VISITING POINTE DU BOUT FROM FORT-DE-FRANCE.
If you’re arriving in Martinique by cruise ship, or even if you’re just based in Fort-de-France for a few days, Pointe du Bout makes for an easy, low-effort excursion that feels surprisingly far removed from the city.
It’s close, simple to reach, and yet feels like a completely different side of the island.
Is Pointe du Bout worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for something relaxed, scenic, and easy.
Pointe du Bout reminded us a little of the Côte d’Azur, but with a Caribbean twist: quiet coves, gently lapping sea, colourful bougainvillea, and a laid-back marina atmosphere. It feels like an elegant and calm area of the island.
What really surprised me was how close it is to the cruise port, yet how few cruise passengers we actually saw. Once you step off the ferry, it genuinely feels like a world away from Fort-de-France. Slower, prettier, and more holiday-like.
If you want a half-day escape that doesn’t involve long travel times or complicated logistics, Pointe du Bout is a great choice.
How to get to Pointe du Bout from Fort-de-France
Getting to Pointe du Bout couldn’t be easier.
The Blue Lines ferry departs from the dock right next to the cruise port in Fort-de-France. You really can’t miss it, just follow the signs along the waterfront.
The crossing takes less than 10 minutes, making it one of the simplest trips you can do on the island. The boat journey is also quite fun.
Ferry timetable tips
- Ferries run regularly throughout the day
- The first sailing is at 06:10
- 09:20 is a popular morning option, especially for cruise visitors
- On days when cruise ships are in port, keep an eye on return sailings such as 14:35, 15:00, and 16:05
- At a push, there is often a 17:05 sailing, which should get you back in time for a 17:30 all-aboard (but personally I wouldn’t risk it!)
There are often big queues, but don’t panic, the boats are large and carry plenty of passengers, and the system is well-organised. And, keep in mind that the ferry may leave early if it’s full.
Tickets cost €9 per adult for a return journey. You can pay with card or cash at the kiosk and machine before you board.
Best things to do in Pointe du Bout
Here are the best things to do once you arrive to Pointe du Bout.
1/ Explore the Marina
Start with a short wander around the marina. Take some time to see the boats dotted around.
This is where the ferry will drop you off and collect you for your return journey.
2/ Browse the shops
The boutique shops dotted around Rue de Bukoua and Rue de Chacha are worth exploring. Find clothing stores like Vie de boheme alongside pleasant souvenir shops. There’s also a small art gallery – Galerie Sophen.
3/ Sip some cocktails
Le Kano is a bar and restaurant known for it’s cocktails. If you’re not dashing back to the port, linger here at sunset with your drink.
4/ Enjoy a seafood lunch
One of the best things about visiting a French island, is that you can stop for lunch in a bistro. Le Bistrot d’en Face is found close to the marina and offers well priced dishes, including local seafood, like marlin.
5/ Relax at the beach
When visiting Martinique, and Pointe du Bout, of course it would be remiss not to visit the beach.
There isn’t one large beach area here, instead lots of smaller bays. Point du Bout Beach (found here) has calm, clear water as well as natural shade created by palm trees. Total bliss.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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