Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is part of the Leeward Islands and is an overseas department of France. Cruising infrastructure and yacht services are good. Provisioning is well developed, with widespread access to supermarkets, local markets, bakeries, and food outlets, reflecting French culinary traditions alongside Caribbean produce. Environmental regulations governing anchoring and marine activity apply in designated areas.

Marie Gallante is a low‑key, traditional island, less visited by cruising yachts and known for its rum distilleries and beautiful beaches. Many anchorages are exposed, so it is important to choose a suitable weather window for your visit.

Les Saintes is a small archipelago famous among sailors for its well‑sheltered bay and its charming village atmosphere.

For those interested in snorkelling and diving, Pigeon Island and the surrounding Réserve Cousteau marine park are well known for clear water, coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Further east, and accessed across a shallow bar, the Îles de la Petite Terre offers notable underwater life.

A short distance inland from the west‑coast anchorages on Basse‑Terre, you will find the Zoo de Guadeloupe, built in a rainforest setting with boardwalks and suspension bridges throughout. In the same region you can also visit Fort Delgres, which offers guided tours on the region’s colonial era and resistance to the re‑establishment of slavery.

For those anchored near the Pointe‑à‑Pitre area, Memorial ACTe Guadeloupe is a major cultural venue and museum dedicated to the history and legacy of slavery, with exhibitions that provide substantial context within easy reach of the waterfront.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Anse Canot	4.8 ★	Review summary: Anchorage offers clear water and good holding in varying depths. Multiple visitors appreciated the calm environment and proximity to beaches, though some noted increased activity on Thursdays with charterers. A dinghy trip to town is necessary but manageable in settled conditions.
	Ravine Paul Thomas	4.8 ★	Review summary: The anchorage offers solid sand holding in 5-7 meters with the potential for good snorkeling. Several visitors appreciated the lack of tourist traffic and the presence of a beautiful beach. Conditions may be swelly at times, impacting the experience.
	Anchorage Pointe Basse	4.7 ★	Review summary: Secluded anchorage offers decent protection from easterly winds. The sandy bottom allows for good anchor holding, while waters are described as calm and clear. Visitors have enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and swimming opportunities.
	Grande Anse / Deshaies North	4.6 ★	Review summary: The anchorage is secure and has a beautiful sandy beach. Visitors enjoy great snorkeling and swimming, but conditions may feel rolly depending on wind and swell. Careful dinghy beaching is necessary due to steep beach access.
	Pointe Du Maréchal	4.5 ★	Review summary: Anchorage features clear water and available sand spots for anchoring. Visitors observed peaceful conditions with little swell and enjoyed the local beach and coconut trees. However, one Review mentioned noise from a busy road affecting the experience.
	Pointe Ferry	4.4 ★	Review summary: The anchorage features clear water and strong holding conditions. Visitors mention the area is popular for snorkeling, though caution is advised for swimmer interactions and wind shifts. The beach is enjoyable, with a peaceful atmosphere and great protection from prevailing winds.
	Port Louis	4.3 ★	Review summary: Anchoring conditions vary, with reports of tricky spots due to rocks and coral. Visitors highlighted the clear water and surf options; however, mosquito activity was a noted inconvenience at night. The beach provides good access for swimming and relaxation.
	Deshaies North, Grande Anse	4.3 ★	Review summary: This anchorage features good sandy holding, although visitors reported swells. The beach offers a secluded atmosphere for evening activities. A nearby village enhances the experience with dining options and a connection to a popular TV series.
	Sainte Rose	4.3 ★	Review summary: Calm and peaceful waters are reported, although visitors mention the presence of mosquitoes and sand flies. The anchorage is well-protected, allowing for reliable holding, with an opportunity to explore nearby mangroves. Local amenities include a supermarket and bakery.
	Petite Anse	4.3 ★	Review summary: Visibility in this anchorage is limited with underwater rocks and few marked traps present. The sand holds well at about 3 meters, making it suitable for anchorage, though some boats may experience rolling conditions. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

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Marinas

	Marina de Riviere Sens	4.7 ★	Review summary: The marina is secure with a friendly staff. Well-protected with good nearby amenities including food stores and restaurants. Guests have noted the clean facilities, although showers are limited to cold water.
	Marina Bas-du-Fort	3.8 ★	Review summary: The marina features good access to chandleries and supplies. Visitors experienced issues with water availability and bathroom facilities. Long check-in wait times were also noted, although staff assistance was generally helpful.
	Marina St Francois	3.7 ★	Review summary: Navigating the marina can be challenging due to a narrow and shallow entrance. Visitors have reported approach depths of 2.8 meters on arrival at low tide. The area is active with restaurants and offers nearby facilities, though sargasso weed can be an issue.

