Martinique, Caribbean

The "Island of Flowers" French Elegance Meets Caribbean Charm.

A vibrant sunset view of the coastal town of Martinique, with colorful houses and a church steeple on the beach, nestled against lush green hills.

Overview

Martinique, Caribbean Cruise Port

Martinique, a captivating island in the French Caribbean, is a unique cruise destination renowned for its rich blend of French sophistication and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. Often called the "Island of Flowers" (Madinina in Creole), it boasts a stunning diversity of landscapes, from the lush, volcanic peaks and rainforests of the north to the idyllic white-sand beaches and calm waters of the south. As an overseas department of France, Martinique offers a distinctly European flair in a tropical setting, evident in its cuisine, language, and infrastructure.

Most cruise ships dock at the modern Pointe Simon cruise terminal in Fort-de-France, the island's bustling capital. A cruise stop in Martinique provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore historic forts, colorful markets, lush botanical gardens, and charming Creole towns. Whether seeking adventure in the natural parks, relaxation on pristine beaches, or a taste of exquisite French-Creole cuisine and world-famous rum, Martinique promises a rich and multifaceted Caribbean escape.

Top Things to Do in Martinique, Caribbean

Explore Fort-de-France and Its Historic Core

Immerse yourself in the vibrant capital, Fort-de-France. Wander through the bustling Grand Marché (Spice Market), admire the distinctive iron architecture of the Schoelcher Library, and visit the impressive St. Louis Cathedral. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and explore the charming narrow streets.

Tip: The Pointe Simon cruise terminal is typically a 10-15 minute walk from the city center, making independent exploration easy. Be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Relax on the Beaches of Les Trois-Îlets (via Ferry)

Take a short, scenic ferry ride from Fort-de-France to Les Trois-Îlets, a popular tourist area in the south. Here, you'll find beautiful white-sand beaches like Anse Mitan and Anse à l'Âne, offering calm waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachfront dining.

Tip: Ferries depart frequently from Fort-de-France. This is a great option for a relaxed beach day with convenient access to amenities.

Visit Jardin de Balata (Balata Botanical Garden)

Journey into the lush interior to discover the stunning Jardin de Balata (Balata Botanical Garden). This magnificent garden showcases an incredible diversity of tropical plants and flowers from around the world, with elevated canopy walkways offering unique views over the treetops and the Bay of Fort-de-France.

Tip: Located about 20-30 minutes' drive from Fort-de-France. It's a must-see for nature lovers and photographers. Allow at least 1.5-2 hours to explore.

Sample Rhum Agricole at a Distillery

Martinique is famous for its "rhum agricole," a unique type of rum made directly from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, and it holds a prestigious French AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) label. Visit a working distillery like Habitation Clément or Distillerie JM for a tour, a tasting, and to learn about the rum-making process.

Tip: Many tours offer transport to these distilleries. Always drink responsibly. Most distilleries have gift shops where you can purchase bottles to take home.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Les Salines Beach

Head south to Les Salines (Plage des Salines) near Sainte-Anne, widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. This pristine stretch of white sand, framed by coconut palms and calm turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean paradise.

Tip: This beach can get busy, especially on weekends. It's about an hour's drive from Fort-de-France, so consider an organized tour or taxi to maximize your time.

Explore the Ruins of Saint-Pierre and the Volcanological Museum

Travel north to Saint-Pierre, the former capital of Martinique, which was tragically destroyed by the eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902. Explore its poignant ruins, and visit the Frank A. Perret Volcanological Museum to learn about the devastating event and the island's volcanic history.

Tip: This offers a powerful historical and educational experience. The drive north provides scenic views of the island's more rugged and lush landscapes.

Overview