Admire the delicate design of this handsome building and grab some photos during a short stop before the roughly 20-minute drive back to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Guests must be in good physical health and at least 10 years of age to take part. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult (parent-legal guardian) throughout the tour and be under their supervision at all times. Guests are required to wear closed-toe sports or mountain shoes suitable for hiking. All participating guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. Guests will walk approximately 1.6 miles on uneven terrain during this tour.<-p>
BOTANICAL GARDEN & ITS SUSPENSION BRIDGE
After a short drive from the port, enjoy an approximately one-hour visit of Fort de France downtown. Your guide will provide some information and fun facts before you then enjoy some free time to discover on your own the capital of Martinique including its local market and shops. Then continue by bus and head to visit a replica of the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre. Next, your tour will take you to the stunning Botanical Garden where you can walk under the trees and discover a multitude of tropical plants and flowers. Take a moment to cross the Garden s Suspension Bridge where you will find exceptional views you will want to immortalize in photos. Guests must be at least 7 years old to participate.
Please note: Participants of this tour must be physically fit and able to walk about 1.5 miles. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable closed shoes. The tour itinerary may be reversed. This tour involves winding roads, which may be unsuitable for those who suffer with vertigo and car sickness. Walking on the suspension bridge is not available for pregnant guests, and is unsuitable for those guest who suffer from vertigo. The minimum age for the suspension bridge 7 years old. This tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 4pm. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code MAR21T if you will be in transit in Fort de France or code MAR21D if you will be disembarking in Fort de France. In the event that minimum number of guests required for the tour to operate is not met, guests traveling in transit and those disembarking may travel on the same bus. The order of drop-off will be determined by local traffic conditions and tour itinerary. If necessary, a stop at the airport may be made prior to returning the transit guests back to the pier.<-p> <-p>
BOTANICAL GARDEN & ITS SUSPENSION BRIDGE
After a short drive from the port, enjoy an approximately one-hour visit of Fort de France downtown. Your guide will provide some information and fun facts before you then enjoy some free time to discover on your own the capital of Martinique including its local market and shops. Then continue by bus and head to visit a replica of the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre. Next, your tour will take you to the stunning Botanical Garden where you can walk under the trees and discover a multitude of tropical plants and flowers. Take a moment to cross the Garden s Suspension Bridge where you will find exceptional views you will want to immortalize in photos. Guests must be at least 7 years old to participate.
Please note: Participants of this tour must be physically fit and able to walk about 1.5 miles. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable closed shoes. The tour itinerary may be reversed. This tour involves winding roads, which may be unsuitable for those who suffer with vertigo and car sickness. Walking on the suspension bridge is not available for pregnant guests, and is unsuitable for those guest who suffer from vertigo. The minimum age for the suspension bridge 7 years old. This tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 4pm. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code MAR21T if you will be in transit in Fort de France or code MAR21D if you will be disembarking in Fort de France. In the event that minimum number of guests required for the tour to operate is not met, guests traveling in transit and those disembarking may travel on the same bus. The order of drop-off will be determined by local traffic conditions and tour itinerary. If necessary, a stop at the airport may be made prior to returning the transit guests back to the pier.<-p> <-p>
HISTORICAL CLEMENT PLANTATION - DISEMBARKING GUESTS
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Agricultural heritage, elaborate gardens and local produce combine on this excursion of about three hours, which lets you experience the varied offerings at a historic home. Begin with a roughly 30-minute drive from the port to Habitation Clément, an estate on a former sugarcane plantation that began producing rum in the early 20th century.<-p> During your visit of around 105 minutes, you ll explore the main house - a 17th-century Creole mansion set in the sugarcane fields - and learn about the history of the wider 16-hectare Habitation Clément, named after the family that acquired the estate in 1887.<-p> The estate is also home to an arts centre devoted to Caribbean talent. The Clément Foundation is housed in an eye-catching contemporary structure featuring exhibition spaces and a library.