Facing an illuminated 6,000 TEU vessel operating in the middle of the night, on the ninth floor of the Poséidon, with a bird’s eye view of the Fort-de-France terminal, the launch of the PCRF XL maritime service supported by CMA CGM offered a revealing scene of the transformation underway.
Under the terminal’s spotlights, port straddlers and containers move to the rhythm of night-time operations, providing a glimpse of the logistical infrastructure that links Martinique to the rest of the world on a daily basis.
But behind this port mechanism lies a broader question: what if these new maritime routes, beyond transporting goods, were also helping to redefine the place of Caribbean territories in the region’s economic and cultural exchanges?
On a regional scale, these connections could also facilitate the organization of traveling exhibitions, as well as the transport of works, instruments or audiovisual productions between islands – a logistical reality often decisive for cultural projects in the Caribbean.
Supported by CMA CGM, the PCRF XL service is part of a gradual transformation of maritime links between Europe, the French Caribbean territories, the regional Caribbean and Latin America.
Over the past twenty years or so, the vessels operating on these routes have undergone several major changes: from 1,700 TEU units until 2006, then 2,200 TEU vessels, followed by 3,500 TEU vessels, to the 6,000 TEU container ships now deployed by CMA CGM since 2026.
This increase in capacity illustrates a change in scale. It also accompanies a broader ambition: to strengthen the position of the French Caribbean territories in the major maritime flows linking Europe, Latin America and the entire Caribbean basin, as part of a strategy supported in particular by CMA CGM.
A strategic position between the Caribbean and Latin America
This strategy is largely based on the region’s geographical position. Situated close to the major shipping routes linking Europe, North America, Latin America and the Panama Canal, Martinique and Guadeloupe occupy a pivotal position between several economic areas, a position also emphasized by CMA CGM in its logistics analyses…
As Guillaume de Chastellux reminded us at the project presentation:
“The West Indies are the gateway to the Caribbean. We’re at the crossroads of Latin America, facing the Panama Canal with its opening onto the Pacific Ocean, and with Europe and the Mediterranean on the other side.”
In this context, the modernization of port infrastructures and the arrival of larger vessels are not just technical developments. They are also helping to reposition the French Caribbean territories in regional and even international trade.
The maritime hub project led by CMA CGM in partnership with the Grands Ports Maritimes de Martinique et de Guadeloupe aims to increase the overall transhipment capacity of the two islands to approximately 300,000 TEU per year 68,000 today.
Looking at opportunities on a regional scale
In addition to infrastructure, CMA CGM’s management team emphasized the regional dimension of this development at a presentation organized by CMA CGM.
Guillaume de Chastellux put it explicitly:
“I absolutely invite all our customers and partners to get out of their territory and look at the opportunities in the region – trade, industry, processing, re-export, consolidation of goods. The whole field of possibilities is very broad.”
This invitation to broaden horizons refers directly to the regional dynamics of the Caribbean and Latin America. In this area, made up of archipelagos, coastlines and continental territories, the sea remains a central vector for trade, a fact that CMA CGM regularly emphasizes in its regional development strategies…
Strengthening maritime connections can not only facilitate trade flows, but also encourage new cooperation between territories.
Territorial and cultural roots
While the logistical dimension of the project is central, the event also served as a reminder that the Group’s actions are part of a wider territorial environment. Through its foundation and local initiatives, CMA CGM supports a number of social, cultural and environmental projects in the French Caribbean territories.
These commitments include support for the Yole ronde de Martinique a nautical discipline emblematic of Martinique’s maritime heritage and a living symbol of the relationship between the sea and the island’s identity.
The Group also supports professional integration initiatives for young people, notably through programs run with the RSMA. The company is also involved in a number of solidarity initiatives with local organizations such as the Food Bank and the Red Cross. This commitment is complemented by environmental initiatives, notably to preserve the mangrove swamp.
