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A combined dayDolphin encounter & Scuba diving experience

Boarding Aliotis Plongée

In Martinique, dolphin, whale and other cetacean sightings in the Caribbean Sea are among the favorite activities of vacationers and locals alike. Let’s face it, it’s an emotionally intense encounter! So when you’re lucky enough to meet them in the company of Laurent aboard his Aliotis catamaran, the excursion turns into an unforgettable day, undoubtedly the best souvenir of your vacation! Departure is from the Grande Anse pontoon in Anses d’Arlet.

Laurent

Owner and captain of Aliotis

A passion for diving andecology

Laurent, captain and owner of the catamaran Aliotis, a Lagon 421, has many strings to his bow.

He has an infinite knowledge of Martinique’s marine ecosystem, its fauna and flora, and loves to share his knowledge with his passengers.
He is a state-certified diving instructor.
He organizes day trips on his catamaran.

After whale-watching in the AGOA sanctuary, you’ll have the chance to try your hand at scuba diving (or exploration, for those with the appropriate levels) on anexceptionally beautiful dive site. It’s the only one of its kind on the island!

Departure from Grande Anse

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We meet at 8am at the Grande Anse pontoon. We’re warmly welcomed by Laurent and Didier, the onboard cook. Once on board, and gathered around a superb breakfast (coffee, tea, fresh fruit juice, hot pastries – a rare treat), we listen to a briefing on the day ahead. A short quiz on cetaceans, the AGOA sanctuary and scuba diving quickly creates interaction between the day’s participants.

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Heading north

encounter with cetaceans

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With all sails set, we’re off in search of dolphins and other cetaceans along the north Caribbean coast. To do this, the captain sets course for Bellefontaine, Martinique’s whale-watching mecca. Away from the coast, we discover the curves of the valleys, the Carbet peaks and, in the distance, Montagne Pélée,Fort de France, the Anses d’Arlet, the Diamant rock… The beauty of Martinique becomes clear.

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At the heart of the AGOA sanctuary

We meet our first group of Frazer dolphins before spotting some blowing in the distance. Laurent gets closer and it’s a crazy sight: Frazers, bottlenose dolphins and even many pilot whales taking a nap. There are so many of them that the water boils. On board, everyone’s breath is taken away by the magic. We watch them play and move about in hushed silence.

Dolphin, Whale, Pilot whale

Laurent describes the different species of dolphin, whale and sperm whale, resident or passing through our waters, and tells us that the Caribbean is one of the top 5 cetacean-watching spots in the world! Out of 86 existing species, 26 can be observed in Martinique! His knowledge is immense, but not ostentatious: he speaks with passion and pedagogy, asks questions, we jump in, participate and he gives us the answers with humor and kindness.

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Heading for Anses d'Arlet

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Barely recovered from our emotions, the boat heads south. We head for Anses d’Arlet, where we take a dip before an aperitif and lunch. We anchor in a cove accessible only by sea, and it’s here that we’ll spend the rest of the day.

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Appetizers include fresh fruit platters, appetizers and skewers, homemade planteur, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. We treat ourselves to a freshly caught Tahitian-style fish accompanied by basmati rice and small potatoes cooked at low temperature with a little secret sauce “made by Didier”. For dessert, the homemade coconut flan with finely grated coconut and lime zest is excellent.

Congratulations to the cook who prepares everything on board!

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Afternoon snorkeling and diving

Didier provides us with all the equipment we need for snorkeling: masks, snorkels, fins and French fries. The area is teeming with fish, sponges and coral around small reefs and the rock face. A real tropical aquarium!The water is perfect, crystal-clear and warm, ideal for swimming. Parents and children dive from the boat, while others sunbathe on the catamaran’s trampoline nets. A real pleasure!

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First dives

Several of us have signed up for a first dive. This is done individually – you are alone underwater with Laurent – and lasts about 15 minutes. Some of us have never been underwater in their lives, yet with his gentle, calm and pedagogical approach, he succeeds in instilling confidence in everyone.

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Once all the divers are back on board, everyone shares their experiences, discoveries and emotions over a snack. The atmosphere is very friendly, very family-like. We return quietly to the Grande Anse pontoon, stars in our eyes and memories in our heads…

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You can go with your eyes closed, and you’ll meet an engaging and passionate crew who will give you unforgettable moments. Thank you Laurent and Didier, it was fabulous!

Aliotis is the only company to combine whale watching and diving on a boat in Martinique! The 42-foot (12m50) catamaran is fully equipped with compressor and diving gear. You can also book diving sessions only.

Information & free booking