For its next destination, The Octopus introduces you to the best anchorages of Les Saintes islands. This archipelago of tropical islands is located west of Marie Galante and north of Dominica and is divided between the municipalities of Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas.
Their stunning landscapes, paradise beaches, and fascinating history make it a popular destination for sailors. Without further ado, let’s discover Les Saintes islands for a cruise through tropical land and sea!
Reasons to visit Les Saintes islands
1- Discover the most beautiful bay in the world: the Bay of Saintes in Terre-de-Haut
Upon arriving in Terre-de-Haut by boat, you will have the opportunity to admire the stunning bay of Saintes, recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world by UNESCO. Colorful wooden houses and churches made of volcanic rock dot the landscape. At every street corner, one can enjoy breathtaking views of Grande Anse, Fort Napoléon, and the fine sandy beaches of the bay : a breathtaking experience!
2- Scuba diving : discover the blooming sea worlds of Les Saintes islands
Les Saintes islands offer exceptional diving opportunities with a variety of sites to explore, such as cliffs, canyons, caves, and shallow waters. These sites cater to divers of all levels and offer the chance to discover unique underwater landscapes and an abundance of marine life. With their rocky bottoms rich in coral, waters frequented by sea turtles, and secluded coves, the Saintes islands are the perfect place to experience the extraordinary beauty and diversity of marine life.
The best anchorages of Les Saintes
Petite Anse
The first stop of the Octopus on this tour of the best anchorages in Les Saintes Islands is Petite Anse, located to the west of Terre-de-Haut. Here, you can easily drop anchor on sandy banks at about 10 meters deep. Additionally, you’ll be well protected from the north-east to south-east winds by the east, allowing you to peacefully enjoy the beauty of this place.
The setting is absolutely magical. Majestic mountains, covered in lush vegetation, surround the bay and drop into deep blue waters. From the deck of your boat, take in the view of the Pain de Sucre beach, known for its calm, its long white sandy strip and its exceptional marine life. It’s simply one of the most beautiful beaches in Les Saintes.
From the easily accessible beach by dinghy, you can take a hike to the town center by following the coastal road. It’s a 2km walk offering many panoramic views that will lead you to the pleasant and lively town center of Terre-de-Haut.
Finally, this anchorage is described as an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding or kayaking! There are many activities to do in the fabulous setting of this exceptional anchorage in Les Saintes.
Anse Sous-Le-Vent
Our next stop is located on Île Cabri off the coast of Guadeloupe. If you’re looking for a quiet and natural spot, Anse Sous-Le-Vent offers an unparalleled experience. At anchor, good protection from north to east winds and sandy holding grounds will ensure a pleasant stay.
Facing the anchorage, lush hills surround the bay and give way, at its bottom, to a small black sand beach perfectly reflecting the island’s wild charm. There are no shops, restaurants, or other amenities in this corner of paradise; it’s a 100% wild anchorage, perfect for disconnecting.
For hiking enthusiasts, beautiful walks await in the tropical forest located behind the anchorage beach. Finally, visit Fort Joséphine, where you’ll have a remarkable panoramic view of the bay of Les Saintes archipelago as well as the anchorage of the village of Terre-de-Haut, dominated by the Fort Napoléon built in opposite of Fort Joséphine.
Anse Galet
In the north of the island, Anse Galet is a dream destination for boaters visiting the region and perfectly concludes our list. At anchor, you will drop anchor in sandy grounds resting at about 10 meters deep. You will also enjoy good protection from east to southwest winds by the south.
The impressive setting of the anchorage makes it one of the iconic spots of Les Saintes. From the deck of your boat, you will have the opportunity to see green mountain ranges, bordering a bay with deep blue waters.
In this true natural paradise, there is a small traditional village composed of many houses with local colors that are very appreciated by boaters.
Finally, walk to the top of Le Chameau, the highest point of the archipelago, to enjoy a magnificent view of Les Saintes, Marie Galante and Dominica in the distance. Visiting Fort Napoléon, a historical monument located at the top of Morne Mire, is a must to immerse oneself in the history and culture of Les Saintes.
Our tour of the best anchorages of Les Saintes islands is now coming to an end.
If this region has seduced you, do not hesitate to share your experience on Navily. After discovering this archipelago of the Caribbean Sea, if you want to know more about the West Indies, check out our articles on the best anchorages of Guadeloupe, Marie Galante or Martinique!
Fair winds Captain,
The Octopus
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