Fort-de-France Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Fort-de-France, the vibrant capital of Martinique, a French Caribbean island where Creole culture meets European elegance. As a cruise passenger arriving with Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, or Royal Caribbean International, you’ll dock at the Pointe Simon cruise terminal, steps from the city center. With only 25 recorded cruise calls on file, this port offers an authentic, less-crowded experience. Spend your day exploring colorful markets, historic landmarks, and lush landscapes—all easily accessible on foot or by taxi.

Getting Around from the Port

The cruise terminal sits along the waterfront, placing you within a short walk of Fort-de-France’s main attractions. Stroll along Boulevard Alfassa to reach the iconic Schoelcher Library, a stunning Romanesque-Byzantine building, or the bustling Grand Marché, where vendors sell spices, rum, and local crafts. For a quick overview, hop on the TCSP bus rapid transit line, which connects the port to key neighborhoods like Cluny. Taxis are available outside the terminal for trips to beaches such as Plage de l’Anse Mitan (a 15-minute ferry ride from the nearby quay) or the Balata Gardens. While no active tours are currently listed near this port, independent exploration is straightforward—just confirm return times with your cruise line.

Top Shore-Excursion Experiences

Start your day with a cultural immersion at the Musée de la Martinique, located a 10-minute walk from the dock, to learn about the island’s Arawak, African, and French heritage. Then, head to the waterfront for a taste of Martinique’s famous rhum agricole at a local distillery like Rhum Clément (a short taxi ride away). For nature lovers, a trip to Mount Pelée, the island’s iconic volcano, offers hiking trails with panoramic views—book a guided taxi tour for a half-day excursion. Alternatively, relax on the black-sand beaches of the Caribbean coast, such as Grande Anse d’Arlet, accessible by taxi. Don’t miss sampling Creole dishes like accras de morue (cod fritters) at a seaside café. With no pre-booked tours available, embrace spontaneous discovery—Fort-de-France rewards curious travelers with its blend of French sophistication and tropical charm.