A new stage in Martinique's maritime role
Today, three CMA CGM shipping lines serve the port of Fort-de-France. On the horizon 2027 this number is expected to rise to six lines as part of a wider network of some nineteen lines operating in the Caribbean zone. This development could strengthen Martinique ‘s position in regional trade, facilitating connections between the Caribbean islands, Central and South America and Europe.
As these connections develop, another question arises: how these new maritime routes could, in time, also contribute to the wider influence of Caribbean territories in the region and beyond.
The Caribbean lies at the crossroads of major shipping routes linking Europe, North America, Latin America and the Panama Canal. Improved maritime connections can therefore facilitate trade, strengthen regional economic relations and increase the flow of goods between the islands and neighboring continents.
The PCRF XL service aims to modernize maritime links between Europe, the French Caribbean territories, the regional Caribbean and Latin America. The use of 6,000 TEU vessels will increase transport capacity and improve logistics efficiency in the region.
Their geographical position at the heart of the Caribbean basin is a strategic advantage. Located between Europe, Latin America and the shipping routes of the Panama Canal, they can serve as transshipment hubs for redistributing goods to neighboring islands and regional markets.
The RORC Caribbean 600 returned this Monday, February 23, 2026 for its 17th edition, starting from English Harbour, Antigua. Organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, this 600-nautical-mile non-stop offshore race has established itself as one of the major events on the international sailing calendar. In less than two decades, it has established itself as a benchmark event in the Caribbean, attracting a prestigious fleet and crews from all over the world every year.
For this 2026 edition, 57 boats have been entered, bringing together nearly 500 sailors from over thirty countries. From Mini 6.50s to 100-foot maxi yachts, the diversity of the boats entered testifies to the appeal of the race and its unique positioning, both accessible to experienced crews and feared by the biggest names in offshore sailing.
A spectacular and demanding Caribbean course
The principle of the RORC Caribbean 600 has remained unchanged since its creation: start and finish in Antigua, for a 600-nautical-mile non-stop course around eleven Caribbean islands. On the map, the route looks crystal-clear. At sea, it proves particularly complex.
After the start from English Harbour, the fleet headed north to the Anguilla Channel, before beginning a gradual descent south to Les Saintes in Guadeloupe, before heading back up to Antigua. Along the way, the crews passed Barbuda, Nevis, Saint-Kitts, Saba, Saint-Barthélemy, Montserrat and Redonda. This route offers a condensed view of the realities of Caribbean sailing, where the beauty of the scenery goes hand in hand with constant technical challenges.
The difficulty of the RORC Caribbean 600 lies mainly in the effects of relief and local weather phenomena. Winds can accelerate sharply as you pass certain capes, then drop in intensity in areas sheltered by mountainous islands. Inter-island currents, venturi effects in the canals and long night-time sailing require constant vigilance. In this race, detailed knowledge of the terrain and strategic anticipation can prove decisive.
A top-class international fleet
As every year, the race brought together a fleet of seasoned professionals and highly experienced amateur sailors. The fast maxi-yachts and multihulls attract a great deal of media attention, especially when it comes to winning in real time. Their power and speed make them major players in the show, capable of completing the course in just a few days when conditions are favorable.
But the sporting interest of the RORC Caribbean 600 also lies in the intermediate classes, notably the Class40s and IRC boats. In these categories, the differences are often determined by regularity, precision of maneuvers and management of weather transitions. Every mile sailed can have a direct impact on the final rankings on corrected time. The presence of smaller boats, such as the Mini, is a reminder that this race is first and foremost a human challenge. Sailing such a non-stop course demands considerable physical and mental endurance.
Caribbean participation reinforces race identity
The presence of sailors from the French West Indies lent a particularly strong regional dimension to this edition. Sailors from Martinique and Guadeloupe took part in the race, notably aboard the Class40. Martinique Horizon. Their participation underlines the growing strength of offshore sailing in the Caribbean and the willingness of local talent to compete against the best international teams.
