Grand'Rivière Approach
Grand'Rivière · Anse Grand'Rivière
14°52.3'N 61°11.0'W
Depth
8–18m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
100m
Holding
Fair
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
100m
100m for fair holding in 8–18m. This is an exposed approach anchorage — use only in very settled conditions with offshore wind forecast. Do not attempt in any northerly swell. Keep anchor watch at all times; do not leave vessel unattended.
About This Anchorage
Grand'Rivière is the most remote village in Martinique — situated at the very north tip of the island, accessible only by boat or a road that regularly washes out after rain, and nestled between the sea and the steep forested slopes of Martinique's northern massif. The village is genuinely isolated: no supermarket, limited electricity supply, and a way of life that has changed little in decades. The approach anchorage is used only by adventurous cruisers making the full circumnavigation of Martinique or the challenging passage around the north cape. The exposure to the north and northeast makes this a weather-window anchorage only — the north coast of Martinique sees full Atlantic swells when any northerly component is present. The reward for the effort is extraordinary: the village is extraordinarily beautiful, the people are welcoming, and the landscape of volcanic peaks plunging into the sea is unlike anything else in the Caribbean.
Protected From
S · SE
Exposed To
N · NE · NW · W
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring
- Permit required
- No
Restrictions: No anchoring on coral or rock; weather window only — do not anchor in any northerly swell; DAPN regulations apply.
Hazards
- !Extreme exposure from north and northeast — approach only in settled conditions with no northerly swell; this is not a casual stop
- !Difficult dinghy landing in surf — assess landing conditions carefully before committing
- !Fair holding only — dive to check anchor placement in sand; rock substrate in places
- !Very remote — no nearby help if problems occur; maintain SSB schedule and EPIRB on standby
- !Passage around the north cape (Cap Saint-Martin) requires experience — strong currents and rough seas possible
Skipper's Tips
- →Time the north cape rounding for early morning in light conditions — winds accelerate around the cape by midday
- →The village is one of the most authentic remaining in Martinique — take time to walk the village and speak with locals
- →Fresh fish available from village fishermen — the local cuisine here is genuinely outstanding (grillades de poisson)
- →This anchorage is for experienced offshore sailors only — check SHOM forecast and confirm settled conditions before approach
- →The north coast of Martinique is rarely visited by cruisers — the landscape is extraordinary reward for those who make the effort
Facilities
One or two simple local restaurants in Grand'Rivière village. Very basic provisions at the village épicerie. Arrive self-sufficient.
Nearest provisions: Grand'Rivière village (very basic) (0.3nm)
Best Months & Season
Feb, Mar, Apr, May
February–May only — the most settled period for the north coast. December–January northerly swells make this approach dangerous. A bucket-list destination for experienced Windward Islands sailors.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 100m
In north Martinique, anchor drag toward wreck debris, coral, or into an exposed position on the wild north coast carries serious risk. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously so you can sleep soundly while the volcano watches over the bay.
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