<-p> Delve into the world of rum production with a visit to the old distillery, where you can learn more about the ageing and distillation process and sample some Clément rums for yourself.<-p> For a change of scenery, there s also the chance to stroll through the estate s gardens. Boasting more than 300 tropical plants, the grounds are also home to a sculpture garden and an open-air museum displaying works from the Clément Foundation.<-p> After your visit concludes, return to your vehicle for a transfer to either the airport or back to the cruise port, depending on your schedule.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>This tour involves winding roads which may not be suitable for those who suffer from vertigo or car- sickness. Participants must be in good health and correctly dressed. This tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 5pm. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code MAR22T if you will be in transit in Fort de France or code MAR22D if you will be disembarking in Fort de France. In the event that minimum number of guests required for the tour to operate is not met, guests traveling in transit and those disembarking may travel on the same bus. The order of drop-off will be determined by local traffic conditions and tour itinerary. If necessary, a stop at the airport may be made prior to returning the transit guests back to the pier.<-p>
HISTORICAL CLEMENT PLANTATION
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Agricultural heritage, elaborate gardens and local produce combine on this excursion of about three hours, which lets you experience the varied offerings at a historic home. Begin with a roughly 30-minute drive from the port to Habitation Clément, an estate on a former sugarcane plantation that began producing rum in the early 20th century.<-p> During your visit of around 105 minutes, you ll explore the main house - a 17th-century Creole mansion set in the sugarcane fields - and learn about the history of the wider 16-hectare Habitation Clément, named after the family that acquired the estate in 1887.<-p> The estate is also home to an arts centre devoted to Caribbean talent. The Clément Foundation is housed in an eye-catching contemporary structure featuring exhibition spaces and a library.<-p> Delve into the world of rum production with a visit to the old distillery, where you can learn more about the ageing and distillation process and sample some Clément rums for yourself.<-p> For a change of scenery, there s also the chance to stroll through the estate s gardens. Boasting more than 300 tropical plants, the grounds are also home to a sculpture garden and an open-air museum displaying works from the Clément Foundation.<-p> After your visit concludes, return to your vehicle for a transfer to either the airport or back to the cruise port, depending on your schedule.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>This tour involves winding roads which may not be suitable for those who suffer from vertigo or car- sickness. Participants must be in good health and correctly dressed. This tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 5pm. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code MAR22T if you will be in transit in Fort de France or code MAR22D if you will be disembarking in Fort de France. In the event that minimum number of guests required for the tour to operate is not met, guests traveling in transit and those disembarking may travel on the same bus. The order of drop-off will be determined by local traffic conditions and tour itinerary. If necessary, a stop at the airport may be made prior to returning the transit guests back to the pier.<-p>
TRANSFER TO POINTE MARIN BEACH
Depart Fort-de-France via the main road for an approximately 1-hour drive to the South of Martinique, passing close by the economical heart of the Island. You will drive through Marin village, before arriving at Pointe Marin Beach. Enjoy approximately 3 hours of swimming and relaxing on the beach. Your return to the ship will be via the Atlantic Coast Road, where you can spot landscapes, banana plantations, valleys, and the sea.
Please note: This tour involves driving on winding roads, which may be unsuitable for those who suffer from carsickness or vertigo. It is recommended that guests wear a swimsuit under their clothes and bring a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a towel. Beach chairs and umbrellas are not included in the price of this tour and may be available to rent onsite for an additional cost. <-p> <-p>
BALATA GARDEN AND CLEMENT DISTILLERY
Depart the pier and head East, passing Lamentin town, one of the largest of the Island and where the main economic, industrial, and trading activities take place. You will arrive at the well-maintained Clement Plantation. Start your visit at the botanical garden, which has 16 acres of ponds, a park, and a tropical orchard. With your guide, learn about the history of the industrial past by visiting the old distillery on site, an exhibition of machine manufacturing of rum. Enjoy a rum tasting before departing. On the way to your next site, you will have a photo stop on the road facing the Lamentin Bay, and you may even spot your awaiting ship. Pass by a banana plantation before your next visit to the Church of Balata. Explore the Balata Garden with its array of plants and flowers before heading back to the ship.
