Day trip – Îlet-Caret and the mangrove swamp

From Sainte-Rose, discover the riches of the Grand Cul-de-sac Marin. On the agenda for the day: idyllic islets including Îlet Caret, the coral reef, Îlet aux Oiseaux, and an introduction to the mangrove forest – all accompanied by a traditional Creole meal (drinks included). Satisfaction and a smile guaranteed! New: a 2-hour educational tour is also on the programme.

Meet at 8.15 am in the seaside car park in Sainte-Rose, near the water sports centre. Departure at 8.30 am, heading for the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Sainte-Rose. The crossing takes 15 minutes. At 8.45 am, we’ll arrive at the 25-kilometre-long coral reef that protects one of the largest lagoons in the Lesser Antilles. For an hour, you’ll explore the underwater flora and fauna: coral reef fish such as ‘parrotfish’ and ‘surgeonfish’, which swim amongst ‘Neptune’s brain’ and ‘fire coral’, and the graceful gorgonians. You may be lucky enough to spot a turtle coming up to the surface to breathe or a lobster hidden in a coral head.

At around 10.30 am, you’ll have some quiet time to explore Ilet Caret, a little paradise lost amidst the turquoise waters. You’ll then enjoy a safe swim in the lagoon. At 11.00 am, you’ll be offered an aperitif with your feet in the water. You’ll savour a Marie-Galante-style ti’punch, a planteur or a local juice, accompanied by fresh fruit and toast.

At around 12.00, you’ll sit down to lunch in the shade of the traditional carbets, enjoying a Caribbean meal prepared by the team. On the menu: chicken and fish, cooked according to your preference and the season, along with ouassous (large local prawns). This feast will be served with a gratin of local vegetables and rice. For dessert, you’ll enjoy bananas stuffed with chocolate and flambéed with rum – the perfect moment to capture the occasion with a lovely photo. To round off the meal, a coffee and a rum-infused liqueur will be served before you enjoy a nap in the shade of the coconut palms or a refreshing swim.

At 2.30 pm, you’ll set off for Ilet La Biche to explore the fishermen’s hut, a true haven of peace known to everyone here. Next, you’ll explore the mangrove forest, where your guide will explain this unique ecosystem, which is so vital to life in the lagoon.

At around 3.30 pm, you’ll visit Ilet aux Oiseaux, a mangrove islet that has become the permanent home of frigatebirds, pelicans and herons. You’ll then be treated to the aerial display of the frigatebirds, these majestic creatures. Finally, you’ll head towards Ilet Blanc to explore one last islet before returning to the harbour at 4.30 pm.