Pointe-a-Pitre
From the sky it looks like a butterfly resting on a blue ocean, its wings edged with multi-colored beaches in the relaxing shade of the palm trees.
Popular cruises
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
A GLIMPSE OF GUADELOUPE- DISEMBARKING GUESTS
A GLIMPSE OF GUADELOUPE
SCENIC DRIVE & WALK TO CARBET WATERFALLS
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Enjoy a rewarding blend of nature, outdoor activity and local cultural insights on this excursion, lasting around three hours and 45 minutes. The itinerary includes a hike out to a viewpoint for the mid-level Carbet waterfall, a 110-metre cascade that s also the best-known of three falls fed by the Grand Carbet River.<-p> From the port it s an approximately 45-minute drive to Capesterre-Belle-Eau, where the Changy Hindu Temple is a tangible reminder of Guadeloupe s Indian and cultural heritage - the temple holds special significance for the island s Tamil community. Spend about 15 minutes taking photos of its colourful façade and tower, decorated with carved Hindu deities, before continuing for around 30 minutes into Guadeloupe National Park.<-p> Hiking out to the second Carbet waterfall lookout - and back again - takes around 90 minutes in total, following a forest trail with steps. From the viewpoint, the cascade drops through thick rainforest on the slopes of the back of La Soufrière volcano, giving a clear sense of the wild setting that makes the Carbet Falls so memorable. The return drive to the port then takes approximately 45 minutes.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>For reasons of safety, direct access to the falls and the pool has been prohibited, by order of the National Park Authorities, since 2004. The tour is not available for guests with mobility problems. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable clothing. Accessing the viewing platform takes approximately 1.6 miles of walking each way and involves walking on uneven terrain and going up-down approx. 400 steps. Guests must be at least 7 years old to participate. It is required that guests wear closed-toe shoes.<-p>
BOTANICAL GARDEN & BEACH
Excursion details<-strong><-p> This showcase of Guadeloupe s natural scenery starts with a roughly 55-minute drive from the port, heading to the northwest coast of the island of Basse-Terre, the main western island of the Guadeloupe archipelago.<-p> Your destination is the Botanical Garden of Deshaies, but before reaching this relaxed locale, there s a quick photo stop at Grand-Anse, a much-loved beach just a few minutes away.<-p> Once in the Garden there s a visit of about 95 minutes a floral oasis spread over five hectares that houses more than 1,000 species. Many of these are split between themed areas, such as `Tropical Asia (featuring lotus, water lilies and a pond with koi carp), `The World of Palm Trees, `The Arid (with succulents including cacti and agave plants) and `The World of Tropical Trees (housing baobab, jacaranda and breadfruit trees).<-p> While at the garden you ll also be able to tuck in to a complimentary traditional-style Creole snack.<-p> Afterwards, a drive of about 15 minutes takes you to Grande Anse Deshaies Beach, a popular beach a short way north of Deshaies. This impressive spot offers golden sands, palms lazily leaning over the beach, greenery-strewn hills as a backdrop and inviting Caribbean waters that are great for swimming. Spend around 75 minutes relaxing and enjoying the setting before a drive of 55 minutes or so returns to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Guests are recommended to wear light clothing, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and flat comfortable shoes and water shoes for the beach. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate.<-p>
GUADELOUPE HIGHLIGHTS
Excursion details<-strong><-p> As an archipelago made up primarily of six inhabited islands, Guadeloupe has much to discover, and you ll experience many of the essential sights and districts on this approximately four-hour excursion.<-p> A drive from the port of about 20 minutes transfers you to the first stop, Fort Fleur d Épé. This mid-18th-century fortification - the largest on Guadeloupe s Grande-Terre island - was built to defend the bay of Pointe-à-Pitre from potential attacks by the English. Nowadays it houses contemporary art exhibitions.<-p> Spend 45 minutes or so exploring the fort and its grounds before a transfer of roughly 15 minutes takes you to Le Gosier s downtown area. There s then a photo stop of around 15 minutes, during which you can admire views across the water to Îlet du Gosier, a small and much-visited islet with white sands, coconut palms and a distinctive red-and-white lighthouse built in 1930.