Half-day tour of the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin in Saintoise

Visit the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin in the company of Marcus, a young fisherman who, as well as giving you an insight into his work, will be sure to show you the very best this region has to offer. Aboard his Saintoise boat, he’ll take you through the mangroves of the Canal des Rotours, towards Îlet Macou and Îlet aux Oiseaux, and show you the beauty of the coral reef’s seabed. A comprehensive programme in a setting untouched by mass tourism.

The adventure begins in Morne à l’Eau, at the Canal des Rotours, where Marcus will be waiting for you at his jetty. After a very warm welcome, you’ll set off on a 4-hour trip aboard an authentic motorised ‘saintoise’. The first stage is the crossing of the Canal des Rotours to reach the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin lagoon. Over a distance of 6 km, you’ll sail through the mangrove swamp, a unique ecosystem that Marcus will be delighted to explain to you. With the mangroves and their roots emerging from the water, and the lush greenery on either side of the canal, this crossing feels like a journey into another world. Once you’ve left the Canal des Rotours, the scenery changes: the largest lagoon in the Lesser Antilles unfolds before you. You’re on Marcus’s home turf. This young fisherman has spent several years fishing in the area, so it goes without saying that he knows it inside out. After a few minutes, you’ll arrive at Macou Islet, a little-known and rarely visited islet home to a small chapel. As a keen guide who loves sharing his knowledge, Marcus will tell you everything he knows about the islet and the chapel during the visit. Next, we head to the coral reef for some snorkelling (snorkelling equipment not provided). Marcus will show you the best spots to appreciate the full diversity of the underwater wildlife in crystal-clear waters. Have you come across a species of fish or a piece of coral that has fascinated you? Ask Marcus – as a real expert on the local marine life, he’ll give you all the information he has! Marcus will then take you to Pointe Sable beach for an aperitif break. Whilst he’s preparing the drinks, you can take the opportunity to have a quick dip in the crystal-clear water. On the menu: Ti-Punch, planteur, fruit juices and a natter amongst good friends! Once you’ve recharged your batteries, it’s off to visit another legendary islet: Îlet aux Oiseaux. Several species of birds have made their home there, and you’ll be able to see dozens of them performing an aerial ballet right above the islet: a truly unique spectacle. The return journey always takes you through the Rotours Canal, giving you time to appreciate the beauty of the mangrove swamp one last time before disembarking at Morne à l’Eau.