Anse Noire

About This Anchorage

Anse Noire is one of Martinique's most visually dramatic anchorages — a tiny black-sand cove carved from the volcanic rock of the island's southwestern coastline, just moments from the white-sand normalcy of the other Arlet anchorages. The black volcanic sand against the vivid turquoise Caribbean water creates a strikingly beautiful contrast that makes this one of the most photographed small bays on the island. The cove is tiny — room for three or four visiting yachts — and the surrounding volcanic headlands support exceptional snorkelling with diverse marine life adapted to the rocky substrate. Anse Noire lies barely 300m south of Anse Dufour; the two coves are separated by a rocky headland and are best explored together by dinghy. Both are authentic, quiet, and entirely free of the charter boat infrastructure that dominates the Trois-Îlets area to the north.

Hazards

• !Tiny cove — maximum 3–4 boats; if full, anchor at adjacent Anse Dufour (0.3nm N)
• !Volcanic rock and coral headlands — approach from north only; no approach from south
• !No facilities — completely self-sufficient anchorage; carry all provisions
• !SW/W swell in weather systems makes the cove uncomfortable — same exposure as Anse Dufour

Skipper's Tips

• →The black sand and turquoise water combination is extraordinary — bring an underwater camera for snorkelling around the headlands
• →Snorkelling at Anse Noire is among the best on Martinique's west coast — the volcanic rock formations support rich marine life
• →Anchor at Anse Dufour (0.3nm N) and explore Anse Noire by dinghy if the cove is full — the snorkelling is accessible from the headland
• →The path over the headland between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour takes 5 minutes and offers dramatic views of both coves
• →Best morning anchorage — the eastern headland provides afternoon shade and the water is crystal clear at sunrise

Nearby Anchorages