<-p> Grab some pictures and head back to your vehicle for a drive of around 30 minutes to Sainte-Anne, a laid-back coastal town that boasts colourful buildings and scenic beaches. Your destination in Sainte-Anne is Village Artisanal, a craft village and marketplace selling clothes, jewellery, souvenirs and much more. Feel free to browse and buy during 30 minutes or so of free time here, before returning to your vehicle for a drive north of roughly 30 minutes to Morne-à-l Eau.<-p> This quiet town houses a famous cemetery, featuring tombs covered in black-and-white tiles that create a widespread checkered pattern. A stop here of around 15 minutes gives enough time to view this truly striking sight and, if you wish, take photos. Following this, an approximately 40-minute drive returns to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate.<-p>
PANORAMIC TOUR TO THE POINTE DES CHATEAUX
Excursion details<-strong><-p> This excursion of about four hours crosses Grande-Terre towards its rugged eastern edge, where Pointe des Châteaux forms one of Guadeloupe s most striking natural sites. Near Saint-François, wind and sea have shaped the limestone headland into towers and ridges.<-p> Depart from the port in Pointe-à-Pitre for the roughly 40-minute drive to Morne-à-l Eau. The town is best known for its cemetery, where many of the tombs are decorated in black-and-white checkerboard tiles and arranged on a hillside, creating a striking visual effect. There s a chance to take picture from your vehicle on a quick photo stop before the journey continues for approximately 45 minutes to Pointe des Châteaux.<-p> Once at the site, spend about 45 minutes climbing a short path to a 10-metre-tall cross above the rocks for broad views of the formations and - in clear conditions - across the Atlantic to nearby islands such as La Désirade. Please note that access to the cross depends on weather conditions.<-p> Afterwards, a short drive from Pointe des Châteaux leads to a refreshment stop of around 35 minutes. You ll then return to your vehicle for the journey back to the port via the southern coast, taking approximately one hour.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>The path up to Pointe des Châteaux involves going up-down approx. 400 steps. Due to safety considerations, the climb to the cross is subject to weather conditions. The path leading to Pointe des Châteaux is narrow in places and includes steep steps. It can also become muddy and slippery. Guests are recommended to bring a bottle of water on the tour, suitable shoes (no flip flop or sandals). Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. The order of stops may vary.<-p>
BEACH ESCAPE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> During this approximately five-and-a-half-hour excursion, you ll learn to lean into Guadeloupean coastal life by heading to one of the most popular beaches on Basse-Terre, the largest island of the Guadeloupe archipelago. A roughly 50-minute drive from the port gets things started, travelling to Deshaies, home to Grande-Anse Beach.<-p> Stretching along two kilometres of Basse-Terre s northwestern coast, this much-loved beach with golden sands, clusters of coconut palms and uninterrupted sea views has enjoyed plenty of screen time in Death in Paradise, a long-running hit TV series filmed in Guadeloupe.<-p> Your entry point is Karacoli Beach & Spa, a beach club that s perfectly situated for enjoying the best of Grande-Anse. On arrival, you ll be greeted with a welcome cocktail and traditional accras, bite-sized, salted-cod fritters that are a popular appetiser in Guadeloupe and throughout the Caribbean.<-p> You ll then have around four hours to enjoy this special setting. Stroll along the fine-sand beach and take in the sea views, bask in the sun before taking a swim, or simply kick back with a book in the shade.<-p> Once your time on the beach comes to an end, your transfer vehicle will make the drive of 50 minutes or so back to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>It is recommended that guests wear casual clothing with their swimwear underneath, bring a towel, sunscreen, and cash for any additional purchases. Guests must be at least 2 years old to participate.<-p>
