What to Do in Martinique on a Cruise Stop

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Martinique is a Caribbean island with a rich history and culture. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. If you’re planning a cruise stop in Martinique, there are plenty of things to do to make the most of your time.

In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite things to do in Martinique on a cruise stop. We’ll cover everything from exploring the island’s natural beauty to sampling its delicious cuisine. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an exciting adventure, Martinique has something to offer everyone.

So without further ado, let’s get started!

Activity Description Cost
Visit Fort Saint-Louis Explore the 17th-century fortress that once protected the island from pirates. $10
Snorkel at the Anse Dufour Marine Park See a variety of colorful fish and coral reefs. $30
Take a hike in the Pitons de Sainte-Anne National Park Enjoy stunning views of the island’s two volcanic peaks. $20
Visit the Jardin de Balata Botanical Garden Explore a lush garden filled with tropical plants and flowers. $15

Martinique is a beautiful Caribbean island with a rich history and culture. It is a popular cruise destination, and there are many things to see and do during a short stopover.

This article will provide you with an overview of the best things to do in Martinique on a cruise stop, including activities in Fort-de-France, the capital city, and in the surrounding Caribbean Sea.

Things to Do in Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France is the capital and largest city of Martinique. It is located on the northwestern coast of the island and has a population of around 100,000 people.

The city is a vibrant mix of French, African, and Caribbean cultures. It is home to many historical landmarks, museums, and shops.

Here are some of the best things to do in Fort-de-France during a cruise stop:

  • Visit the Fort Saint-Louis. This fortress was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. It is now a museum that houses exhibits on the history of Martinique.
  • Explore the Place d’Armes. This is the main square in Fort-de-France. It is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes. There is also a statue of Empress Josephine, who was born in Martinique.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront. The waterfront is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the views of the harbor.
  • Visit the Musee d’Histoire et d’Ethnographie. This museum houses exhibits on the history and culture of Martinique. It is a great place to learn about the island’s rich heritage.
  • Shop at the Marche aux Epices. This market is a great place to buy souvenirs and local produce. It is also a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fort-de-France.

Things to Do in the Caribbean Sea

The Caribbean Sea is a beautiful and diverse body of water. It is home to a variety of coral reefs, fish, and other marine life.

There are many things to do in the Caribbean Sea during a cruise stop in Martinique. Here are some of the best options:

  • Go swimming, snorkeling, or diving. The Caribbean Sea is a great place to explore the underwater world. There are many different dive sites to choose from, with a variety of coral reefs and marine life to see.
  • Take a boat trip to see the dolphins. Dolphins are often seen in the Caribbean Sea. You can take a boat trip to see them swimming and playing in the waves.
  • Visit the Ilet Sainte-Anne. This is a small island located just off the coast of Martinique. It is a popular day-trip destination, and is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Relax on a beach. There are many beautiful beaches to choose from in Martinique. You can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or enjoy a refreshing drink at a beach bar.

Martinique is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. There are many things to see and do during a cruise stop, including activities in Fort-de-France and in the surrounding Caribbean Sea.

Whether you want to explore the city, learn about the island’s history and culture, or spend some time relaxing on the beach, Martinique has something to offer everyone.

Things to Do in Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France is the capital of Martinique and the largest city on the island. It’s a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to do in Fort-de-France, including:

  • Visit the Fort Saint-Louis. This fortress was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. It’s now a museum that houses a collection of historical artifacts.
  • Explore the Place de la Savane. This is the main square in Fort-de-France and it’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere. There are also a number of restaurants and shops in the square.
  • Visit the Schoelcher Library. This library is one of the oldest in the Caribbean and it’s a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture. It’s also home to a large collection of books, manuscripts, and artifacts.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront. The waterfront in Fort-de-France is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore, and you can also catch a ferry to one of the other islands in the Caribbean.

