From Pointe-à-Pitre to Dominica: 5 Treasures Just a Ferry Ride Away
Take advantage of your trip to the Caribbean to discover Dominica, also known as Waitukubuli, its name in the Carib language. This authentic and unspoiled destination is easily accessible from Guadeloupe and Martinique thanks to regular ferry services by FRS Caribbean.
It only takes a comfortable 2-hours 15 minutes ferry ride from Fort-de-France and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Pointe-à-Pitre to set foot on this wild and fascinating island.
Why take a trip to Dominica? What can you see on the island? How can you get there from Guadeloupe or Martinique?
5 Must-See Places in Dominica
Nicknamed “The Nature Island,” Dominica boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Easily accessible from other Caribbean islands, it’s well worth a visit during your stay.
1) Morne Trois Pitons National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the natural jewel of Dominica, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The park is named after the Morne Trois Pitons volcano, which rises to 1,342 meters. It offers a spectacular landscape that combines dense rainforest, geothermal activity, and rich biodiversity.
The park is home to several natural wonders, including:
- Hot springs: Emerald Pool, the sulphur springs of Wotten Waven
- Waterfalls: Middleham Falls, Trafalgar Falls
- The famous Boiling Lake: the second-largest boiling lake in the world
It’s a must-visit destination for nature and hiking enthusiasts.
2) Champagne Beach
While Dominica’s beaches aren't the most famous in the Caribbean, Champagne Beach is a standout.
Its name comes from a unique phenomenon: volcanic hot springs beneath the sea release bubbles that rise to the surface like champagne.
This spot is also renowned for snorkeling and diving. The dramatic cliffs of Champagne Reef are home to vibrant and abundant marine life.
3) The City of Roseau
Roseau, Dominica’s capital, has a vibrant atmosphere that blends Creole culture, colonial architecture, and a tropical vibe.
Its colorful market is a true crossroads of flavors, spices, exotic fruits, and warm encounters with locals.
Historic buildings, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Fairhaven and charming wooden houses with ornate balconies, reflect the island’s French and British colonial past.
The city also offers a wide array of cultural activities, including museums, local art galleries, and lively festivals like the World Creole Music Festival in October – all with a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea.
4) Emerald Pool
Emerald Pool is a natural basin surrounded by lush vegetation, located within Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
This clear emerald-colored pool, fed by a 6-meter waterfall, is set in a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere.
It’s easily accessible via a well-maintained trail – about a 15-minute walk through the jungle – and is the perfect spot for a refreshing swim in the heart of nature on a warm day.
5) Indian River
Scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean 2 & 3 were filmed in Dominica, particularly along the Indian River. It’s on this river, flowing gently through a rich mangrove forest, that Jack Sparrow meets the witch.
Follow in the footsteps of the iconic character by taking a boat excursion along the Indian River and delve into the heart of Dominica’s pristine wilderness.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Dominica
The best time to visit Dominica is from December to May, during the dry season. It’s best to avoid August and September, which fall in hurricane season.
French travelers do not need a visa for stays of less than 3 months in Dominica. However, you must present a valid passport and an outbound ticket (plane or ferry). A 30-day visitor's permit is issued on arrival and can be renewed for up to 3 months.
Getting to Dominica is easy with the FRS Caribbean ferry service, offering regular routes from Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Fort-de-France (Martinique), and Saint Lucia. The journey takes around 2h30 from Pointe-à-Pitre and 2h15 from Fort-de-France to reach Roseau. On board, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating, dining options, relaxation areas, and attentive service. A 25 kg baggage allowance is included in your ticket.
Conclusion
While exploring the Caribbean, be sure to visit Dominica! This wild and untouched island, free from mass tourism, is easily accessible from the main islands of the Lesser Antilles: Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Lucia.
Come discover this wonderful island, with its lush natural beauty, thanks to FRS Caribbean’s ferry services!