Please note: There are many steps in the garden and at the Clement plantation. This tour is not available for guests who have difficulty walking. Guests must wear closed toe shoes, flip flops are not permitted, and casual clothes. <-p> <-p>
VAN WITH DRIVER AND GUIDE - 4 HOURS
Please Note: Vehicle, driver, guide and gasoline included. The price does not include any entrance fees or meals and is per vehicle and not per passenger. If you want to set a customized itinerary and add entrance tickets to any of the tourist attractions, please contact your shorex excursion staff on the ship. Once on board, you can book all kinds of private services, please make a request directly with Shorex Office.<-p>
Explorer package Philpsb SMT65 Ponta Delga PTD05 Hambu HAM01T
Explorer package Point GUA11 Cast SLU32 Brid BRB17
PANORAMIC TOUR & BANANA FIELDS BY TRAM
Please note: Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. The maximum weight for this tour is 90 kg, and maximum height is 2 m. Guests are required to wear close toe shoes. Flip flops or sandals are not permitted. <-p>
A STROLL THROUGH FORT-DE-FRANCE
Please note: Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. Guests are recommended to wear casual clothes, closed shoes, a cap or hat, and sunglasses. Due to the walking distance, guest must be in good physical condition and able to walk narrow streets with uneven ground.<-p>
Explorer package Phili SMT65 Ponta PTD03 Lis LIS49
Explorer package Philips SMT65 Tenerife TEN02 Palma PMI01
THE WHOLE OF MARTINIQUE: WHERE THE ART OF RUM AND TROPICAL NATURE MEET
Martinique enchants your taste buds and your eyes in one fell swoop! It starts with the legendary Clément plantation, where rum is a religion and tasting is a sacred ritual. And to finish, a green dive into the Botanical Garden: hidden trails, rainforest and tropical flowers that seem like they're painted. Here paradise has a thousand flavors… and an aftertaste of rum.
Main stops
- Clément Plantation: manor house, the garden and systems of the old rum distillery, tasting session
- Garden with tropical plants
The programme
- We will depart from the port of Fort-de-France and head east passing close by to the city of Le Lamentin, one of the largest on the island and the main economic, industrial and commercial headquarters as well as being the home of the international airport of Martinique.
- We will take a panoramic road within the island to arrive at the historic Clément plantation, a genuine architectural and industrial heritage site on the island of Martinique. The Maison Clément is one of the main run producers on Martinique and is famous for its aged rums.
- Here, we will visit the manor house, exceptionally well preserved and decorated with ancient furniture, where the French President, Mitterand and the US President, G. W. Bush met in 1991.
- We will also visit a part of the garden, where we can see sugar cane up-close and the systems of the former rum distillery, which is no longer operational. In 2005, the former distillery was set up as a Rum Information Centre, where owing to a high walkway which passes over the two sections of the distillery, visitors can discover the machinery needed to make cultivated rum. After the visit, we will enjoy run tasting.
- However the most special surprise which awaits us on our tour, is the garden of Balata, a botanical park within the rainforest, which includes pathways which wind around trees and tropical flowers, and which features over one thousand plant species.
- We return to the port at the end of the visit.
Please note: English guides available in limited number, the tour could be guided in French. Space is limited, so please book early. Guests are advised to wear suitable clothing for entrance into holy places.
THE WHOLE OF MARTINIQUE: FROM THE SECRETS OF RUM MAKING TO CHARMING SAINT-PIERRE (Creole lunch included)
Discover the explosive character of Martinique, exploring the origins of its iconic flavors and its history. With your guide, you can learn the steps involved in making "agricole" rum in the island's oldest distillery, while in Saint-Pierre, you can wander through the ruins that are all that remains after an enormous eruption. And don't miss out on the powerful flavors of Creole dishes: we've arranged a local lunch in a typical restaurant just for you!
Main stops
- City of Sainte-Marie: visit to the St. James distillery and museum
- Village of Le Lorrain: photo stop
- Morne Rouge: Creole lunch in a typical restaurant
- Saint-Pierre: visit to the ancient ruins of the city
The programme
- What makes the native spirit of Martinique one of the most characteristic of the Lesser Antilles?
- You'll begin to discover it in Sainte-Marie, on a visit to the historic distillery of St. James with your guide. Here, you'll learn all about how the island's most popular rum is made: from "vesou", the purest sugarcane juice, to the refining process that takes place in traditional "Creole columns".
- It will all become clear as you wander through the museum: from carvings to mills and agricultural machinery, the liquor of the Caribbean will hold no more secrets for you. Not even its origins, which are linked to a religious alchemist from 1765.
