Things to do in Martinique During a Cruise Stop
Martinique may be a Caribbean island, but it’s currently considered a French overseas territory.
Situated between the islands of Dominica and St Lucia, I stopped here on my Caribbean cruise on P&O’s Arvia and had a fantastic time. I’d even go as far to say that this was my favourite stop!
We docked in Martinique’s capital city, Fort-de-France, which has plenty of things to see and do. Unlike many other Caribbean islands, there’s plenty to do within walking distance.
Here are 7 places that you need to visit during your trip.
At a glance…
Book a Caribbean cruise and search for the best deals on the World of Cruising website here.
Explore excursions on the Viator and Get Your Guide websites.
Keep on reading for more information on the best things to do in Martinique!
1) Take a Guided Tour
One of the best ways to explore a new country is to take part in a guided tour led by the people who know it best - the locals.
There are many options available when booking a guided tour in Martinique, but as a cruise visitor, you’ll want to book one that begins near the cruise port in Fort-de-France.
This tour has a focus on the local cuisine, starting at a Fort-de-France food market before heading downtown to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
If you don’t fancy walking and prefer a unique way to see the city, try a tour of the local sights led by a local in a Vélotaxi.
2) Martinique’s botanical garden, Jardin de Balata
This stunning botanic garden was founded in 1982 by horticulturist Jean-Philippe Thoze. It houses more than 3000 species of tropical plants, and on a clear day you can see the sea from its viewing point. The foliage makes it a cool place to explore during a hot day, and there’s even a set of rope bridges strung across the treetops to explore.
The garden is located just outside of the city, and is accessible either by bus or by taxi. If you’re travelling by cruise ship, you’ll find taxis available to hire just a short walk from the port.
3) go Dolphin Watching and Sea Turtle Spotting
Head out on an exhilarating tour across Martinique’s coastline, with the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
This full day tour includes a chance to snorkel in the crystal clear waters, and indulge in a Creole meal and a cocktail onboard the ship.
Alternatively, head out on a similar full day trip on a catamaran.
4) Explore a Banana Farm by Land Train
This charming tour begins at a banana farm in the rural Lamentin countryside - just a short distance away from the cruise port in Fort-de-France.
Over the course of an hour you will learn the secrets behind the Martinique banana, and get the chance to try one too.
Book a space on the Viator website here.
5) Bibliothèque Schœlcher
Here’s a recommendation for those who are on the lookout for a literary landmark. Bibliothèque Schœlcher dates back to 1889 and is both a historic and working library that’s well worth a visit. Originally built in France, the library was then disassembled, shipped across the Atlantic to Martinique, and reassembled in Fort-de-France.
The library has a colourful facade and houses books that once belonged to Victor Schoelcher.
6) See inside Fort Saint Louis
Still an active naval base, Fort Saint Louis was erected in the 1600s and has changed significantly over the years. Today guided tours are available for visitors, and the fort provides fantastic views that overlook the sea.
Tours cost €8 for adults and €4 for children.
7) Eat Ice Cream at the Häagen-Dazs Cafe
Close to the port and with free wifi, this is an ideal location for cruise ship guests to enjoy delicious Häagen-Dazs ice cream in their pastel coloured cafe.
I stopped here for a lovely ice cream on a very hot day!
8) Walk to St. Louis Cathedral
Just a stone’s throw away from the library you’ll find St Louis Cathedral, which opened in 1895.
This catholic cathedral is stunning and definitely worth a visit.
9) Have a Beach Day at Française beach
Miles of white sand can be found here at Fort-de-France’s only beach, located below Fort St Louis.
It’s easy to reach from the city centre too, just head towards the port and you’ll see signs for a ferry over to the beach.
10) Sample Locally Made Rum at Distillerie la Favorite
The Caribbean is widely known for its production of rum, and Martinique is no different. Distillerie La Favorite was founded in 1847 and remains an old fashioned, family run business.
The distillery boasts a free self guided tour for visitors and a shop where tastings are available, as well a variety of rums should you wish to purchase some to bring home. Based on the outskirts of the city, this is another location that requires a taxi ride, should you be arriving by cruise ship.
11) Book Onto a Rum Tasting Tour
For those who would prefer a more structured exploration of the local rum scene, make sure you book onto a guided tour.
This fantastic tour begins in Fort-de-France, stopping at locations along the west coast. Throughout the day you’ll have the chance to walk across beautiful sandy beaches, sip on rum at a SainteLuce factory and learn about the local history.
Book a space on the Viator website here.
Let me know if you’ve visited any of the locations on this list, and if there’s anything else that you would add!
More blog posts like this
Tour and Review of P&O’s Arvia