Cruise Le Ponant: Netherlands, France, United Kingdom, Antigua and Barbuda departing from Philippsburg

Port:

The port of Philipsburg, located on the Caribbean island of Saint-Martin, is a favorite stopover for cruise ships. Only a few minutes' walk from downtown Philipsburg, this port offers easy and immediate access to the town's riches and magnificent beaches. The Caribbean ambience, combined with the European influence, makes this location particularly attractive to visitors.

What to visit in Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch part of St. Maarten. Front Street, the town's main thoroughfare, is lined with boutiques, restaurants and art galleries, perfect for a day of shopping and exploring. Great Bay beach offers an idyllic setting for relaxing and admiring the view of the cruise ships. For a touch of history, visit Fort Amsterdam, testimony to the island's colonial past. The Boardwalk along the beach is the ideal place for a stroll at the end of the day, with its many bars and cafés.

What to see and do in the area

Around Philipsburg, the island of Saint-Martin offers many activities and sites to explore. The French part of the island, notably Marigot with its colorful market and charming streets, is easily accessible and offers a cultural contrast. Baie Orientale, famous for its lively beach and water sports, is a favorite for beach and sea lovers. For a more tranquil adventure, Pinel Island offers white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling. Nature lovers will appreciate a hike to the summit of Pic Paradis, offering spectacular views over the whole island.

Gustavia, in Saint-Barthélemy, is a luxurious port of call. This charming capital is known for its designer boutiques and lively nightlife. The harbor is home to some impressive yachts. Visit Fort Gustav for a panoramic view of the city. Saint-Barthélemy's beaches, such as Shell Beach, are famous for their beauty and relaxed atmosphere.

Charlestown, with its streets lined with colorful colonial buildings and its relaxed atmosphere, is a charming getaway on Nevis Island. History buffs will appreciate its museums and historic sites, including Alexander Hamilton's birthplace. Sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation or water sports, are within easy reach. Catamaran excursions around the island offer spectacular views and snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters. Charlestown is ideal for those seeking a blend of culture, history and relaxation in the sun.

Barbuda, Antigua's lesser-known sister, is a hidden gem of the Caribbean. This tranquil island boasts miles of pink and white sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation and solitude. Explore the frigatebird sanctuary to observe one of the world's largest colonies of these birds. The clear waters teem with marine life, ideal for diving and snorkeling. Visitors can also discover the historic ruins that bear witness to the island's colonial past. Barbuda is a paradise for those seeking a natural, unspoilt escape from the crowds.

Marie-Galante, nicknamed "l'île aux cent moulins" in Guadeloupe, is a jewel in the French West Indies. Explore its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports. Visit old sugar mills and rum distilleries to learn more about the island's history. The island's rich Creole culture is reflected in local crafts, music and dance. Marie-Galante's cuisine, with its exotic flavors and fresh seafood, is a gourmet's delight.

The port:

The port of Pointe-à-Pitre, located in the heart of the Caribbean on the island of Guadeloupe, is less than a kilometer from the bustling city center. Easily accessible on foot or by cab, this port is a perfect starting point for exploring the island's wonders.

What to visit in Pointe-à-Pitre

Pointe-à-Pitre is a city where Creole culture is omnipresent. The Marché de la Darse, with its colorful stalls and local produce, is a must for discovering the island's flavors. The Musée Saint-John Perse and the Musée Schoelcher, dedicated respectively to poetry and history, offer a deep cultural immersion. Don't miss Place de la Victoire, the historic heart of the city, surrounded by colonial buildings. For a more contemporary experience, the Mémorial ACTe, dedicated to the memory of slavery, is a poignant and instructive site.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Pointe-à-Pitre is full of natural treasures. The Chutes du Carbet, spectacular waterfalls in the heart of the rainforest, are not to be missed. The beach at Gosier offers an idyllic setting to relax and enjoy the turquoise waters. For an immersion in nature, the Parc National de la Guadeloupe, with its hiking trails and rich biodiversity, is the perfect getaway. History buffs can explore the ruins of Fort Fleur d'Épée.