- Then, it's off to Morne Rouge, where a lunch break in a typical restaurant is a celebration of Creole flavors and music. And of course, rum is an essential ingredient! Here, it's a daily ritual.
- Then, the change of scene is moving: wander through the ruins of Saint-Pierre, the former capital that was destroyed by the fiery La Pelée volcano in 1902. And keep an eye out for the remains of an old barracks: part of the cell of the sole survivor is still standing!
- Wear comfortable shoes and take sunscreen with you to protect yourself during the hottest hours of the day.
- The land experience is reserved for guests not embarking at Martinique. • For an even more immersive experience, all proposed dishes feature local or international cuisine.
Explorer package Pointe-a-Pitre GUA11 Bridgetown BRB17 Saint George GRE14
Explorer package Pointe-a-Pitre GUA11 Philipsburg SMT57 Basseterre STT15
Explorer package Pointe-a-Pitre GUA11 Castries SLU32 Bridgetown BRB17
SCENIC SOUTH COAST & SEASIDE RELAXATION
Excursion Details:<-strong><-p> Your journey begins with an approximately 1-hour drive along the island s southern coastline to the Ti Sable restaurant at Grande Anse. Upon arrival, a reserved sunbed and a refreshing welcome cocktail await, setting the tone for approximately 2 hours of beachfront relaxation. Soak up the sun, enjoy the tropical atmosphere, or purchase a meal featuring local specialties and authentic Caribbean flavors at the waterfront restaurant.<-p> Following your beach escape, enjoy a short 15-minute drive to Anses d Arlet, one of Martinique s most beloved seaside villages. Spend about 20 minutes exploring this destination, famous for its charming waterfront church, fishing village ambiance, and turquoise waters. Stroll along the waterfront, capture photos, and experience the authentic Caribbean charm that has made Anses d Arlet one of the island s most photographed locations.<-p> The adventure continues with a 20-minute drive to Cap 110, where you ll spend approximately 10 minutes discovering this powerful seaside memorial honoring the victims of slavery. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offering breathtaking views of Diamond Rock and the coastline of Le Diamant, this moving landmark blends history, culture, and natural beauty.<-p> After taking in the scenery and learning about the site s historical significance, relax during the approximately 55-minute return drive to the ship.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Food is not included in the price of this tour, however, can be purchased while at Grand Anse. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Swimming at the beach is not supervised. Guests are advised to bring sun protection, towel, a swimsuit, change of clothes, and a camera. The order of stops visited may vary.<-p>
MARTINIQUE: BANANA AND RUM PLANTATIONS
Two symbols, one island and a real longing to taste! It starts with the Belfort plantation, where a little train takes us on a trip among lush banana trees and yellow-themed delights. Then it's straight to the Clément plantation, the kingdom of rum: tropical gardens, period distilleries and the unmistakable aroma of sugarcane that becomes golden nectar. The grand final? Tasting to make you smile... and not just because of the company!
Main stops
- Le Lamentin
- Belfort banana plantations and tasting of typical products
- Le François: Clément plantation, botanical garden, tropical forest, rum distillery and barrels, colonial estate
- Rum tasting
The programme
- We leave the port of Fort-de-France and head east in the direction of Le Lamentin, one of the biggest cities of the island and the main commercial, industrial and shopping centre. It is also the location of Martinique International Airport.
- When we arrive at the Belfort Banana Plantation, we go for a tour of the plantation on board a tourist miniature train to learn all about the most important product of Martinique, stopping in the heart of the plantation to be able to watch the whole process closely, from irrigation to the harvest.
- At the end of the visit we can taste some typical products that are obtained from bananas, such as the famous fruit petals.
- We then head for Le François driving along the island's panoramic inland roads, to visit Clément Plantation, a significant example of the architectural and industrial heritage of the island of Martinique, where the Presidents of France and the United States, Bush and Mitterand, met in 1991.
- Our tour starts with the wonderful botanical garden, a 16 acre park surrounded by a tropical forest, with lakes and impressive trees, where there are more than 300 botanical species.
