Emerald Cruises : 9 nights from Philipsburg with Emerald Sakara
Dec 18, 2027

Les Saintes

The Îles des Saintes, also known as Les Saintes, are an archipelago made up of eight small islands and rocks called Terre-de-Bas, Terre-de-Haut, Ilet Cabrit, Grand Ilet, La Coche, Les Augustins, Le Pate and La Redonde of which only two, Terre de Bas and Terre de Haut (the largest) are inhabited. Administratively, they are all dependent on Guadeloupe, in the French Antilles.

Les Saintes were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, on All Saints' Day, and he consequently baptized them Los Santos, but the first French settlers who moved to the archipelago arrived only in 1643 from Brittany.

Little Bay

Norman Island

Gustavia

Gustavia is the capital of Saint Barthélemy, a Caribbean island that combines French charm with tropical warmth. During a cruise ship stop, there are many exciting activities to do and places to explore.

Start your visit with a walk through the center of Gustavia, where you can admire the colorful colonial-style houses, shop in luxury boutiques and enjoy local cuisine in fine restaurants and cafes. The port of Gustavia is also an ideal place for a relaxing walk, with breathtaking views of the boats and yachts moored there.

The island's history is well represented by Fort Gustav, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the harbor. The fort is a great place to take photos and learn about the colonial history of Saint Barthélemy.

For sea lovers, there are several nearby beaches that are worth visiting. Shell Beach, a short walk from the center, is perfect for swimming and relaxing. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal clear waters around the island, exploring the rich marine life and coral reefs.

A visit to the many art galleries and museums in Gustavia cannot be missed, where you can discover local art and culture. Finally, end your day with a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea, savoring French and Caribbean cuisine while the sun sets on the horizon.

In summary, Gustavia offers a perfect combination of history, culture, shopping, nature and relaxation, making your cruise stop an unforgettable experience.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the best cruise ship ports in the Caribbean famous for shopping.

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch part of the island of St. Maarten, a Caribbean island divided into Dutch and French (Saint Martin). Business seekers flock to the duty-free shops and tax-free sales of the long Philipsburg shopping district. Visitors can also enjoy art galleries in the city, historical fortresses, casinos, and zoos, as well as Great Bay Beach and the boardwalk.