Martinique

Martinique is a major cruising base in the eastern Caribbean, with activity centred on the large natural harbour at Le Marin in the south of the island. This area supports one of the most established concentrations of marinas, anchorages, and shore services in the region.

Beyond the southern cruising area, the island’s character changes markedly, with a more rugged and exposed coastline to the north and fewer facilities. Martinique’s scale, infrastructure, and transport links allow many visiting yachts to treat it as a long-stay base rather than a short stop.

Martinique Zoo, set within former plantation grounds surrounded by forest, showcases a range of Caribbean wildlife along shaded walking paths.

Near Fort-de-France, the botanical gardens at Jardin de Balata feature elevated walkways and a wide collection of tropical trees and plants from around the world.

For those interested in local spirits, Habitation Clement offers guided visits to its historic distillery and estate, providing insight into Martinique’s rum production heritage.

On the west coast in Saint-Pierre, the Memorial Catastrophe De 1902 documents the eruption of Mount Pelée and the destruction of the former capital, with exhibits focused on the events of 1902 and their impact on the town.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	Baie de Genipa	4.5 ★	Review summary: Nautical access to Baie de Genipa offers calm, protected waters ideal for anchoring, with no swell and minimal boat traffic. This anchorage provides peaceful solitude and flat calm conditions, although water visibility is often low due to the proximity of mangroves.
	Les Anse d‘Arlet South	4.4 ★	Review summary: Access to Les Anse d'Arlet South anchorage can present challenges due to a propensity for boats to swing extensively. While anchorage holding is generally reliable, caution is advised around numerous fishing pots and variable currents. The area offers clear waters and good snorkeling opportunities.
	Le Marin South	4.4 ★	Review summary: Anchoring in Le Marin South offers a well-protected experience for vessels with careful navigation due to nearby reefs. The location is favorable for water sports activities like kiting and foiling. Space can be limited, and the presence of derelict vessels might impact conditions.
	Grand Anse de Arlet	4.4 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Grand Anse de Arlet is generally reliable with good holding in sandy areas and clear waters. This location is favorable for snorkeling, especially near turtles, and offers easy shore access. A nearby hike to Petit Anse d'Arlet presents a challenging yet rewarding activity.
	Ilet Madame	4.3 ★	Review summary: Visitors find this anchorage becomes quiet after day cruisers leave. It is important to anchor carefully as shallow sections can be difficult to identify. With the anchorage to themselves later, visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting.
	Anse Noir	4.3 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Anse Noir offers a picturesque but sometimes crowded experience with wind that can cause boats to swing considerably. Reviews highlight good anchoring in sandy bottoms, though crowding can be an issue during weekends and public holidays. Snorkeling is enjoyable around the south edge with decent visibility.
	Petite Anse Arlet	4.3 ★	Review summary: Staying in Petite Anse Arlet offers a visually appealing experience with clear waters and abundant turtles. Visitors will find anchor hold challenges in some areas, but south of the dinghy dock and Anse Chaudiere are recommended for better holding. Be cautious of swirling winds when anchored.
	Anse Meurnier	4.2 ★	Review summary: Anchoring in Anse Meurnier is often peaceful during the week with excellent holding on a sandy bottom. Weekends bring a busier atmosphere with increased beach activity, including parties. Some visitors note variability in swell and mention patches of eel grass in certain areas.
	Sainte Anne	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Sainte Anne offers ample space with good holding, often in sandy areas. Visitors highlight the convenience for accessing nearby amenities via dinghy. While some reviews mention crowded conditions, the town provides basic facilities and a pleasant small-town atmosphere.
	Fond Boucher	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchorage in Fond Boucher provides good wind protection, making it a reliable shelter for vessels, as noted by several Reviews. Visitors highlighted the area's appeal with its sandy bottom offering good holding. Although it can be rolly at times, many found the conditions manageable.

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Marinas

	Marina AuPoint Du Bout	4.7 ★	Review summary: A compact marina offering necessary amenities including showers and shops. Visitors find it has strategic value with accessible clearance facilities. However, care is required when mooring due to its shallow waters.
	Port de Plaisance de L'Etang Z'Abricots	3.7 ★	Review summary: Staying at Port de Plaisance de L'Etang Z'Abricots offers a combination of value-priced mooring and decent proximity to city amenities. Visitors appreciate the helpfulness and friendliness of the marina staff. The availability of basic services like water and electricity contributes to an accommodating experience.
	Marina le Marin	3.4 ★	Review summary: Booking and service issues have been noted, such as difficulties with reservations and office queues. However, the marina has efficient guidance into slips and a range of convenient amenities like restaurants, bars, and marine services. Some users find the power setup limiting for running high-consumption appliances.

