Cruises from Pointe A Pitre, Guadeloupe

Cruises from Pointe à Pitre, Guadeloupe run mostly in the winter season with lines like MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises offering great options. Many itineraries last about seven nights and take you to Southern Caribbean islands such as Barbados, Saint Lucia, Martinique, Grenada, and Sint Maarten. Costa also runs longer trips across the Atlantic that end in Europe, giving travelers more variety. The cruise terminal is right in the city center, so it’s easy to reach markets, shops, and attractions before starting your Caribbean trip.

• Highlights of Pointe A Pitre
• Places to Visit in Pointe A Pitre
• When to visit Pointe A Pitre?
• Top Pointe A Pitre Cruise Lines and Ships
• Cruise Ports in Pointe A Pitre
• Best Cruise Lines from Pointe A Pitre
• Onboard Experiences on Pointe A Pitre Cruise Ships
• What You Need to Know Before You Sail from Pointe A Pitre Cruise?
• FAQs About Pointe A Pitre Cruise Departure Port

Highlights of Pointe à Pitre

Pointe A Pitre gives visitors a chance to enjoy both culture and nature in one place. The busy markets are filled with fresh fruit, spices, and handmade crafts, making them a favorite stop for many. The city shows off a mix of French and Creole influences, which you can see in its streets and buildings. Beyond the town, you’ll find beaches with clear water, lush rainforests, and volcanic scenery, all adding to the charm of this Caribbean destination.

Cultural and Historical Core

Pointe à Pitre has several spots that give you a look into its rich past and traditions. The Mémorial ACTe is a striking museum set in an old sugar factory, sharing the history of slavery in the Caribbean through powerful exhibits. The Musée Saint John Perse honors the Nobel Prize-winning poet with displays of his life and Creole costumes. At Musée Schoelcher, you’ll learn about Victor Schoelcher’s role in ending slavery. The 19th-century Cathédrale Saint Pierre et Saint Paul and the palm-lined Place de la Victoire add even more character to the city.

Markets and Local Flavor

The city’s markets are full of color and energy, offering everything from spices to seafood. Marché Saint Antoine, close to the port, is filled with the aroma of herbs and fresh produce, while sellers dressed in traditional outfits add to the charm. Near the ferry terminal, Marché de la Darse is where locals buy fish straight from boats. Right outside the cruise terminal, stalls with handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and crafts make it easy to pick up authentic souvenirs.

Popular Beaches and Coastal Excursions

Even though there aren’t beaches near the port, you can reach some of the island’s best spots with a short taxi or bus ride. Plage de la Datcha in Le Gosier is only fifteen minutes away, offering calm waters that are great for families. A quick ferry takes you to Ilet du Gosier for a small island escape. About half an hour from the port, Plage de la Caravelle in Sainte Anne welcomes visitors with soft white sand, turquoise water, and excellent swimming conditions.

Natural Wonders of Guadeloupe

Basse Terre, the western island of Guadeloupe, is perfect for nature lovers who want a change of scenery. The Jacques Cousteau Marine Reserve is a short drive away and famous for snorkeling and scuba diving among coral reefs and colorful sea life. In Guadeloupe National Park, you can hike through rainforests, see the Cascade aux Ecrevisses waterfall, or trek near the La Soufrière volcano. Another option is a ferry to Îles des Saintes, where stunning beaches, quiet villages, and Fort Napoléon create a memorable day trip.

TOP 5 INTERESTING PLACES TO VISIT IN POINTE A PITRE

Pointe à Pitre, a lively port city in Guadeloupe, offers a rich mix of history, culture, and Caribbean charm. Visitors can walk through colonial streets, learn about the struggles and resilience of the past, and experience the busy atmosphere of local markets. Here are the interesting places to visit in Pointe à Pitre:

Mémorial ACTe

Mémorial ACTe is a striking cultural center and museum built on the site of an old sugar factory. It tells the story of slavery and the slave trade in the Caribbean through six historical periods called the “Archipelagos.” The building itself stands out with modern architecture, while inside, the exhibitions are emotional and thought-provoking. Visitors walk through the painful history of slavery while also seeing the strength and progress of Guadeloupe’s people. For anyone who wants to learn about the island’s past and its path toward change, this museum is a powerful stop.

Place de la Victoire

Place de la Victoire is the oldest square in Pointe-à-Pitre, filled with tall royal palm trees and surrounded by colonial houses. The square was named in 1794 to honor the victory of the revolutionaries and the end of slavery. At its center stands a historic bandstand, with monuments and busts of important figures scattered around. Locals and visitors enjoy walking here to see the mix of architecture, history, and daily life. The nearby waterfront adds to the charm, making this square a favorite spot for relaxing, people-watching, and taking in the city’s cultural identity.

