Les Saintes & the Leeward Coast – Departure from Sainte-Rose / Deshaies

Set off for a full day on Les Saintes aboard a speedboat, departing from Sainte-Rose or Deshaies. This 11-hour excursion combines coastal cruising, exploring the natural surroundings, free time in the village and several stops for a swim at iconic spots around the archipelago.

The boat leaves at 7.00 am from Sainte-Rose (you can also board at Deshaies at 7.20 am). You’ll sail along the leeward coast for around 1 hour 30 minutes: Deshaies, Pointe-Noire, Bouillante and Vieux-Fort pass by one after the other as the captain provides commentary. The sea is generally calm here before crossing the Canal des Saintes, where the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea meet.

On arrival at Terre-de-Haut, the first stop is at Pain de Sucre for breakfast on board (coffee, tea, pastries), followed by around 45 minutes of swimming and snorkelling. The seabed around the Pain de Sucre and in the area known as ‘l’Aquarium’ is renowned for its clarity and the presence of reef fish (sergeant majors, parrotfish, etc.).

The boat will then drop you off at the entrance to the village for around 2 hours of free time. You can walk to Fort Napoléon (about a 20-minute climb) or take a minibus, stroll through the narrow streets, explore the local shops and sample the specialities of Les Saintes.

At around 11.45 am, there’s a short boat trip to Cabrit Islet. An aperitif is served (planteur, ti-punch or fruit juice, accompanied by snacks). Lunch is served under the carbet: either the catered meal booked in advance (starter, fish tartare, local rice and vegetables, dessert), or your own packed lunch. A visit to Fort Joséphine is possible after lunch, subject to the captain’s approval.

In the early afternoon, we head for Terre-de-Bas for a snorkelling session lasting around 45 minutes in an area frequented by sea turtles. Their presence depends on sea conditions and is therefore not guaranteed.

The return journey to Basse-Terre includes a stop at the Bouillante hot springs for a swim of around 45 minutes in water naturally heated by geothermal activity.

The day continues with a stop in Deshaies Bay for a relaxing break and an end-of-day aperitif. Depending on the season, the sunset can be viewed at sea or near Kahouanne Islet.

Return to the port of Sainte-Rose at around 6.15 pm (or disembarkation at Deshaies for passengers who boarded in the morning).

HIGHLIGHTS

• One of the longest excursions to Les Saintes from the north coast
• An itinerary enriched with scenic sailing along Basse-Terre (not just a simple crossing)
• A day with multiple stops combining the sea, villages, islets and natural sites
• A well-structured programme that makes the most of every highlight without rushing
• Small group on board for a smoother and more comfortable experience