Caribbean
Ships dock at the Pointe Simon Cruise Terminal, located directly on the waterfront in the heart of Fort-de-France city centre.
Quick Facts: Port of Fort-de-France | Martinique (French overseas region) | Terminal de la Pointe Simon | Dock (no tender required) | ~0.5 km to city center | UTC-4 (Atlantic Standard Time, year-round)
Fort-de-France is Martinique’s vibrant capital and the cultural heart of the French Caribbean — a place where Paris meets the tropics, rum flows freely, and the market smells of scotch bonnet peppers and fresh-cut flowers. Ships dock right at the Terminal de la Pointe Simon, just a short walk from the city’s main boulevards, which means you won’t waste a minute of your day in transit. The single most important planning tip: Martinique operates entirely in euros, not dollars, and card acceptance outside big restaurants is inconsistent — bring cash.
—
Port & Terminal Information
The Terminal de la Pointe Simon (also called the Terminal Croisières de Fort-de-France) sits on the waterfront right at the edge of downtown, making this one of the most conveniently located cruise terminals in the entire Caribbean. Large ships dock here comfortably; there is no tendering, so you step off and you’re essentially already in the city.
Terminal facilities:
- ATMs: 2 ATMs inside or just outside the terminal — use these early, as city ATMs can run out on busy ship days
- Wi-Fi: Limited free Wi-Fi in the terminal building; better connections at cafés downtown
- Tourist information desk: A small booth near the exit with maps and brochures in French and English
- Luggage storage: Not available at the terminal itself; ask at your ship
- Shuttle/transport: No official terminal shuttle needed — the city is right there on foot
- Taxi rank: Immediately outside the terminal gate
The terminal is roughly 500 meters from the central Place José Martí and the Grand Marché. [View the terminal location on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/Fort-de-France+cruise+terminal) to orient yourself before you arrive.
—
Getting to the City
Fort-de-France is one of the rare Caribbean ports where “getting to the city” barely applies — you’re already there. Still, here’s how to reach specific neighbourhoods and sights:
- On Foot — The terminal gates open directly onto the waterfront Baie des Flamands promenade. The Grand Marché (main market), the Schoelcher Library, and Savane Park are all within a 10–15 minute walk. Flat, shaded, and manageable — this is the best way to explore the city center.
- Bus (Taxi Collectif) — Martinique has no metro, but shared minibuses called taxis collectifs run fixed routes from the main bus station on Rue Blénac (a 10-minute walk from the terminal). Fares start at around €2–3 for short hops. These are real local transport — not tourist shuttles — so expect limited English and no fixed timetable; they leave when full. Frequency is good on weekday mornings, lighter on Sundays.
- Taxi — Licensed taxis queue right outside the terminal gate. Expect €10–15 for short city rides and €60–90 for a half-day island tour. Always negotiate and agree on the fare before you get in — meters are often not used. Taxis in Martinique are technically metered but many drivers quote flat rates, especially for cruise passengers.
- Hop-On Hop-Off — There is no dedicated HOHO bus in Fort-de-France. Don’t rely on finding one here.
- Rental Car — Genuinely useful in Martinique if you want to reach the north (Mount Pelée) or the east coast independently. Europcar, Avis, and Budget all have offices near the terminal and in the city. Expect €50–80/day for a small car. Driving is on the right, roads are French-standard, and signage is good. Book in advance on busy ship days — [search Viator for guided transport options](https://www.viator.com/search/Fort-de-France) if you’d rather not self-drive.
- Ferry to Trois-Îlets — One of the best-value moves in Martinique. A ferry (vedette) departs from the Quai d’Aubery (5-minute walk from the terminal) roughly every 30–45 minutes and crosses to the village of Trois-Îlets and the beaches of Pointe du Bout in about 20–25 minutes. Cost is €7 round-trip. This is how locals and savvy cruisers access the best beach and resort area near the capital — far quicker than driving around the bay.
