Discover the enchanting islands of Guadeloupe on a unique sailing adventure through this tropical paradise. Ideal for a boat holiday, this itinerary offers you a taste of Guadeloupe’s rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and idyllic beaches. From lush forests to coral reefs, each stop on this route promises unforgettable experiences. Feel free to follow this suggested route or use it as inspiration to design your own adventure across the Caribbean.
Guadeloupe’s main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, form a butterfly-shaped paradise anchored by the bustling port of Pointe-à-Pitre. With excellent facilities and easy access to the open sea, Pointe-à-Pitre makes a perfect starting point for your journey. Here, you can rent a boat and stock up on essentials for a seamless journey.
Must-Visit Highlights
- Les Saintes: Discover secluded beaches like Plage du Pain de Sucre.
- Marie-Galante: Taste the island’s renowned rum and explore sugar cane fields.
- Petite Terre: Dive into vibrant marine life amidst pristine waters.
Day 1: Embark at Pointe-à-Pitre
Welcome to Pointe-à-Pitre! Dive into the heart of Guadeloupe by exploring the local markets at Darse and Saint-Antoine. Colourful stalls filled with spices, exotic fruits, and handmade crafts provide a perfect taste of island life. If you’re eager to set sail right away, head to the nearby islet of Gosier. This idyllic spot offers beautiful beaches and a lively reef teeming with fish – a picture-perfect start to your journey.
Day 2: Pointe-à-Pitre to Les Saintes Archipelago
20 nautical miles, approx. 4 hours
Day 3: Les Saintes to Marie-Galante
20 nautical miles, approx. 4 hours
Your third day takes you to Marie-Galante, an island known for its sugar cane fields and exceptional rum. Arrive via Grand-Bourg, where you’ll find excellent mooring options, or anchor at nearby Saint Louis if you prefer a quieter setting. Don’t miss a trip to “Gueule Grand Gouffre” – a natural arch carved by the sea, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Day 4: Marie-Galante to Petite Terre
25 nautical miles, approx. 5 hours
Sail to Petite Terre, a protected nature reserve and a true paradise for wildlife lovers. Here, you’ll encounter turtles, small sharks, rays, and a colourful array of fish within crystal-clear waters. As a designated nature reserve, please respect the local environment to help preserve this precious ecosystem. After a day of snorkelling and exploration, continue your voyage towards La Désirade.
Day 5: Petite Terre to La Désirade
7 nautical miles, approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
Today’s journey is a short hop to La Désirade, a tranquil haven just seven nautical miles away. Known for its peaceful, untouched landscapes, La Désirade offers a break from the more bustling islands. Wander along its serene coastline, explore on foot, or rent a scooter to navigate the island’s small but scenic terrain. Enjoy a meal at one of the island’s few restaurants before unwinding for the night.
Day 6: La Désirade to Saint-François
13 nautical miles, approx. 2.5 hours
Your final leg takes you to Saint-François, a lively town that balances traditional Caribbean charm with modern comforts. From its quaint fishing port with wooden houses to the vibrant marina lined with restaurants and boutique shops, Saint-François is the perfect spot to cap off your journey. Enjoy an evening of entertainment along the marina or choose to sail back to Pointe-à-Pitre in the early hours, concluding your adventure with memories to last a lifetime.
This is just one of many thrilling routes to explore in the Caribbean. If this itinerary has inspired you, head over to our website for more routes and boat rental options to customise your dream Guadeloupe adventure.
