Full day EN Catamaran Martinique Dolphins and Turtles

An Authentic Day on the Water in Martinique: Dolphins, Turtles, and Tropical Views

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure aboard a beautiful Lagoon catamaran in Martinique, this tour offers a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic cruising, and local flavor. Starting from either the lively Fort-de-France or the picturesque Anse Mitan, the journey takes you across the island’s coastal waters for about nine hours of fun, relaxation, and discovery. At $149.98 per person, it’s a solid choice for those eager to combine nature, culture, and comfort—all with a small group of fellow travelers.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances marine wildlife observation with scenic sightseeing, all while serving up tasty island-inspired food and drinks. Plus, the chance to swim with turtles and explore coral coves makes this a memorable outing. However, the tour’s timing and group size might not suit everyone—so keep that in mind before booking.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and adventurers who enjoy a mix of active and relaxing moments. If you’re comfortable on boats and looking for an authentic slice of Caribbean life, this trip provides a genuine taste of Martinique’s coastal beauty.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins and other cetaceans in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Stops: Discover coral coves, black sandy beaches, and turquoise waters.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a typical lunch with options like chicken Colombo or fish.
• Comfort & Atmosphere: A small group boat ensures a more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: Snacks, drinks, lunch, and wildlife excursions included.
• Considerations: The tour lasts around 9 hours and involves some moderate physical activity like swimming.

A Deep Dive into the Full Day on the Lagoon Catamaran

Setting Out: From Fort-de-France or Anse Mitan

The adventure begins early—either at 7 am from the bustling Fort-de-France or at 7:45 am from the charming Anse Mitan. From these launch points, you’ll cross the bay on a sleek Lagoon catamaran, a vessel that promises a smooth, comfortable ride. The journey to find dolphins and other cetaceans takes about 2.5 hours, and it’s a highlight for many travelers eager for wildlife sightings.

Dolphin and Marine Life Observation

We loved the way the guides focus on respectful observation of marine mammals, making sure the animals aren’t disturbed. As Michelle from a recent review notes, “If it is a boat rather than the Catamaran it is really uncomfortable, boat will too quickly pat a lot of back. Very bad because the content of the day TBien snacks dinner swimming and activities of observation of marine animals super.” This highlights the importance of choosing a comfortable vessel for a better experience.

During this time, you can keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, which are quite active in these waters, often swimming alongside the boat or leaping out of the water. The tour guides are trained to spot these creatures, and you’ll get plenty of chances to see them in their natural environment.

Mid-Morning Swim and Snacking

Around 10:15 am, the boat anchors in a turquoise bay near Anse d’Arlet to allow for a swim. You’ll enjoy floating alongside schools of multicolored fish—a vibrant undersea tableau that’s both relaxing and inspiring. This swim is one of the most popular parts of the trip, as it offers a chance to cool off and experience the Caribbean underwater world firsthand.

Post-swim, the crew offers fresh fruit, fruit juice, and island rum—a perfect way to refresh and socialize. The snacks are simple but well-appreciated, especially after a morning of activity.

Lunch: Tasting Martinique’s Flavors

At noon, after some more cruising, you’ll stop for a typical Caribbean lunch. The menu features Colombo—a fragrant curry dish, either with chicken or fish—reflecting local culinary traditions. The lunch break provides a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery while sampling authentic flavors. Many reviews highlight how this meal adds cultural value to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Turtle Watching at Grande Anse

In the early afternoon, the boat heads to Grande Anse for the chance to spot green turtles. According to eco-conscious guides, there are eco-responsible practices in place to avoid disturbing the turtles, ensuring that this wildlife encounter remains sustainable. The opportunity to swim with turtles is often described as magical, with many travelers sharing that seeing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat was a highlight.

Exploring Coral Coves and Black Sand Beaches

Later, the boat cruises past Anse Dufour and makes a stop at Anse Noir, known for its striking black sandy beaches. Many find these volcanic beaches particularly photogenic and a great spot to walk around, take photos, or simply enjoy the unique landscape. A brief break with cold drinks helps keep everyone energized before heading back.

Bat Cave and Return Trip

On the way back, the boat passes through an intriguing bat cave, where you might spot these nocturnal animals hanging from the rocks, along with the turquoise waters that surround them. It’s a quirky, memorable ending to a day full of natural wonders.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour’s itinerary balances active wildlife observation with relaxing beach time, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy both adventure and leisure. The group size is limited to 14 people, which helps foster a more intimate and personalized atmosphere—something many travelers appreciate.

The timing is designed so you can maximize your chances of dolphin sightings, which tend to be more active in the morning. The breakfast with tea, coffee, and pastries helps start the day on a warm note, and the snacks and lunch keep you fueled throughout the day’s activities.

While the tour doesn’t include snorkeling equipment—which some might find a drawback if they’re eager to explore underwater—many guests simply enjoy swimming and floating in the calm waters.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback is generally positive, with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from six reviews. Travelers loved the stunning views and the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural environment. One reviewer, Michelle, especially appreciated the snacks, swimming, and marine activity.

However, some concerns were raised about boat comfort. The comment, “If it is a boat rather than the Catamaran it is really uncomfortable, boat will too quickly pat a lot of back,” underscores the importance of choosing a comfortable vessel for a smooth ride.

Practical Considerations

The trip costs just under $150, which includes snacks, drinks, lunch, and wildlife watching—a fair value considering the full day of activities. Still, it’s worth noting that snorkeling gear is not included, and travelers should be comfortable on boats for roughly 9 hours.

The tour’s weather-dependent nature means if rain or rough seas occur, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled. Flexibility is built into the policy, with full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers who enjoy watching marine mammals and exploring coastal scenery. It’s also perfect for families or couples who appreciate good food, relaxed cruising, and a small-group vibe. If you’re comfortable on a boat and eager to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat, this trip will delight. Travelers seeking a more active snorkeling adventure might want to bring their own gear, as it isn’t included.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those eager to combine wildlife encounters with scenic landscapes, this full-day catamaran trip offers genuine value. It’s a laid-back way to experience Martinique’s coast, with opportunities to see dolphins, swim with turtles, and explore volcanic beaches—all while enjoying local cuisine and drinks.

The small group setting and focus on eco-responsibility make it a respectful and intimate experience. While the comfort of the boat could be a concern for some, many travelers find the overall experience rewarding enough to overlook minor discomforts.

If your idea of a perfect Caribbean day involves gentle ocean breezes, marine wildlife, and stunning views, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity—and your camera!

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
The tour starts at 7 am from Fort-de-France or at 7:45 am from Anse Mitan, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and boat trip suggest it’s best for children comfortable on boats. Check with the supplier if traveling with young kids.

Are meals included?
Yes, a breakfast with tea, coffee, and pastries is provided, along with a typical lunch featuring chicken Colombo or fish, and snacks like fruit and cupcakes.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, but you’ll have opportunities to swim in the waters, especially during the morning stop.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 14, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What’s the best time of day for dolphin sightings?
Dolphins are usually more active in the morning, so starting early maximizes your chances of seeing them.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there any eco-friendly focus?
Yes, guides emphasize eco-responsible behavior to avoid disturbing turtles and marine life.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, fresh juice, rum, and other drinks are included throughout the day.

Will I get to see interesting geological features?
Yes, the tour passes through a bat cave and offers views of volcanic beaches with black sand.

This full-day Martinique catamaran trip combines the thrill of wildlife watching with the relaxation of cruising along stunning coastlines. It’s a uniquely Caribbean way to spend a day—perfect for those who cherish natural beauty and authentic island experiences.