Sailing trip to Les Saintes

The Saintes archipelago mainly consists of two inhabited islands, Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, along with several wild islets. The crossing by sailboat from mainland Guadeloupe can be made from ports such as Trois-Rivières or Saint-François. As you head south, the outline of the Saintes becomes clearer, drawing a line of lush ridges and ochre cliffs, all encircled by a sea with fascinating shades of blue. Sailing to these islands means immersing yourself in the Caribbean atmosphere: the gentle lapping of water against the hull, the pristine horizon, the softness of the trade winds filling the sails, and the feeling of total freedom.

Approaching Terre-de-Haut, you discover one of the world’s most beautiful bays, often compared for its perfection to the most famous on the planet. The Bay of the Saintes encloses crystalline waters, pearly-toned beaches, and the colorful village of Terre-de-Haut, with its Creole houses and small fishing boats. Anchoring here is like taking a pause in time. The sailboat then becomes a floating balcony from which you watch island life: a fisherman hauling in his nets, a group of seabirds gliding over the waves, a ray of sunshine enhancing the tropical vegetation.

On Terre-de-Haut, hiking to Fort Napoléon allows you to fully appreciate the panoramic view of the entire archipelago. This former fortress, now converted into a museum, offers an unbeatable perspective on the sea and its hues. On the way down, a stop at Pompierre Beach is a must, as its curve of golden sand, sheltered by a small islet, invites swimming and relaxation. But the joy of a day under sail also lies in the chance to escape to other, more secret coves, discovering little pockets of paradise accessible only by sea. Snorkeling lovers will find delight in these clear waters, rich in corals, tropical fish, and sometimes sea turtles gliding peacefully below the surface.

On Terre-de-Bas, the tranquility is even more striking. Less frequented, more authentic, this island invites you to slow down. After a short sail, you can land for a walk along its trails, explore its preserved corners, and enjoy local life. At lunchtime, restaurants often offer typical dishes highlighting seafood and Creole flavors. This tasty moment, facing the sea, completes the experience. Meanwhile, the sailboat rests quietly at anchor, rocked by gentle waves.

Choosing to discover the Saintes by sailboat means opting for an environmentally friendly adventure. Sailing, silent and free of polluting emissions, perfectly fits a sustainable tourism approach. Furthermore, most local operators ensure respect for protected areas, regulated anchorages, and encourage travelers to adopt responsible behavior: take nothing, leave nothing, preserve the peace of the place. As such, this experience on the water lets you grasp the fragility of island balance and the importance of preserving the beauty of this little corner of paradise.

Sailing in the Saintes is rooted in the archipelago’s history. Since the early colonial times, the sea was the main link between these islands and the rest of the world. Today, sailing has become a favored way to rediscover this maritime world. This tradition stirs the hearts of sailors, both amateurs and experts, and every helm turn, every reef in the sail, every tack is done with the awareness that you are navigating at the heart of a unique natural and cultural setting.

To prepare this sea outing, it’s best to consult professionals offering day trips. They usually provide all necessary equipment and essential safety advice for smooth sailing. They can also propose itineraries adapted to the weather, group size, or special desires—whether it’s snorkeling, picnicking in a secluded cove, or stopping in a village. This guidance lets you fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics and deepen your knowledge of the Saintes, their history, culture, and environment.

As the hours and the wind pass, you’ll feel a sense of fulfillment. The Saintes reveal themselves in the gentle present moment, between the blue sky, green hills, ochre cliffs, and the warmth of encounters with islanders. Sailing lets you blend into the landscape, float between sky and water, observe without disturbing, approach without conquering. This harmony is undoubtedly the greatest luxury offered by discovering the Saintes under sail.

When you leave, with a light heart, you’ll carry with you the memory of a serene island, surrounded by a shimmering sea. You’ll recall the gentle movement of the hull on the water, those colors, those scents, the breeze that guided your day. From the deck of a sailboat, the Saintes transcend the idea of a simple excursion: they become a journey to another time, an art of living that cannot be told, only felt softly, between two waves, until the next anchorage.

Departure and arrival points

• Departure point : Port of Trois-Rivières (15.9833° N, 61.6333° W)
• Arrival point : Terre-de-Haut, Les Saintes (15.8667° N, 61.5833° W)

Duration of the trip

• Total duration : Full day
• Outbound sailing time : About 1 hour
• Time on the island : About 5 to 6 hours
• Return sailing time : About 1 hour

Viewpoints and must-see spots

• Fort Napoléon : Historic site with panoramic views over the bay.
• Pompierre Beach : Sheltered cove ideal for swimming.
• Pain de Sucre : Exceptional snorkeling spot.

Practical advice

Embark for an unforgettable day aboard a sailboat and discover the wonders of the Saintes in an authentic atmosphere. Sailing will immerse you in a unique experience, combining cultural and historical discovery of this exceptional archipelago with breathtaking panoramas.

To fully enjoy your day, don’t miss visiting Fort Napoléon, a historic site offering exceptional panoramic views of the Bay of the Saintes, while immersing you in local history. Then, take a relaxing break at Pompierre Beach, a sheltered cove perfect for swimming in calm, turquoise waters. If you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, Pain de Sucre is a must-visit. This renowned spot lets you discover rich underwater life and crystal-clear waters that will delight nature lovers.

However, one day is not enough to explore all the wonders of the Saintes, so plan enough time to carefully choose the attractions that matter most to you. If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t forget to take precautions, as the crossing can be a bit rough. For your safety, wearing a life jacket is mandatory, and it’s essential to follow the crew’s instructions, especially during maneuvers.

Plan a budget of 90 to 120 € per person for this full-day adventure. Bring comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, sun protection, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun. This getaway is perfect for combining sea pleasure, cultural discoveries, and exploration of exceptional places in a paradisiacal setting.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the excursion ? Generally, lunch is not included, but there are restaurants available on the island.

Can you snorkel on site ? Yes, don’t forget to bring your gear or rent it locally.

Are there extra fees for visiting the island ? Access to Fort Napoléon is paid; bring some cash.

Can children participate in this excursion ? Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity, but parental supervision is necessary.