The Baignoire de Joséphine, or Josephine's Bath, is a patch of shallow, turquoise water in the Baie du François where a sandbar rises close to the surface and you can stand waist-deep far from the shore. The legend ties it to Joséphine, the Martinique-born woman who became empress of France. This full-day boat trip visits it along with the Fonds Blancs, the white sand banks, and cruises past mangroves and islets, including Îlet Chancel, where wild iguanas live. A Creole lunch is served on board, and snorkel equipment, snacks, bottled water and alcoholic drinks are included. The trip lasts about seven hours and holds a 4.9 rating from more than 220 travelers, among the best-rated experiences on the island.
Why people love it
This is the Martinique of postcards and Instagram, a bright, shallow lagoon with a lively, easy atmosphere on the boat. The water is warm and the shallows are friendly even for weak swimmers, which makes it a good family day. The mangroves and islets add a wildlife element that beach days lack.
What to know before you go
You meet at the main pontoon of the fishing port of Le François, where you ask for the Côte au Vent boat, and you must get there on your own. The tour ends at the same port. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and no minimum age is given.
Pickup is described at the port rather than from hotels, so plan transport from Fort-de-France or the south, which can take more than an hour. Prices start around $136 a person, with discounts for children, and free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start.
Making it work
Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a hat, and take a light cover-up for the boat. The east coast is windier than the Caribbean side, so sea conditions can be livelier. Combine it with a visit to Habitation Clément, which is nearby in Le François, for a rum-and-lagoon day on the Atlantic side.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day boat trip from the fishing port of Le François to the Baignoire de Joséphine and the Fonds Blancs, with a Creole lunch on board.
Best time
A calm, sunny day, with an early start to enjoy the shallows before they fill.
How long
About seven hours, ending at the same pontoon where you start.
Tips
Arrange your own transport to Le François, bring a swimsuit, towel and reef-safe sunscreen, and ask for the Côte au Vent boat at the pontoon.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants Martinique's famous turquoise shallows and a relaxed boat day.
- Families
- Very good for families because the water is shallow and warm, but children need an adult beside them.
- Couples
- A sociable, sunny day with lunch and drinks included and a classic swim spot.
- Pair with
- Habitation Clément, also in Le François.
- Time needed
- A full day, seven hours plus travel.
Good questions
What is the Baignoire de Joséphine?+
A shallow, turquoise sandbar area in the Baie du François where you can stand in warm water far from shore. It is named after Joséphine, the Martinique-born empress.
What is included?+
A Creole lunch, snacks, bottled water, alcoholic drinks and snorkel equipment, plus a driver-guide. Some inclusions are not fully shown, so check the booking page.
Where do I meet the boat?+
On the main pontoon at the fishing port of Le François, where you ask for Côte au Vent. You must get there on your own, and the tour ends there.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, with an adult. No minimum age is stated, and the shallow water suits families.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.
