Find everything you need to prepare for a charter in Martinique. From important base information to required documents for international travel, you can use this information as your guide before and during your charter. Don't forget to pack a copy to take with you.
Plan
Before you go
COVID-19 Travel Guidelines
While Martinique is opening its borders for international travellers certain Policies and Procedures will need to be followed when entering the country, before, and during your stay there. Please stay informed and follow all requirements:
- All travellers over 11 years old must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test for COVID-19 taken within 72 hours prior to departure.
- The traveller must also present a sworn statement that he does not show symptoms and that he is not aware of having been in contact with a confirmed case of covid-19 in the fourteen days preceding the flight.
- Travellers who test positive for COVID-19 cannot fly.
- Those with a negative test can perform 7 days of quarantine, followed by a new PCR test after 7 days.
- If the traveller has not carried out a boarding test, he must carry out a strict fortnight upon arrival in the territory
- Arriving travellers not tested for COVID-19 must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Martinique,
- It is mandatory to wear a mask in closed public spaces.
Gov.UK and the US Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean are good sources of information.
Address
La Marina du Marin
BP279, Le Lamentin 97285
Martinique French West Indies
Base hours
8:00am – 5:00pm Monday to Saturday
8:00am – 1:00pm Sunday
Evening staff to cover until all flights have arrived.
Time zone
Martinique is – 4 hours UTC/GMT.
Language
The languages of Martinique are French, Creole, and English.
What to bring
Customs + immigration
Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and travelling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents so make sure to check with the embassy of the countries you plan to visit before you travel. Please note country entry/exit requirements are subject to change.
Please check https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for the latest information before you leave. Sunsail is not accountable for any requirement changes.
Sailing licences
No Formal Licence is Required
Luggage + packing list
Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are best, as luggage storage space on your yacht may be limited. We have no facilities for holding luggage at the base. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list for required and necessary items to bring.
- Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
- Passport and other travel documentation
- Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
- Light-coloured, light-weight clothing
- Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
- Swimwear and cover up
- Hats and sunglasses
- Sandals and flip-flops
- Athletic shoes and hiking boots
- Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
- Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/creams
- AUX line for playing music through your device
*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.
**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a "car" outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.
Taxes & Fees
You might incur some costs while on charter such as mooring and docking fees or cruising taxes. We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards.
Security Deposit
A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.
What's onboard
Mobile phones
Check with your service provider for information about cell coverage in this region.
Music + iPods
While most of our newer boats have Bluetooth capability, we cannot guarantee all boats are outfitted with this equipment. For your convenience, we highly recommend you bring an AUX line so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.
Drone
The use of flying drones may be restricted in some areas. For current drone regulations in this destination, please visit https://www.uavsystemsinternational.com/drone-laws-by-country/martinique-drone-laws/
Electricity
Electrical sockets (outlets) in Martinique usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.
For more information on what's included on your yacht in Martinique, please view the full list here for Bareboat and Crewed Charters.
back to top
Go
How to get there
Airport
Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (Airport code: FDF)
BP279, Le Lamentin 97285
Due to the number of flights we organise, the Sunsail can offer some great rates to many destinations. Please make sure you contact your Holiday Planning Specialist before you book your flights.
Private Charter Flights
Through our partnership with a number of reputable airlines Sunsail can arrange private charter flights to Martinique and any other of our Caribbean destinations. Contact our in-house flight specialist at 866.649.2003 for more details.
Taxis
Airport is approximately a 45 min - 1 hr drive to the base
From FDF airport 1-4 person:
Day rate: 65 – 70€
Night rate: 90€
Taxi
Germe : +596 696 25 04 21
Lamon : +596 696 26 03 94
Rodrigue : +596 696 70 74 44
Alexandre : +596 696 91 30 85 - +596 696 42 88 38
Car rental
Avis : +596 596 42 11 00
Jumbo Car : +596 596 74 71 77
GD Location : +596 596 58 27 89
Flights
Due to the number of flights we organise, Sunsail can offer some great rates to many destinations. Please make sure you contact our inhouse flight specialist at 866.649.2003 before you book your flights.
Private Charter Flights
Through our partnership with a number of reputable airlines Sunsail can arrange private charter flights to Martinique and any other of our Caribbean destinations. Contact our in-house flight specialist at 866.649.2003 for more details.
Boarding time + checking out
On arrival
All skippers must attend a Chart Briefing which covers all you need to know about the cruising area, use of the VHF radio, how to call for assistance, and more. A Boat Briefing will also be provided onboard your yacht.
Out of hours
If arriving after hours, a message will be left on the front door indicating the location of your boat. The Chart Briefing and Boat Briefing will be held the following morning prior to departure.
On departure
A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter end time.
Experience level
Martinique is a Level 1 sailing area
Experience levels are based on sailing conditions and the length of passages within your chosen sailing area. Follow the link for more information on the sailing conditions.
This rating scale is designed as a guide based on the prevailing conditions during the most popular season.
Sailing grounds
Sailing area restrictionsWe highly recommend planning your cruising itinerary along the west coast of Martinique only due to the challenging conditions and open waters on the eastern side. You may travel to other islands, but please keep in mind that you must clear customs as you pass through each country and generally fees are associated with the clearing process. Please discuss with you Holiday Planner if you have any questions.
It is strictly forbidden to sail alone, we require two persons minimum on board.
Night sailing
You must be moored at least one hour before sunset. Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager. The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance. You will need to fill out the Power CV for the base to review but we cannot guarantee approval.
Charts + pilot books
All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing.
Formalities + taxes
You might incur some costs while on charter such as mooring and docking fees or cruising taxes. We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards.
Each national territory, Martinique, St Lucia, St Vincent, the Grenadines & Grenada, charges fees. These are cruising permits, harbour dues and custom clearance fees. Average costs for a 45ft yacht with 6 people on a 2 week charter is approximately £60. Some marinas/moorings charge a fee of about £6-9.
Moorings fees + taxes
Anchorages and buoys are available all along the coast, a small fee is mandatory in a number of the bays.
Anchorage : Mayreau - Tobago Cays - Union 25€/night
Mustique : 75€/night
Clearances : Bequia - Union 35€ Per adult (crew included)
50% of adult per child
Health + safety
Vaccination and Immunization Information
This destination is generally risk-free of contagious disease. Visit gov.uk for the latest information.
Travel Advice
Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our Travel Advice Information. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov
Swim Safe
For your safety and for environmental reasons, the feeding of fish is not recommended and may be prohibited in some destinations.
Travel Insurance
Sunsail offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Sunsail holiday.
back to top
Eat
Provisioning
Sunsail Provisioning
Sunsail can help with stocking up your yacht.
Click here for more information or to order provisioning online.
Dining
Restaurants
Appro-Zaguya, offers online ordering only and delivery.
Carrefour Market Marin, 7-10 Minute ride. Also offers online ordering.
Open Mon-Sat 8 am-8 pm Sun and public holidays 8 am-12 pm
Currency
Euro is the currency used throughout Martinique.
Supermarkets
Appro-Zaguya, offers online ordering only and delivery.
Carrefour Market Marin, 7-10 Minute ride. Also offers online ordering.
Open Mon-Sat 8 am-8 pm Sun and public holidays 8 am-12 pm
back to top
Play
Water toys + sports
SnorkellingSunsail provides flippers with all charters for your pleasure. Please bring your own snorkelling mask and snorkel and check availability for children sizes prior to your charter.
back to top
For more information on what's included on your yacht, please view the full list here.
Call our experts
Book online today