- Accompanied by our guide, we learn something about the industrial past of this place when we go to the old distillery, where the original equipment once used for the production of rum is now on display. Martinique's rum boasts controlled designation of origin similar to that of wine and liquors, the only designation for rum in the entire world.
- Walking around the plantation house, a typical example of Creole architecture, and its annexes, we learn something about domestic life on the plantation. Enveloped in the smell of wood and rum, we see the pyramids of barrels where rum is slowly aged.
- At the end of the excursion, there is a rum tasting session where we can appreciate all the characteristics of this typical Caribbean liqueur.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- There is limited availability of English speaking guides.
THE WHOLE OF MARTINIQUE: FROM THE SECRETS OF RUM MAKING TO CHARMING SAINT-PIERRE
We start from Fort-de-France to discover the most chic rum of the Caribbean: production, secrets and a grand tasting for the brave. It ends at Saint-Pierre, the “Paris of the Caribbean” before the wild volcano. On the way back, fishing villages and tales to tell. Background noise? Just the wind… and a few laughs! This is Martinique, with all its character and a touch of Caribbean magic.
Main stops
- Rum distillery and tasting
- Saint-Pierre
- Fishing villages
The programme
- We will set off from Fort-de-France heading north to discover the marvels of the island.
- Our tour continues along the road of the rainforest, where we will get to a rum distillery, where the production process will be explained. Martinique's rum boasts controlled designation of origin similar to that of wine and liquors, and is the only classified rum in the entire world. The distillery also provides a tasting session which will allow us to taste this exceptional product.
- We will continue to the port of Saint-Pierre, a city founded in 1635 by the French pirate, Pierre Belain d'Esnambuc and which served as the economic and cultural capital until 1902 when it was destroyed by the tragic eruption of nearby Mount Pelée. Before the disaster, it had 30,000 inhabitants, and with the elegance of its roads and its prosperity, was known as the "Paris of the Caribbean".
- On our return journey to the ship, along the western coastline, we will be able to glimpse many small fishing villages along the coast.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- There is limited availability of English speaking guides.
BY ECO-CART AMID THE ARCHITECTURE, NATURE AND FLAVORS OF FORT-DE-FRANCE
Jump aboard a super-green electric buggy and discover Fort-de-France like never before, with zero stress and with an extra gear. Architecture, nature and local culture come together in an explosive mix. And of course, there'll also be rum and shopping, because who said you can't do everything in a single tour?
Main stops
- Explore the best of Fort-de-France in an environmentally-friendly way
- Discover the authentic flavors of local culture
The programme
Hop onto the electric buggy and get ready to discover Fort-de-France with a dash of style. Once on board, we'll take you on a guided tour of the wonders of the city.What about stops? Of course! You can stop and take photos of all the history that surrounds you: from the Schoelcher Library to the Cathedral of Saint-Louis, via the "Camille Darsières" cultural center and the theater dedicated to Aimé Césaire.And then, there's the typical products and the local rum, naturally: sip a little and shop for goodies in the covered market. Take home a piece of Martinique…and a few stories to tell your friends!
Good to know- Your buggy driver will be your guide, and will give you information.
BY KAYAK IN THE SECRET HEART OF THE MANGROVES
From your kayak, you can glide through the natural channels of Martinique's mangroves, immersed in a green maze where water, plant life and wildlife coexist in perfect harmony. An experience that offers a unique perspective on the island, topped off by a spot of relaxation on Anse Mitan beach.
Main stops
- A kayaking trip through one of the Caribbean's most fascinating ecosystems
- A natural maze of mangroves, tropical wildlife and surprising moments of silence
- Relaxation by the sea at Anse Mitan with refreshments
The programme
After a brief introductory briefing, climb into your kayak and set off on an experience that takes you to the heart of one of Martinique's most fascinating environments: the mangrove forest.As you paddle your way through natural channels and protected stretches of water, you enter a world suspended between land and sea. The mangrove roots emerge from the water, creating an almost surreal landscape, while vegetation forms a natural canopy over your route. Everything seems to slow down here.Accompanied by your guide, discover the essential role played by this ecosystem, which serves as a refuge and a breeding ground for various species of tropical aquatic fauna. Every stretch of your route reveals details that often go unnoticed by those looking at the coast from dry land.The calm waters make this experience accessible even to those venturing out for the first time in a kayak, allowing them to focus on the landscapes and the feeling of being in one of the island's most authentic and surprising places.Once the trip is over, the pace changes once again. A stop on Anse Mitan beach gives you plenty of time to relax, enjoy some refreshment and if the sea conditions allow, take a swim in the Caribbean waters.An experience designed for those who want to go beyond the beaches and discover a more hidden, wild and surprising side of Martinique.