Moorings

	St Pierre South	4.2 ★	Review summary: Visitors frequently use mooring buoys at St Pierre South and appreciate their well-maintained condition. The Capitainerie staff provide helpful assistance. However, some find the anchorage rolly, especially for monohulls, and access to the fixed dinghy dock can be challenging due to its height.
	Grande Anse D'Arlet	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring is well-sheltered at Grande Anse D'Arlet, offering good holding conditions in sandy areas as stated by multiple visitors. Be aware, mooring use is prohibited, and boats should be prepared to anchor instead. Snorkeling opportunities are notable, particularly on the bay's south side.
	Le Marin Martinique	4.0 ★	Review summary: Mooring buoys at this location offer access to marina facilities including restrooms and showers, enhancing convenience for visitors. These services are appreciated as they add value to the mooring experience despite varying opinions on the setting.
	Port de plaisance de l'étang Z'abricots	3.1 ★	Review summary: Staying at Port de plaisance de l'étang Z'abricots offers visitors the opportunity for a quiet and inexpensive mooring, at around 6 euros per night. Proximity to Fort de France and nearby car rental agencies is convenient, although communication through radio may require patience.

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Boat services

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

Chandlers

No image	Carene Shop	5.0 ★	Review summary: Carene Shop serves as a chandler offering a variety of marine supplies, including paint and marine-grade wood. They also provide lines and secondhand marine parts. The shop features a selection of wood offcuts, which can be useful for small projects.
	Le Ship	5.0 ★	Review summary: Le Ship is a chandlery located within a complex that includes Mecanique Plaisance and Caraibe Marine. This location provides a variety of yacht items and supplies. For shoppers, the proximity of these separate establishments offers a comprehensive shopping experience.
No image	Polymar	5.0 ★	Review summary: Polymar is a chandler where visitors can purchase fishing lures. This service is available, suggesting it may cater to fishing enthusiasts seeking supplies.
	Yachting Engineering System	4.8 ★	Review summary: The chandler is noted for its electrical and plumbing services, with availability of parts and helpful service. Visitors mention knowledgeable staff able to assist with solar panels and water maker issues. Located in an accessible spot, English-speaking staff are a notable benefit.
	Caraïbe Marine	4.4 ★	Review summary: Caraïbe Marine offers a wide selection of parts and brands in a chandler setting. English-speaking staff are available most times, enhancing visitor experience when browsing products. There can be delays when only one person is available to assist with inquiries.

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

Useful yacht clearance links

Waters around Martinique are generally well charted, but normal caution is still required. The trade winds prevail in this region, creating ideal sailing conditions during the winter months.

The off-season sees a reduction in yachting activity as Martinique is within the hurricane belt, prompting most cruisers to relocate. Those who remain aboard often base themselves in sheltered marinas in Le Marin or Fort-de-France.

• Best times of year to sail here: Late November through June.
• Most common type of shore power: 230V 50Hz
• Cost for provisioning: Medium, with higher costs for imported goods
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Personal security: Generally considered safe for visitors, with low overall crime and petty theft the main concern
• Emergency phone numbers:
  • Police: 17
  • Ambulance: 15
  • Fire: 18
  • Coast Guard: 196
• International dialing code: +596
• Time zone(s): UTC -4 (no daylight saving observed)

Early maritime activity in Martinique was dominated by the Indigenous Arawaks and Caribs who navigated the Caribbean Sea in dugout canoes, facilitating trade and communication across islands. With European exploration starting in the 15th century, Martinique became a strategic location for colonial powers seeking to exert control over the Caribbean.

The French established a strong presence in Martinique during the 17th century, significantly impacting the island's cultural and maritime landscape. Fortifications were built to protect valuable trade routes, and Martinique became a bustling port for the sugar trade, critical in the triangular trade between Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. Nautical advancements during this period increased both commercial and military maritime activities.

Modern maritime life in Martinique reflects its colonial past while embracing recreational sailing and yachting. Numerous marinas and boatyards support a vibrant sailing community that caters to both local and international sailors. Sailors today can explore historic sites like Fort-de-France, offering a glimpse into Martinique's layered colonial history and its long-standing relationship with the sea.