For these skippers, the RORC Caribbean 600 represents much more than a competition. It’s an opportunity to measure themselves against the highest standards, to gain experience on a technical course, and to raise the profile of the Caribbean nautical industry. In a region where the sea is at the heart of people’s identities, their commitment helps to promote local maritime know-how.
Antigua, a strategic hub for international sailing
The choice of Antigua as the starting and finishing point for the RORC Caribbean 600 is a logical one. Over the years, the island has established itself as one of the Caribbean’s sailing capitals. Its port infrastructure, favorable February weather conditions and maritime culture make it an ideal venue for a race of this scale.
Beyond the sporting aspect, the event generates significant economic spin-offs for the region. Crews, technical teams and accompanying staff often stay for several weeks, contributing to the activity of marinas, hotels, restaurants and nautical services. In this way, the RORC Caribbean 600 contributes to Antigua’s international reputation and, more broadly, to the promotion of the Caribbean as a leading offshore sailing destination.
A race revealing Caribbean excellence
Over the years, the RORC Caribbean 600 has become a veritable barometer of the region’s nautical excellence. It highlights the capacity of Caribbean territories to host top-level international sporting events, while at the same time promoting their unique maritime features.
This race also illustrates how the sea links islands together. By circumnavigating eleven territories in the space of a few days, crews cross a common maritime space that transcends administrative boundaries. In this way, the RORC Caribbean 600 embodies a form of Caribbean continuity, where navigation becomes a vector of regional connection.
The 2026 edition now under way
The start of the 17th edition was given on Monday February 23rd at 11am local time from English Harbour. From the very first hours of the race, strategic choices began to influence the hierarchy. The passages to the north of Antigua and in the inter-island channels are among the most closely scrutinized zones, as they can create significant gaps.
In the days to come, the race should offer a constant spectacle of high speeds, tactical repositioning and crew endurance management. This 2026 edition promises to be one of the most open in recent years, with a dense international fleet and weather conditions likely to throw up some surprises. For observers of the Caribbean sailing scene, the RORC Caribbean 600 remains a structuring event. Over and above its sporting performance, it embodies the region’s maritime vitality and its place in major international competitions.
The 17th edition kicked off on Monday, February 23, 2026 from English Harbour in Antigua.
The race covers 600 nautical miles non-stop around eleven Caribbean islands, from the north of Anguilla to Guadeloupe before returning to Antigua.
It raises the region’s international profile in offshore sailing, promotes Caribbean sailors and generates economic spin-offs for Antigua and the territories it crosses.
Schoelcher Nautical Week is currently at the heart of the nautical news in Martinique. For its 34th edition, the competition organized by the Cercle Nautique de Schoelcher confirms its status as a major event in Caribbean light sailing. Since Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Schoelcher waterway has welcomed a particularly high level of participation and a diversity of delegations rarely seen in recent years.
A strong mobilization for the Schoelcher 2026 Nautical Week
The Schoelcher Nautical Week is experiencing an exceptional mobilization. Around 150 competitors have signed up for this 2026 edition. Including the organizing teams, referees, coaches and volunteers, nearly 200 people are mobilized on the water during the four days of competition.
Such a level of participation had not been achieved for several years. The enthusiasm shown by clubs and delegations confirms the growing appeal of the Schoelcher Nautical Week, which continues to establish itself as a strategic stage for many young and experienced sailors.
A remarkable international presence
The regional and international dimension of this event is confirmed by the presence of numerous delegations. Among the territories represented are Switzerland, Belgium, Saint Kitts, Sint Maarten, Saint Martin, Guadeloupe, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Lucia, France and Antigua. This diversity reinforces the competition’s influence beyond Martinique. For some participants, this is their first experience of sailing outside their home territory. For others, with more experience, it represents an important preparation stage for national and international events.
