Guadeloupe Travel Forum

Hi gang-

We'll be docked at Point-A-Pitre on Sat. 12/15 from 8am-5pm.

The beaches in ST. ANNE looked gorgeous. I contacted the ONLY English speaking tour company that I could locate, and he quoted us over $50 US EACH if there were 4 of us.... just for transportation. That seems way out of line.

Here's my scenario (from my original email to the guy):

Hi there, XXXXX-

Thanks so much for replying.

From what I've been able to research, CARAVELLE BEACH looks lovely. I've also seen mention of CANELLA BEACH in Gosier, closer to our port. Where would you suggest, XXXXX?

Here's my scenario....

*Pick us up at our Port around 9 am.

*Stop for us to buy some beer and ice. We'll have a cooler.

*Head to a beach or maybe 2.

*Get us back to port no later than 4 pm.

*********************************

Can any of you folks suggest a plan for us?

Our idea of heaven is laying on a secluded beach, drinking beer and socializing with "locals". Unfortunately, we speak no French, but I did buy an cute little electronic translator!

I have GOOGLED until I'm blue in the face, and can't find anybody to hire.

We hate "ship organized" excursions.... they're like a cattle-call. We much prefer doing our own thing.

I thank you all in advance for ANY feedback, links or email addys that you can provide.

Thanks!

I would suggest (1) try contacting the local tourist board for more information, and (2) consider a rental car. This is a great place to explore, even if you want to spend most of your day hanging out on a beach.

Hi there, Marianne!

It's so kind of you to give such a quick reply.

Honestly, renting a car is out of the question. Beer drinking, belching and rental cars don't mix! *smiling*

A fellow that's joining us on this cruise has been in touch with the Tourist Board. Of the few "English Speaking" tour companies that they hooked him up with, this guy mentioned above, was the only one who returned his email. *sighing*

This is killing me! I've ALWAYS had drivers lined up on past cruises, but having a helluva time on this island. If push comes to shove, we'll try to hire someone outside of the port, I guess.

Thanks again! :)

You might even find "impromptu" taxis waiting when you go ashore, but no guarantees on that. Good luck!

The best way seems to rent a taxi and get in Gosier, or some places around. So you can have a boat for going to the island in front of Gosier with a lighthouse, then come back to the Marina of P a P a very nice place and go back to your cruise...It means that you can use only 6 hours...

A boat, huh? That's a fun thought! I'll look into that. Thanks for the heads-up....