A French Caribbean port with a lively market town, Creole flavors, rainforest waterfalls, and soft beaches nearby.
Pointe-à-Pitre is the main town of Guadeloupe, a butterfly-shaped archipelago that is an overseas region of France. Ships dock at the cruise terminal right in the center of town.
Guadeloupe feels both French and Caribbean, with rum, spices, markets, and a mix of rainforest and beaches. It suits travelers who want a less touristy island with a strong local culture.
Average daily high and low in °F, from the nearest weather station with long records: Le Raizet, Guadeloupe. Source: Meteostat station records, 1991–2020.
Here are my favorite ways to spend a cruise day in Pointe-à-Pitre. Each one opens on Viator, where you can check the times, reviews and price before you book.
A day on the water in Guadeloupe's lagoon: mangroves, coral reef snorkeling and the tiny sandy islet of Ilet Caret.
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Visit the real spots from the TV show "Death in Paradise," including the village of Deshaies and Catherine's bar, plus the botanical garden.
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A guided visit to a traditional Guadeloupe rum distillery to see how agricultural rum is made, ending with a tasting.
View detailsMy favorites: visit the Mémorial ACTe, a striking museum on the history of slavery in the Caribbean; shop for spices and vanilla at the market near Place de la Victoire; hike to the Carbet Falls in Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre; spend time on the beaches near Le Gosier and Sainte-Anne on Grande-Terre; stroll Place de la Victoire, the town's main square shaded by old trees.
Euro; credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some euros for markets.
The cruise terminal is right downtown, so the market and square are an easy walk, while beaches and the rainforest need a taxi or tour.
Search sailings that stop in Pointe-à-Pitre on our site, or ask me for a quote. I book it for you with no fees, and I watch for price drops after you book.
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