Catamaran Excursion to Petite-Terre Nature Reserve – Pristine Paradise

9 Hours

Overview

Step into an untouched sanctuary of natural wonder on an extraordinary catamaran day trip to Petite-Terre Nature Reserve. Located off the south-eastern tip of Guadeloupe, these two uninhabited islets are protected by strict conservation rules, creating an underwater Eden.

Swim in a warm, crystal-clear lagoon alongside graceful sea turtles, friendly stingrays, colorful reef fish, and harmless juvenile lemon sharks. On land, wander along the sandy pathway to the historic lighthouse and observe hundreds of endemic Lesser Antillean green iguanas basking in the Caribbean sunshine. A delicious Creole barbecue lunch served aboard completes this paradise experience.

Highlights

  • Exclusive access to the strictly protected Petite-Terre Nature Reserve
  • Snorkel alongside green sea turtles, stingrays, and harmless juvenile lemon sharks
  • Encounter hundreds of protected endemic Lesser Antillean iguanas
  • Generous Creole barbecue lunch served aboard the catamaran
  • Spacious 25m sailing catamaran with comfortable shade and sun trampolines

Expedition Schedule

  • Stage
    1

    7:30 AM – Boarding at Saint-François Marina

    Meet your captain, step aboard the catamaran, and cast off towards the eastern islets.

  • Stage
    2

    9:00 AM – Arrival & Nature Reserve Walk

    Anchor in the calm lagoon, take a guided stroll to the lighthouse, and observe wild iguanas and seabirds.

  • Stage
    3

    10:30 AM – Lagoon Snorkeling

    Dive into the turquoise water to snorkel with marine turtles, eagle rays, and coral reef creatures.

  • Stage
    4

    12:30 PM – Creole Barbecue Aboard

    Savor a flavorful fresh barbecue meal served by the crew on the shaded deck.

  • Stage
    5

    2:00 PM – Afternoon Leisure & Return Sail

    Relax, swim, and enjoy an afternoon sail back into Saint-François Marina around 5:00 PM.

What is Included

  • Round-trip catamaran crossing from Saint-François Marina (approx. 1h15)
  • Nature reserve entrance permits and eco-taxes
  • Welcome aperitif and refreshments on the beach
  • Full Creole barbecue lunch aboard (grilled fish/chicken, Creole rice, fresh fruits)
  • Drinks throughout the day (water, juices, sodas, wine, Planteur, Ti-punch)
  • Supervision and insights by a professional eco-trained crew

What is Not Included

  • Transfers to Saint-François Marina
  • Beach towels and personal snorkeling gear
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Crew gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Why must Petite-Terre be booked well in advance?

Because Petite-Terre is a protected nature reserve, daily visitor numbers are strictly capped by French authorities. Boats sell out weeks in advance during peak season.

Are the lemon sharks in the lagoon dangerous?

Not at all! They are small juvenile lemon sharks and nurse sharks that are completely docile and harmless to humans.