Sailing Martinique
Free map & Nautical services
26°C
Sailing Martinique
Free map & Nautical services
L’île aux fleurs blend Caribbean charm with French flair. Drop anchor in Anse d’Arlet, where calm turquoise waters meet golden sands, or explore the busy marina of Le Marin, a hub for yacht charter, provisioning, and nautical services.Currency
EURWater
GoodVoltage
220VEmergency
112
Martinique yacht clearance
Formalities
Clearance formalities for entry and exit from the islands of the French Antilles is now mandatory for all pleasure boat, for personal or professional use, arriving or departing by sea
Yacht clearance
The procedure is free and can be done online here, or in person at one of the approved points. This electronic procedure is very convenient, but most other countries will request a printed and stamped EXIT clearance document. So you will need to print your EXIT clearance in order to get it stamped in one of the approved points listed in the above document, it can be a local shop or marina. This approved points of clearance also provide public computer where you can fill and print your document for 3 to 5€.
Visa & Immigration
Marine charts & Cruising guides
Martinique sailing holidays
Charter & Boat rental
Martinique sailing conditions
Weather
The leeward coast
Martinique’s west coast offer a protection from the swell, and steady trade winds that offer predictable passages. But the leeward coast’s numerous tourist hotspots mean that you’ll often find yourself sharing the water with other yachts, snorkelers, and tenders, especially in the shallower bays. Positioned on the southern of this coast, Le Marin has grown into a bustling base with renowned shipyards and skilled technicians for repairs and refits.
The windward coast
Here, the trade winds blow with more vigour, and the Atlantic swell shapes the journey. Navigation on the east coast demands attentiveness, reefs lie hidden just beneath the surface, and many of these rocky formations, though marked on charts, are tricky to spot when the sea gets rough, and the currents around them can push boats off course if not navigated carefully. On this coast the Presqu’île de la Caravelle nature reserve offers good hiking trails. The mangroves near Vauclin provide a sanctuary for birdlife and are best explored by kayak or paddle-board. In places like Le Robert and Le François, sailors can navigate a maze of small islets to the famous “Fonds Blancs“, a shallow white sandbank, perfect for a midday swim in crystal-clear waters.
Martinique sailing itinerary
Sailing to Fort de France
Grab your curiosity (and maybe a fresh coconut), and get ready to explore the city – the imposing Fort Saint-Louis is guarding the bay. This fortress feature thick ramparts and hidden tunnels, ready for attacks that never quite materialised in the way they imagined. Today, its canons rest quietly, overlooking the same turquoise waters that, centuries ago, were fraught with danger and intrigue.
Visit
The Schoelcher Library, a marvel of iron and glass, is named after the French abolitionist who played a significant role in ending slavery in the French colonies. The entire structure was designed for the Exposition Universelle in Paris before being shipped to Fort-de-France, where it was reassembled.
Things to do
Hop on a ferry to the charming town of Trois-Îlets, home to La Pagerie Museum, the birthplace of the Empress Joséphine, as well as the Pottery Village, where you can see artisans at work.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near Fort de France
(Add a spot)
-
Despite its popularity, it remains a serene spot. Adjacent to a quiet village where everything is wi… Read more about this listing
-
Very convenient anchorage in Fort de France. You anchor just down the walls of the fortress. Long to… Read more about this listing
-
The bay is surrounded by rolling hills, a true escape. The clear waters are perfect for a refreshing… Read more about this listing
Sailing to Anse d’Arlet
This idyllic village is renowned for its stunning beach, but there’s so much more to discover. Historically, Anse d’Arlet was a quiet, modest fishing village, and that serene character remains a defining feature today.
