Take a cruise around the islands of Guadeloupe

Why not explore Guadeloupe from its waters? The original idea we present to you through this travel diary is a cruise.

Located in the Lesser Antilles, the islands of Guadeloupe are an annual winter destination of choice for metropolises in search of warmth and exoticism. Why not explore it from its waters this year? A boat trip in Guadeloupe is the original idea that we propose to you in this article.

On a second trip to Guadeloupe, I had the opportunity to explore all the beauty of the coastline. Traveling by catamaran for 8 days is a first for me. Without any particular expectations, I loved finally tasting the coastal views over the navigators and miles. This slow ride was a real disconnect. Narrative !

Why explore Guadeloupe on a cruise?

Slow travel is becoming more and more popular with travelers who prefer slowness and originality. So chill where it’s easy to breathe the sea spray sitting in the shade of a coconut tree, Belle Guadeloupe lends itself perfectly to this new breed of exploration. The cruise, then, is the advantage of a two-stage journey. Moments on board that turn into real brackets and allow you to take time for yourself and just observe. Then come the moments when onshore activities and visits are offered.

Port of Les Saintes in Guadeloupe
Port des Saintes at sunset © Hellolaroux

8 days under sail in Guadeloupe

The journey begins at the marina of Pointe-à-Pitre. This is where we found the houseboat, crew and fellow passengers during the week. The comfortable catamaran can carry 12 people, all divided into 5 cabins. The signs are taken quickly, we scramble the smallest corners of the boat to finally have our small but very beautiful cabin. A small but well-equipped area in the Caribbean Sea that will be our cocoon for the next seven nights.

From Marie-Galante to Les Saintes. From the Cousteau Reserve to Ilet au Gosier, with a stop on another Caribbean island, Dominica, this journey of exotic colors will seduce us. This week has been relaxing, exotic and full of surprises, with an extremely clear view of La Soufrière, the roof of the island, and very calm navigation.

Cruise on a boat in Guadeloupe
En navigation © Hellolaroux

When is the best time to charter a boat?
If, like Amélie, you want to experience a cruise in the Caribbean archipelago, we recommend choosing the months from December to April. Indeed, during this period, you will take advantage of the best weather conditions to navigate in complete peace of mind. Also, don’t forget to book your boat in advance! Platforms like Filovent offer a large catalog of boats (with or without a captain) to organize your event. Catamaran cruise in Guadeloupe : Then it remains only to make your choice…

Marie-Galante’s charm

The hundred mill islands, which will be the first stage of our sailing trip this week. Looking for authenticity and a cool attitude, this is the place to come to Guadeloupe. In addition to seeing magnificent natural areas such as Gueule Grand Gouffre and Feuillière beach, Marie-Galante is an essential stopover for exploring the old sugar fields. Covered with reed fields as far as the eye can see, the island is famous for its agricultural rum today: the rum of the Bellevue Distillery. This is also where you can taste the famous “caca-boeuf”. We let you discover these very typical pastries for yourself.

Diving in Cousteau reserve

After a one-day break on the island of Dominica, which is located between Guadeloupe and Martinique, we set sail again. 77 miles await us to reach Malendure beach. Cousteau reserve. Protected and managed by the Guadeloupe National Park, this marine area is an essential snorkeling stopover. We will also have the chance to swim with two shy turtles and numerous Caribbean fish.

sunset on the boat
Sunset Maledure © Hellolaroux

Maledure is a small family beach enjoyed by travelers and locals alike. And don’t miss the hot springs of Bouillante, very close to the Cousteau reserve.

Saintes archipelago

The next and last big stage of this trip in Guadeloupe: the Saintes archipelago. This magnificent rosary will be part of the top 3 of the most coves in the world (after Rio de Janeiro and Ha Long in Vietnam). Don’t forget to climb Fort Napoleon during your visit to Les Saintes. Perched on a hill and with panoramic views of the entire archipelago, you will definitely take the most beautiful photos here. However, be sure to opt for his visit as soon as possible. Finally, the island of Terre-de-Haut gets crowded very easily; From Bourg shops to Pombierre beach.

Bay of Saintes in Guadeloupe
Baie des Saintes from Fort Napoleon ©Hellolaroux

benefits of cruise

Traveling by catamaran is also the opportunity to reach places that not everyone can see. This is the state of the majestic Pain de Sucre beach. The sea route, which is difficult to reach on foot, remains the best option for exploration. The small beach surrounded by a mysterious basalt dome is the second incredible snorkeling spot we can recommend. The waters are translucent and offer optimal diving conditions.

Boat Trip in Guadeloupe - Ilet du Gosier
Ilet du Gosier seen from the sky © Hellolaroux

End of this trip in Guadeloupe

After a night docking at the islet in Cabris, we set sail again to reach the island in Gosier. The cruise, which will end here after an 8-day sea voyage, is a trip that allows you to both appreciate all the marine riches of the archipelago and evaluate 100% of the cruise time for yourself. Have a nice trip to Guadeloupe!

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