Martinique: Snorkeling Boat Trip & Coral Reef Guided Swim

Summary

Swim Martinique’s reefs with a local guide and taste island snacks

You’ll join a small group for a guided snorkeling boat trip in southern Martinique with Stéphane, who shares his passion for marine life as you swim above vibrant coral reefs. Expect hands-on help in the water, stories about local fish and corals, plus snacks and drinks after your swim. It’s relaxed, educational, and leaves you feeling connected to the sea.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the sea smells like before you even see it? That’s how our morning started in southern Martinique — salt in the air, engine humming low, and Stéphane already cracking jokes about how clumsy we’d all be getting into our fins. He’s not just a boat captain but a real marine biology nerd (his words). There were only eight of us that day, and honestly I was nervous, but Stéphane had this way of making everyone feel like we’d done this a hundred times. The main keyword here is “snorkeling boat trip”, but it felt more like joining friends than booking a tour.

I didn’t expect to actually learn so much — he pointed out tiny things I’d never have noticed: a parrotfish crunching coral (you could hear it if you listened close), soft waving fans under the surface, even explained why some corals looked faded. At one point I got water in my mask and panicked a bit; Stéphane just floated over, calmly fixed it, then made some joke about “Caribbean baptisms.” The sea was warm but there were these cool patches, almost like swimming through silk and then velvet. We spent maybe an hour drifting above the reef, moving slow so nobody missed anything.

Afterwards we climbed back on board — salt still drying on my skin — and he handed out fruit juice and these little pastries that tasted faintly of rum (I asked what they were called but forgot immediately). Someone tried to say thank you in French and completely butchered it; everyone laughed, including Stéphane. He took photos for us when the waves weren’t too wild. I still think about floating there, sun on my back, not really wanting to get out of the water yet. If you’re looking for a day trip snorkeling from Martinique with an actual local guide who cares about the reefs — well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and marine biology discovery

• Boat trip to snorkeling sites
• Introduction to marine biology
• Guided surface snorkeling hike
• Aperitif offered on board

Top questions

Is this snorkeling boat trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, both beginners and experienced swimmers are welcome—your guide helps everyone feel comfortable in the water.

How many people join each tour?

The group size is small—maximum 13 people per trip.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, after snorkeling you’ll enjoy an aperitif with juice, planters (local drink), water, and pastries.

Does the guide accompany guests into the water?

Yes, your guide joins you in the water to assist and explain marine life up close.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is provided as part of your booking.

Are photos included in the experience?

Your guide takes photos when sea conditions allow—these are included at no extra cost.

Is this tour accessible by wheelchair?

Yes, wheelchair users can participate in this activity.

Can infants join this boat trip?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment with hands-on guidance from your instructor right in the water beside you. Photos are taken when possible depending on sea conditions. After swimming over Martinique’s coral reefs you’ll share an aperitif—fruit juice or planters with pastries—before heading back ashore together.