Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes

Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes: A Practical Guide for Adventurous Travelers

Imagine spending a day on the water, with the gentle sway of a sailboat, spectacular views of islands, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak in the Caribbean sun. That’s exactly what the Full-Day Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion to Les Saintes offers. It’s a well-loved tour that attracts a steady stream of happy travelers, boasting glowing reviews and a high recommendation rate.

We’re here to give you a detailed look into what makes this outing a standout—plus, a few things to consider before booking.

What we love about this experience? First, the sense of authentic adventure—sailing in a small group with a friendly skipper who not only guides but also shares his knowledge about the islands and their history. Second, the quality of the food and the focus on local Creole flavors, which really enhance the overall experience.

The only slight drawback? The tour’s two-hour-plus ferry ride can be long for some, especially if you’re not a fan of extended boat trips. Still, for those who love the open sea and island scenery, this trip can easily be the highlight of a Guadeloupe visit.

This tour suits travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy sailing, snorkeling at accessible spots, and appreciate local cuisine. Families with children who love the sea, groups of friends, or solo travelers craving authentic maritime experiences will find it particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience with a friendly, knowledgeable captain guiding the way.
• Stunning views of Les Saintes from the water, including a chance to see Guadeloupe from a different perspective.
• Includes Creole cuisine and drinks, adding a cultural touch to the day on the sea.
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing, with plenty of time to relax.
• Small group size ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
• Perfect for adventurous travelers who love the water and enjoy exploring islands by boat.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The Voyage from Basse-Terre to Les Saintes

Your day begins early at the Riviere-Sens Marina, with the skipper welcoming you onboard around 9:00 am. The journey to Les Saintes takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, sailing across the channel. This part of the trip is more than just transportation; it’s an experience in itself, offering beautiful sea views and the chance to learn a bit about sailing if you’re interested. Several reviews mention that the skipper makes this part enjoyable, with opportunities to steer the boat — a rare treat for those wanting a hands-on experience.

One guest noted, “Mathieu was a great tour guide, barista, bartender, and chef,” highlighting the friendly, multi-talented nature of the crew. Expect friendly chatter, some tips about sailing, and plenty of photo-worthy moments during this crossing. The boat itself is a traditional sailboat, designed for comfort and stability, making the long sail manageable even for those new to sailing.

Exploring Les Saintes from the Water

Once you arrive in Les Saintes, the real fun begins. The tour includes independent snorkeling at an accessible spot within a UNESCO-listed bay. This means you’ll have a chance to see marine life in calm, shallow waters—perfect for beginners or those who prefer relaxed snorkeling. One reviewer described snorkeling around a sunken ship, noting it as a “highlights” of the day.

Along With swimming, you’ll enjoy a motorized tour of the village’s houses, offering a glimpse into local life and architecture. This part of the trip is less about long land visits (the tour does not include on-land activities), but it provides a scenic overview and a chance to take memorable photos of the colorful buildings and boats.

Lunch and Refreshments

A standout feature of this tour is the Creole meal served onboard. The menu includes a flavorful chicken colombo prepared with fresh turmeric and ginger, accompanied by rice and homemade fruit salad. Many reviews praise the lunch, calling it “really good and sufficient,” with some noting the day’s highlights include the authentic flavors and friendly service.

Along With the meal, snacks such as bananas and madeleines are provided, along with drinks—juices, coconut punch, and mango punch made from local mangoes — truly enhancing the Caribbean vibe. Alcoholic beverages like coconut and mango punch are also included, making the trip lively and festive.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Accessible Spots

Post-lunch, the group has time for more swimming or snorkeling, often around accessible sites like a shipwreck. Reviewers share stories of snorkeling near a sunken boat, describing it as a “wonderful opportunity” to explore marine life up close. Since the stops are at accessible spots, they are suitable for most travelers, though swimming is unsupervised—participants should be comfortable in the water.

The Return Voyage

The return sail takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving passengers a chance to relax, chat, or even take the helm if they wish. Several guests mentioned how enjoyable this part was, with the skipper fostering a friendly atmosphere and sharing insights about the islands.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price—around $179.01 per person—includes almost everything you need for a full day of fun. Expect snacks (bananas, madeleines), drinks, a three-course Creole meal, and friendly, professional crew members eager to share their knowledge. The skipper offers sailing initiation, so even those new to sailing can get involved.

However, the tour does not include hotel transportation—so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Gourbeyre. Also, there are no on-land visits included, so the focus remains on the water and the scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who:

• Love sailing and being on the water; the boat is a traditional sailboat, and the crossing is part of the adventure.
• Enjoy snorkeling in calm waters with accessible spots suitable for all levels.
• Appreciate authentic Creole cuisine and want to indulge in local flavors.
• Seek a small, intimate group experience with a knowledgeable, friendly crew.
• Are comfortable with extended boat trips—the total duration is about 9 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and lunch.

It’s ideal for adventurous families (children who are great swimmers), groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded explorers. Those with mobility issues or who dislike long boat rides might want to consider their comfort levels, as the main activity revolves around sailing and water-based stops.

Why This Tour Shines

Based on multiple rave reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and stunning views of the islands. Guests often mention the captain’s extensive local knowledge and his ability to make everyone feel at ease, even if they’re new to sailing. The quality of the meal, with its authentic Creole flavors, adds a special touch often missing from more superficial excursions.

The small group size creates a personalized atmosphere, allowing everyone to participate and ask questions. The boat’s comfort, combined with the scenic sailing and snorkeling, makes for a well-rounded and memorable day.

Possible Considerations

While nearly perfect for most, some travelers may find the two-and-a-half-hour crossing a bit lengthy, especially if prone to seasickness. The boat’s open design means sun exposure, so sun protection is recommended. Also, since the tour doesn’t include on-land sightseeing, those wanting a more land-based experience should plan additional activities.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an authentic maritime adventure in Guadeloupe, this full-day sailing and snorkeling tour to Les Saintes offers excellent value. It combines the thrill of being at sea, the beauty of the islands, and the flavors of Creole cuisine—all with a friendly, knowledgeable crew guiding the way. Its intimate vibe makes it a perfect match for those who love small-group experiences and want to see the islands from a different perspective.

This tour is best suited for curious, adventurous travelers who cherish genuine local encounters and enjoy being on the water. It’s a chance to learn, relax, and indulge in the natural beauty of Guadeloupe’s coastal gems in a way that feels both fun and authentic.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 9:00 am from 1040 Bd Amédée Valeau, Gourbeyre.
• How long is the sailing to Les Saintes? Around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Is snorkeling included? Yes, snorkeling at accessible spots within a UNESCO-listed bay is part of the experience.
• Are drinks and meals included? Yes, snacks, drinks, and a three-course Creole meal are all included.
• Can children participate? Yes, children whose parents enjoy adventure and water activities are welcome. If they cannot swim, they should inform the skipper beforehand.
• What is the group size? The maximum number of travelers is nine, ensuring a personal experience.
• Is transportation provided? No, you need to meet at the specified location; hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.
• Is it suitable for non-swimmers? Swimmers will enjoy snorkeling; non-swimmers should be comfortable in shallow water or consider additional safety measures.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In essence, this sailing and snorkeling tour offers a fantastic way to explore Guadeloupe’s coastal beauty, enjoy authentic Creole flavors, and learn about the islands from a knowledgeable crew. It’s a day that promises both adventure and relaxation, perfect for those looking to see the best of Les Saintes from the water.