Yacht charter Guadeloupe

If you think that Paris is overrated and too rainy, go to Guadeloupe!

Halfway down the eastern Caribbean chain, between Dominica and Antigua, lies this French overseas department. Charter a yacht in this part of the Lesser Antilles to discover a unique blend of European and tropical cultures.

Guadeloupe is a small butterfly-shaped island split into two main islands: Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. Parted by a narrow channel and connected by a bridge, the two islands are very distinct.

The mountainous and volcanic island of Basse-Terre features lush tropical forests and stunning beaches. The coral-based eastern half is more tranquil with rolling hills and striking coastlines. Along with over 12 other islands, the two islands make up the French territory of Guadeloupe.

A charter yacht allows you to explore this French cluster of islands. It has up-to-date yachting facilities, marinas, and high-end resorts. Guadeloupe is one of the Caribbean best-kept secrets, an alternative to its better known and boisterous neighbors.

If you miss the French Riviera but not its flashy lifestyle, head to the opulent harbor of Saint-Francois. It is known as The Cannes of Guadeloupe. But it has a very low key atmosphere with a handful of restaurants, bars, and live music. Drink champagne to celebrate your sailing vacations, watching a fantastic sunset.

Food connoisseurs have to taste the local cuisine that is creole, part-French, and part-Caribbean. This exciting fusion mix a lot of tropical fruit, spices, fresh fish, and a traditional French dish. On a crewed charter yacht, the chef can prepare meals to delight your taste buds.

On the leeward side of Basse-Terre, you can show your sport fishing skills. You can try to impress your friends and catch marlin, tuna, sea bream, or swordfish!

If you prefer diving, head to Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve. Located near Pigeon Island, the area boast vibrant marine life and vivid coral reefs. You will swim among tropical fish and sea turtles.

This undersea wonder caters for everyone from master divers to beginner. There is also an underwater brass statue of Captain Cousteau. Touch his head for good luck!

At Anse à la Barque, relax on the smooth beach. Or take your fins and explore the wrecks of the two Napoleonic corvettes. A small the lighthouse guard this charming cove bordered by coconut palms located on the west coast of the island.

There is so much choice among the sandy beaches of Guadeloupe that you’ll never get bored. White sand at Raisins clairs beach or black sand at la Malendure? Do you want to nap in a peaceful location as Anse à la Gourde?  Or do you prefer a more accessible area like la Caravelle?

Beside Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, you can hop from island to island in Guadeloupe on your charter yacht. Marie Galante and the Gosier islet are beautiful spots for snorkeling. Make sure you anchor your bareboat charter catamaran in Marie-Galante's west side. You will enjoy the enchanting scenery and calm moorings.

Sugar cane was Marie-Galante's main resource and it was called "sugar island". One of its name was also "the island of a hundred mills". It is because of the many mills built in the past for the cultivation of this plant.

Just six miles south of Guadeloupe, Terre-de-Bas and Terre-de-Haut are the two main islands of Les Saintes. Wild coastline, pristine beaches, and remote coves will welcome the sailor on their charter catamaran. Head up to Fort Napoleon or the Piton du Cameau to enjoy a panoramic view of the area.

Known as "Caribbean St-Tropez," Terre-de-Haut has a strong French heritage. The older inhabitants have blond or red hair. They are the descendants of the first Norman and Breton fishermen that settled there.

It is not all about the seaside, however. Guadeloupe offers extraordinary hiking and breathtaking landscapes. Head up to the volcano La Soufrière or try horseback riding in the lush rainforest.

After a small stroll at Pointe des Châteaux, you will be reward by a marvelous view of the other islands. You should try to go there to observe the sun rising behind La Désirade island.

Thanks to the volcano, there are many waterfalls hidden in the forest. Take a dip in Chutes du Carbet, Saut d’Acomat, or Cascade des Ecrevisses. In Bouillante, pamper yourself in a hot spring, Thomas's Bath. The warm water enters the sea in a basin where you unwind while gazing at the ocean.

There are regular flights from the continent to Pointe a Pitre, the largest city of Guadeloupe. The marina Bas du Fort is only a few minutes from the airport. You can start your sailing tour there with a charter catamaran.

Temperatures in Guadeloupe are always warm. The cluster of island  benefits from a tropical climate. Plan your charter vacation during the dry season from December to June.