Things to Do in the Mountains

The mountains of Martinique are a beautiful and rugged landscape that offer stunning views of the island. There are a number of things to do in the mountains, including:

  • Hike up Mount Pelee. Mount Pelee is an active volcano that last erupted in 1932. It’s a challenging hike, but the views from the top are worth it.
  • Visit the Jardin de Balata. This botanical garden is located in the mountains and it’s home to a variety of tropical plants and flowers. There are also a number of waterfalls and ponds to explore.
  • Take a cable car to the top of Morne Rouge. Morne Rouge is a mountain town that offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain for a bird’s-eye view of the island.
  • Visit the Cascade Vauclin. The Cascade Vauclin is a beautiful waterfall that’s located in the mountains. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

Things to Eat in Martinique

Martinique has a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by its French, African, and Caribbean roots. There are plenty of delicious things to eat in Martinique, including:

  • Colombo. Colombo is a traditional Creole stew that’s made with chicken, vegetables, and spices. It’s often served with rice.
  • Accras. Accras are small fritters that are made with fish, vegetables, and spices. They’re a popular street food in Martinique.
  • Lambi. Lambi is a type of shellfish that’s found in the Caribbean Sea. It’s often grilled or fried and served with a sauce.
  • Rhum agricole. Rhum agricole is a type of rum that’s made from sugarcane juice. It’s a popular drink in Martinique and it’s often used in cocktails.

Martinique is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to do in Martinique, including exploring the capital city of Fort-de-France, hiking in the mountains, and sampling the local cuisine. If you’re looking for a Caribbean vacation with a difference, then Martinique is the perfect place for you.

What are the best things to do in Martinique on a cruise stop?

  • Visit Fort-de-France, the capital city. Fort-de-France is a charming city with a rich history and culture. You can visit the Musee Schoelcher, a museum dedicated to the abolition of slavery, or take a walk through the Parc Floral de Balata, a beautiful botanical garden.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty. Martinique is home to some stunning scenery, including volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, and white-sand beaches. You can go hiking, swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
  • Sample the local cuisine. Martinique is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this diversity. You can enjoy Creole dishes such as colombo (a stew made with chicken, vegetables, and spices), accras (fried fish cakes), and ti punch (a rum cocktail).
  • Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Sainte-Lucie and Saint-Vincent. These islands are both beautiful and offer a different experience from Martinique. You can go swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or just relax on the beach.

How long do I need to stay in Martinique for a cruise stop?

It depends on what you want to do. If you just want to visit Fort-de-France and explore the surrounding area, you can get by with a short stop of just a few hours. However, if you want to do some more extensive exploring, you’ll need at least a day or two.

What is the best time of year to visit Martinique?

The best time to visit Martinique is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. The peak season is from December to February, when the island is most crowded.

What is the currency in Martinique?

The currency in Martinique is the Euro.

What is the language spoken in Martinique?

The official language of Martinique is French. However, many people also speak Creole, a French-based creole language.

Is it safe to travel to Martinique?

Martinique is a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and not walking alone at night.

What are the best ways to get around Martinique?

The best way to get around Martinique is by car. However, you can also get around by bus, taxi, or ferry.

Where can I stay in Martinique?

There are a variety of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses available in Martinique. You can also stay in one of the many villas or apartments that are available for rent.

What are the best restaurants in Martinique?

There are a variety of great restaurants in Martinique, serving everything from Creole cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular restaurants include Le Ti Punch, Le Bistrot Creole, and La Table du Chateau.

What are the best things to buy in Martinique?

Some of the best things to buy in Martinique include rum, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can find these items at the many markets and shops in Fort-de-France and other towns and villages.

Martinique is a beautiful Caribbean island with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do on a cruise stop in Martinique, including exploring the island’s capital, Fort-de-France, visiting the historic plantations, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Martinique has something to offer everyone.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Martinique is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors, including stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and historic cities.
  • The best time to visit Martinique is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
  • There are many ways to get around Martinique, including by car, bus, taxi, and ferry.
  • The official language of Martinique is French, but many people also speak Creole.
  • The currency of Martinique is the Euro.
  • The best way to experience Martinique is to immerse yourself in the culture and try local food, music, and dance.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.