More and more cruise ships call at Fort-de-France, Martinique’s capital. If you’d like to swap the town for turquoise water, Le François, on the Atlantic coast, is home to the island’s most famous sandbank: Joséphine’s Bathtub.
Where do cruise ships dock?
Most ships dock at the Pointe Simon pier, about a ten-minute walk from downtown Fort-de-France. Some use the Tourelles terminal, a little further out. Port calls usually last most of the day, but times vary from ship to ship: always check your all-aboard time.
Getting to Le François
Le François is about 23 km from Fort-de-France, roughly 30 minutes by car without traffic. Traffic around Le Lamentin can make it longer at peak times. A taxi or rental car is the simplest option. MOWATA port pick-up to confirm
Which tour fits your stop?
Our 4-hour guided tour visits Îlet Thierry, Joséphine’s Bathtub, Îlet Long and the mangrove, with a welcome cocktail and accras — 11 guests maximum.
- Morning (8:30 am – 12:30 pm): only if you can leave the ship early enough to reach Le François by 8:15 am.
- Afternoon (1 pm – 5 pm): only if your all-aboard time leaves at least an hour after 5 pm for the drive back.
Not sure? Message us on WhatsApp with your ship’s name and times: we’ll tell you honestly whether it works.
Tips for a stress-free day
- Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and some cash for taxis.
- Keep your ship’s port agent number with you.
- Leave a generous margin: the ship won’t wait.
Prefer the whole boat to yourselves? See our private charters.
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FAQ
How far is Le François from the cruise port?
About 23 km, roughly 30 minutes by car from Fort-de-France without traffic. Rush hour around Le Lamentin can make it longer.
Do you pick up from the cruise ship?
Port pick-up to confirm by MOWATA In the meantime, a taxi or rental car is the simplest option. Message us on WhatsApp with your ship's schedule.
Which slot works on a cruise stop?
It depends on your all-aboard time. The morning tour runs 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, the afternoon tour 1 pm to 5 pm. Allow about 30 minutes' drive each way, plus a safety margin. Ask us before booking.
Can I pay in US dollars?
Online bookings are paid by card in euros. Other payment options to confirm
