Martinique: Fonds Blancs Day Trip with Creole Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Boat trip to Josephine’s Bath plus Chancel Islet wildlife and creole meal

You’ll float above white sands at Josephine’s Bath, share rum “baptisms” with new friends, taste Creole dishes on Oscar Island, and spot wild iguanas on Chancel Islet — all with a local crew who make every moment easy (and fun). This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a day that lingers long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous about getting on a boat that early — I’m not much of a morning person, and the Atlantic always looks bigger in real life than it does in photos. But by 9 a.m., we were already gliding past the mangroves off Martinique’s Windward Coast, the captain cracking jokes in French-Creole that made even the shyest folks smile. The air smelled like salt and something sweet — maybe fruit? — and I kept thinking how different this felt from any other day trip I’d done.

Our first stop was Thierry islet for a swim. The water at Josephine’s Bath (locals call it La Baignoire de Joséphine) is so clear you can see your toes wiggle in the sand, which is weirdly satisfying. There’s this tradition where you stand ankle-deep and get handed a tiny glass of local rum — “baptism,” they called it. I tried to say “merci” with my best accent; our guide Li just grinned and handed me an extra accra (those spicy little fritters). It’s funny how quickly strangers start to feel like friends when you’re all floating together in warm water.

Lunch happened on Oscar Island — big platters of Creole food, lots of laughter, some people napping under palm trees. I remember the sound of cutlery clinking against plates and someone playing zouk music quietly from their phone. Afterward, we cruised over to Chancel Islet where we spotted iguanas sunning themselves on rocks. They barely moved, just blinked at us like they’d seen it all before. The guide told stories about the island’s history; honestly, I only caught half because I was distracted by the way sunlight hit the water there.

I still think about that moment standing knee-deep in the sea with rum in hand — not quite sure if it was the drink or just being there that made everything feel lighter. If you’re curious about Martinique’s Fonds Blancs or just want a day that doesn’t feel rushed or staged, this one sticks with you for reasons you don’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip to Josephine's Bath and Islet Chancel

• Depart at 9 a.m.
• Navigate along mangrove and islets
• Swim at Thierry islet
• Traditional rum baptism at Josephine's Bath
• Lunch at Oscar Island with Creole dishes
• Explore Islet Chancel and meet iguanas
• Return around 4 p.m.

Top questions

How long does the Fonds Blancs Martinique day trip last?

The tour departs at 9 a.m. and returns around 4 p.m., so about 7 hours total.

Is lunch included on this boat trip?

Yes, Creole dishes are served for lunch on Oscar Island as part of the experience.

What is Josephine's Bath in Martinique?

Josephine's Bath (La Baignoire de Joséphine) is a shallow sandbar between Thierry and Oscar islets known for its clear water and local legends.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, both alcoholic (including rum) and non-alcoholic drinks are included throughout the excursion.

Will we see wildlife during this day trip?

You’ll visit Chancel Islet where endemic iguanas can be spotted along with unique flora and fauna.

Is this small group or private?

This is a small group boat tour along Martinique's Windward Coast.

Are there any physical restrictions for travelers?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health but is suitable for most fitness levels.

Is transportation provided to the departure point?

The tour does not include hotel pickup but public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes boat navigation along Martinique’s mangroves and islets, swimming at Josephine’s Bath with traditional rum tasting, Creole lunch served on Oscar Island, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), local fruits and accras throughout the journey, plus time exploring Chancel Islet to spot iguanas before heading back around 4 p.m.