The Guadeloupe delegation is particularly noteworthy for its size. With nearly fifty representatives, it was the largest on Martinique’s waters, illustrating the close sporting ties between the Caribbean territories.
A formative event for young sailors
In addition to sporting performance, the Schoelcher Nautical Week also fulfills an essential mission of training and exchange. For many young racers, the competition represents a first international outing and an opportunity to sail on a body of water renowned for its technical skills. Schoelcher is known for its wind variations and demanding conditions. Sailors must constantly adjust their strategies, which makes this event a privileged learning ground for young light sailing talents.
The coaches present emphasized the importance of these trips for the sporting development of young athletes. Sailing outside their usual environment allows them to gain experience, build confidence and raise their level of competition.
Wingfoil confirms its rise to prominence
The Schoelcher Nautical Week also highlights the growing popularity of wingfoil, a fast-developing discipline. This category attracts a number of well-known athletes and promises high-level confrontations. The presence of champions and young hopefuls reinforces the sporting intensity on the water. Their participation illustrates the evolution of light sailing towards more modern and dynamic supports, while attracting a wider public.
The weather conditions forecast for this 2026 edition should enable the events to run smoothly. Without extreme winds, but with sufficiently sustained conditions, the competitors have a favorable terrain to express their potential.
A competition running until February 17
Since February 14, the starters have been lining up on the Schoelcher race course. The race committee is planning up to twelve heats per class over the course of the competition, allowing the sailors to fully express their performance. Each day is punctuated by the successive starts of the different classes, offering a continuous sporting spectacle. The organizers provide the coordination and security necessary to ensure the smooth running of the event.
The 34th edition of the Schoelcher Nautical Week will close with an awards ceremony on February 17. The champions of the Schoelcher Nautical Week will be honored alongside all the participants and teams involved.
A structuring event for Caribbean sailing
Over the years, it has established itself as a structuring event for sailing in the Caribbean. It fosters exchanges between clubs, encourages the progress of young athletes and raises Martinique’s profile on the regional sailing scene. The 2026 edition confirms this dynamic. The number of participants, the quality of the delegations and the diversity of disciplines testify to the vitality of light sailing in the region. Running until February 17, the Schoelcher Nautical Week is once again a highlight of the Martinique and Caribbean sporting calendar.
The Schoelcher Nautical Week 2026 takes place from February 14 to 17 in Martinique, with four days of competition on the Schoelcher race course.
Around 150 competitors are taking part in the 2026 event, along with the organizing teams, bringing the total number of people involved to almost 200.
The Schoelcher Nautical Week is a major event in Caribbean light sailing, promoting the training of young sailors, exchanges between territories and preparation for international competitions.
At the heart of the port of Fort-de-France, the Tourelles Cruise Terminal has taken a new step in its evolution by becoming a genuine cultural space. In the midst of Martinique’s carnival season, this reception area is transformed into a lively stage where international visitors, artists and locals meet.
On Saturday February 14, the inauguration of a 200 m² cultural space within the tourelles cruise terminal marked a turning point: making the port a place open to the city, rooted in Martinique’s identity. As soon as they disembark or before boarding, cruise passengers and travelers are immersed in the excitement of Carnival, enjoying an immediate and authentic cultural experience. This initiative comes at a time when cruise tourism is growing steadily in Martinique, confirming the port’s strategic role in the cultural enhancement of the region.
A new cultural space in the heart of the port
Designed as a multi-purpose venue combining culture, conviviality and mediation, this new space at the Tourelles cruise terminal hosts ephemeral exhibitions, artistic encounters and one-off events. Equipped with screens and a digital connection, it is designed to be accessible to cruise passengers and local residents alike.
The objective is clear: to offer international visitors a first cultural immersion on arrival, while offering Martinique residents a space for artistic expression within the port itself. This positioning reflects the desire of the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique to assert itself as a cultural player in its own right, at the service of the region.