Visit
The Church of Saint-Henri is a focal point of the village and offers a glimpse into local religious and cultural life. Its distinctive architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a lovely spot to visit.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near Anse d’Arlet
(Add a spot)
-
The anchorage can be a bit tricky. with a mix of sand and seaweed on the seabed. It can be difficult… Read more about this listing
-
The anchorage itself is on sandy bottoms mixed with some algae, and it's generally well-protected ag… Read more about this listing
-
Un beau mouillage en Martinique. Bonne tenue sur sable. Attention cela dit où vous posez votre pelle… Read more about this listing
Sailing to Saint Pierre
Known as the “Paris of the Caribbean” in its heyday, this charming town was once the island’s flourishing capital against the lush backdrop of Mount Pelée. But in 1902, this idyllic scene was shattered in an instant; the Mount Pelée erupted in one of the deadliest volcanic disasters of the 20th century. Yet, Saint-Pierre is far from being a ghost town.
Visit
The Volcano Museum might be small, it’s packed with relics from the devastating 1902 eruption, offering an eerie look at daily life before Mount Pelée’s wrath turned this bustling town to ash. From charred bottles to twisted metal, these objects give an intimate connection to the lives affected by one of the world’s deadliest eruptions.
Things to do
The Depaz Distillery offers tours that take you through the rum-making process, with tastings of their smooth agricole rum. A drink that is part of the culture – tied to the island’s sugarcane fields and its French-Caribbean identity.
Don’t miss
The haunting remnants of the Cachot de Cyparis (Cyparis’s prison cell) are a powerful reminder of one of the few survivors of the eruption – a prisoner who survived by sheer luck, shielded by his thick stone cell.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near Saint Pierre
(Add a spot)
-
Rade de Saint-Pierre in Martinique is a picturesque anchorage with a lot of history and charm. The h… Read more about this listing
Sailing to La Trinité
Once a thriving port, it was a key point for the sugar trade, and the legacy of that era can still be felt today in the old plantation houses that dot the area. These grand estates, many of which have been converted into museums or guesthouses, stand as silent witnesses to the complex history of colonisation, and the eventual rise of Creole culture.
Visit
Château Dubuc, the remnants of an 18th-century plantation, was once the heart of Martinique’s sugar industry. The estate’s ruins, now surrounded by lush greenery, tell the story of the island’s colonial past and its ties to the global sugar trade.
Hiking
A hike through the Caravelle Peninsula nature reserve is a must. The trails meander through mangroves, dry forests, and up to the Caravelle Lighthouse, offering sweeping views of the bay. Along the way, you’ll encounter the ruins of an old sugar mill.
Don’t miss
The Saint-James Distillery. Located just a short drive away has been producing rum since 1765 and offers tours that take you through the entire process, from cane to bottle. And, of course, you’ll get to sample some of their finest blends.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near La Trinité
(Add a spot)-
The bay is surrounded by rolling hills, a true escape. The clear waters are perfect for a refreshing… Read more about this listing
-
The anchorage here is quite secure, with good holding. But be cautious of the shallower areas and th… Read more about this listing
Sailing to Sainte Anne
This charming town, often praised for its beautiful beaches and lively market scene, is a wonderful spot. Historically, Sainte-Anne was a quiet village with roots that stretch back to the days when French settlers began to cultivate the land.
Beach
Les Salines Beach is a sweeping expanse of white sand stretching endlessly into the turquoise sea. Known for its gentle waves and inviting waters, this beach is a local favourite where families and visitors often set up picnic spots under the shade of palm trees.
Market
With stalls overflowing with colourful fruits, spices, and freshly caught seafood, the Saint Anne market is an excellent place to immerse yourself in the local flavours and pick up some ingredients for a homemade Creole meal.
Hiking
L’Étang des Salines, a nearby lagoon, provides a tranquil escape. The lagoon is ideal for birdwatching, with numerous species making their home in the area.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near Sainte Anne
(Add a spot)
-
A popular anchorage known for its spacious and well-protected bay. The holding is generally reliable… Read more about this listing
-
The depth here typically ranges around 4 meters. The area is lively with a mix of local and visit… Read more about this listing
Sailing to Le Marin
The town is famous across the island for its yachting culture, with the marina being one of the largest in the Caribbean. Here, the creak of masts and the clinking of rigging are part of the soundscape.
Maintenance
Le Marin is home to a wide range of services. If your boat needs any maintenance or repairs, the area is well-equipped with service providers who can take care of everything from routine maintenance to more complex repairs.
