The Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin is an exceptional 24,500-hectare bay in Guadeloupe, nestled between Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. This vast lagoon is home to a unique reservoir of biodiversity, protected by the longest coral reef in the Lesser Antilles, stretching 29 km (18 miles), and surrounded by the region’s largest mangrove forest. It features essential ecosystems—including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves—and an exceptionally rich marine life, including 60% of the gorgonian species found in the French West Indies. The mangroves and seagrass beds play a vital role in protecting the coastline from erosion while providing shelter and nursery grounds for numerous species. Located in northern Basse-Terre, Sainte-Rose Marina is the ideal starting point for exploring the lagoon, with direct access to all these remarkable sites in just 1 to 10 minutes by boat.