DEATH IN PARADISE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Uncover a slice of paradise over the course of this roughly four-hour excursion, which provides insights into both a famous TV show and life in Guadeloupe. The fun begins with a transfer drive from the port of about 50 minutes to Rifflet, a coastal neighbourhood in the far north of the island of Basse-Terre.<-p> Your destination within Rifflet is Plage de la Perle, a popular beach with wide sweeps of golden sand and a backdrop of palms and mountains - no wonder that it s a key location for Death in Paradise, used as the setting for the detective s beach shack that appears in every season of the show (the shack is then dismantled between filming seasons). Spend around 30 minutes at La Perle taking photos and exploring.<-p> Following this is a roughly 15-minute drive south to Deshaies, a laid-back fishing village that features as the town of Honoré in the show. You ll get to know Deshaies during a guided walking tour lasting about 75 minutes, which visits various filming locations around the village, including a local bar, the pier, the church and the Honoré police station, which is actually a small building next to the church, transformed into a museum about the show when filming isn t taking place.<-p> After the tour you ll make the short journey to nearby Grande-Anse, a photogenic beach whose invitingly golden sands have also featured in the show. Here, in a beachside restaurant, you ll have around 20 minutes to enjoy a cocktail and sample some local flavours in the form of accras - small, fried, fritters (traditionally filled with salt cod, although other fillings are also used) that are enjoyed throughout Guadeloupe.<-p> After your scenic snacking and sipping, an approximately 50-minute transfer returns to the port.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. The stop at Grande Anse Beach will not be a swimming stop. This tour involves a considerable amount of walking. Guests may be required to walk on uneven or inclined surfaces.<-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>
THE BEST OF GRANDE-TERRE WITH LUNCH - FULL DAY
Excursion details<-strong><-p> This extensive roam across Guadeloupe s main eastern island covers a lot of bases over six hours or so, beginning with a roughly 30-minute drive from the port to Morne-à-l Eau. This small town has become famous for its striking cemetery, featuring thousands of graves decorated in a distinctive black-and-white check tile pattern, creating a visual spectacle.<-p> See for yourself during a photo stop of about 15 minutes, before driving for 30 minutes or so to reach Pointe de la Grande Vigie, the northernmost point of both Grand-Terre and Guadeloupe. Spend around 30 minutes here, wandering the limestone cliffs (which soar up to 80 metres high at points) and soaking up views over the Atlantic Ocean below - you may also be able to see across to neighbouring islands, depending on conditions.<-p> Then return to your vehicle for a roughly 15-minute drive along the coast to Porte d Enfer (Hell s Gate). Despite the fearsome name, this large, deep blue lagoon hugged by rugged rock formations is actually a peaceful and scenic spot, and you ll have a prime clifftop position to admire it from over 15 minutes or so.<-p> Next, there s approximately 55 minutes set aside for driving to Le Moule and then photographing 19th-century Habitation Zevallos from the bus (the Zevallos House), a Master House whose ironwork came from Gustave Eiffel establishments. The tour continues with a drive of about 30 minutes south to the coastal town of Saint-François.<-p> You ll then enjoy a three-course lunch at a local restaurant over 80 minutes or so before a transfer to Pointe des Châteaux. This limestone peninsula at the far eastern tip of Grand-Terre has a wonderfully wild feel to it and is the place to see some of Guadeloupe s most dramatic coastal landscapes. Take in panoramic views of the ocean crashing into the rocks way down below during a brief stop here - the drive to Pointe des Châteaux and the stop take roughly 20 minutes in total.<-p> Following this, there s an approximately 40-minute drive west, travelling back to the port at Pointe-à-Pitre to conclude the excursion.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>Guests must be at least 7 years old to participate.<-p>
THE SURREAL NATURE OF THE JACQUES COUSTEAU UNDERWATER RESERVE
Families, prepare yourselves for an unforgettable adventure! From Plage de Malendure we get aboard a boat with a transparent bottom: it'll seem like flying on water! On Pigeon Island, in the Jacques Cousteau underwater reserve, the colorful fish and turtles pass in front of us as if they've come out of a cartoon, and those who want to can dive among corals and wonders. Then a walk in Guadeloupe National Park up to the Cascade aux Écrevisses, where the emerald water and jungle will delight young and old alike!
