secret martinique
Martinique and the harbour at Le Marin form the ‘classic’ departure point for the Grenadines. However, this superb island conceals some fabulous ‘secret places’ and amply repays several days cruising spent cruising there...
Strongly recommended when you go cruising in the West Indies, the ‘Guide des Antilles’, by Jacques Patuelli becomes essential once you leave the beaten track. Editions Atoll.
Eating: For years we have appreciated the quality and kindness to be found at the Kaï Léger restaurant on François. Also the hotel at the Anse Caritan: when you are anchored just in front of the hotel, you can easily let yourself be tempted by an aperitif in pleasant surroundings...
Anchorages on the Caribbean coast: So, you want to sail right round Martinique? A good idea! In fact, you will sail on all points of sailing, and will have changing sea conditions, but will have no clearance to carry out and will have a good view of what the West Indies can offer.
After the windward coast, where you will always (or almost always) be alone in the anchorages, the Caribbean side will be a complete change... At Saint Pierre, Fort de France, the Trois Ilets and even more so in the Anses d’Arlet, expect to have a lot of neighbours at anchor. But this is also a good way to make friends... Our favourite anchorages are at Marigot du Diamant, and in the Anses d’Arlet, at the Anse Chaudière.
Local colour: if you are anchored in the Anses d’Arlet, go and visit Claude. This painter exhibits his works on the road to the Anses d’Arlet, coming from the Trois Islets. And in addition, he offers tasty fruit juices made on request. An excellent address, especially as Claude is an old friend, so make yourself known as part of the big ‘Multihulls World’ family... (tel. +596 (0)5 96 68 65 54)