Good to know- Only bring what you need: a swimming costume, a backpack with beach towel, a hat, suncream and a bottle of water.
- To go on the excursion, guests must be able to swim and be physically fit.
- Minimum age: 12 years.
- Maximum weight 90 kg
IMMERSED INTO THE TROPICAL FOREST, TOWARD THE ABSALON WATERFALLS
Put on your hiking shoes and go to discover Martinique at its wildest! From Fort-de-France you come to Fontaine Didier, where your immersion in the tropical forest begins. Pass through dense, welcoming vegetation: headed for the small town of Absalon. Surrounded by mahogany trees, ferns, balisier flowers and birds singing at the top of their voices, you are enveloped in greenery. Refresh yourself at the falls near Absalon, perfect for a pause right next to a stream. Here nature isn't the background... it's the star of the show!
Main stops
- Fontaine Didier
- Absalon Village
- Tropical forest with different plant species
- Absalon Cascade
The programme
- We leave the port of Fort de France, the administrative capital of Martinique, behind us and proceed by minivan to Fontaine Didier, the starting point of our walk.
- We walk towards the village of Absalon embraced by an aura of peace in thetropical forest, where we have the opportunity to listen to the birds singing and admire the different species of plants, including mahogany, ferns, balisier flowers and other tropical flowers.
- During the excursion we are overwhelmed by the luscious vegetation and the small cascades located close to Absalon, where our excursion ends and where we can have a little rest near a small stream.
- At the end of the excursion, our minivan takes us back to the port.
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- Minimum age: 10 years.
- The excursion is challenging and includes long stretches on foot for a total time of approximately 2 hours, so participants must be in good physical shape.
- You must wear long or short trousers and closed shoes.
- This excursion does not include a guide.
FROM BAY TO BAY IN GRAND ANSE, LOOKING FOR SEA TURTLES
Jump aboard a power catamaran and cross Fort-de-France Bay, amid incredible views and stories to discover. Then set course for Ramier island and the Bat Cave, then straight to Grande Anse. Keep your eyes wide open—if luck is on your side, you might spot sea turtles from the boat. Then choose how to spend your free time on the beach. When you return there are tasty local foods to sample, rum punch and Caribbean music... with salt on your skin and a smile that will accompany you back to the ship.
Main stops
- Fort de France Bay
- Ramier Island, Bat Cave
- Cape Salmon
- Grande Anse Beach and sighting of sea turtles
The programme
- We leave on board a motor catamaran that is equipped for underwater vision and we sail across Fort-de-France Bay, which is rated as one of the main biodiversity centres, to learn more about its history.
- Once we have quickly crossed the bay we continue our cruise along the coast up to Ramier Island and the Bat Cave where we have the opportunity to observe many examples of marine and land biodiversity.
- We then sail past Cape Salmon to reach Grande Anse beach, a peaceful Caribbean bay in the south of Martinique that is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. Here we split into two groups: one group goes directly to the beach, while the other group stays on board to watch sea turtles, and afterwards we swap places.
- In this way we achieve two objectives, the first one being to encounter sea turtles (a species that is now growing in numbers thanks to drastic protection measures that have been adopted) and the second to relax on the beach and swim.
- On our return journey, we can even taste some local sweets, fruit juices and rum punch accompanied by Caribbean music!
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- This tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from sea sickness and those who have mobility problems.
- Minimum age: 4 years; minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult, particularly in the water.
- For safety and convenience, dependent on sea conditions, the beach may change upon the decision of the boat captain.
- The beach is a public beach; there are no loungers or parasols.
- The excursion is reserved for guests who do not disembark at Martinique.
- The turtle sightings are very likely but not guaranteed.
