Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) Ferries

The port of Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) plays a key role in the ferry network of Guadeloupe, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut), with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Trois Rivieres (Basse-Terre) - Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) connecting Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut), offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

The main gateway to Les Saintes is through Guadeloupe, with regular ferry services departing from Trois-Rivières on Basse-Terre and Pointe-à-Pitre. The journey from Trois-Rivières takes approximately 15-20 minutes, while ferries from Pointe-à-Pitre operate less frequently and take about an hour. If arriving internationally, fly into Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport, then take a taxi or bus to the ferry terminal. Parking is available at both ferry terminals on Guadeloupe for those arriving by car, though spaces can fill quickly during high season, so arrive early.

Nestled in the azure waters of the Caribbean, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) is a breathtaking tropical gem with unmistakable French flair. This small archipelago, part of Guadeloupe, boasts one of the most beautiful bays in the world with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. As your ferry approaches the colorful harbor, you'll be greeted by the sight of red-roofed houses climbing gentle slopes against a backdrop of lush hills and pristine beaches.

Les Saintes enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures hovering between 75-85°F (24-29°C) year-round. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from December to May, when days are sunny and rainfall is minimal. February to April offers perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling, with calm seas and excellent visibility. The summer months (June to November) constitute hurricane season, with increased rainfall and humidity, though prices are lower and crowds thinner. Ferry services may be reduced or canceled during rough weather, so checking schedules in advance is essential during this period.

Les Saintes serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Guadeloupe archipelago. From Terre-de-Haut, a short 10-minute ferry ride takes you to Terre-de-Bas, the quieter sister island with scenic hiking trails and authentic local culture. Regular ferry connections to mainland Guadeloupe allow for day trips to the stunning beaches of Grande-Terre (90 minutes) or the lush rainforests and waterfalls of Basse-Terre (30 minutes). Marie-Galante, famous for its rum distilleries and untouched beaches, can be reached via connecting ferries from Pointe-à-Pitre, making for a perfect island-hopping adventure in the Lesser Antilles.

The heart of Les Saintes' appeal lies in its natural splendor and laid-back atmosphere. Climb to Fort Napoléon for panoramic views of the archipelago and explore its fascinating museum and exotic garden filled with iguanas. Snorkel or dive the protected waters around Pain de Sucre beach, where colorful fish dart among coral formations in crystal-clear waters. Sample local specialties like tourment d'amour (a coconut and jam tart) or fresh seafood with Creole spices at waterfront restaurants in the main village of Bourg. For a truly local experience, rent a scooter and circle the island, stopping at secluded beaches like Pompierre and Grande Anse, where sea turtles often make appearances.

Les Saintes' unique history has created a distinctive culture unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. The islanders, known as Saintois, are descendants of Breton and Norman sailors, giving the island a fascinating cultural blend evident in local traditions and dialect. Les Saintes Bay is officially recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by UNESCO, joining the ranks of Rio de Janeiro and Ha Long Bay. Despite its small size (less than 3 square miles), Terre-de-Haut has been nicknamed 'the Pearl of the Caribbean' by sailors and travelers for centuries, and cars are largely absent from the island, with most locals and visitors traveling by foot, bicycle, or scooter.