Marché Saint-Antoine (Spice Market)

Marché Saint-Antoine, also called the Spice Market, is a lively place that brings local culture to life. The market is housed in a 19th-century metal hall, and inside you’ll find stalls filled with fragrant spices, tropical fruits, and local remedies. Handmade crafts are also sold, making it a great place for unique souvenirs. The women selling at the stalls often wear traditional dresses, which adds to the authentic atmosphere. With its bright colors, strong aromas, and friendly sellers, the market offers visitors a true taste of Guadeloupe’s everyday life and traditions.

Saint-Peter and Saint-Paul Church

Saint-Peter and Saint-Paul Church is one of the city’s most remarkable landmarks. Built with a metal frame to resist hurricanes, it’s often called the “Iron Cathedral.” While its structure is unusual, the church still has a classic look, with statues of the saints placed in niches on the front. Inside, the design is simple but elegant, reflecting resilience and faith through difficult times. The church shows how colonial architecture was adapted to the island’s climate. Visiting gives you a chance to see a piece of history that has stood strong for centuries in Pointe-à-Pitre.

Musée Saint-John Perse

Musée Saint-John Perse sits inside a beautiful colonial house and is dedicated to the poet who was born in Pointe-à-Pitre and later won the Nobel Prize in Literature. The museum holds personal items, manuscripts, and artifacts that tell his story. Even if you don’t know his poetry, the museum is worth visiting for the building itself. Its wooden balconies, high ceilings, and elegant design showcase colonial architecture at its best. Walking through the rooms lets you step back in time and connect with both Guadeloupe’s literary and architectural history in one visit.

Le Marché de la Darse

Le Marché de la Darse is a lively waterfront market where fishermen bring in their fresh catch each day. The market hall, made of steel, has been a meeting place for locals for years. You’ll see stalls filled with fish, lobster, shellfish, and other seafood straight from the sea. Vendors also sell local fruits and vegetables, making it a busy spot for both food and culture. The sounds, smells, and sights here give you a strong sense of Pointe-à-Pitre’s connection to the ocean and its role in daily life on the island.

WHEN TO VISIT POINTE A PITRE?

The best time to visit Pointe-à-Pitre is from December to April, when the weather is sunny and warm. These months are great for beach trips, sightseeing, and enjoying the city’s lively feel. If you prefer quieter days, May and June bring fewer visitors, while July to November offer lower prices but more rain and possible storms.

CRUISE PORTS IN POINTE A PITRE

Pointe-à-Pitre is one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean, welcoming travelers from all over the world. The terminals are close to the city center, making it easy to step off the ship and start enjoying the local sights, markets, and culture.

Centre Saint-John Perse Terminal

This terminal is right near downtown Pointe-à-Pitre, making it easy to walk to local attractions, shops, and historic squares in just a few minutes. Travelers can enjoy a quick stroll to the Spice Market, Place de la Victoire, and other cultural spots. It’s a convenient starting point for anyone wanting to see the city without needing extra transport.

Gare Maritime de Bergevin

Gare Maritime de Bergevin is a short drive from the city center and usually serves ferries and smaller cruise ships. From here, travelers can take trips to other islands in Guadeloupe or join organized excursions. The terminal is ideal for those looking to explore beyond Pointe-à-Pitre and enjoy day trips to beaches, villages, and natural spots nearby.

Croisières Terminal

This terminal is designed for larger cruise ships and gives easy access to buses, taxis, and tours. After arriving, travelers can quickly reach popular destinations across Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. It’s simple to get to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions without wasting time. The terminal also has facilities for shopping, information, and transport, making visits smooth and hassle-free.

BEST CRUISE LINES FROM POINTE A PITRE

Costa Cruises

Photo Courtesy: Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises runs regular Caribbean voyages from Pointe-à-Pitre, offering week-long trips to islands like Barbados, Martinique, and Saint Lucia. The ships feature a mix of dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking for a full cruise experience in the Caribbean.

MSC Cruises

Photo Courtesy: MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers round-trip Caribbean cruises from Pointe-à-Pitre with stops at southern islands like Grenada and Sint Maarten. Their ships provide a variety of restaurants, shows, and onboard activities. MSC is ideal for travelers who enjoy modern ships, fun experiences, and convenient itineraries across Guadeloupe and nearby islands.

Onboard Experiences Cruise Ships from Pointe A Pitre

Entertainment and Nightlife

On MSC and Costa ships, entertainment keeps everyone busy. MSC offers Broadway-style shows, live bands, and fun theme parties, with the MSC Starship Club featuring a robotic bartender. Costa has theater shows, live music, discos, and themed parties that create a lively and classic cruise vibe for all guests.