For several years now, Fort-de-France’s cruise terminals have been designed as reception and discovery areas, integrating craft villages and events for passengers in port. However, the opening of this cultural space marks a further step: that of a permanent artistic presence.
When Carnival enters the terminal
To inaugurate this new venue, Carnival was a natural choice. At the start of the carnival season, masks and wearers took over the tourelles cruise terminal in a lively performance combining a parade, music and direct interaction with visitors. The masks, which had been on display for two months, left their immobility behind and went into motion. Crossing the terminal right up to the ships in port, they offered cruise passengers an immediate immersion in Martinique’s carnival imagination.
This encounter between international visitors and local identity transforms the transit area into a genuine cultural experience. Tourists, Martinican families and children present during the school vacations were able to photograph, interact and get caught up in the Carnival atmosphere before even reaching the city. In addition to the show, the initiative was a response to a precise strategy: to enable travelers to discover local crafts and culture as soon as they arrived, but also to offer departing passengers the opportunity to take home a tangible souvenir of Martinique.
Sylviane Enelada's masks: between sea, ecology and memory
At the heart of this immersive exhibition are the creations of visual artist and actress Sylviane Enelada, artistic director of the LAPERKUT association. His work, developed over several years, draws on the marine world to question the relationship between man and his environment. Inspired by the ocean floor, his masks evoke fish, anemones, corals and hybrid creatures. But behind the carnivalesque aesthetic lies a deeper message: the fragility of marine ecosystems and the impact of plastic on the oceans. The dialogue between recycled materials and organic forms becomes a visual metaphor for the relationship between man, the sea and pollution.
Presented at the Tourelles cruise terminal since December, the exhibition has found a natural extension in the carnival movement. Bringing the masks to life, taking them out of the exhibition space and into the public eye, corresponds to a desire to circulate art and create a direct dialogue with spectators. Fourteen exhibitors, wearers and students collaborated on this collective project, combining artistic creation and transmission.
Transmission, craftsmanship and the therapeutic dimension
Behind each mask lies precise handwork: papier-mâché, foam, polystyrene, acrylic paint and patient assembly. At the association, mask-making is also seen as a form of self-expression. For some participants, creating a mask is a way of releasing tensions and emotions, transforming the workshop into a space of liberation and sharing. This therapeutic dimension reinforces the social scope of the project, where art becomes a tool for transmission and cohesion.
Sylviane Enelada’s workshops are part of this approach: to pass on a passion, to initiate the younger generations and to remind them that the mask, present in many cultures around the world, remains a universal symbol of expression and identity.
Tourism, culture and Martinique's identity: a new vision for the port
The event organized at the Tourelles cruise terminal is much more than a one-off. It illustrates a broader evolution: that of a port that positions itself as a crossroads between tourism, culture and citizenship. On an island where Carnival is a major marker of collective identity, the integration of artistic expression within the port enhances the visitor experience while promoting local talent.
Transforming the Tourelles cruise terminal As a meeting place for cruise passengers and Martinique’s culture, the Grand Port Maritime is laying the foundations for a cultural and digital living space that will evolve over the coming months. A way of asserting that, from now on, the voyage begins at the port, and that it can also be an encounter with the artistic soul of a territory.
The tourelles cruise terminal, thus confirms its role as a bridge between tourism and culture. The tourelles cruise terminal intends to reinforce this artistic immersion at every port of call. For visitors and locals alike, the tourelles cruise terminal becomes a meeting point. With this initiative, the tourelles cruise terminal is part of a sustainable cultural dynamic. In the future, the tourelles cruise terminal could become a key venue in Martinique’s artistic life.
On Saturday February 14, a cultural and carnival event marked the launch of a new 200 m² cultural space with an immersive mask exhibition and an artistic parade in the heart of the terminal.
The mask exhibition was organized by the LAPERKUT association under the artistic direction of Martinican artist Sylviane Enelada, with the participation of artists, wearers and students.
The Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique wants to transform the terminal into a living space, accessible to citizens and cruise passengers alike, to showcase Martinique’s arts, crafts and cultural identity from the moment visitors arrive.
The Conseil de Coordination Interportuaire Antilles-Guyane (CCIAG ) met on December 12, 2025 at Habitation Le PALM in Martinique. This annual meeting, provided for in the French Transport Code, has become a major lever for inter-territorial governance between Guadeloupe, Martinique and French Guiana.
Supported by the French State and the three Grands Ports Maritimes, the CCIAG aims to reinforce the coherence of port policies, support the economic resilience of the territories and ensure the long-term inclusion of the South-Caribbean axis in a dynamic of regional cooperation.
Collegial governance at the service of territories
“The CCIAG is more than a technical body: it’s a forum for strategic dialogue with representatives of the State, local authorities and ports,” emphasizes Bruno Mencé, Chairman of the Board of the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique.
The CCIAG ensures that port policies are regularly aligned with national guidelines and local needs. Each year, the three ports pool their experience and define joint priorities: safety, connectivity, ecological transition and logistics competitiveness.
Jean-Pierre Chalus, Chairman of the Board of the Port of Guadeloupe, insists that this shared governance allows for concrete monitoring of progress and difficulties:
“Every year, we have an update on the orientations voted collectively, which enables us to point out our progress, our difficulties, and to continue on our way.”
He also emphasizes the growing mobilization of teams around environmental issues:
“There is a lot of enthusiasm from all the ports to invest in energy, ecological and other transitions, serving the sustainable development of our territories.”
Stéphane Tant, Chairman of the Board of the Grand Port Maritime de la Guyane, stresses the importance of this annual meeting:
“It’s a meeting that enables us to exchange views not only between ports, but also with elected representatives, the DGOM (Direction Générale des Outre-mer) and the DGITM (Direction Générale des Infrastructures, des Transports et de la Mer), on our common challenges, our development needs and our roadmap.
He emphasizes that the CCIAG is about more than just the port, it’s about economic development and regional connectivity.
A common roadmap and concrete actions
The 2025-2029 roadmap, defined collectively by all the players within the CCIAG, focuses on major areas such as decarbonization, port safety, innovation and adaptation to climate change. Bruno Mencé explains:
“We have to guarantee an identical level of safety and security in our three ports, corresponding to the needs of our customers and the territories.”
He also stresses the importance of regional cooperation with PMAC (Port Management Association of the Caribbean) to create a Caribbean economic observatory:
“It’s a truly Caribbean project that we’re working on with PMAC, i.e. with all Caribbean ports,” explains Bruno Mencé.
The aim is to gain a better understanding of how shipping lines work, and to identify ways of developing trade with neighboring islands.
Jean-Pierre Chalus points out that this roadmap makes it possible to deal with strategic subjects such as inter-territorial services:
“Regular service to French Guiana, Guadeloupe and Martinique is an important factor for our territories, for both economic and political players.”
He also emphasizes the role of technical meetings held throughout the year between port departments, to ensure continuous progress.
Among the concrete actions already undertaken, he cites the joint signing of a commitment with the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) on the management of invasive exotic species, reflecting the ports’ involvement in shared environmental issues.
Stéphane Tant, highlights the prospects for enhanced cooperation with the The Guianas, within the framework of a biannual conference between French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and two Brazilian states (Amapá and Pará):
“We are leading a cooperation conference of the ports of The Guianas.”
This initiative complements the work of the CCIAG by extending regional connections to South America.
A shared vision: overcoming insularity
The CCIAG has a shared ambition that goes beyond mere coordination between ports. By bringing together port directors, government representatives, local authorities and the chairmen of supervisory boards, this body promotes a global approach to logistics and territorial development.
All participants agreed on one thing: port performance can no longer be thought of in isolation. It depends on broader governance, capable of connecting public policies, economic issues and environmental imperatives. This common framework will enable us to lay the foundations for more resilient, better integrated logistics, geared towards the Greater Caribbean as a whole.
