Plan a CruisePointe a Pitre Cruise Port Guide
Cruise ships dock directly at the modern Saint-John Perse cruise terminal, which underwent a 1.4 million euro upgrade to enhance the passenger experience. The terminal now accommodates up to 2,000 people, features doubled luggage space, clearly defined pedestrian paths, a bar, and a local crafts village. From the terminal, downtown Pointe-à-Pitre is an easy 15-minute walk.
Pointe-à-Pitre serves as the economic hub of Guadeloupe, with a metropolitan population of approximately 100,000 residents. Historically, it was named after a 17th-century fisherman, Peter, and has been influenced by both English and French rule, even serving as a freebooter's headquarters. Despite being repeatedly rebuilt after natural disasters, it remains a lively town during weekdays.
Getting Around from the Port
The city center of Pointe-à-Pitre is a convenient 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, several options are available:
- Buses: Private bus lines connect Pointe-à-Pitre to various villages across the island. These operate without fixed timetables; simply signal for a stop.
- Taxis: Government-regulated taxi fares apply. Be aware that costs can be quite high once you leave the immediate city areas.
- Rental Cars: Numerous car rental agencies are available. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially if visiting between December and April.
- Ferry to Marie-Galante: Ferries depart from the Gare Maritime (not La Darse) to the island of Marie-Galante. The journey takes approximately 60 minutes each way, offering a good independent day trip option.
Attractions and Activities
Within Walking Distance in Pointe-à-Pitre:
- Place de la Victoire: A large central square framed by colonial-style buildings and lush greenery. The local tourist information office is located here.
- Museum Schoelcher: Housed in a charming colonial building with a distinctive pink and white facade, this museum exhibits the collection of Victor Schoelcher, a key figure in the 19th-century abolition of slavery.
- Museum Saint John Perse: Located in another beautiful colonial building, this museum is dedicated to Alexis Saint-Léger, a 19th-century poet and diplomat known as Saint-John Perse.
- Basilica Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul: Situated on Square Gourbeyre, which also hosts a vibrant flower market. The basilica features a Latin-American style exterior, an impressive anti-seismic metallic interior structure, stunning leaded glass windows, and large organs.
- La Darse: A small harbor area, historically where ferries departed for other islands (they now leave from the Gare Maritime).
Independent Day Trip by Ferry:
- Marie-Galante Island: A 60-minute ferry ride from Pointe-à-Pitre. Here you can explore Chateau Murat, a restored 17th-century sugar plantation and rum distillery, or relax on its beautiful beaches.
Dining & Shopping
Pointe-à-Pitre offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene.
- Markets: Explore the lively Darse Market, Saint-Antoine Market, Saint-Jules Market, and the Flower Market at Square Gourbeyre. These markets are a feast for the senses, bustling with color and noise, selling fresh spices, tropical fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
- Shopping Streets: The streets of Frébault, Nozières, and Schoelcher, along with their smaller side streets, are packed with a diverse mix of luxury boutiques, general stores, and souvenir shops, creating an animated and colorful atmosphere.
Safety
No specific safety concerns or areas to avoid are noted for independent travelers in Pointe-à-Pitre.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Euro (€). Most banks and ATMs accept major international credit cards. Credit cards, particularly Visa, are widely accepted in shops and restaurants.
The official language is French, and Creole is also commonly spoken. In major tourist areas like Pointe-à-Pitre, you will find some English speakers.
Stores typically operate from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Businesses are generally closed on Saturday afternoons, Sundays, public holidays, and often on Wednesday afternoons.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the cruise terminal. For emergencies, the police can be reached by dialing 17.