Martinique

The Caribs called it the "Island of Flowers". In the North and center is an island of forest and waterfalls. In the South much of the land has been planted in sugar cane, pineapples, or bananas.

The Capital Fort de France is very cosmopolitan and is a fun place to shop. Martinique has a lot of nice anchorages where you will enjoy delicious French cuisine served in their local restaurant.

If you decide to sail around the island or take a few days before/after your charter, do not miss the fascinating city of St. Pierre located at the foot of the 4,583 foot-high volcano called Mount Pelee. In 1902, the volcano exploded and destroyed St. Pierre, which was then called "Paris of the West Indies". The pleasant small town from where your sailing vacation will begin is Le Marin. It has a vast and deep bay surrounded by hills and mangroves.

Sample Itinerary : 8 Days/ 7 Nights   Day 1:After a chart briefing and boat inventory check-out, we suggest a short sail to St. Anne, a pretty little town with a good quiet anchorage. Day 2: Set sail this morning for the picturesque fishing village of Grand Anse d'Arlet on the West coast for a luncheon stop-approximately 3 hours sailing. On the way, you will pass by the famous Diamond Rock. Continue this afternoon about 1 hour to the delightful anchorage of Anse Mitan. Day 3: You can enjoy this tropical setting or maybe take the daily ferry to Fort de France. You will find a good dive shop in Trois Ilets, a bay located nearby, and a world class golf course. Day 4: Set sail early today for a 32 mile crossing to St. Lucia and the spectacular anchorage of Marigot Bay. Clear customs here and spend the evening in this beautiful sheltered harbor. Day 5: Continue sailing for about 2 hours to the small rustic town of Soufriere by the Deux Pitons (St. Lucia's Landmark). This scenery is breathtaking and diving in this area is outstanding. Day 6: Sail North for approximately 4 hours to Rodney Bay, which offers a good protected anchorage. You will find excellent snorkeling around Pigeon Island. Day 7: Clear out with customs and sail to the anchorage of St.Anne, about 5 hours. Day 8: This last one hour sail back to Le Marin completes your one week charter.

Provisioning
2 good supermarkets are nearby for self provisioning and they offer delivery to your yacht.

There are many stores available in the next door village called "St Anne". It is about 2 miles from Le Marin where the base is situated.

Restaurants and Bars
Many hotels and Marinas have evening entertainment (steel-band, limbo). In Fort-de-France just as in the smaller towns and villages, there are a large number of nightclubs open from Wednesday to Sunday where you can swing to the rhythm of international and west Indian music.

Travel Access
The main gateway to Martique is through San Juan, Puerto Rico with direct flights to Martinique. International flights from all over the world land at St. Martin, then take a commuter over to Martinique.

Weather
The climate in Martinique is relatively mild and the temperatures are never too high. With an average temperature of 79 F, it is an island where summer never ends. Regular breezes known as the "alizes" blow in from the east and northeast, constantly cooling the air.

Currency
The local currency is French Francs. US$ are not accepted. Credit cards are widely used.

Travel Documents
A valid passport is required for US citizens to visit Martinique.

Language
French is the main language, but english is spoken in many service industries and hotels.

Charter Times
Charter Times start at 6.00 pm and finish at 12:00 noon.

One Way Charters
Charters can drop-off in Guadaloupe, St Martin, Union Island or Grenada. There is an extra fee which varies from $600.00 to $945.00 one way.