On the south west coast of Martinique, Fort de France is the industrial and administrative capital of the island. It is a bustling city in somewhat poor condition for its stature, but nonetheless provides much interest.  The main market is a cornucopia of herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables, local drinks and colourful attire. The market also offers inexpensive lunches in basic cafes.

 

Customs and immigration formalities are via a self-service computer terminal in the well stocked Sea Services chandlery store, for which there is no charge (unlike every other Leeward and Windward island we visited). 

 

Entering the large bay on which Fort de France is situated is a challenge for yachtsmen as the prevailing wind blows directly out of the bay; this was an opportunity for Chris and Mick to learn about tacking upwind in a sailing boat.

 

Anchored under the shelter of Fort St Louis’ massive walls, it was just a short ride to the new dinghy dock which extends along much of the local sea front.  However, with Mick needing to be in St Lucia on 27th to catch a flight back to Tobago on 28th, we decided not to dally in Martinique, but head for St Lucia’s Rodney Bay after just a day in Fort de France.

 

Fort de France from the anchorage under the walls of Fort St Louis

 

The bustling and colourful produce market

 

Chris’s first Caribbean fish capture, from the anchorage