- Ship Shore Excursion — Worth booking through your ship if you want to reach Mount Pelée volcano, the Route de la Trace rainforest, or the rum distilleries without the hassle of navigation. Independent travel is easy in Fort-de-France itself, but for remote northern and eastern parts of the island, a guided tour saves real time. Browse [Viator’s Fort-de-France options](https://www.viator.com/search/Fort-de-France) or [GetYourGuide tours here](https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Fort-de-France¤cy=USD&partner_id=MHU0UHU) for well-reviewed independent options.
—
Top Things to Do in Fort-de-France, Martinique
Fort-de-France rewards explorers who mix the city’s surprisingly rich French colonial architecture with quick ferry hops to beaches and half-day drives into the volcanic interior — here’s where to spend every hour.
Must-See
1. Bibliothèque Schoelcher (free entry) — This extraordinary iron-and-glass library is the most photographed building in Martinique, and it deserves every photo. Designed by Henri Pick and originally displayed at the 1889 Paris World’s Fair (the same expo that debuted the Eiffel Tower), it was then disassembled, shipped to Martinique, and rebuilt piece by piece on Rue de la Liberté. Step inside — it’s a working public library and you’re welcome to look around. The stained glass, iron columns, and painted ceiling panels are stunning. Allow 30–45 minutes.
2. La Savane Park & Statue of Joséphine (free) — The large central park directly across from the waterfront is Fort-de-France’s social hub. Stroll the shaded paths, watch locals, and find the famous marble statue of Empress Joséphine — Napoleon’s Martinican-born wife — which famously has had its head removed by islanders who haven’t forgiven her role in reinstating slavery. It’s a striking, thought-provoking sight. Allow 20–30 minutes.
3. Fort Saint-Louis (€5–8 entry, varies by access) — The 17th-century fort still functions as an active French naval base, which means access is restricted and guided tours are the only way in. Check with the tourist office on the day for tour availability — when open, it offers sweeping views of the bay and harbour. Even from the outside along the waterfront, the fortifications are impressive. Allow 1 hour if a tour is running.
4. Fort-de-France Food and Cultural Walking Tour (from USD 69.81) — This is the single best 2.5-hour investment for first-timers in the city. You’ll hit the Grand Marché, taste accras de morue (salt cod fritters), sip Ti’ Punch, and hear the history of Creole culture from a local guide. Book in advance on [Viator](https://www.viator.com/search/Fort-de-France) 🎟 Book: Fort-de-France Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour — it regularly sells out on heavy ship days.
5. Grand Marché (Main Market) (free to browse) — The covered market on Rue Isambert is one of the best in the Caribbean, full of colour, noise, and genuine local life. Vendors sell fresh tropical fruit, Creole spices, hot sauces, madras fabric, vanilla pods, and Martinican rum. Arrive before noon — by early afternoon, stalls begin to close, especially on Saturdays. The flower market section spills onto the streets around the market building. Allow 30–60 minutes.
6. Cathédrale Saint-Louis (free) — The current iron-framed cathedral (the seventh to stand on this spot, after earthquakes and fires destroyed the rest) dates from 1895 and is an architectural curiosity — built in the same iron-construction style as the Schoelcher Library. The interior is calm and cool, a welcome relief from the midday heat. Allow 15–20 minutes.
—
Beaches & Nature
7. Pointe du Bout Beaches via Ferry (ferry €7 round-trip, beaches free) — Take the vedette from Quai d’Aubery across the bay to the Trois-Îlets peninsula for the best accessible beaches near the capital. Anse Mitan and Anse à l’Ane are calm, swimmable, and lined with local beach bars serving grilled fish and rum punch. Rental sun loungers run about €10–15. This is absolutely the best beach option for cruisers who want sand without a long drive. Allow 2–3 hours minimum.
8. Route de la Trace Rainforest Drive — The D1 highway cutting through the interior of the island passes through UNESCO-listed rainforest, botanical gardens, and dramatic volcanic scenery. You can’t do this on foot — rent a car or book the [Authentic Tour of Southern Martinique on Viator](https://www.viator.com/search/Fort-de-France) 🎟 Book: Authentic Tour of Southern Martinique (from USD 81.64, 5 hours) which covers the highlands. The views of the interior jungle are unlike anything else in the Caribbean.