In 2026, this dynamic will continue in French Guiana, at the next plenary session. An eagerly-awaited meeting to deepen this multi-stakeholder cooperation and consolidate the foundations of regional logistical sovereignty.
FAQ
The Conseil de Coordination Interportuaire Antilles-Guyane (CCIAG) is a body set up under the French Transport Code, bringing together the French government, local authorities and the three Grands Ports Maritimes of Guadeloupe, Martinique and French Guiana. Its aim is to coordinate port policies, reinforce regional logistics coherence and support regional economic development.
The 2025-2029 roadmap focuses on several priorities: decarbonizing port activities, safety and security, adapting to climate change, logistics innovation and strengthening regional connectivity, particularly with the Caribbean and the Guyana Plateau.
By promoting shared governance between ports, the French government and local authorities, the CCIAG enables us to move beyond a strictly insular approach. It contributes to structuring more resilient logistics, improving the regularity of maritime services, and placing the Antilles-Guyane territories in a broader regional cooperation dynamic.
The arrival of Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale in Fort-de-France at 9:41 am on Sunday, November 23, marked one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR. Aboard their Class40 Martinique Horizon, the two Martinique sailors finished this 17ᵉ edition in 34ᵉ place, at the end of a long and steady crossing. Their objective was clear: to finish the race on time. They achieved this after almost a month of sailing.
A demanding event for the Class40s
The TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR, contested over two legs, remains a complex race for Class40s. This year, 44 boats started and 37 finished the race, while 7 had to retire.
The course of the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR was marked by unstable weather conditions, sometimes favorable, sometimes restrictive, forcing skippers to review their strategies along the way.
Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale completed the entire course in 26 days, 10 hours and 52 seconds.
Their first stage lasted 4 days, 8 hours, 19 minutes and 42 seconds; the second, longer, 22 days, 1 hour, 41 minutes and 10 seconds.
Their progress was marked by periods when route choices didn’t offer the hoped-for results, but the crew maintained stable sailing, without major incident.
The two sailors summed it up simply: they had to keep moving forward, hold the boat and maintain their coherence despite their fatigue. “Some decisions were difficult, but we had to stay focused and keep going,” they explained on arrival.
A public mobilized from dawn
In Fort-de-France, the public began to gather at 7:30 a.m. on the pontoon of honor. Residents, families, sailing enthusiasts and curious onlookers awaited the arrival of Martinique Horizon, creating an attentive and supportive atmosphere. The presence of a Martinique crew in this transatlantic race aroused constant interest throughout the event, and the finish was seen as an important moment for many.
When the Class40 appeared around the bay, the applause began. As they crossed the line, they became continuous. Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale waved to the crowd, visibly tired but focused, before making their way to the pontoon. Both men confided that coming back to Martinique to finish such a race had a special meaning. “Arriving here, in front of our people, is a very special moment”, they declared.
Race conditions that tested their endurance
The TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR was marked by areas of light winds, rapid weather variations and short nights. Phases without clear progress were among the most difficult moments mentioned by the two navigators. They explained that the most important thing was to maintain constant discipline: watch the equipment, adjust decisions quickly and conserve energy.
The boat arrived in good condition, a sign of careful management and strict respect for equipment. The 34ᵉ place reflects a race run with consistency and a desire to secure each leg rather than take unnecessary risks.
A contrasting edition according to trajectory
In this edition of the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR, the arrivals were very spread out. Class40 winners Guillaume Pirouelle and Cédric Chateau on Seafrigo – Sogestran crossed the line on November 17. Several boats arrived on the night of the 22nd, including that of Thomas Lurton and Sasha Vandenbrouck, at 2:22 am. A final Class40, Rêve à perte de vue – Qwanza, was still awaited to close the event.
