Making the most of Le Marin
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Le Marin is a tender port with a large marina that occasionally accommodates up to 200 boats.
One of the island's two sub-prefectures, Le Marin has undergone substantial recent economic and commercial growth following the government's decentralisation policy. Its church dates to 1766, was built in Jesuit style and ranks among Martinique's most beautiful historic monuments. Amateur yachtsmen regard the bay as the island's finest mooring place.
Getting around
A popular cruise-organised trip is Martinique Panorama. Leave Le Marin for a scenic drive along Martinique's south-west coast through Trois-Îlets, then tour the Pagerie with a guide, where Empress Josephine of France spent her childhood. Continue on attractive inland roads to Le Francois on the east side and visit an exceptionally well-kept plantation house furnished with original period pieces. After seeing sugarcane fields, stop at an old rum distillery for a tasting before following the south-east coast back to port.
Taxi Union demands mean no public transport operates from the airport, leaving car hire or a taxi as the choices. Be aware that taxis add an extortionate 40% surcharge between 8pm and 6am, as well as on Sundays.
Money
As a dependent territory of France, Martinique uses the euro. Shops do not accept US dollars, though some stores and many restaurants and hotels take credit cards.
Staying connected
People on the islands speak French and Creole patois, while some inhabitants know English.