7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

About the destination: Situated on the western coast of the island, along the Caribbean Sea, the capital of Martinique, formerly known as Fort-Royal, invites you to explore its architectural and cultural heritage. Before embarking on a tour of the beautiful promenade, take a leisurely walk through the historic center, with its vibrant shopping streets and magnificent buildings, such as the renowned eclectic Schoelcher library. The history of this library is quite remarkable, as it was constructed in Paris, and then entirely rebuilt in Fort-de-France in the 19th century. Both its exterior and interior are stunning, with a blend of concrete, wrought iron, and wood. Originally, it was intended to house the collection of books and musical scores of the famous abolitionist Victor Schoelcher. Open to the public, its mission includes, among other things, the preservation of heritage documents related to Martinique and the Antilles. You can't miss the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral, built in the 19th century, with its striking metal structure, unique bell tower covered with aluminum flakes, and its beautiful stained glass windows, five of which depict the life of St. Louis. A little further, by the sea, you can see the imposing silhouette of the Fort of St. Louis. Constructed in the 17th century and declared a Historical Monument in 1973, it offers an unparalleled view of the bay. The Fort of St. Louis was the site of ancient battles between the French and English. It is currently owned by the National Navy, and can be visited on a guided tour. Next, stop at the large Savane square, transformed into a garden, to stroll along its avenues or simply rest in the shade of a tree or a royal palm. Built in the 18th century, it is one of the main social hubs in Fort-de-France. If you're interested in learning more about the local culture and history of Martinique, be sure to visit the regional museum of history and ethnography. Housed in a bourgeois mansion from 1887, the site hosts temporary exhibitions on the ground floor, and a permanent exhibition on the first floor, featuring traditional costumes and Creole jewelry. You can also see a living room, a dining room, a bedroom, and a bathroom that reflect the bourgeois lifestyle of the late 19th century.