Main stops
- Guadeloupe National Park
- Glass-bottomed boat
- Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve (Pigeon Island)
- Cascade aux Écrevisses
The programme
- We set off by coach from Pointe-à-Pitre towards the Basse-Terre Island to visit the Guadeloupe National Park with its many fascinating settings.
- The tour continues from the amazing Malendure beach, characterised by its black sand to board on a modern glass-bottomed boat.
- Our boat then takes us on to discover Pigeon Island, part of the underwater reserve dedicated to the French director and oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, who used it as a setting for his first documentary film, “The Silent World”.
- We enjoy a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean sea for a close encounter with the many colourful species of fish inhabiting it. Back on board, a typical drinks awaits us before heading back to land.
- Again in Basse-Terre, we go on a stroll through the National Park to the Cascade aux Écrevisses, a true corner of paradise with its emerald green waters and lush greenery.
- At the end of our walk, a short coach ride takes us back to the ship.
- English guides available in limited number, the tour could be guided in French.
- Guests who wish to dive or swim in the water must be in good physical shape and be capable of swimming in deep water.
- Participants will not be provided with diving equipment.
- The road has curves and hairpin bends.
- Wildlife sightings in their natural habitat cannot be guaranteed.
GUADALUPA: THE CARBET WATERFALLS IN THE HEART OF THE RAINFOREST
Dive into the lushest countryside of Basse-Terre and discover one of the most spectacular spots in Guadeloupe. In the heart of the tropical forest, along paths surrounded by greenery and with breathtaking views, the route leads to the stunning Carbet Waterfalls, fed from the slopes of the La Soufrière volcano. An experience that combines nature, history and some of the island's most iconic landscapes.
Main stops
- A hike through the rainforest to the Carbet Waterfalls
- Characteristic Hindu temple
- Stop to sample traditional Creole sweets
The programme
The greenest and wildest part of Guadeloupe is revealed along a route that leads you into the heart of Basse-Terre, with rainforest, waterfalls and volcanic views.The route crosses some of the island's most fascinating areas, and includes a stop at a traditional Hindu temple - testament to the diverse cultures that coexist in Guadeloupe.The real star of the day, however, is the tropical forest. Accompanied by your guide, you'll venture into a verdant environment of enormous ferns, tropical trees and lush vegetation, following the path that leads to the famous Carbet Waterfalls.These spectacular waterfalls, which were mentioned in the accounts of Christopher Columbus, are fed by the water that flows from the slopes of the La Soufrière volcano, the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles. Of the three waterfalls in this complex, we will be heading to the middle one, which is around 95 meters high, as well as being the most accessible and one of the most spectacular.After enjoying some time to admire the scenery and take photographs, we will continue our route, with a stop at a vantage point offering majestic views of the island. The day also includes a tasting of traditional Creole sweets, the perfect way to experience yet another nuance of the local culture.An ideal experience for anyone who wants to discover the most authentic side of Guadeloupe, amidst tropical nature, spectacular views and places that express the island's identity
Good to know- Places are limited, so we advise booking well in advance.
- We recommend wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes.
- Guests are not permitted to go near the waterfalls or swim in them.
GUADELOUPE FROM THE COAST TO THE HINTERLAND
Allow ourselves to be carried away by the beauty of Guadaloupe: a unique opportunity to visit this splendid volcanic island and its thriving vegetation, which is at its best in the gardens of the Domaine de Valombreuse and the National Park.
Main stops
- Domaine de Valombreuse botanical garden
- National Park of Guadeloupe: Cascade aux Écrevisses
- Visit to a rum distillery
The programme
- We leave the port by coach and head to the Domaine de Valombreuse, the largest park in Guadeloupe. Engrossing with its exceptional richness, this botanical garden is considered one of the most beautiful on the island. During the visit, we will be able to sample delicious locally produced fruit juices.
- We will continue our tour passing through the National Park of Guadeloupe, founded in 1989 to protect one of the most beautiful forests of Lesser Antilles as well as numerous animal and plant species which live here.
- We will stop at Crayfish fall, a genuine paradise, with its emerald green waters and the marvellous breeze offered by the thriving vegetation.
