A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes
Imagine spending a day on a classic sailing boat, gliding through waters that shimmer like gemstones, with the Caribbean sun warming your face. That’s exactly what the Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes promises – a blend of adventure, relaxation, and a taste of local culture. While we haven’t personally hoisted the sails or snorkeled with this particular crew, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded experience—especially for travelers eager to see Guadeloupe from the water.
One thing we love about this trip is the chance to actually steer the boat alongside your captain. It’s not often you get to sit at the helm on a well-maintained sailboat, much less learn a bit about sailing from a friendly skipper. Plus, the varied stops—snorkeling at accessible spots, swimming, and exploring Les Saintes from the water—offer a rich, immersive day.
On the flip side, this tour involves a 2.5-hour sail to Les Saintes, which might be a stretch for those prone to seasickness or anyone who prefers more land-based sightseeing. It’s a full day of boat time, so patience and a sense of adventure are key. But for travelers who cherish authentic maritime experiences and aren’t shy about a little sun and saltwater, this tour is a smart choice.
Ultimately, this trip suits those who want a hands-on sailing experience, love to snorkel, and are curious about the local Creole culture. It’s especially ideal for small groups looking for a personal, memorable day out on the water.
Key Points
- Authentic sailing experience with opportunities to steer the boat.
- All-inclusive with snacks, drinks, and a full Creole lunch.
- Snorkeling and swimming at accessible, scenic spots.
- Small group size (max 9 travelers) for personalized attention.
- Expert guides who share local insights and safety tips.
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refund possible if canceled 24 hours in advance.
The Itinerary: A Full Day of Maritime Charm
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Basse Terre Island
Starting Point and Departure
The adventure begins bright and early at 1040 Bd Amédée Valeau in Gourbeyre. The tour kicks off at 9:00am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and meet your friendly skipper. From the dock, you’ll set sail on a roughly 2.5-hour journey across the channel toward Les Saintes. This part of the trip offers a chance to appreciate the vastness of the sea and the beauty of Guadeloupe’s coastline from a different perspective.
The sailing experience is highlighted by the opportunity to take the wheel—a feature that many reviews praise highly. As one traveler noted, “Mathieu was a great tour guide, coffee barista, bartender, and chef,” but also an excellent captain who made guests feel involved and safe. Expect a relaxed, informal atmosphere where your skipper is eager to share sailing tips and island stories.
Stop 1: Exploring Les Saintes from the Water
Once in Les Saintes’ protected bay, you’ll find a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. A popular activity is exploring a shipwreck, which offers a different perspective of this UNESCO-listed bay. Reviews mention how accessible and enjoyable these snorkeling spots are, even for beginners. The calm waters and clear visibility make this a highlight, with many guests expressing delight at the vibrant marine life and the novelty of swimming at such accessible sites.
Lunch and Refreshments
Midday, everyone gathers around for a hearty Creole meal featuring rice, chicken colombo (with ginger and turmeric), and fresh fruit salad. The homemade dishes are often praised for their authenticity and quality. An onboard aperitif of juice, coconut punch, and mango punch helps wash down the spicy flavors, with some reviews mentioning how generous and tasty the drinks are—made with ingredients like mangoes from the local garden.
Scenic Motor Tour and Village Exploration
Post-lunch, the boat glides along for a motorized tour of Les Saintes’ charming village. Expect to see picturesque houses, colorful facades, and narrow streets that echo local life. This is a brief but delightful way to get a feel for the island’s charm without leaving the boat. It’s a good chance to snap photos and ask your guide about the island’s highlights.
You can also read our reviews of more sailing experiences in Basse Terre Island
Swimming at the Shipwreck and Final Water Activities
Along With snorkeling, guests often swim at a shipwreck, which can be a fun and slightly adventurous way to end the water portion of the day. Many reviewers cite this as a standout moment, describing it as “very special” and “a high point of the trip.”
Return Journey and Sunset
As the day winds down, you’ll sail back towards Guadeloupe, arriving at Riviere-Sens Marina around sunset. The return trip offers a chance to relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat. Some travelers mention that the captain makes the return sail lively and engaging, sharing stories and local music, adding to the Caribbean vibe.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour offers good value, especially considering the full-day experience. The price of $179.01 per person covers:
- Snacks like bananas and madeleines.
- A full Creole lunch with rice, chicken colombo, and fresh fruit.
- Unlimited bottled water, coffee, and tea.
- Alcoholic beverages such as coconut and mango punch.
- A sailing initiation, friendly guidance, and safety instructions.
- Snorkeling gear at accessible spots for those who want to explore underwater.
However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll want to plan your transportation to the meeting point. It’s worth noting that the tour is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, which keeps the group intimate and allows for more personalized service.
The Experience: What Travelers Say
The reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, fun-filled day. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides—not just about sailing but also about the local islands’ history and natural beauty. One guest described their skipper as a “super friendly and attentive,” while others appreciated the participatory nature of the trip, with opportunities to steer and learn about sailing.
The scenery gets rave reviews, with the waters around Les Saintes described as “beautiful” and the snorkeling spots “accessible and vibrant.” Guests also mention the delicious Creole lunch, often saying it exceeded their expectations in flavor and portion size.
Comfort and safety are frequently praised, with reviewers noting that the skipper’s safety instructions made them feel at ease even during the sailing. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for making new friends and sharing stories under the Caribbean sun.
The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?
This full-day sailing and snorkeling trip to Les Saintes offers an authentic taste of the Caribbean—combining sailing, cultural sights, and underwater exploration. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences, small groups, and natural beauty. If you love the idea of learning to sail, spotting colorful fish, and enjoying a home-cooked Creole meal in a stunning setting, this trip is a fantastic choice.
For families with children who are comfortable swimming and eager for a little adventure, it’s a memorable day out. But those with mobility issues or who prefer land-based sightseeing might find the boat journey a bit long or physically demanding. Still, the reviews suggest that the expert guides and personal touch make it worth considering for anyone wanting a genuine Caribbean boat experience.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the meeting point at 1040 Bd Amédée Valeau, Gourbeyre.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snacks and drinks are provided, but you might want to bring extra water or a camera.
Can children participate?
Yes, it’s suitable for children whose parents enjoy adventure and outdoor activities. If a child cannot swim, you should inform the skipper beforehand.
What is the duration of the sailing to Les Saintes?
About 2 hours and 30 minutes each way, with a total of approximately 9 hours including stops.
Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for accessible spots.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the boat suitable for beginners?
Yes, the skipper provides sailing initiation and ensures everyone feels comfortable.
How many people will be on the boat?
The group size is limited to 9 travelers for a more intimate experience.
In the end, this tour balances sailing adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty in a way that resonates with travelers craving authentic Caribbean experiences. With friendly guides, a small group setting, and stunning scenery, it’s a day that many will remember long after they return home.
