Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes
This tour offers a full day on the water exploring the stunning islands of Les Saintes from Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe. For $179.01 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours sailing, swimming, and savoring Creole flavors, led by friendly, knowledgeable skippers like Mathieu and Olivier. The itinerary promises a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, and soaking up the island scenery.
What we love most are the personal touches—guides who are not only skilled sailors but also eager to share stories and tips, making the experience both fun and educational. The lunch, a homemade Creole meal featuring chicken colombo, rice, and fresh fruit, is a highlight that adds real value to the day. Plus, the chance to steer the boat alongside the captain makes this a memorable hands-on adventure.
A possible consideration is that the tour is not inclusive of on-land visits beyond the boat, so if you’re hoping to explore Les Saintes’ villages or beaches on your own, you’ll need to plan additional time. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, want authentic island experiences, and are comfortable with a small, intimate group—most reviews praise the personalized service and safety.
This excursion works well for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sailing, sightseeing, and local culture—and it’s especially perfect if you want to learn about the islands from passionate guides while enjoying the natural beauty of Guadeloupe’s waters and islands.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: A full day on a traditional sailboat with opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.
- Expert Guides: Friendly, seasoned skippers like Mathieu and Olivier who share local insights and ensure safety.
- Tasty Creole Cuisine: A homemade, flavorful lunch featuring chicken colombo and fresh fruit.
- Active Participation: Guests can steer the boat, learn sailing skills, and be part of the crew.
- Spectacular Views: Passing Guadeloupe and Les Saintes offers picture-perfect moments both from the water and onshore.
- Limited Land Time: Focuses on the boat journey and water activities, with no on-land sightseeing included.
A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Tour
This excursion from Basse-Terre to Les Saintes, operated by Reve de Nav, guarantees close-up views of some of Guadeloupe’s most charming islands. Starting at the Riviere-Sens Marina at 9:00 am, you’ll embark on a two-and-a-half-hour sail across the channel. The sailing itself is a major part of the experience—expect to feel the breeze and hear the splash of waves as you glide across the water.
The Journey to Les Saintes
The first leg of the trip is all about sailing. The reviews repeatedly mention how enjoyable it is to be on the boat, with some guests even getting a chance to steer the ship alongside the captain. This hands-on element makes the experience more engaging, especially for those interested in sailing or simply wanting a more involved adventure.
The scenery en route is stunning. You’ll see Guadeloupe from afar and get a sense of the island’s rugged beauty. The crew, including the captain Mathieu, are praised for their knowledgeable commentary about the islands and their natural features. This helps turn a simple boat ride into an educational journey, with insights into local history and geography.
Snorkeling and Water Activities at Les Saintes
Once at Les Saintes, your time shifts to water-based activities. You’ll have access to snorkeling spots that are easily accessible from the boat—no long swims or boat transfers needed. Guests often mention snorkeling around a shipwreck, which is a real highlight and perfect for those interested in marine life. The water clarity and variety of fish are frequently praised, with reviews like “snorkeling and swimming off Les Saintes was nice.”
The tour also includes a swim stop at accessible spots, where you can float above coral reefs or explore the shallow waters. For those who prefer to stay dry, the boat offers plenty of lounging space with snacks and drinks.
Onshore Exploration and Creole Lunch
After water activities, there’s a motorized tour of the village of Les Saintes, giving a glimpse of the colorful houses and local architecture. This part of the trip is more relaxed, with guides sharing interesting tidbits about the islands’ history and culture.
Lunch is served onboard around midday—a homemade Creole meal featuring chicken colombo infused with turmeric and ginger, rice, and a fresh fruit salad. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as both delicious and satisfying. Snacks, including bananas and madeleines, are available throughout the day, along with a variety of beverages like coconut punch, mango punch, and juices.
The Return Sail and Sunset
The journey back to Basse-Terre offers another opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze and take in the changing views as the sun starts to set. The boat’s friendly crew ensures everyone is comfortable, and guests often comment on how smoothly and safely the sailing is managed.
Authenticity and Expert Guidance
A standout feature of this tour is the dedication of the guides and skippers. Many reviews highlight how personable and knowledgeable Mathieu, Olivier, and other crew members are. They don’t just sail—they share stories, answer questions, and teach sailing basics. This makes the experience suitable not just for water lovers but also for curious travelers eager to learn about the islands.
Guests also appreciate the small group size (max nine travelers), which fosters a more intimate and personalized atmosphere. The crew’s attentiveness and friendliness elevate the entire day, turning what could be a simple boat trip into a memorable adventure.
Value for Money
Compared to other tours that might focus solely on sightseeing or snorkeling, this experience offers a lot—sailing, water activities, authentic Creole cuisine, and cultural insights—all within the nine-hour window. Many reviewers feel that the quality of the guides, the fresh food, and the memorable views justify the price, making it a good value for those looking for an all-in-one day on the water.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This full-day excursion is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, learning about local culture, and participating actively in their adventure. Families with children who are comfortable swimming or who enjoy a bit of sailing will find it particularly engaging. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots.
If you’re someone who loves passionate guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious local food, this tour hits all the right marks. However, if your main goal is to explore Les Saintes’ villages or beaches on land, you might want to supplement this trip with additional onshore activities.
The Sum Up
This full-day sailing and snorkeling tour strikes a wonderful balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. The combination of expert guides, scenic sailing, accessible snorkeling spots, and homemade Creole lunch provides a comprehensive taste of Guadeloupe’s maritime and island charm.
It offers genuine value for travelers eager to engage with the environment actively and learn from passionate locals. Whether you’re an avid sailor, a water enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene day on the sea, this trip delivers memorable moments and stunning views.
For those who appreciate personalized service, authentic experiences, and a chance to see the islands from a different perspective, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack your swimsuit, sun protection, and an appetite for adventure—and get ready for a day you’ll remember long after you leave.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins at the specified meeting point at 1040 Bd Amédée Valeau, Gourbeyre. You’ll need to arrange your transportation to this location.
How long is the sailing to Les Saintes?
It takes approximately two hours and thirty minutes to sail from Basse-Terre to Les Saintes.
Can I steer the boat?
Yes, guests have the opportunity to helm the ship alongside the captain during the sailing portions, especially on the return trip.
Are snorkeling spots accessible for everyone?
Yes, snorkeling is at accessible spots within a UNESCO-listed bay, and swimming stops are in safe, easily accessible areas. But those who cannot swim should inform the crew beforehand.
Is food included?
Yes, a homemade Creole lunch with chicken colombo, rice, fruit salad, and snacks like bananas and madeleines are included, along with beverages.
What is the maximum group size?
This tour caps at nine travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention.
This adventure promises a genuine glimpse of Guadeloupe’s waters and islands, built on skillful sailing, authentic cuisine, and knowledgeable guides. It’s an experience that blends fun, learning, and stunning natural beauty—perfect for those eager to see the islands from a new angle.