- After having passed the magnificent sugar cane plantations, which, in the past, covered almost the entire island and which are still found almost everywhere, before returning, we will visit an authentic Caribbean distillery, t taste one of the best rustic rums of the Caribbean.
- Space is limited, so please book early.
- This tour is sold to guests with flight after 7:15 PM.
- There is limited availability of English speaking guides.
- This tour is reserved to guests disembarking in Guadeloupe.
VISIT TO THE PARC DES MAMELLES : WILD NATURE AROUND EVERY CORNER
We set off from Pointe-à-Pitre and fill up on views along the Route de la Traversée, with a fantastic view of Basse-Terre. At the Parc des Mamelles you meet creatures so strange you'll ask yourself if you've ended up in a National Geographic documentary or a science-fiction film. Walking on suspension bridges among the treetops is a thrilling experience. We end with a bang in front of the Cascade aux Écrevisses, pure natural magic!
Main stops
- Guadeloupe National Park: Parc des Mamelles, rainforest, canopy adventure, Cascade aux Écrevisses (Crayfish Waterfall)
The programme
- From the port of Point-à-Pitre we travel by coach to the Parc des Mamelles (Mammal Park), in the Guadeloupe National Park, with a scenic journey on the Route de la Traversé which goes along the coast of the Island of Basse-Terre.
- Once we reach our destination, we have the opportunity to explore the rainforest and observe the unusual fauna found in the Caribbean and in Latin America. The Parc des Mamelles is an important habitat for many species of animals which for some time have been studied by environmentalists and which we also will find of great interest.
- At the park we also have the opportunity to observe the forest from the tree tops, by crossing the suspended bridges that wind through thecanopy, the highest part of the tropical forest, 15m above the ground. * From here we can enjoy a spectacular view of Pigeon Island.
- As a fitting end to our tour, we take a walk in the heart of this beautiful tropical forest where we also see the Cascade aux Écrevisses ("Crayfish Waterfall").
- We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.
- There is limited availability of English speaking guides.
- Minimum age: 6 years.
- The excursion is not suitable for guests with mobility issues and is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo, due to the presence of suspended Tibetan bridges.
ALL OF POINTE-À-PITRE: BY TUK TUK THROUGH SPICES AND COLONIAL HISTORY
Climb aboard Pointe-à-Pitre's wildest tuk tuk and get ready for a tour that'll make your head spin... and not just because of the fragrances! From the Spice Market, where you'll want to buy everything (or nearly everything), to the lively Place de la Victoire, up to the main church. Then you're off, among the most authentic quarters of the city: Faubourg Vatable, Carénage and Lauricisque. Your driver? A mix between tour guide, entertainer and showman: with him, boredom stays ashore!
Main stops
- Discover the most iconic locations of Pointe-à-Pitre
- Soak up the colonial history which still pervades the streets
- Feel the true pulse of the city in its liveliest neighborhoods
The programme
Jump onto a tuk tuk and get ready - you won't be bored, even for a second! We'll take you to places that everyone should see, but which few really explore. Your driver will accompany you on a discovery of Pointe-à-Pitre, starting with the spice market: an explosion of colors and scents that will leave you wanting to buy everything.From there, we'll take you straight to the historic Place de la Victoire square, and then to the city's main church. You'll find the real beating heart of Pointe-à-Pitre in neighborhoods like Faubourg Vatable, Carénage and Lauricisque, where colonial history meets vibrant culture. Every corner tells an unusual story, and every street will make you feel like a local, even if you've just arrived.Your driver will make sure you're not bored for a second, telling you eyebrow-raising facts and letting you experience the unique atmosphere of a city that isn't easy to discover, but worth every moment.
Good to know- Your tuk tuk driver will be your guide, and will give you information.
ON A CATAMARAN TOWARD THE PROTECTED AND WILD GOSIER ISLET
Waters full of corals and multicolored fish await you. With the sails of your catamaran unfurled, you'll approach the pristine green of Gosier, the protected wild coral islet where you can sunbathe on an untouched beach and swim in pure relaxation. As you get back on board, you'll be able to refresh your palate too, with some tropical fruit and a cool drink.
