Beyond the stunning white-sand beaches, a cruise around Martinique offers a rich blend of culture, history, and nature. This Caribbean island is an irresistible choice for both leisure-seekers and adventurers alike. With an average annual temperature of 26°C, Martinique is an ideal destination for a boating holiday in both summer and winter, and it’s one of the top winter destinations for French holidaymakers looking to rent a boat. Don’t wait—charter a sailboat in Martinique today!

Sailing Conditions in Martinique

Overall, you’ll enjoy pleasant and smooth sailing during your holiday in Martinique. However, the trade winds, or Alizés, can reach Force 5 to 7, which is why we recommend an itinerary along the sheltered leeward coast. Here, the landscape offers protection and provides beautiful anchorages.

The best time for boat rentals in Martinique is from December to April, during the dry season. Renting a catamaran is a smart choice, as it offers comfort, stability, and plenty of living space. If you’re not confident about navigating on your own, you can hire a professional skipper to guide your journey based on the weather conditions, ensuring both safety and smooth sailing.

7-Day Sailing Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Le Marin

After your nine-hour flight, you’ll land at Fort-de-France Airport. Le Marin Marina is less than an hour’s taxi ride away, or you can take one of the bus routes to get there. Check in, settle onto your yacht or catamaran, and store your belongings. Before setting sail, take some time to explore Le Marin’s shops, restaurants, and bars to kick off your cruise.

Day 2: Le Marin – Grande Anse d’Arlet 

17 nautical miles, around 3.5 hours

Your first day of sailing takes you along the coast towards Les Anses d’Arlet. Be sure to take in the view of Diamond Rock, an iconic symbol of Martinique. Then, set a course for Grande Anse, where you’ll find crystal-clear waters and a fine sandy beach. This beautiful bay, just over three hours away, is home to vibrant marine life, including fish and turtles.

Day 3: Grande Anse d’Arlet – Fort-de-France – Saint-Pierre 

16 nautical miles, around 3 hours 15 mins

On your third day, we recommend a stop in Fort-de-France to wander through its large market, where you’ll find a variety of Creole spices, rum, and fresh produce. If you’ve stocked up on provisions, consider visiting the Balata Botanical Garden instead. Traveling with kids? Try the treetop adventure trail!

Continue your voyage to Saint-Pierre Bay, home to several shipwrecks perfect for diving and snorkeling, as well as a notable statue you can view underwater. Onshore, learn more about the 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée, a major historical event in Martinique.

For those who prefer staying on land, a visit to a local rum distillery is a must—it’s an essential part of Martinique’s cultural heritage.

Day 4: Saint-Pierre – Anse Couleuvre 

8 nautical miles, around 4 hours

Your fourth day features a stop at a grey-sand beach framed by impressive cliffs and lush tropical rainforest. This area is great for snorkeling, with a diverse array of fish. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy a waterfall, roughly an hour’s walk from the anchorage.

Day 5: Anse Couleuvre – Anse Dufour 

17 nautical miles, around 3.5 hours

Relax on a white-sand beach by traditional fishermen’s huts. For a change of scenery, head to Anse Noire, a black-sand beach nearby. No matter where you go, the views are breathtaking, and you’re likely to swim alongside turtles!

Day 6: Anse Dufour – Les Salines – Saint-Anne

 6 nautical miles, around 1 hour 15 mins

As your holiday nears its end, enjoy a swim and relax on the expansive white-sand beach of Les Salines, lined with leaning coconut trees. After soaking in the sun, make a short journey of just three miles to Saint-Anne, a charming, traditional village with colorful shops—perfect for picking up some final souvenirs from local vendors.

Day 7: Return to Le Marin 

3 nautical miles, around 45 mins

Your Martinique cruise comes to an end as you sail back to Le Marin. Once you’re safely back at the marina, remember to top up water and fuel supplies and check out with your boat’s owner or the marina manager.

If you loved exploring the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, why not consider our itinerary in Guadeloupe next?