Overview and history
Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda, a Caribbean archipelago steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. This enchanting destination offers visitors a fascinating plunge into the past, while offering breathtaking landscapes of paradise. Embark on a catamaran cruise and discover the well-kept secrets of this Caribbean gem, where every port of call transports you back in time.
The history of Antigua & Barbuda goes back thousands of years, with traces of human occupation dating back to pre-Columbian times. The first inhabitants, the Arawaks and Caribs, left behind a rich cultural heritage, perceptible in local crafts, art and traditions.
In the 15th century, the archipelago was discovered by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World. Later, in the 17th century, Antigua became an important British colony, playing a key role in the triangular trade and becoming a center of the sugar industry.
Traces of the colonial era are still visible today in the ruined sugar plantations, imposing forts and elegant colonial mansions scattered across the island. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Fort James, built in the early 18th century to protect the island from foreign attack, or Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that testifies to Antigua's strategic importance as a British naval base.
In addition to its colonial past, Antigua and Barbuda is also steeped in a vibrant Creole culture, the legacy of interaction between the different populations that have populated the archipelago over the centuries. Music, dance, crafts and cuisine reflect this unique blend of African, European and Caribbean influences, offering visitors a rich and authentic cultural experience.
Beyond its rich historical heritage, Antigua & Barbuda is also renowned for its breathtaking scenery. From white-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters to green hills dotted with sugarcane plantations, every corner of the archipelago offers postcard-worthy panoramas.
A catamaran cruise in Antigua & Barbuda offers a unique and immersive way to discover the history and natural beauty of this spellbinding archipelago. From colonial-era relics to vibrant cultural traditions, each port of call transports you back in time, allowing you to discover the hidden treasures of this Caribbean destination. Embark on a journey through the history and natural beauty of Antigua & Barbuda, and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of this fascinating archipelago.
How to get there
Reach Saint Martin easily
By plane
- From Paris: Air France (direct, arriving at Princess Juliana airport on the Dutch side) / Air Caraïbes (with a stopover at Pointe-à-pitre and arriving at Grand Case airport on the French side) (approx. 9hrs flight)
- From other major French cities: Air France with a stopover in Paris
- From Belgium: Air France from Brussels with a stopover in Paris (train+plane package)
- From Switzerland: Air France from Geneva with a stopover in Paris
- From Luxembourg: Luxair + Air France from Luxembourg with a stopover in Paris
Things to know before you go
CATLANTE cruises depart from the Fort Louis marina in Marigot on the island of Saint Martin on Saturdays from November to April.
For EU nationals: passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the cruise, for each participant. Authorization to leave the country for minors traveling without at least one parent or legal guardian.
Boarding takes place at the Fort-Louis marina in Marigot at 6pm. Disembarkation takes place in the morning of D+8 at 9am.
Cabs at Princess Juliana airport in St Martin: check that the vehicle has a cab plate on the roof, to avoid pirates. Carry US dollars with you, as rates (around $30 for 2) will be the same in euros. At Grand Case airport (flights from Guadeloupe): cab Jean Philippe 06 90 87 47 92 or 06 90 55 96 15 Call on behalf of Catlante. It's best to book when you board your regional flight.
Luggage storage at the Wine Bar, just opposite the pontoon entrance to Marigot's Fort Louis marina. €5 per bag, Saturday between 11am and 6pm.
In Barbuda, visit to the wild coast and the frigatebird nature reserve: approx. 50US$ per person, depending on the number of participants. Barbucue lobster: 40US$ per person.
In Saint-Martin and Antigua & Barbuda, the most widely used currency is the US dollar. Be sure to carry at least US$150 in cash. The climate in the West Indies is tropical, with the dry season running from mid-November to mid-May. The official language is French in St-Martin (English and Dutch in the Dutch part of the island) and St-Barth, and English in Antigua and Barbuda.
Enjoy your trip with CATLANTE Catamarans
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for 20 years
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