Moorings

	Iles de la Petite Terre	4.8 ★	Review summary: Moorings are primarily 10 tons, with one 30 ton buoy available. Expect clear waters for snorkeling, but conditions can be challenging due to breaking waves. The area can be quiet at night, though day-time visitors can crowd the space.
	Ilet a cabrit mooring balls	4.5 ★	Review summary: The mooring balls at Îlet à Cabrit are described as generally in good condition, with prices around €13-16 per night. Several visitors mentioned challenges with wind and current, which can affect holding. Facilities include easy access to hiking and swimming.
	Pigeon Island	4.3 ★	Review summary: The mooring buoys are designated for vessels shorter than 8 meters, accommodating mainly dinghies. Multiple reports indicate there is space for up to six vessels in the furthest southeast mooring. Visitors may encounter charter boats in the area, particularly in the morning.
	Terre de Haut	4.2 ★	Review summary: Mooring buoys are available but difficult to retrieve due to heavy balls with metal rings. Visitors report challenges in securing buoys, often requiring assistance. The area offers good access to the town and various amenities.
	Deshaies	4.0 ★	Review summary: Mooring balls are heavy and well-constructed, providing a stable anchorage at this location. The service for obtaining mooring lines and checking in has been reported as inconsistent. Noise from nearby bars may affect nighttime tranquility.

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Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

Caraïbes Docks Services

4.3 ★

Review summary: Services include keel maintenance and antifouling. Some workers do not speak English, and cleanliness in facilities is noted as poor. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Chandlers

	USHIP	5.0 ★	Review summary: This chandlery has a comprehensive selection of items for boats and fishing, highlighted by helpful staff. Visitors report it as well-stocked and the best in the Caribbean, surpassing offerings in nearby locations. It remains a preferred choice for essential cruising supplies.
	Captain' Nautic	5.0 ★	Review summary: A large and well-stocked chandlery is available with friendly staff. English assistance is offered, and customers have found specific items like hinges not available elsewhere. Prices have been noted as reasonable compared to other options.
No image	AD NAUTIC Guadeloupe	5.0 ★	Review summary: Service at AD NAUTIC Guadeloupe is characterized by friendly and knowledgeable staff. Visitors report helpful interactions and a well-stocked inventory, which includes English-speaking assistance. No pressure sales tactics enhance the overall experience.
	Captain Nautique	5.0 ★	Review summary: The shop features a large selection of marine products at moderate prices. Many items are unique compared to other shops, specifically in electrical goods. The dinghy dock is accessible, allowing convenient access to the store.
	Fred Marine	5.0 ★	Review summary: Fred Marine offers engine repair services. Visitors reported effective and friendly service, with one instance of urgent attention on Christmas Eve. Efficiency and knowledgeable staff were highlighted in multiple Reviews.

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This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to Guadeloupe.

Useful yacht clearance links

Environmental protection rules are increasingly strict, with anchoring banned in many zones, including national park waters, where mooring buoys are mandatory. Check with authorities on arrival.

Most yachts leave Guadeloupe during the hurricane season, typically heading to safer grounds such as Trinidad or Grenada.

• Best times of year to sail here: Late November to June
• Most common type of shore power: 230V 50Hz
• Cost for provisioning: Medium; local markets offer better prices compared to marinas
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Personal security: Generally safe, but exercise caution in more urban areas
• Emergency phone numbers:
  • General number for all emergency services: 112
  • Ambulance: 15
  • Police: 17
  • Fire: 18
  • Coast Guard: 196
• International dialing code: +590
• Time zone(s): UTC -4

Guadeloupe’s maritime history is rich and storied, beginning with its initial settlement by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples, who relied on the sea for trade and sustenance. European exploration initiated by Columbus in 1493 marked the start of intense colonial competition, with the French eventually gaining control. The strategic location of Guadeloupe made it a key naval site during the colonial period, helping to shape the island's maritime and trade infrastructure.

The 17th and 18th centuries saw Guadeloupe transform into a major sugar-producing colony under French control. This era saw ongoing maritime conflict, primarily between France and Britain, for dominance over the Caribbean seas. Military fortifications from this period, such as Fort Delgrès on Basse-Terre, still stand today, offering visiting sailors a glimpse into the past.

In modern times, Guadeloupe has developed a vibrant maritime culture, propelled by both tourism and its strategic importance within the Caribbean. The island now hosts several annual sailing events, drawing yacht enthusiasts from around the globe. The continuation of these traditions highlights Guadeloupe as a key point for sailing tours and regional shipping, maintaining its historical connection with the sea.