Relaxation and Wellness

Both lines provide excellent spa and wellness options. MSC’s Aurea Spa has saunas, steam rooms, thalassotherapy pools, and Balinese-inspired treatments, plus gyms with classes like yoga. Costa’s Samsara Wellness Center offers massages, spa treatments, a beauty salon, and spaces for yoga, giving guests time to rest and recharge at sea.

Fun and Games

MSC and Costa ships offer plenty of fun. MSC features a 4D cinema, bowling alleys, F1 simulators, and water parks with slides and ziplines. Costa has casinos for adults, game rooms, a 4D cinema, and video arcades, providing options for both kids and adults who enjoy gaming or adventure.

Family and Kids’ Clubs

Families have many options for keeping children entertained. MSC has clubs for different age groups, LEGO and Chicco programs, water parks, sports courts, and family dining. Costa offers kids and teen clubs like Squok Club and Teen’s Zone, with supervised activities, games, and spaces where young travelers can have fun safely.

Dining and Drinking

Dining on MSC and Costa ships is varied. MSC offers main dining rooms, buffets, and specialty restaurants with international dishes, along with bars and lounges like traditional pubs and a champagne bar. Costa also provides a mix of main and specialty restaurants and bars, including the classy Blue Velvet Piano Bar.

What to Know in Advance Before Setting Sail from Pointe A Pitre?

Before setting off on your Pointe A Pitre cruise, it’s helpful to know a few key tips to keep your trip easy and enjoyable.

Best time to travel

The dry season from December to May is the most popular time to cruise. The weather is warm with less rain. The rainy season brings humidity and short showers, and hurricanes peak in August and September.

Official language and currency

French is the official language, and the Euro is the currency. English is sometimes understood in tourist areas, but basic French phrases help. Credit cards work widely, yet carrying some Euros is useful for small markets.

Visa requirements and passport validity

Check visa rules based on your nationality. EU citizens can enter with a passport or national ID. Citizens of some countries, like India, need a visa. Your passport should be valid for six months beyond your stay.

Getting to the cruise port

The cruise terminal is 15–20 minutes from the airport by car. Taxis, shuttles, or rental cars are available. You can also walk from downtown in about 15 minutes if you want to see the city.

Packing essentials for the tropical climate

Pack light clothes, swimsuits, and walking shoes for shore excursions. Bring a light rain jacket during wet months. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and hiking boots for visiting rainforests or La Soufrière Volcano.

Local culture and etiquette

Guadeloupe has a rich Creole culture blending African, European, and Indian influences. French is widely spoken, and many speak Creole. Using greetings like “Bonjour” is appreciated. Carnival takes place before Ash Wednesday.

Importance of travel insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for cruises. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or missed ports. Some cruise lines require it, giving peace of mind while enjoying your journey.

FAQs About Pointe-à-Pitre Cruise Departure Port

1. What is the best time to go on a cruise from Pointe-à-Pitre?

The best time is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is warm and pleasant with less rain, making it perfect for outdoor activities and shore excursions.

2. Do I need a visa to cruise from Pointe-à-Pitre?

Visa rules depend on your nationality. Some travelers, like EU citizens, can enter with a valid ID or passport. Others, including Indian citizens, need a visa. Check ahead to avoid last-minute issues.

3. What language is spoken in Pointe-à-Pitre?

French is the main language, but Creole is also widely spoken. English is understood in tourist areas, though learning a few basic French phrases can help you interact with locals.

4. What currency should I use?

The official currency is the Euro (€). Major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops, but carrying a small amount of cash is useful for markets or smaller stores.

5. How do I get from the airport to the cruise terminal?

The cruise terminal is about 15–20 minutes from the airport by taxi, shuttle, or car. You can also walk from downtown if you have light luggage and want to see the city.

6. Are there beaches near the cruise port?

The port itself doesn’t have beaches, but Plage de la Datcha and Plage de la Caravelle is just a short taxi ride away. Both offer clear waters, soft sand, and relaxing spots.

7. What should I pack for a Pointe-à-Pitre cruise?

Bring light, breathable clothes, swimsuits, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A light rain jacket is handy for sudden showers, and sturdy shoes are useful for hikes or nature trips.

8. Is travel insurance needed for a cruise from Pointe-à-Pitre?

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, interruptions, or missed port departures. Some cruise lines may even require passengers to have insurance for their trip.

9. Are there family-friendly activities on these cruises?

Yes. Cruise ships like MSC and Costa offer kids’ and teens’ clubs, water parks, sports courts, and family dining programs. There are supervised activities for children, so parents can relax too.

10. Can I take shore excursions from Pointe-à-Pitre?

Absolutely. You can visit historic landmarks, bustling markets, natural parks, or nearby islands like Basse-Terre and the Îles des Saintes. Excursions range from cultural tours to beaches and adventure activities.