—
Day Trips
9. Mount Pelée Volcano (park entry free, guided hike ~€25) — The 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée killed approximately 30,000 people and obliterated the then-capital, Saint-Pierre, in minutes. The volcano dominates Martinique’s northern landscape and is hikeable (allow 4–5 hours for the summit trail). Only practical with a rental car or a full-day tour — it’s about 1 hour’s drive north of Fort-de-France. Best for ships with 8+ hours in port.
10. Saint-Pierre (The Martinican Pompeii) (town free; museum ~€5) — The ruins of the old capital destroyed by Mount Pelée are eerily beautiful — blackened stone walls, a ruined theatre, and the Musée Vulcanologique that tells the story of the catastrophe. The town has been partially rebuilt and has a bohemian, artistic feel today. Offshore, several of the ships sunk by the eruption are now popular dive sites. About 1 hour north by car. Best for full-day port calls.
—
Family Picks
11. Jardin de Balata (Balata Garden) (€15 adults, €7.50 children 6–12, under 6 free) — About 8 km from the city center on the Route de la Trace, this lush tropical garden contains one of the Caribbean’s best collections of tropical plants, bromeliads, and heliconias — all arranged around a 19th-century creole manor house. The real family highlight: a treetop walkway through the jungle canopy on suspended bridges. Allow 1.5–2 hours. Drive or take a taxi (about €20 each way).
12. La Pagerie Museum, Trois-Îlets (€6 adults) — Accessible by ferry plus a short walk or taxi ride from Trois-Îlets village, this small museum is built on the ruins of the sugar plantation where Joséphine de Beauharnais — the future Empress of France — was born in 1763. Older kids who’ve studied Napoleon will find it fascinating. Combine with a beach stop at Anse Mitan for a full half-day trip. Allow 45 minutes.
—
Off the Beaten Track
13. Distillerie Neisson (Le Carbet) (free tours, tastings from €5) — Martinique is the only place in the world with an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) designation for rum — specifically for rhum agricole, made from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses. Neisson is one of the smaller family distilleries, producing some of the most respected rhum agricole on the island. Located in Le Carbet on the west coast, about 25 minutes north of Fort-de-France. Call ahead to confirm tour times and [browse rum-focused tours on GetYourGuide](https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Fort-de-France¤cy=USD&partner_id=MHU0UHU) if you’d rather join a group.
14. Quartier Terres-Sainville Street Art (free) — Just inland from the main tourist circuit, this working-class neighbourhood has become a canvas for Martinican muralists tackling themes of Creole identity, abolition history, and Caribbean pride. It’s authentic and unglamorous — exactly what the cruise strip is not. Walk here in 15 minutes from the market; it’s perfectly safe in the daytime and deeply interesting.
—
What to Eat & Drink
Fort-de-France has a food culture that is unapologetically Creole-French — fiery, rich, and built around fresh seafood, tropical produce, and the best rum in the Caribbean. Don’t make the mistake of eating at a restaurant directly at the terminal; walk five minutes into the city and the quality and value jump dramatically.
- Accras de morue — Salt cod fritters, eaten hot from street stalls and market vendors around the Grand Marché; €1.50–3 for a portion. The essential Martinican snack.
- Colombo de poulet — Martinique’s signature curry dish, made with chicken (or goat), local curry spice mix, and coconut milk. Available at almost every Creole restaurant; €12–18 for a full plate with rice and local vegetables (légumes pays).
- Ti’ Punch — The national cocktail: white rhum agricole, cane syrup (sirop de canne), and a squeeze of lime. Always made to order and always made strong. Found everywhere; €3–6 at a local bar, more at tourist spots.
- Planteur — The slightly more approachable cousin of Ti’ Punch: rum, tropical fruit juices, and spices. Great at beach bars on the Trois-Îlets side.
- Le Belem (restaurant, Rue Ernest Deproge) — A solid mid-range option close to the waterfront serving grilled seafood and Creole mains; €14–22 for a main course. Popular with locals at lunch.
- La Cave à Vins (near the Savane) — A good wine bar-bistro serving French and Creole small plates with an impressive selection of French wines and Martinican rums; €8–15 per plate. Good for a longer, relaxed lunch.
