Located south of Basse-Terre, the Saintes archipelago is one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful natural treasures. Made up of several volcanic islands, the most visited of which is Terre-de-Haut, this unspoiled jewel-case seduces visitors with its beaches, authenticity and peaceful atmosphere. To reach Les Saintes from mainland Guadeloupe, several ferry companies operate regular services, mainly from Trois-Rivières, but also from Pointe-à-Pitre and Saint-François.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your journey to Les Saintes. How to get to Les Saintes, we explain it all!
Ferrying to Les Saintes
The different ferry companies to Les Saintes
Most travelers choose to embark from Trois-Rivières, the nearest port to Les Saintes. Two main companies operate here: CTM DEHER and Karu’Ferry. These crossings are the fastest, taking around 25 minutes.
CTM DEHER is a historic local company offering several departures a day from Trois-Rivières to Terre-de-Haut. The service is smooth, the boats modern, and the timetables suitable for both day trips and extended stays. You can book your tickets directly on their official website: www.ctmdeher.com.
Karu’Ferry also operates daily services between Trois-Rivières and Terre-de-Haut. This reliable, comfortable service is much appreciated by regular travelers. Schedules vary according to season. For further information and reservations, visit www.karuferry.com.
If you’re staying on the east coast of Grande-Terre, particularly in Saint-François or Pointe-à-Pitre, you can also reach Les Saintes without passing through Trois-Rivières. Two companies provide these crossings: Val’Ferry and L’Express des Îles.
Val’Ferry offers connections from Pointe-à-Pitre and Saint-François. Journeys take a little longer, averaging an hour, but avoid the need for a road transfer to Basse-Terre. This is a very practical option if you’re staying in the Guadeloupe Riviera area. The Val’Ferry website doesn’t always have an up-to-date online booking module, but their Facebook page is regularly updated: facebook.com/valferrydominica.
L’Express des Îles serves Les Saintes twice a week (Thursday and Saturday) from the Bergevin ferry terminal in Pointe-à-Pitre. It’s a great option if you’re planning an extended stay or combining several islands (Marie-Galante, Dominique, Martinique). Information and reservations at www.express-des-iles.fr.
Which port of departure to choose?
Your choice of departure port depends mainly on where you are staying in Guadeloupe.
From Pointe-à-Pitre, you can embark from the Bergevin ferry terminal, located right next to the city center. This is where you’ll find L’Express des Îles connections and some Val’Ferry departures.
From Saint-François, on the east coast, Val’Ferry offers more direct crossings, albeit less frequent than those operated from Trois-Rivières. This can be a very practical solution if you’re staying in a villa in the Pointe des Châteaux area.
From Trois-Rivières, south of Basse-Terre, you have access to the shortest and most regular crossings. The port can be reached by car from Pointe-à-Pitre in around 45 minutes to 1 hour. It’s the ideal embarkation point for a day trip.
Book your ticket and prepare your crossing
We strongly recommend that you book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during school vacations and weekends. Places are limited and crossings are often fully booked.
Each company offers different booking methods. CTM DEHER and Karu’Ferry have easy-to-use online booking platforms. For Val’Ferry, the Facebook page remains the best way to obtain up-to-date timetables. L’Express des Îles can also be booked online via its official website.
Fares vary from 16 to 25 euros, depending on the company, port of departure and season. Children generally benefit from reduced fares, and some companies also offer discounted round-trip packages.
Remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure time for check-in and boarding. Each airline has its own baggage policy, but in general, one carry-on bag or suitcase is allowed free of charge. Additional charges may apply for bulky baggage.
Getting to Les Saintes by plane
Although less well known, the air link to Terre-de-Haut does exist. The small airstrip near Le Bourg is used exclusively by tourist aircraft.
The local airline Air Caraïbes does not serve Les Saintes directly, but you can book a flight by air cab or private plane via specialist service providers such as Caraïbes Air Services or St Barts Commuter (on request). Departure is from Pointe-à-Pitre’s Pôle Caraïbes airport.
The flight lasts around 15 minutes and offers an exceptional panorama of the archipelago from the air. This option is recommended for exclusive trips, VIP transfers or when luxury accommodation awaits travelers on arrival.
To arrange a private flight to Terre-de-Haut: https://www.caraibesairservices.com
Getting to Les Saintes by private boat
For those wishing to travel at their own pace and enjoy an upscale experience, chartering a private boat or yacht is an excellent alternative. Several charter companies in Saint-François, Pointe-à-Pitre and Gosier offer catamarans, speedboats and sailing yachts, with or without skipper.
Les Saintes can be reached in 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type of boat. The arrival in Terre-de-Haut Bay, ranked among the most beautiful in the world, is an unforgettable moment.
Recommended service providers :
- Blue Lagoon (Marina du Gosier): www.bluelagoon.fr
- Blue Melody (Saint-François): www.bluemelody.fr
- CaraYacht Services (Pointe-à-Pitre): personalized service for luxury yachts
Some prestige villas in Les Saintes even include a private transfer service from the mainland. If you’re staying with Prestige Villa Rental, you can arrange this type of crossing in advance with our concierge service.
Frequently asked questions about getting to Les Saintes
Can I fly to Les Saintes?
Yes, but only via private flights or plane cabs, usually from Pointe-à-Pitre. The island of Terre-de-Haut has a runway for small aircraft.
How much does a private flight to Les Saintes cost?
Prices depend on the type of aircraft and the number of passengers, but you should expect to pay between €800 and €1,200 one-way for 4 to 6 people.
Can I rent a boat to go to Les Saintes?
Yes, many companies offer day boats with or without skipper. Ideal for a personalized transfer or a sailing excursion.
What’s the best option for a quick transfer?
The ferry from Trois-Rivières is the fastest and most economical. For a VIP transfer, opt for a private flight or skippered boat.
What’s the fastest crossing to Les Saintes?
The trip from Trois-Rivières with CTM DEHER or Karu’Ferry is the fastest: about 25 minutes.
Can we leave directly from Pointe-à-Pitre?
Yes, L’Express des Îles offers two weekly departures, while Val’Ferry also operates some routes.
Is it possible to leave from Saint-François?
Yes, thanks to Val’Ferry. It’s a convenient option for travelers staying east of Grande-Terre.
How much does a ferry ticket cost?
Prices vary according to company and port, but generally range from 16 to 25 euros one way.
Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. During tourist periods, crossings are often fully booked several days in advance.
