Les Saintes: Sailing tour with guide & snorkeling stop

Summary

Sail the Saintes archipelago, spot pelicans, and swim for turtles

You’ll step onto a small catamaran in Les Saintes with a local guide at the helm, help hoist sails or even steer for a bit, watch pelicans circle Pain de Sucre, then snorkel in clear water searching for sea turtles before relaxing with juice or Captain’s Planter on deck — moments you’ll remember long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped barefoot onto Arnaud’s little catamaran in Terre-de-Haut, still shaking off the ferry ride from Guadeloupe. Seven of us, plus Arnaud — who greeted us with this kind of easy grin you only get from someone who’s lived on the water forever. The sails went up fast (he let me help, though I fumbled the rope), and suddenly we were gliding out into Baie des Saintes. The wind was warm but not harsh, just enough to make my hair stick to my face. I could smell salt and something sweet — maybe sunscreen or that planter’s punch he kept mentioning?

Arnaud pointed out pelicans circling above Pain de Sucre, their wings almost brushing the blue. He told us about Terre de Bas — apparently it’s quieter than Terre-de-Haut, more fishermen than tourists. We drifted close enough to see a few boats bobbing near shore. At one point he handed me the helm (“just keep her steady,” he said) and I swear my heart thumped louder than the waves slapping the hull. There was this silence when we cut the engine — just wind, water, a laugh from someone in front as they tried to say “Saintoise” like a local (I didn’t even try).

We anchored near a cove where Arnaud said sea turtles liked to hang out — he knows all their spots, or at least pretends to. The water was cooler than I expected when I slid in off the trampoline netting (which is comfier than it looks). Saw two turtles right away, just drifting under us like they owned the place. Someone passed around juice and that infamous Captain’s Planter after we climbed back aboard; tasted fruity but strong enough that I felt it in my cheeks.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would feel out there once everyone settled down — no motors, just sails flapping and distant voices from another boat. Even now I can picture that light on the bay, all silver-blue with clouds moving fast overhead. If you’re thinking about a sailing tour in Les Saintes, honestly… don’t overthink it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and Snorkeling in Baie des Saintes

• Sail in Baie des Saintes
• Participate in sailing maneuvers
• Snorkel to spot sea turtles
• Relax on catamaran trampoline

Top questions

How many people are on this sailing tour in Les Saintes?

The group size is limited to 7 people plus your local guide.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the tour?

The description mentions snorkeling but does not specify equipment; check with your guide before booking.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, water, juices, and Captain's Planter (a local punch) are included during your sailing tour.

Can infants or small children join this sailing trip?

Infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Is this sailing tour suitable for travelers with spinal injuries?

No, it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this sailing experience.

Where does the sailing tour depart from?

The catamaran departs from Terre-de-Haut in Les Saintes archipelago.

Will we have a chance to see wildlife during this trip?

You may see pelicans around Pain de Sucre and can snorkel to look for sea turtles near Terre de Bas.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing with a certified local guide aboard an 8-meter sports catamaran from Terre-de-Haut through Baie des Saintes, participation in maneuvers if you want (like hoisting sails or steering), time for snorkeling in search of sea turtles near Terre de Bas, plus water, juices and Captain’s Planter served onboard before returning ashore together.