Point-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe cruises
The city’s main streets are sprawling with palm trees and shops, leading into narrow lanes sprinkled with charm. Grand-Terre and Basse-Terre have many day-trip attractions overland or by boat.
Pointe-à-Pitre was officially founded in 1764 by governor Gabriel de Clieu, a year after the return of Guadeloupe to France. The British had occupied Guadeloupe from 1759 until 1763, during which time a tiny settlement began to appear on the banks of the sea channel between Guadeloupe’s two largest islands, Grand-Terre and Basse-Terre.
The swampy grounds overlooking the channel had stopped French colonial authorities establishing a city where Pointe-à-Pitre stands today, despite attempts between 1713 and 1730. After the city was officially founded, the swamps were drained which allowed the city to develop. Unfortunately, the town’s history is tarnished by a series of disasters.
The city has been destroyed by fires, experienced earthquakes, and been the location of many hurricanes. That said, the large port and location in the east Caribbean Sea have helped Pointe-à-Pitre become the economic capital of Guadeloupe and a popular tourism destination.
Those on cruises to Pointe-à-Pitre should be sure to visit Place de la Victoire. This large park, and the focal point of the city, is dotted with mango trees and palms. On the west side of the park, relax outside one of the cafes on Rue Bébion. On the east side, stroll along Rue de Comdt Mortenal to discover charming old houses. Nearby, Cathédrale de St Pierre et St Paul is a sand-coloured place of worship worth exploring.
At Museum Saint John Perse, Pointe-à-Pitre plays tribute to the poet Saint-John Perse who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1960 and was from Pointe-à-Pitre. The ground floor of this museum, located in a brightly-painted 19th century colonial house, allows visitors to explore an authentic period Creole residence. Upstairs, there are exhibits relating to the poet’s life plus a library.
Make sure you visit at least one of the city’s bustling markets. They echo the culture of this cosmopolitan city and bring it to life with colour and charm. Journey into a world of Creole aromas at Saint-Antoine, the spice market. Discover exotic Caribbean flowers at the flower market on Gourbeyre Square. And do not miss the harbourside market along La Darse for tropical fruits, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Gosier is a little seaside town in the commune of Pointe-à-Pitre with a big marina, lots of shops, and a beautiful beach. Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling are high on the agenda in this picturesque paradise.
Pointe-à-Pitre food highlights
Guadeloupian cuisine is influenced by both Creole and French flavours and seafood features on most menus. Stylish restaurants can be found in Pointe-à-Pitre and Gosier but a more traditional eating experience starts at one of the city’s street vendors (or Lolos). Here food is cheap, cheerful, and full of local flavours. Ask for a bokit, a deep fried naan bread filled with meat and vegetables.