AMID FLOWERS AND ANIMALS: THE WONDERS OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN AND THE ZOO
Ready for a day that will please young and old alike? In the Botanical Garden among the ruins of the old Anse Latouche plantation curious little monkeys, poised pumas and chattering lorikeets await you. Amid giant flowers and volcanic legends, we'll walk and make furry (or feathered!) new friends. Then, on the way back, Saint Pierre, “the Paris of the Caribbean”, and the church of Balata, with a view that will take your breath away… as well as all the space in your phone's memory!
Main stops
- The Botanical Garden
- The Martinique Zoo
- Balata Church
The programme
- Heading west via the Caribbean Coast, you will pass along little fishing villages before your arrival to this unique Botanical garden created among the ruins of one of if not the oldest plantation in the island “Habitation Anse Latouche totally destroyed on may 8th, 1902 by the volcano eruption.
- In the enchanting setting, you can now discover the Martinique Zoo! Monkeys, jaguars, pumas, lorikeets, great anteater, raccoons ... and hundreds of others already present today or planned inhabit these places for your viewing pleasure. In the midst of the ruins of the house renovated Latouche, dated of 1643 that visitors can walk through a didactic trail to discover the animals and why not interact with them.
- The remains of the house Latouche, nestled in the valley reflect the economic activity of yesteryear in Martinique and its rich heritage. During your visit you will discover the main house and its charming colonial style, the old equipment workshops cassava, indigo, and of course sugar and rum.
- On your return way you will pass via St Pierre the most famous place in Martinique, Saint Pierre, even if it is for tragic reasons. Before the eruption it was the cultural and economic capital called “the Paris of the Caribbean”. The town had been destroyed by a volcano eruption in 1902 killing 30 000 persons except a prisoner “CYPARIS”. Your travel will continue through the rain forest to Balata Church, an exact replica of the Basilica of MONTMARTRE in Paris, but with a spectacular view of Fort de France and the bay.
- Space islimited, so please book early.
MARTINIQUE: SNORKELING BETWEEN BAT CAVE AND ANSE DUFOUR
Discover the most spectacular side of Martinique's coast, with an experience dedicated to snorkeling and nature. From the crystal-clear waters of Anse Dufour and the seabed of Bat Cave teeming with life, you'll swim amongst tropical fish, Caribbean landscapes and views that will leave you speechless. All accompanied by the island's relaxed and authentic atmosphere.
Main stops
- Two snorkeling stops amongst tropical seabeds and crystal-clear waters
- Anse Dufour and Bat Cave, two of the most beautiful places along the coast
- A boat trip in Fort-de-France Bay with a Caribbean atmosphere
The programme
Martinique boasts some of the most enchanting marine landscapes in the Caribbean, and this experience allows you to discover them up close by diving into its most spectacular waters.The cruise begins in Fort-de-France Bay, with its green coastline and the views that accompany the boat to the first stop of the day. Along the way, you can relax whilst admiring the scenery and savoring the island's authentic atmosphere.Then, you'll arrive at Anse Dufour, a picturesque fishing village looking out over one of Martinique's most beautiful beaches. Here, you can slip on your snorkeling gear and get into the water to take a closer look at the Caribbean seabed, with its tropical fish, crystal-clear waters and surprising colors.The second stop takes you to the famous Bat Cave, where another snorkeling session allows you to explore an environment teeming with marine life. Guided by the crew, you can observe a host of tropical species up close and let yourself be amazed by the nuances and colors that make this seabed so special.On the way back to the ship, the pace relaxes again. A refreshing drink accompanies the final part of the boat trip, while Caribbean music tops off an experience that combines the sea, nature and the pleasure of enjoying Martinique from a different perspective.
Good to know- Only bring what you need: a swimming costume, a backpack with beach towel, a hat, suncream and a bottle of water.
- The excursion does not include a guide.
- Places are limited, so we advise booking well in advance.
- The excursion does not include a guide.
- To go on the excursion, guests must be able to swim and be physically fit.
- Minimum age for snorkeling: 6 years; children must be accompanied by an adult.
- The boat will come as close to the beach as possible, but participants may still need to dive into water between 1 and 3 meters deep and swim to reach it.
- The beach is free to use; sun loungers and parasols are not included.
- This excursion is reserved for guests not disembarking in Martinique.