Guadeloupe: Mangrove Boat Tour & Floating Aperitif with Snacks

Summary

Salt river crossings, mangrove silence, laughter over floating drinks

You’ll float through Guadeloupe’s salt river mangroves with a local guide who shares stories as you go. Swim above a shallow wreck with mask and snorkel, snack on manio patties and fruit while your feet dangle in clear water, then relax with drinks during a floating aperitif before heading back—all in half a day.

What’s the experience like?

"You see that curve in the river? My grandmother used to say spirits lived there," Captain Jean said as we drifted past the tangled roots of the salt river mangroves near Bas du Fort. It was barely 8:30am but the air already felt thick and sweet, and I could smell something earthy—maybe the mud or just the mangroves themselves. We’d left the marina early, still yawning a bit, but the water was so calm it felt like we were gliding over glass.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a boat excursion in Guadeloupe. Jean kept telling us stories—some true, some probably not—and pointed out tiny crabs scuttling along branches. When we stopped by a sandy islet (I think he called it Doe Island?), everyone just sort of…stood quietly for a minute. The sand was cool under my feet even though the sun was getting stronger. There was this moment where I realized how far away city noise felt—just birds and water lapping at the hull.

Snorkeling by the old wreck was wild—I’m not great with flippers and probably looked ridiculous—but seeing all those fish darting around was worth swallowing some saltwater. After that, Jean handed out manio patties and poured planter from a thermos while we floated next to Île Manuviers. He told us about his uncle’s fishing days and passed around slices of fruit. Someone tried to say “merci” with a local accent; everyone cracked up, including Jean. The floating aperitif thing? Honestly, I thought it would be gimmicky but it just felt…easygoing. Like you could stay there all afternoon.

We got back to port around 1pm, kind of sun-dazed and sticky with salt but happy. I still think about that quiet patch of mangrove water sometimes—how it smelled, how nobody rushed anything. If you’re looking for something loud or fancy, this isn’t it. But if you want to feel like you’re part of Guadeloupe for a few hours…well, you know.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat excursion and island stops

• Board boat at 8am
• Visit salt river and mangrove
• Stop at sandy island for relaxation
• Swim and snorkel at wreck
• Stop at Île de Manuviers with floating aperitif
• Return to port by 1pm

Top questions

What time does the Guadeloupe boat tour start and end?

The tour boards at 8am from Bas du Fort marina and returns at 1pm.

Are snacks or drinks included on this boat excursion?

Yes, snacks like manio patties and local drinks (planter, juice, water) are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the day trip?

Masks and snorkels are available for swimming at the wreck stop.

Where does the tour depart from in Guadeloupe?

The departure point is Bas du Fort marina.

Is this boat tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Are public transportation options nearby for reaching the marina?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to Bas du Fort marina.

Does this day trip include swimming stops?

Yes, there are stops for swimming around sandy islets and at a shipwreck site.

What should I bring for this Guadeloupe boat excursion?

You should bring swimwear, sunscreen, and maybe a towel—the rest is provided.

What’s included

Your morning includes boarding at Bas du Fort marina with all snacks provided—think manio patties, fresh fruit—and local drinks like planter punch or juice served throughout. Mask and snorkel are available for swimming stops at both sandy islets and an old wreck before returning to port by early afternoon.