Main stops
- Catamaran trip from the port of Pointe-A-Pitre to the island of Gosier
- Free time on Gosier island
- Snack with tropical fruit on board
The programme
- Once the sails are hoisted, set sail with a favorable wind from the pier at Amber Cove: you'll see all the blue hues of the Caribbean seabed pass by while on board the catamaran, and there's no shortage of space and comfort, so you can enjoy the show to the full, and take plenty of photos as a souvenir.
- As you make your way ever closer across the sea, the lighthouse of Gosier island will loom ever larger: at 21 meters high, it is the only building on the entire islet. Keep your camera close to capture the bright red glow of its beacon, contrasting with the blue of the sky.
- It's time to step ashore on the coral island of Gosier and dedicate yourself fully to the sun and the sea: long swims in turquoise waters and total relaxation on the sand. The unspoilt, wild greenery provides the backdrop, and has been protected and safeguarded since 2003.
- Once you're back on board the catamaran, a refreshing snack of tropical fruit and fresh juice awaits you - perfect for setting sail again and enjoying another amazing view of the seabed from above.
- Minimum age: 12 years.
- Bring just the essentials with you, not forgetting a backpack with beach towel, hat and sunscreen.
ALL OF GRANDE-TERRE: THE CHARM OF THE EASTERN SIDE OF BUTTERFLY ISLAND
Amid old windmills and the fragrances of St. Anne market, you allow yourself to be guided to the cliffs of Castle Point, where the Atlantic roars in your ears. Then set course for L’Anse à la Gourde: sip your drink with your feet in the emerald water and let the sun draw a smile from you.
Main stops
- St.Anne: local market
- Pointe des Châteaux
- Beach
The programme
- Discover the southern coast of Grande Terre island joining this fabulous tour.
- Along the road to go to Saint-François, see the old windmills ruins reflecting the past of Grande-Terre island as a sugar hub .
- Visit St.Anne local market.
- Then Castle Point Peninsula, a natural site offering dramatic views on the Atlantic Ocean, protected by France’s National Forest Office.
- Before back to the ship, enjoy a refreshment and a swim in the calm emerald waters of one of the numerous coves of L'Anse à la Gourde.
- There is limited availability of guides. The tourcould be guided in French.
- There are no loungers or parasols on the beach.
- This excursion is available both for transit anddisembarking guests. For those who disembark in Guadalupe please make sure your flightleaves after 17:30. We invite you to verify the compatibility with the excursion office.
ALL OF GUADALUPE: FROM TROPICAL GREENERY TO DELICIOUS TASTINGS
Take a seat on the bus and let your guide take you to the green heart of Guadeloupe, at the Jardin de Valombreuse, where the flowers and exotic plants will draw a “wow!” from your lips with every step. After a cool fruit juice, immerse yourself in the National Park and discover the shimmering Cascade aux Écrevisses, home to crayfish. Last stop? A tasting of the famous rhum agricole: the true flavor of the Caribbean!
Main stops
- Jardin de Valombreuse: visit to the botanical garden with local fruit juice tasting
- Sightseeing bus tour through Guadeloupe National Park
- Cascade aux Écrevisses
- Distillery with rum tasting
The programme
- Guadeloupe is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Today, the most unmissable locations in its hinterland are just around the corner.
- You set off with your guide by bus, heading for Jardin de Valombreuse, the botanical garden. It has around 500 species of flowers and plants, from more well-known ones like anthurium, to more exotic heliconias to the rare white porcelain roses.
- After a good local fruit juice, you’re in green as far as the eye can see in the Guadeloupe National Park with more than 22,000 hectares of land and sea.
- As you continue on foot, the flowing water reveals its surprise: the little Cascade aux Écrevisse sparkles like diamonds. It owes its name, “crayfish waterfall”, to the species of red crustaceans that lived there.
- There’s still one gem in store, it’s here that “agricole”, the authentic Caribbean rum has been produced since 1928. Taste it: you’ll never forget its aroma.
- Only bring what you need: a backpack with a hat, a raincoat and a canteen full of water.
