Excursion Rum and bananas tour at Fort de france
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Discover the history of Martinique during this splendid, half-day excursion to a pair of the island's most renowned old plantations.
Lamentin and Belfort Banana Plantation
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Lamentin, one of the island's largest towns, and the hub of its industrial and commercial activities. Upon arrival, proceed for a visit to the Belfort Banana Plantation. Take a tram-ride around the plantation, learn about the processing of bananas and participate in a tasting of local specialties made from bananas.
Clement Plantation and Botanical Garden
Next, re-board your coach and continue driving along the picturesque roads en route to Le François, and a visit to the Clement Plantation. This beautiful plantation was the site of a meeting between former United States and French presidents Bush and Mitterand in 1991. Upon arrival, explore the architectural and industrial heritage of Martinique during a visit to the marvelous Botanical Garden. The garden spans approximately 16 acres (about 6.5 hectares) with ponds, the park, tropical orchard and remarkable trees representing more than 300 identified botanical species.
Rum Distillery and Tasting
Next, visit the old Rum Distillery. Here, view the machinery and observe the rum manufacturing process. Afterward, garner a unique insight into domestic life on the plantation during a tour of the main house and outbuildings, replete with furniture and Creole architecture. From here, proceed to the storage cellars where the rum is slowly aging, and participate in a rum tasting. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Fort de France, Lamentin, Belfort Banana Plantation, Clement Plantation, Botanical Garden, Rum Distillery, Tours and Tastings
Note
Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (1 mile approx.) and stairs at times over concrete and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who use a wheelchair, also guests with back/neck problems as the train ride at the banana plantation is very bumpy. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection and insect repellant are recommended. Guests must be at least 3 years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. No suitable for passengers who get motion sickness, several bends to Rum Distillery.