Fishing and the fishermen of La Désirade

Fishing is far more than an economic activity in La Désirade: it's a genuine identity, passed down from generation to generation.

Guadeloupe's leading fishing port

With a fleet of traditional saintoise fishing boats, La Désirade alone supplies a very significant share of the fresh fish consumed across the Guadeloupe archipelago — an impressive figure for such a small, sparsely populated island.

A living tradition

Walking around Beauséjour or along the coast, you'll often come across fishermen mending their nets or preparing to head out to sea — an authentic sight, far from any touristy staging.

An experience worth having

Some local fishermen offer sea trips aboard their traditional saintoise boat, a great way to discover local fishing techniques and appreciate the island's coastline from the water.

The connection to your buggy ride

On the way to Pointe Doublé, you'll pass by the Baie-Mahault sea cemetery, where many of the island's sailors and fishermen rest — a stop steeped in history that nicely rounds out this glimpse into local maritime culture.