Discover Martinique
DISCOVER MARTINIQUE
Martinique offers an exceptional variety of landscapes and experiences, making it easy to design excursions tailored to your guests’ interests. The island can be divided into four distinct regions, each with its own character:
THE NORTH
Mountains, rainforests, rivers, and the historic town of Saint-Pierre.
SOUTH-WEST
Diving, jet skiing, kitesurfing, beaches, and relaxed coastal villages.
SOUTH-EAST
The island’s finest beaches, cliff walks, and turtle nesting areas.
THE EAST COAST
A chain of small islands and sheltered bays behind protective reefs — Martinique’s “mini-Grenadines”.
Visits ashore are generally within 30 to 45 minutes of your chosen anchorage, allowing flexibility for half-day or full-day outings.
AN ISLAND OF NATURAL CONTRAST
Known as L’Île aux Fleurs (the Island of Flowers), Martinique was designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2021. Positioned between Saint Lucia and Dominica, it combines French infrastructure with Caribbean charm — offering both comfort and authenticity.
The island stretches 80 km by 30 km and has chosen to prioritise nature over mass tourism, preserving extensive coastal and forest reserves. This commitment makes Martinique one of the Caribbean’s most remarkable yet under-discovered destinations.
The dramatic North is dominated by Mount Pelée (1,397 m) and the five Pitons du Carbet, each rising close to 1,000 m and covered in rainforest. This volcanic region forms part of the active Caribbean arc that includes Montserrat, Dominica, and parts of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent.
The South and East lie on the older Caribbean geological formation — well eroded and marked by reefs, coves, and long beaches of fine white sand.
MODERN INFRASTRUCTURE, ISLAND SPIRIT
Martinique benefits from the stability and services of mainland France, offering:
• Gendarmerie presence and excellent security
• A first-class healthcare system
• A population of 370,000 and strong local economy
• Political continuity since the 16th century
• The world’s only AOC designation outside mainland France — for its renowned agricultural rum
• The Caribbean’s largest marina, with 850 berths and more than 1,700 yachts at anchor year-round
A LIVING CULTURAL LEGACY
Martinique’s cultural life was strongly influenced by 19th-century visitors from Paris who brought theatre, opera, and classical music, blending with the island’s deep artistic traditions. The result is a vibrant cultural “melting pot.”
Saint-Pierre — once known as the “Paris of the Caribbean” — was a lively hub of arts and nightlife before being destroyed by the 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée. Today, local dance troupes and musicians continue this artistic heritage, and performances can be arranged on board your yacht.
Douglas Yacht Services works with historians, archaeologists, and expert guides to curate private tours that highlight the island’s natural beauty, culture, and extraordinary history.
Contact
Julie
Concierge
