This Caribbean Gem, split into two main islands – Base-Terre and Grande-Terre – is the beginning destination of the sailing holiday of a lifetime. Together with 12 other beautiful islands, these two islands connected by a bridge, make up the area of Guadeloupe. A place that offers a wide arrange of experiences with its turquoise waters, coral reefs, charming villages, exquisite restaurants, hiking areas, windmills, and so much more.
Luckily, this dream sailing itinerary gives you an entire week to explore the beauty of Guadeloupe. With beautiful weather all year round and sailing conditions that will fit anyone, it is guaranteed you will have a fantastic time. Now let’s not waste any more time and dive straight in the experience we call “Sailing in Paradise”
Day One – Marina Bas du Fort, Pointe-à-Pitre
The starting point of this journey is a marina like no other. Bas Du Fort is a world-class marina, equipped with numerous facilities and all the amenities needed. More than that it is also situated close to the beautiful city of Pointe-a-Pitre, Grande-Terre. That is also where the International Airport, with flights connecting to destinations throughout the world, can be found. This, together with the numerous bars, history-filled streets, and colorful culture, make Pointe-a-Pitre and the Bas du Fort Marina the perfect starting point.
In fact, because this is such a beautiful place, we recommend you spent the first day and night exploring the surrounding area. No worries if you feel like you don’t have enough time to see all this beautiful place has to offer. We will be returning here at the end of this journey. So you will get a second opportunity to enjoy all Bas du Fort and Pointe-a-Pitre have to offer.
Day Two – Islet Gosier
Situated just 3nm away from our starting position, Islet Gosier is a small and charming wooded island surrounded by reefs and white-sanded beaches. Famous for its lush vegetation, this is the perfect spot for exploring the extensive coral reefs and go on snorkeling expeditions.
Furthermore, the island is inhabited, making it feel like a personal heaven where you can relax on the beach surrounded by nothing but the serene beauty of nature. On the island, there is a small lighthouse and some other picturesque areas to discover. This is the perfect time to relax. Soak up a lot of suns, and gain some energy for the rest of the trip.
Day Three & Four – Marie Galante
Marie Galante is such a stunning island we have dedicated two days of this dream sailing itinerary to exploring the area. From the inhabited peaceful island of Gosier, you can sail south towards this circular shaped island situated just 19nm away.
Once you get there, you can enjoy the view of the sugar fields, the numerous windmills, and stunning coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Although this place is definitely livelier than Islet Gosier, it is still quiet and unaffected by mass tourism. The two days you have here should be enough to explore all the beautiful beaches, swim in the crystal clear ocean, and visit the inland. There you can find the Grande Anse refinery and taste the world’s best rum.
Day Five – Portsmouth, Dominica
The next adventure-filled destination is Portsmouth, Dominica. This place may sound familiar if you are a fan of the Pirates of The Caribbean. Except for that exciting fact, there is also a lot more to discover there. From hiking and river cruising to black sanded volcanic beaches and spectacular waterfalls.
A place that you must visit on the island is Fort Shirley, which is a UNESCO Heritage site. This is one of the most important historical locations in the area. There, in 1802, the West African Regiment took control over the fort. An event that started the abolishment of slavery in the British Colonies.
Day Six – Les Saintes
The last destination before returning to the beautiful Marina Bas du Fort is a place of unspoiled tropical beauty, typical for the Caribbean. The Les Saintes area is known for its architecture, historical monuments, small charming villages, stunning bays and numerous restaurants serving local cuisine.
The bay we strongly recommend you check out is Bourg des Saints. Which is often described as one of the most beautiful places to drop anchor. Not just in the Caribbean but in the world. A perfect place for overnight anchorage, however, is the southeast of the small pier. Because the area offers protection from the wind.
A must-visit here is the Vauban style, Fort Napoleon. Located 114 meters above sea level, this historical fort overlooks the bay of Les Saintes. There you can find a museum, a cactus conservatory and observe iguanas.
Day Seven – Marina Bas du Fort, Pointe-à-Pitre
Such fantastic sailing holidays make us dream we could stay in the Caribbean forever and just explore. However, this journey has come to an end. Unless you want to spend one more week here since there is still plenty to explore in the Caribbean. The choice is yours. But for now, let’s head back to the beautiful beginning destination and give it one last good look. In such a place, there is always more to see. So go ahead and spend the night exploring the city of Pointe-a-Pitre before you fly back home.
We hope this sailing itinerary inspired you to charter a yacht and start sailing in Guadeloupe! Tell us in the comments below or on our Facebook Page if you agree that sailing in the Guadeloupe Area is like sailing in paradise. And remember, if you have questions or need help for your next sailing holiday, the Tubber Experts are always available and ready for you!
