The Anses d'Arlet are a trio of fishing-village bays on Martinique's south-west coast, and they are the most reliable place on the island to swim with sea turtles. This full-day catamaran trip leaves from the Grande Anse d'Arlet pontoon at 8:30am and returns there about seven and a half hours later. The boat cruises near several reef sites to watch marine life, including sea turtles and barracudas, and a host reply in the reviews says the route covers coral between Pointe Lézarde and Pointe Burgos and an area locals call turtle paradise. Snorkel gear is provided, including fins, mask and buoyancy aids, and the group is capped at 14 people. Optional extras include bottle diving for beginners and training dives. It holds a 4.3 rating from more than 100 travelers.
Why it is worth doing
A small boat means more time in the water and less crowding than a big excursion. The south-west is sheltered and the water is usually calm, which suits first-time snorkelers, and the optional dives give confident swimmers a step up without needing a separate trip.
What to know before you go
You meet at the Grande Anse d'Arlet pontoon, so you need your own transport there. Lunch appears among the inclusions but a barbecue meal on board is also priced separately, so confirm what your fare covers before you assume it is free. Drinks are not clearly included. The tour operator lists a starting price around $120 a person, with child discounts, and bottle diving is priced separately. Pregnant travelers can snorkel but not dive, and the operator says most travelers can take part, though no minimum age is stated.
Making it work
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel and something to drink. Check the forecast the day before, since sea conditions affect visibility, and note that free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start. Pair the day with a quiet evening in Les Anses d'Arlet, a charming village with a church on the beach, or add a southern road tour on another day.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day small-group catamaran trip from the Grande Anse d'Arlet pontoon, with snorkelling stops over reefs and turtle areas.
Best time
A calm day with good visibility, ideally outside rough-weather periods.
How long
About seven and a half hours from the 8:30am start, returning to the same pontoon.
Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel and drinks, confirm lunch and drinks before you go, and arrange your own transport to the pontoon.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Snorkelers who want turtles and reef in a small group without a crowded tour boat.
- Families
- Suits children who swim comfortably and wear snorkel gear; an adult should stay close, and no minimum age is stated.
- Couples
- A relaxed day on the water with a small group and optional dives for the more adventurous.
- Pair with
- A southern road tour with Diamond Rock, or an evening in Les Anses d'Arlet.
- Time needed
- A full day, about seven and a half hours.
Good questions
Where does the catamaran leave from?+
From the Grande Anse d'Arlet pontoon, where the group meets at the start and returns at the end. You need your own transport to get there.
Will I see sea turtles?+
The tour aims for them, and a host reply says the route includes an area known as turtle paradise. Wildlife is never guaranteed.
Is snorkel gear included?+
Yes. Fins, mask, shorty wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided, along with paddles and a water playground.
Is lunch included?+
Lunch appears among the inclusions but a barbecue meal on board is also priced separately, so check what your fare covers.
Can beginners dive?+
Optional bottle diving is available for an extra charge, and there is a newbie double-dive option. It is not possible for pregnant travelers.
