You’ll find Fort-de-France’s Pointe Simon Cruise Terminal just 500 metres from the city centre.
For other Windward Islands cruise destinations check out our Windward Islands Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
You can walk directly to major attractions from your ship. St. Louis Cathedral, La Savane Park and Fort Saint-Louis are all within a 15-minute stroll.
The terminal offers quick customs clearance and a tourist information desk. Clear signs in French and English help you navigate the area.
The city blends Caribbean and French influences, letting you discover local spice markets and traditional Creole restaurants nearby.
Map of Fort-de-France, Martinique Cruise Ship Port
Port Location and Arrival Details
Port Location and Arrival Guide – Fort-de-France
Your cruise ship will dock at Pointe Simon Cruise Terminal in Fort-de-France Bay. The terminal sits 500 metres from the city centre, making it easily walkable.
When you arrive:
- Your ship will berth at one of the terminal’s two deep-water piers
- You’ll disembark via the main terminal building
- Security and customs checks take place inside the terminal
- The whole process typically takes 15-30 minutes
Getting to the city:
- Walk straight ahead from the terminal to reach the main shopping district
- Taxis wait outside the terminal building
- Local buses stop 200 metres from the cruise port
- Tourist information desk operates inside the terminal
Terminal facilities:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Currency exchange
- Souvenir shops
- Café
- Tourist information desk
- Taxi rank
- Public toilets
You’ll find clear signs in French and English throughout the terminal guiding you to all facilities and the city centre.
Contact the port:
Phone: +596 596 71 72 72
Email: info@portmartinique.com
Top Tourist Attractions Near the Cruise Terminal
Walking from the cruise terminal, you’ll discover Fort-de-France’s main attractions nearby. The Schoelcher Library stands as the first major sight, featuring Art Nouveau design that craftsmen transported from Paris and rebuilt piece by piece. You can visit the St. Louis Cathedral next door, which showcases an impressive iron structure and tall spire. La Savane Park offers you quiet gardens to explore and houses the well-known Empress Josephine statue. You can tour Fort Saint-Louis, which serves as both an active naval base and historic site, giving you great views across the harbour and city.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Bridgetown, Barbados for a different Windward Islands cruise destination.
Getting Around Fort-de-France
Getting Around Fort-de-France
You can explore Fort-de-France easily in several ways:
Walking
- The city centre is compact and walkable
- Most attractions sit within 15 minutes of the cruise terminal
- Clear pedestrian paths connect main tourist spots
Taxis
- Find official taxis with “TC” plates at the port entrance
- Drivers wait in a designated queue by the terminal
- Look for the official taxi sign on vehicle doors
Public Buses
- Regular routes cover the main city areas
- Buses stop at central tourist locations
- Services run from early morning until evening
Guided Tours
- Tours start directly from your cruise ship
- Groups meet at the terminal building
- Local guides speak English and French
Travel Tips:
- Carry a basic city map
- Streets have French-language signs
- Keep track of your ship’s departure time
- Stay within the main tourist areas
Local Shopping and Dining Highlights
Discover Fort-de-France’s best shopping spots and restaurants by foot or local bus.
You’ll find La Galleria houses local crafts, madras fabrics, and French-Caribbean fashion pieces. The covered Spice Market sells fresh tropical fruits, local spices, and traditional cooking ingredients.
You can taste authentic Creole dishes at the harbour restaurants. Try the fresh seafood, colombo curries, and Martinique rum. The local cafés offer French pastries and Martinique-grown coffee.
Essential Tips for Cruise Passengers
Port Guide: Fort-de-France, Martinique
You’ll find Fort-de-France easy to explore with the right preparation. This French-Caribbean port offers direct access to the city centre.
Essential tips for your visit:
Money:
- Use euros for payments
- Bring cash – many shops don’t take cards
- Visit ATMs at the cruise terminal before heading out
Language:
- Keep basic French phrases handy
- Start with “Bonjour” when greeting locals
- Use “Merci” to show courtesy
Activities:
- Book your excursions before arrival
- Top choices include rum tours and forest walks
- Reserve early to avoid missing out
Timing:
- Track your ship’s departure time
- Return 30 minutes early
- Check tide schedules at the port office
Keep these tips with you to navigate Fort-de-France smoothly and make the most of your port day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Languages Besides French Are Commonly Spoken in Fort-De-France?
French and Martinican Creole dominate daily communication in Fort-de-France. You’ll regularly hear Martinican Creole in local neighbourhoods, markets and casual settings. English serves as a third language, mainly in tourist zones, hotels and restaurants. You can get by with English in most tourist areas, though knowing basic French phrases will help you communicate better with locals.
Is It Safe to Drink Tap Water in Fort-De-France?
The tap water in Fort-de-France is safe for you to drink. The water supply meets European Union standards at a 98% compliance rate. You can drink directly from the tap and refill your water bottles without concern.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Martinique?
The best time to visit Martinique is from December to April. You’ll experience ideal beach conditions with temperatures between 24-29°C and minimal rainfall. This peak season offers plenty of chances to meet other travellers whilst enjoying the island’s finest weather.
Are There Any Local Customs or Etiquette Visitors Should Know About?
Key local customs to follow:
Start conversations with “bonjour” (hello) – it’s essential before any interaction.
Keep your clothing modest and appropriate:
- Cover shoulders and knees in towns
- Beach attire stays at the beach
- Smart casual is best for restaurants
Ask permission before taking photos of anyone.
Using basic French phrases shows respect:
- “S’il vous plaĂ®t” (please)
- “Merci” (thank you)
- “Au revoir” (goodbye)
Your effort to follow these customs will help you connect better with locals and enhance your experience.
What Type of Electrical Outlets Are Used in Fort-De-France?
Fort-de-France uses Type C and Type E electrical outlets, operating at 220 volts and 50 hertz. You need a power adapter for your devices if you’re travelling from North America. Your standard American plugs won’t fit these European-style sockets directly.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Castries, Saint Lucia Cruise Ship Port.
