What makes the many islands of Guadeloupe so unique and flavorful? A Guadeloupe Boat Charter will reveal it. We think it is a combination of the French and Creole languages. As well as Gallic savoir-faire, culinary, and other cultural traditions.
The Guadeloupe Archipelago lies between Montserrat and Antigua to the north. And Dominica to the south. It is a full-fledged Department of France. Especially important, it has a French health system. In addition to a high level of safety and security. Plus representation in Parliament, and really good baguettes.
The islands’ residents also share a primarily agricultural lifestyle. This is certainly not one of those destinations that have covered all its farmland with sprawling resorts. Or exploited its fisheries into oblivion.
In fact, when it comes to preserving its authentic way of life and protecting its ecosystems and wildlife, Guadeloupe has been ahead of the game for decades. Guests will appreciate the Guadeloupe archipelago’s authenticity and the Franco-Caribbean/Creole vibe.
The traditional family values, and respect for the sun-kissed land and sea, make it a friendly and beautiful place. Welcome to Paradise!
La-Pointe-des-Chataux-Grand-Terre, Guadeloupe
Weather
As you would expect in the Caribbean, Guadeloupe’s daily highs tend to be in the 80s, but temperatures are cooler in the mountains of Basse-Terre. These mountains force the ocean breezes to climb higher and cooler. Since cool air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air, the result is rain and Basse-Terre’s rainforests. The other islands present no barrier to ocean breezes, so the winds pass across them without rain very much. This is especially true between November and May. Summer and early fall are, not surprisingly for the Caribbean, the rainy season.
Waterfall “Chutes du carbet”, Guadeloupe
Places to See
Hit the Beach at Ste-Anne: It’s hard to single out just one beach. All the islands have splendid strands. The public beach at Ste-Anne on Grande-Terre stands out for the inclusive mix of locals and visitors in the Caribbean. Good shops, bars, and eateries, too.
Visit a Volcano: At 4,800 ft., La Soufrière is the highest peak in the Eastern Antilles. And indeed yes, it’s (gently) active. Visitors can drive to lookouts in Guadeloupe National Park. It is a vast UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Basse-Terre’s highlands. You certainly want to hike up to the smoking mountaintop.
Catch a Waterfall: The highest of the park’s cascades, Les Chutes du Carbet, takes a 3-tiered tumble totaling more than 800 ft. Easily accessed, La Cascade aux Ecrevisses spills into a dream-like world pool encircled by lush tropical trees and vines.
Command a Fort: Fort Louis Delgrès, on the southwest coast of Basse-Terre, and Fort Napoleon in Terre-de-Haut still look much the way they did in colonial days. They both have well-preserved walls, fortifications, and cannons. And truly spectacular views too.
Things to Do in Guadeloupe
Dance, Dance, Dance: Zouk was born here, but the locals also love salsa, soca, calypso, reggae, and American and European dance music. Of the many dance clubs in Gosier, DB9 (it even has a pool) and Five O’Clock are aces. There are certainly more great clubs at the marina in Pointe-à-Pitre and elsewhere.
Savor French-Creole Cuisine: Sample Guadeloupe’s special French Creole food. Particularly delicious Accras Seafood Fritters, Colombo, or Goat Stew. Don’t forget to visit the Auberge de La Vieille Tour. A particularly fabulous hotel restaurant in a historic sugar mill on Grande-Terre. This is just one of many restaurants that serve sophisticated French dishes with a Caribbean twist. They are richly flavored meals you’re not likely to find in the US or Canada.
Swim with the Fishes: Jacques Cousteau called the Pigeon Islands, just off Basse-Terre’s west coast, one of the world’s top 10 dive sites. Now protected by law, these waters’ tropical fish, coral, and giant turtles thrill both divers and snorkelers. Divers can also explore two wrecks.
Take the Ferry to Paradise(s): A bridge connects Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. However, visitors can visit Guadeloupe’s other islands using the fabulous ferry service. Each island has its own unique history and lifestyle.
Buy Yourself a Present: In addition to selling the best bananas on earth, market vendors feature Madras headwraps and dolls, hand-woven items of straw, and spices. Stores sell French fashions and perfumes. And local Rhum Vieux—a vintage, single-estate rum.
Join the Route du Rhum Celebration. This sailboat race from France to Pointe-à- Pitre, the capital of Grande-Terre, only occurs every four years. It attracts 100,000 or so sailing and partying types—especially the latter—to Guadeloupe. This year’s festivities will last from late October through much of November.
Island Hopping – The butterfly shape of Guadeloupe’s main island is really two islands connected by a bridge. First is the low-lying Grande-Terre, with towns and farms, beaches, and resorts. Connected to it is verdant Basse Terre. In fact a delightful pristine land of mountains, rainforests, and cascades surrounded by waters teeming with life. To the east and south of these islands, La Désirade offers away-from-it-all tranquility. Agricultural Marie-Galante boasts exquisite rum and beaches. The tiny Les Saintes features French cafes and history. They’re connected to the main islands by fast ferries as well as by air. Also, no trip takes over 50 minutes. Guadeloupe is one of the best places in the Caribbean for island-hopping between those easy connections and the distinctive ambiance of each island.
Gastronomy Highlights
This is French territory with an island flare. Guadeloupe’s restaurants are a culinary delight. From fine dining in a rainforest to a snack at the beachside. Above all, they offer the most delicious blend of Creole and French specialties. Focusing on the freshest seafood. And yes, do not forget to try a rhum cocktail.
Ti Kaz’ La – A picturesque setting on Terre-de-Haut in Les Saintes. Open-air dining with steps leading to the soft white sand. A fusion of French and Creole dishes. Roasted lobster, coconut chicken, and most certainly leave room for the mango souffle.
Le Poisson Rouge – Situated in a lush rainforest setting north of Guadeloupe National Park. Part of the upscale Tendacayou Ecolodge. Creole and French specialties.
Goune’s Food – Saint Anne. French, American
Sunset B – Bouillante – French, Vegetarian
Chez Olivier – Caribbean, Cajun, Creole
Au Bon Vivre – Local ingredients with a French flair
Marinas and Anchorages Guadeloupe Boat Charter
Marina Bas-du-Fort – Pointe a Pitre
Pointe a Pitre – has several anchorages outside the little bay, close to the marina. Another is located SW of the marina at Ilet a Cochans.
Deshaies – small port in the northwest corner of Guadeloupe
Bas Terre
Experience your Guadeloupe Boat Charter on “Lady Fiona”
The friendly, warm, amazing crew of Mike and Lizzy would love to make your Guadeloupe holiday the most magnificent ever. Lady Fiona is a 62-foot luxurious catamaran that accommodates 6 guests. The incredibly experienced Captain Mike and Chef Lizzy will sail you to the most charming spots in the Guadeloupe archipelago.
BVI & Caribbean Yacht Charters is a division of CKIM Group Inc. To arrange your Guadeloupe Boat Charter and for more information on “Lady Fiona” Contact Us at 321-777-1707
