Why is Martinique good for sailing? Are you planning sailing tours in the Martinique? Martinique, the “Isle of Flowers”, the jewel of the French Caribbean, offers a wide range of stunning sailing destinations. With its vibrant marine life, picturesque beaches and charming coastal towns, the island is perfect for both novice and experienced sailors. We can help you with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful infomations
Here’s what the article will cover:
- What is the best month to sail Martinique?
- % reasosns,why Martinique is good for sailing?
- Where to sail in Martinique? – ports and islands
- How can you get to Martinique from abroad? – entry info
- Sailing in Martinique – itineraries
What is the best month to sail Martinique?
The best time to sail in Martinique is from December to April, with the most stable conditions with minimal rain and steady trade winds. Winter (December to February): This is the dry season (locally known as Carême) with average temperatures of 23°C to 28°C and low humidity. There are constant trade winds from the east or northeast, blowing at speeds of 15-20 knots, with moderate waves, usually 1-2 meters. Ideal for smooth sailing. Spring (March to May): Still the dry season, temperatures begin to rise slightly, averaging 24°C to 30°C, with occasional short showers. Trade winds remain stable, but can ease to 10-15 knots later in the season. Waves are moderate, which is comfortable for less experienced sailors. Summer (June to August): This is the start of the wet season (Hivernage), with occasional rain and thunderstorms. Temperatures peak at 26°C–32°C with higher humidity. Milder trade winds blow, still steady, averaging 10–15 knots. The sea is generally calm, with occasional storms. Autumn (September to November): Warm and humid, 25°C–31°C, peaking with hurricane season (August to October). Milder, with winds around 5–10 knots, with occasional gusts in storms, and unpredictable weather patterns.
5 reasosns,why Martinique is good for sailing?
- Strategic Location:
Part of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, Martinique is an excellent base for sailing in Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, Dominica and more. Its location offers a mix of open water sailing and short island hopping opportunities. As a French overseas territory, Martinique has modern infrastructure and is easily accessible from Europe, North America and other Caribbean islands. - Ideal Weather and Sailing Conditions:
Moderate and consistent winds combined with warm temperatures throughout the year, but especially during the dry season, allow for smooth and enjoyable sailing. - Stunning natural beauty:
From the black volcanic sands of the north to the pristine white sand beaches of the south, through lush rainforests, towering peaks like Mount Pelée, and coral reefs, you’ll find a diverse range of natural features. The island is a great place to spot sea turtles, dolphins, and vibrant coral reefs. - Rich culture and heritage:
Martinique is a unique blend of French sophistication and Caribbean warmth, with Creole cuisine, fresh seafood, and local rums from world-famous distilleries. Festivals such as Carnival provide an opportunity to experience local traditions. - Excellent sailing infrastructure, diverse sailing routes: Well-equipped facilities in ports such as Le Marin, one of the largest and most popular ports in the Caribbean. Calm waters, secluded coves and picturesque villages such as Sainte-Anne.
Where to sail in Martinique? – ports and islands
- Fort-de-France Bay: Located in Fort-de-France, the capital, Martinique’s largest port serves as a major hub for commercial shipping, ferries, and cruise ships. The city is known for its colonial architecture and bustling markets. Visit Fort Saint-Louis, a historic fortress with panoramic views, and sample local Creole and French cuisine.
- Les Trois-Îlets: Anchor near the charming town of Les Trois-Îlets, home to beaches like Anse Mitan and Pointe du Bout. Visit the La Pagerie Museum, the birthplace of Empress Josephine, play golf on one of the Caribbean’s best courses, or relax at luxury resorts.
- Diamond Rock (Rocher du Diamant): An iconic natural landmark, this dramatic rock formation is a favorite of photographers and snorkelers.
- Sainte-Anne and Les Salines Beach: Sainte-Anne is a picturesque village with access to the island’s most beautiful beaches.
- Anses-d’Arlet: A port near quaint fishing villages like Grande Anse d’Arlet and Petite Anse. Snorkel and dive with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.
- Saint-Pierre and Mont Pelée: Moor Saint-Pierre is a town rebuilt after a 1902 volcanic eruption with a historic port in the northwestern part of Martinique. Explore the ruins, the Volcano Museum, take a day trip inland, and climb Mont Pelée, Martinique’s iconic volcano.
- Tartane and Caravelle Peninsula: The Caravelle Nature Reserve is a quieter spot on the east coast known for its hiking trails, mangroves, and breathtaking views.
- Le François and L’Îlet Oscar: Anchor near L’Îlet Oscar or L’Îlet Thierry and enjoy turquoise lagoons and shallow sandbars, and sample rum at famous rum distilleries like Habitation Clément.
- Le Marin: Martinique’s premier port, one of the best-equipped in the Caribbean, and a key location for supplies and planning. Explore the town’s shops, markets and restaurants before you set off.
- Île Chancel: A tranquil island in Robert Bay, home to an old sugar plantation and wild iguanas.
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How to get to Martinique? – entry info
Getting to Martinique, a French Caribbean island, is relatively easy as it has good air and sea connections. The Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF) near Fort-de-France is the island’s main airport. There are daily flights from Paris (Orly Airport), Miami, and direct flights from several major cities such as Montreal, Brussels, Amsterdam, New York, and the Caribbean islands.
Sailing in Martinique – itineraries
Sailing from Martinique to Saint Lucia
Day 1. Le Marin – Grande Anse d’Arlet 30,10 km (18,70 nm), Day 2. Grande Anse d’Arlet – Saint-Pierre 29,22 km (18,15 nm), Day 3. Saint-Pierre – Plage de l’Anse l’Etang 53,37 km (33,16 nm), Day 4. Plage de l’Anse l’Etang – Honeymoon Beach, Saint Lucia 117,65 km (73,10 nm), Day 5. Honeymoon Beach, Saint Lucia – Petit Piton, Saint Lucia 31,24 km (19,41 nm), Day 6. Petit Piton, Saint Lucia – Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia 31,80 km (19,76 nm), Day 7. Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia – Anse Figuier – Le Marin 46,77 km (29,06 nm)