Martinique is an island located in the Caribbean Sea, and is part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago. It is situated between Dominica to the north and St. Lucia to the south. Martinique is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on its east side, and by the Caribbean Sea on its west side. The island has a total area of 1,128 square miles, making it one of France’s overseas departments with a population of approximately 400,000 people.

This cruise destination is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich culture. From the vibrant colors of the Pitons du Carbet to the breathtaking views of Fort-de-France Bay. The island’s unique cuisine is a mix of French and Creole flavors, while its music is just as diverse – from traditional folk songs to modern Zouk beats. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing vacation, Martinique promises something special for everyone.

Fort-de-France is the capital of Martinique that your ship will make its port of call for the day. It boasts a vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. The city is also home to some of the most iconic monuments in the French Caribbean, such as Fort Saint Louis and La Savane Park. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets and sample its delicious cuisine.

Cruise port Martinique

Docking in Fort-de-France in Martinique.

Martinique is not a tender port. Cruise ships are able to dock in Fort-de-France. There are two different cruise terminals available.

Cruise terminal Pointe Simon

Pointe Simon cruise terminal in Martinique is the preferred berth for cruise ships to dock.
This dock is right in front of Hotel Simon and from here it is a very easy 10 minute walk to the historical city center of Fort-de-France
Pointe Simonn cruise terminal is right in front of the main busstation. You can catch easily catch local transportation to places around the island.

Cruise terminal Quai destourelles

If there is a second cruise ship in town than this is the berth that will facilitate the second ship. It is a little further from town. You are docking in an industrial port here and listen careful to the announcements to see if you are allowed to walk in the port of if a complimentary shuttle bus is required.
On the cruise pier you will find several facilities like a taxi stand, toilets, tourist information, wi-fi and shops.

Taxi prices in cruise port Martinique.

Taxi’s are available at the exit of the cruise pier. Taxi’s are typically taxi vans that can fit up to 8 people. A representative of the taxi union is often found at the exit of the cruise pier.

Taxi prices are displayed on a sign. Although the price list as stated on the sign is a bit contradictory, it is a good indication on what you are most likely to pay when you are planning your own taxi tour.

Taxi by the hour = 50 euro

The suggested tours to do by taxi are:
1 hour panoramic view of Martinique tour = 80 euro
2 hour Balata Sacre-Coeur Basilica tour = 160 euro
3 hour Balata Botanical Garden tour = 240 euro
4 hour Northern tour – Tropical forest – Saint Pierre Vulcano and Rum Distillery = 320 euro
4 hour Northern panoramic tour – banana plantation = 320 euro
4 hour Southern panoramic tour – rum distillery = 320 euro
5 hour Southern tour – les salines beach = 400 euro

*Prices are for a tour up to 8 people. Taxi fares are subject to change.

Walk to the town

Whether you dock at the Pointe Simon or Quai destourelles, you are wishing walking distance of the town Fort-de-France. Pointe Simon is basically situated in front of the historical city center. When you are docked at Quai destourelles you can walk into town within 10 minutes.

Things to see and do in town

The historical center of Fort-de-France is small, easy to navigate and flat. It is lovely city center when you can easily roam the streets for an hour or two. Here are 10 highlights you can’t miss in the city center:
Fort Saint-Louis
Statue de Belain D’Esnambuc
Musee D’Archeologie Precolombienne.
Biblitoheque Schelcher
Pavillion Bougenot
Prefecture
Musee D’Histoire & D’Ethnographie
Espace Culturel Camille Darsieres
Cathedrale Saint-Louis
Theatre & Espace Museal Aime Cesaire

Beaches

There is a beach within walking of the Fort-de-France cruise terminal. It is the La Francaise beach, next to Fort Saint-Louis. This is a beach without facilities and also not the nicest beach that Martinique has to offer. However it is the only one within walking distance of the cruise terminal.
For the nicer beaches we recommend you take a taxi or take the ferry.

One of the nicer beaches of Martinique is Les Salines beach all the way on the southern point of the island. You will need transportation to get to it from the cruise terminal.

Ferry to the beach

Across the market and next to the Pointe Simon cruise terminal you will find a ferry that can take you to the beach for a small fee.
The ferry’s run frequently and it is a nice service to use if you want to go to the beach.
Catch the ferry at Flamingo berth. The ferry will take you across to Die Trois-Ilets. On this island you will find several beaches with facilities, shopping and even a museum en golf course.

Currency ashore

The official currency in Martinique is the euro. We highly recommend to have some at hand because it simply is the easiest way to pay for souvenirs, tours, taxi’s and food. However , depending on your plans ashore, you could also just go by with US dollars. They are widely accepted in tourist areas and for tourist services.
Creditcards are also widely accepted in restaurants and larger shops.

Find Wi-fi ashore

Wi-fi is available either at the cruise pier, depending on where you dock. However you will also find this widely available at restaurants and bars if you are a paying customer.
For the European guests amongst us; Martinique is considered part of the European Union. Your phone and mobile internet will most likely work here as is does at home, provided you are able to roam data.

Shopping in Fort-de-France

There are plenty of souvenir and small shop stands at the cruise terminal in Martinique. Obviously with the city center right near the ship there are lots of local shops found in the historical city. It even accommodates a larger shopping mall called Perrinon, which you can easily reach by foot from the ship.

Fort-de-France – Martinique cruise port guide