Ferries
Guadeloupe, located in the heart of the Caribbean, is an archipelago where the sea plays a central role in travel. Whether you want to explore neighboring islands or extend your trip to other Caribbean destinations, ferries are an essential mode of transportation. In this article, we guide you through all the important information about ferries in Guadeloupe: companies, routes, fares, and practical advice for a successful experience.
Discovering the surrounding islands by ferry
Ferries are the ideal way to explore Guadeloupe's nearby islands: Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, and La Désirade. These must-see destinations each offer a unique charm and are easily accessible from the main ports of the archipelago. Marie-Galante: Nicknamed “the island of a hundred windmills,” Marie-Galante is known for its paradise beaches and artisanal rum. From Pointe-à-Pitre, the trip takes about 1 hour. Les Saintes: This archipelago, made up of several islands including Terre-de-Haut, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. You can reach Les Saintes in 30 minutes from Trois-Rivières. La Désirade: With its wild landscapes and secluded beaches, La Désirade is a perfect escape for nature lovers. The crossing from Saint-François takes about 45 minutes.
Main ferry companies in Guadeloupe
Two ferry operators dominate the market in Guadeloupe: L'Express des Îles and Valferry. Both provide reliable and varied services to meet travelers' needs.
History and development of the ferry companies
Ferry companies play a key role in connecting the islands of Guadeloupe and the wider Caribbean. L'Express des Îles, founded in 1987 as Antilles Trans Express (ATE), was originally created to carry passengers between nearby islands like Les Saintes and Marie-Galante. It later expanded to Martinique and Dominica in 1989, and to Saint Lucia in 1994. In February 2024, after 37 years of operation, the company was acquired by German group FRS, marking a new phase of its development. Valferry, founded in 2009, quickly became a key maritime operator in the French Antilles. It provides daily routes to Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, and other local destinations, using a modern fleet and services tailored to both residents and tourists.
L'Express des Îles
The leading ferry operator in the French Caribbean, this company offers regular service between Guadeloupe’s islands and more distant destinations like Martinique, Dominica, and Saint Lucia. Fares: From €99 round trip, including one piece of luggage, for long-distance routes. Sample route: Pointe-à-Pitre to Fort-de-France (Martinique) in around 3 hours.
Valferry
Valferry provides more local routes, especially between Guadeloupe and its nearby islands like Marie-Galante and Les Saintes. Schedules and fares vary by season, but this company is ideal for quick and direct trips.
Practical tips for using the ferries
During peak tourist season (from December to April), ferries are often fully booked. It’s strongly recommended to book your tickets at least one week in advance to secure your seat. Arrive early at the port, as boarding usually begins 30 to 45 minutes before departure. Allowing extra time will help avoid stress. Lastly, choose your crossing wisely—some can be choppier depending on the weather. If you’re prone to seasickness, morning departures are best, as the sea tends to be calmer.
Why choose ferries for your travel?
- 1. Speed and convenience: Ferries are fast and let you easily reach the surrounding islands.
- 2. Comfort: Operators provide comfortable seating and air-conditioned areas for a pleasant trip.
- 3. Affordability: With fares starting around €20 for a one-way ticket, ferries are a budget-friendly option.
Regional routes
| Route | Operator | Days of service | Approx. duration | Round-trip fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pointe-à-Pitre ↔ Marie-Galante | L'Express des Îles | Daily | 1 hour | From €29 |
| Pointe-à-Pitre ↔ Les Saintes | L'Express des Îles | Daily | 1 hour | From €29 |
| Pointe-à-Pitre ↔ Marie-Galante | Valferry |
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat: 7:45 am, 5:00 pm Wed: 5:00 pm Fri: 7:45 am, 12:30 pm, 5:00 pm Sun: 7:45 am, 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm |
1 hour | Seasonal |
| Marie-Galante ↔ Pointe-à-Pitre | Valferry |
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat: 6:10 am, 3:30 pm Wed: 6:10 am Fri: 6:10 am, 9:10 am, 3:30 pm Sun: 6:10 am, 3:00 pm, 6:00 pm |
1 hour | Seasonal |
Inter-Caribbean routes
| Route | Operator | Days of service | Approx. duration | Round-trip fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pointe-à-Pitre ↔ Fort-de-France | L'Express des Îles | Thursday and Saturday | 3 to 4 hours | From €99 |
| Pointe-à-Pitre ↔ Roseau (Dominica) | L'Express des Îles | Thursday and Saturday | 2.5 hours | From €99 |
| Fort-de-France ↔ Castries (Saint Lucia) | L'Express des Îles | Thursday and Saturday | 4 hours | From €99 |
Activities near the ports
Pointe-à-Pitre port is ideal for exploring the city center, known for its local markets, such as the Marché de la Darse, where you can stroll around and soak up the local vibe before your departure. At Trois-Rivières port, you’ll have the chance to explore nearby hiking trails, especially the Parc Archéologique des Roches Gravées, a fascinating site showcasing Amerindian history. The Saint-François port is a lively spot featuring the famous marina, full of restaurants and shops—perfect for relaxing or shopping before your trip.
FAQ
Do ferries operate year-round ? Yes, ferries run regularly all year. However, some schedules may change depending on the season.
Can I take a car on the ferry ? No, ferries in Guadeloupe are for passengers only. Vehicles are not allowed onboard.
What documents are needed for travel ? A ticket with your name is required. For international routes (to Martinique, Dominica, or Saint Lucia), a valid ID is mandatory.
Are ferries accessible to people with reduced mobility ? Yes, most ferries have accessibility features. It’s recommended to notify the company when booking.
Can I bring large luggage ? Standard baggage is usually included in the ticket price. Oversized items may require an extra fee.
