Guadeloupe is Martinique’s less-visited sister in the French Caribbean — another overseas territory of France, another island where Créole and French culture blend, another rum tradition worth exploring. What distinguishes Guadeloupe is its butterfly shape (actually two main islands connected by a bridge) and the extraordinary natural environment of Basse-Terre, whose volcanic peaks, jungle waterfalls, and Jacques Cousteau Marine Reserve make it one of the most biodiverse port calls in the Lesser Antilles.
Pointe-à-Pitre: The Capital
Pointe-à-Pitre is the commercial center of Guadeloupe, a bustling port city on Grande-Terre island. The central market is one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant — an assault of color, smell, and sound where local vendors sell spices, tropical fruit, Créole street food, and handmade goods. The French colonial architecture of the city center is interesting without being as photogenic as Willemstad or as dramatic as Saint-Pierre.
Best Things to Do
Jacques Cousteau Marine Reserve: One of the finest marine protected areas in the entire Caribbean, named for the legendary oceanographer who designated it. Snorkeling and diving here means visibility of 30+ meters, abundant sea life including sea turtles, and some of the healthiest reef systems in the Lesser Antilles. Accessible by boat from Malendure Beach on Basse-Terre.
La Soufriere Volcano: The active volcano at the center of Basse-Terre offers hiking through jungle and volcanic landscape to the summit. The views on clear days extend across multiple islands. Best as an organized excursion with a guide who knows the trail conditions.
Les Chutes du Carbet: A series of spectacular waterfalls in Basse-Terre’s rainforest interior. The most accessible falls (the second of the three) is reachable by a moderate hike through lush forest.
Sainte-Anne Beach: Grande-Terre’s finest beach — a long crescent of white sand with calm, clear water, accessible by taxi from Pointe-à-Pitre.
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- The Jacques Cousteau Reserve is the priority excursion. If you only do one Shore Thing in Guadeloupe, make it the marine reserve. The diving or snorkeling quality is exceptional by any standard.
- Guadeloupe is bigger than most port day maps suggest. Plan your transportation before you disembark. The distances between Pointe-à-Pitre and the best natural attractions on Basse-Terre require organized excursions or car rental.
- Speak French here too. Like Martinique, Guadeloupe is genuinely French. Engagement in French, even basic, is warmly received.
Ready to Sail?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates. Let them help you find the right Virgin Voyages sailing that includes Guadeloupe.
Related Reading
- Fort-de-France, Martinique: A First-Timer’s Port Day Guide on Virgin Voyages
- Cozumel, Mexico: Top Things to Do on a Virgin Voyages Port Day
- Oranjestad, Aruba: What to Do on a Virgin Voyages Port Day
- Nassau, Bahamas: Best Shore Things on a Virgin Voyages Port Day
Book your Virgin Voyages cruise at CruisePlanner.pro — and dive into one of the Caribbean’s finest marine reserves