- Pain au chocolat and café — Martinique is French territory, which means genuine boulangeries. Grab breakfast pastries near the market for €1.50–2.50 — the quality will surprise you.
- Christophine gratin — A local root vegetable (like a mild squash) baked with béchamel; often served as a side dish at Creole restaurants. Order it whenever you see it; €4–6 as a side.
—
Shopping
The Grand Marché is your starting point for authentic souvenirs: Martinique-made vanilla pods, bottles of rhum agricole (look for Rhum J.M, Neisson, or Clément — all produced on the island), local Creole spice mixes (épices colombo), and the iconic madras fabric in bold red, yellow, and green checks that’s woven into Martinican cultural identity. Madras scarves and table runners make beautiful, lightweight gifts. The flower vendors around the market also sell gorgeous tropical blooms if you’re heading straight back to the ship.
For rum specifically, the Caves Clarac shop near the market and several dedicated rum shops along Rue Victor Hugo offer a well-curated selection with knowledgeable staff. Avoid buying supermarket-label rum in plastic bottles — it’s not representative of what Martinique actually produces. Skip the generic Caribbean souvenir T-shirts and mass-produced shell art available near the terminal; you can find those on any island. Rue Victor Schoelcher and the streets around it have small boutiques selling local art, Creole jewelry, and handmade crafts at fair prices.
—
How to Plan Your Day
- 4 hours ashore: Walk to the Grand Marché (30–40
🎟️ Things to Book in Advance
These highly-rated experiences fill up fast — book before you arrive to avoid missing out.
This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Getting Around from the Port
Walk
The terminal opens directly onto the Fort-de-France waterfront promenade; the city centre, market, and main sights are easily walkable.
Taxi
Licensed taxis (metered or fixed-rate) are available at the terminal exit. Agree on the fare before departing; drivers speak some English. Useful for reaching beaches like Les Salines or Anse Mitan.
Ferry (Vedette)
Small passenger ferries depart from the quay near the terminal to Anse Mitan and Anse u00e0 l'Ane on the Trois-u00celets peninsula u2014 a popular and scenic option for reaching beaches without a long taxi ride.
Bus (TC / Minibus)
Shared minibuses (Transport en Commun) depart from Pointe Simon and the main bus depot near the market, serving towns around the island. Cheap but routes and schedules can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Rental Car
Several international rental agencies (Europcar, Avis, Hertz) operate near the terminal or in the city centre. Driving is on the right; a valid driving licence is accepted. Best option for independent exploration of the whole island.
Top Things To Do
1
Musu00e9e Ru00e9gional d'Histoire et d'Ethnographie
Housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, this museum covers Martinique's history from pre-Columbian times through the colonial era and slavery. Exhibits include traditional Creole costumes, furniture, and artefacts. It is located in the city centre, making it an easy first stop after docking.
Find shore excursions on Viator2
Grand Marchu00e9 de Fort-de-France (Covered Market)
The vibrant covered market on Rue Antoine Siger is one of the best in the Caribbean for spices, rum, Creole crafts, vanilla, and local produce. A must-visit for souvenirs and a genuine taste of local life. Vendors are accustomed to cruise passengers and most accept euros and sometimes US dollars.
Find shore excursions on Viator3
Bibliothu00e8que Schoelcher
One of the most architecturally striking buildings in the Caribbean, this ornate iron-and-glass library was originally constructed in Paris, displayed at the 1889 World's Fair, then dismantled and shipped to Martinique. The exterior and interior are worth seeing even if you only step inside briefly. It is a short walk from the terminal.
Find shore excursions on Viator4
Anse Mitan Beach (Trois-u00celets Peninsula)
A popular white-sand beach on the Trois-u00celets peninsula, reachable in about 15u201320 minutes by the passenger ferry from the terminal waterfront. The beach has calm, clear water suitable for swimming, and several waterfront restaurants and bars serving Creole food and Ti' Punch cocktails. Snorkelling equipment is available for rent nearby.
Find shore excursions on Viator5
Jardin de Balata (Balata Botanical Garden)
A spectacular tropical garden set in the hills above Fort-de-France, featuring hundreds of species of tropical flowers, palms, and trees, along with a series of suspended rope bridges through the tree canopy. The garden is about 10 km from the city centre and is best reached by taxi or rental car. Highly recommended for nature lovers.