Charter
If you’re looking to rent a boat or want a crewed charter, the town offers plenty of charter services.
Your favourite anchorages and marinas near Le Marin
(Add a spot)
-
The anchorage is very well-protected from most wind directions, which is a big plus for a secure sta… Read more about this listing
Your favourite anchorages and moorings in Martinique
(Add a spot)Keep an eye on the tide and weather forecast, zoom in to avoid seaweed fields, then switch to C-MAP’s free nautical chart for isolated dangers and soundings.
-
Very convenient anchorage in Fort de France. You anchor just down the walls of the fortress. Long to… Read more about this listing
-
Despite its popularity, it remains a serene spot. Adjacent to a quiet village where everything is wi… Read more about this listing
-
While it lacks a dock, the area compensates with a snack bar where you can grab a bite to eat.
-
The anchorage can be a bit tricky. with a mix of sand and seaweed on the seabed. It can be difficult… Read more about this listing
-
A popular anchorage with sandy seabeds that make for good holding but the spot has moderate protecti… Read more about this listing
-
The anchorage itself is on sandy bottoms mixed with some algae, and it’s generally well-protected ag… Read more about this listing
-
Un beau mouillage en Martinique. Bonne tenue sur sable. Attention cela dit où vous posez votre pelle… Read more about this listing
-
The situation here can be a bit challenging. Anchoring is restricted due to recent regulations, whic… Read more about this listing
-
The sandy bottom provides good holding, but be mindful of the occasional local fishing activity.
Nautical services in Martinique
(Promote your activity)Nautical services and artisans are featured at all ports and anchorages within a 2-mile radius. Sign up for free today to access live traffic insight around your business.
The most popular marinas and boatyards in Martinique
(Add a place)Browse sailor reviews and photos, find the phone number and VHF channel, or get a clear layout of marinas on Google Map before you arrive.
Martinique’s early maritime history
Long before the arrival of Europeans, the island was inhabited by the Arawaks, a peaceful, seafaring people who settled in the Caribbean around 100 AD. They were skilled navigators and used canoes to travel between the islands, establishing numerous communities. But their dominance didn’t last.
Sometime between 800 and 1200 AD, the more aggressive Caribs, or Kalinago, began to move into the region. They gradually displaced the Arawaks, taking control of Martinique and the neighbouring islands. The Caribs were fierce warriors known for their resistance to European colonisers. Their name would eventually be attached to the entire region—hence the Caribbean. Martinique, called Madinina by the Caribs, meaning “island of flowers,” was central to their way of life, providing fertile lands for their crops and abundant waters for fishing.
It wasn’t until 1635 that the French made their move, when Pierre Belain d’Esnambuc, a French buccaneer and explorer, claimed the island for France. D’Esnambuc, who had already established a foothold in nearby Saint Kitts, sought to expand France’s colonial empire in the Caribbean. He brought with him a group of settlers and established the first permanent colony in Martinique.
The arrival of the French set off decades of conflict with the Caribs, who fiercely resisted European encroachment. The Caribs launched numerous attacks on the settlers, attempting to reclaim their land. But the French, backed by reinforcements and superior weaponry, gradually gained the upper hand. By the mid-17th century, the Carib population had been decimated, and the French had established firm control over the island.
The French settlers, known as colons, initially grew tobacco and indigo, but soon discovered that sugarcane was far more lucrative. By the late 1600s, the island’s economy was dominated by sugar plantations, and with that came the introduction of enslaved Africans. The brutal transatlantic slave trade took root in Martinique, with thousands of Africans forcibly brought to the island to work the sugar fields under grueling conditions. The island’s wealth grew rapidly, but so did its dependence on slavery. On May 22, 1848, slavery was finally abolished in Martinique, putting an end to a dark period in history.
From Martinique’s sailing forum
- This forum has 5 topics, 11 replies, and was last updated 8 months ago by .
-
- Topic
- Voices
- Last
- You must be logged in to create new topics.
