As we headed west up to Fort de France, we sailed close to the 175 m high
Diamond Rock, famous for its role in the Anglo-French wars. The English
hauled 4 cannons to its summit to sink French ships making their way to Fort de
France. It became impregnable for 17 months and in consequence the British
raised the rock to the status of a naval ship, HMS Diamond Rock.
Brisk sailing conditions and clouds
getting darker as we near Fort de France
Fort St Louis dominates the bay and it is still an active
military base. Fort de Franceâs most visible landmark, the Schoelcher
Library, is a colourful building name after the Frenchman who had slavery
abolished in 1848. The narrow, busy streets are crammed with a mixture of
offices and bargain basement shops selling all manner of things, so Pepe and I
spent a few hours wandering around and purchasing the odd item, or more, in
Pepeâs case! No wi-fi signals were available in the anchorage,
so a visit to the internet bar and cafe in town was usually undertaken on most
days where tasty lasagne and an assortment of salads were
served.
The anchorage
in Fort de France â right outside the town
Beez Neez at anchor
Fort St Louis
dominating the bay
Michael, Pepe and Bear in Fort de
France
The ornate Schoelcher
Library
Cathedral St Louis, one of the cityâs most
visible landmarks
This street vendor getting all his
knickers in a twist!
Pepe posing with new umbrella and
other purchases as the boys get into the dinghy