Find shore excursions on Viator6
Saint-Pierre and Musu00e9e Vulcanologique
Saint-Pierre, once called the 'Paris of the Caribbean', was destroyed by the 1902 eruption of Mount Pelu00e9e, killing nearly 30,000 people. The ruined city and its small volcano museum make for a fascinating and sobering half-day trip on the northwest coast, about 60 km from Fort-de-France. Best done by organised excursion or rental car. Snorkellers can also explore sunken ships in the bay.
Find shore excursions on Viator7
La Savane Park and Statue of Empress Josu00e9phine
The large public park directly adjacent to the cruise terminal is the social heart of Fort-de-France. It contains the famous (headless) marble statue of Empress Josu00e9phine, born in Martinique, as well as shaded benches and a pleasant promenade. It is an ideal spot to relax and people-watch immediately after or before boarding.
Find shore excursions on Viator8
Snorkelling at Anse u00e0 l'Ane or Anse Dufour
Both beaches on the Trois-u00celets peninsula are accessible by the passenger ferry and offer good snorkelling with sea turtles commonly spotted at Anse Dufour. Anse u00e0 l'Ane is slightly quieter than Anse Mitan and has good coral reef life close to shore. Local guides and equipment rental are available on the beach.
Find shore excursions on ViatorPractical Tips for Cruise Passengers
- Martinique is an overseas territory of France u2014 the official currency is the Euro (EUR), not the US dollar. Exchange currency or withdraw euros from the ATMs near the terminal before exploring. Some tourist-facing businesses accept US dollars but at poor exchange rates.
- The passenger ferry (vedette) to Anse Mitan is one of the best-value transport options in the Caribbean for cruise passengers u2014 it is fast, cheap, scenic, and drops you directly at a beach. Buy a return ticket so you can get back in time for your ship.
- French is the official language and English is not as widely spoken as in some other Caribbean ports. Learning a few basic French phrases u2014 'Bonjour', 'Merci', 'L'addition, s'il vous plau00eet' u2014 will be appreciated and help with service.
- Martinique drives on the right-hand side of the road, as in mainland France. If renting a car, be aware that mountain roads to sites like Balata and Saint-Pierre can be narrow and winding.
- The midday heat between roughly 11am and 2pm can be intense. If walking around Fort-de-France city, start early and use the shade of La Savane park or the covered market during the hottest part of the day. Stay hydrated and apply high-SPF sunscreen.
- Ships typically dock within walking distance of the city centre, so there is no need to take a taxi just to see the market, Schoelcher Library, and La Savane park. Save taxis or ferries for trips to beaches and out-of-town attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes u2014 the Pointe Simon Cruise Terminal is located right in the city centre. La Savane park, the Schoelcher Library, the covered market, and the main waterfront are all within a 5u201315 minute walk.
Most cruise ships spend approximately 8u201310 hours in Fort-de-France, often arriving around 8am and departing by 5u20136pm, though schedules vary by cruise line and itinerary. This is sufficient time for a beach trip plus some city sightseeing.
Fort-de-France city centre is generally safe for independent exploration during daylight hours, particularly around the cruise terminal, La Savane, and the main shopping streets. Exercise normal urban caution with valuables, avoid quiet back streets after dark, and be aware of your surroundings. Outside the city, independent exploration by rental car or taxi is considered safe.
Martinique uses the Euro (EUR) as it is part of France. US dollars are not the local currency and are not widely accepted, though some tourist businesses may take them at unfavourable rates. ATMs are available near the terminal. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.
For most cruise passengers with limited time, the combination of the passenger ferry to Anse Mitan or Anse Dufour for beach and snorkelling, followed by a walk around Fort-de-France city centre including the market and Schoelcher Library, is hard to beat. Those with a full day and a sense of history should consider an organised excursion to Saint-Pierre and the Balata Gardens, which together give an outstanding overview of the island.
Planning a Caribbean cruise that includes the vibrant French island of Martinique, with its world-class beaches, botanical gardens, and Creole culture?
Compare sailings and book with no fees — best price guaranteed.
