The Martinique ↔ St. Lucia ferry route is one of the most popular international ferry connections in the Caribbean.
It’s the easiest way to travel between the French Caribbean and the English-speaking Eastern Caribbean without flying — perfect for multi-island vacations.
The route is operated by Express des Îles, a modern, comfortable passenger ferry line connecting Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.
🚢 Ferry Schedule (Typical 2025 Service)
Operated by Express des Îles
| Route | Travel Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Martinique (Fort-de-France) → St. Lucia (Castries) | 1 hr 30 min – 2 hrs | Direct route |
| St. Lucia → Martinique | 1 hr 30 min – 2 hrs |
Typical departure frequency:
- 3–4 departures per week
- More frequent in high season (Dec–Apr)
⚠ Schedules vary seasonally — always verify closer to travel dates.
💸 Ticket Prices (2025)
| Type | Price |
|---|---|
| One-way | €60–€85 (USD $65–$95) |
| Round trip | €110–€160 |
Prices fluctuate by season, demand & baggage.
🎟 Where to Buy Tickets
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online | express-des-iles.com |
| Ticket counters | Ferry terminals in Fort-de-France & Castries |
💡 Book early during weekends & holidays.
📍 Departure & Arrival Ports
| Island | Port |
|---|---|
| Martinique | Fort-de-France Ferry Terminal |
| St. Lucia | Castries Ferry Terminal |
Ferries arrive walking-distance from shops & taxis.
🛄 Luggage Information
- Carry-on allowed
- Checked baggage available (extra fee)
- Sports & scuba gear accepted with surcharge
🛂 Entry Requirements
| Route | Passport Requirement |
|---|---|
| Martinique → St. Lucia | Yes (border control) |
| St. Lucia → Martinique | Yes |
🔹 If you are not an EU or Caribbean citizen, check visa rules in advance.
🔹 US/Canadian citizens typically enter visa-free for tourism.
🏝 Best Island-Hopping Ideas
Recommended Itineraries
- Guadeloupe → Dominica → Martinique → St. Lucia
- Martinique + St. Lucia honeymoon combo
- St. Lucia for mountains → Martinique for food & beaches
Time split suggestion:
- 4–5 days Martinique
- 5–7 days St. Lucia
🌴 Why Take the Ferry Instead of Flying?
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Scenic | Caribbean coastline views |
| Cheaper | Often less than flights |
| No airport stress | Easier boarding |
| Eco-friendly | Lower emissions |
🧠 Expert Tips
- Sit top deck for the best views
- Arrive 60–90 minutes before departure
- Keep passport and documents accessible
- Seas can be rough on windy days — consider Dramamine
- Buy tickets early during Christmas & Carnival
🏁 Final Summary
The Martinique ↔ St. Lucia ferry is a fast, convenient and affordable way to island hop between two beautiful Caribbean destinations — perfect for culture, adventure, beaches and food lovers.
Internal Links
- Caribbean Ferry Master Guide
- Dominica Ferry Guide
- Guadeloupe Travel Guide
- St. Lucia Travel Guide
- Martinique Travel Guide
- Best Caribbean Island for Food & Culture
- Best Caribbean Island for Honeymoon
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
El ferry entre Martinica y Santa Lucía dura aproximadamente 1 hora y media. Es operado por Express des Îles varias veces por semana y cuesta entre €60 y €80 por trayecto. Es una excelente opción para viajar sin volar y hacer un itinerario de varias islas.
Leave a Reply