In this context, the arrival of Martinique Horizon is part of a dynamic in which each crew had to deal with its own constraints: tactical choices, experience, state of equipment, accumulated fatigue. The two Martinique sailors sailed a steady race, in line with their project and their means.
Strong turnout for Martinique's sailing scene
The presence of Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale in the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR is a landmark for sailing in Martinique. Their participation in the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR reinforces the region’s visibility in a major ocean racing event. It shows that local sailors can take part in a long and technical transatlantic race.
This type of experience could serve as a basis for other local projects, notably around the preparation of young sailors or future crews from Martinique. The two skippers also stressed the importance of the support they received, which played a role throughout the race.
A race completed with rigor and consistency
Martinique Horizon’s arrival marks the end of a crossing that was conducted with seriousness, without excess or minimization. The boat crossed the line on time, in good overall condition, with a crew that remained focused despite the difficulties and fatigue.
Fort-de-France gave the two sailors a welcome commensurate with their commitment, confirming the interest of the Martinique public in this edition. With this finish, Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale have signed a solid participation, which could encourage other nautical initiatives in the region.
To find out more about TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR, read our full analysis in the latest issue of our magazine.
FAQ
The TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR is a double-handed transatlantic race, contested in two legs, which brings together several categories of yachts, including Class40s. It links Europe to Martinique, and is one of the major events on the ocean racing calendar.
The Class40 Martinique Horizon, skippered by Jean-Yves Aglaé and Moane Mangattale, finished the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR in 34ᵉ place, with a total time of 26 days, 10 hours and 52 seconds. The two sailors achieved their main goal: finishing the race on time.
The arrival of Martinique Horizon drew large crowds of spectators at dawn. For many, seeing two Martinique sailors complete a transatlantic race of this level represents an important moment for local sailing and a landmark for the region’s nautical projects.
Every year in August, at the heart of the Anguilla Summer Festival, the Anguilla Poker Run brings the island to the rhythm of engines and music. More than just a nautical competition, this event symbolizes the passion of the people of Anguillais for the sea, unity and conviviality. Over the years, it has become a highlight of the summer season and a showcase for the local maritime heritage.
An original concept combining luck and sharing
The Anguilla Poker Run takes up the idea of the poker run popularized by bikers and yachtsmen: sail from one point to another, draw a card at each stop, and form the best possible hand.
In Anguilla, the spirit is different: speed doesn’t matter. Participants stop at each beach to take a break, share a meal, listen to music and chat. The randomness of the game mingles with human warmth, and each stopover becomes a party in its own right.
Year after year, the event attracts crews from Anguilla and neighboring islands such as Saint Kitts, Nevis, Antigua, Saint Martin, Saint Barthélemy, Tortola and Saint Thomas. The whole island rallies to welcome this day on the water, synonymous with friendship and shared passion.
Wendell "Bonty" Herbert, the face of the Anguilla Poker Run
Behind this adventure lies Wendell “Bonty” Herbert nicknamed Mr. Poker Run . Since 2016, he has led the organization of the event with the same energy and passion.
In an exclusive interview with Richès Karayib, he talks about the birth of the project:
“In 2016, a man was admiring my boat in Sandy Ground and said to me: why don’t you take part in the poker run in the Virgin Islands? I’d never heard of it.”
“I went home, watched the Leverick Bay Poker Run on YouTube, and I was bluffed. I thought, I can do something like that here.”
But in Anguilla, the concept has taken on a very special twist:
“Over there, they just collect the cards and leave. Here, I’ve changed the format: you draw your card, but you stay to celebrate, with contests and entertainment.”
The first edition brought together around thirty boats. Today, the event regularly attracts more than a hundred boats, proof of its growth and deep roots in local culture.
A history of resilience
Since its beginnings, Anguilla Poker Run has gone through many phases. Even during the pandemic, Wendell Herbert found a way to keep the tradition alive:
“During the COVID, when everything was closed, we were able to keep it, because we were at sea. We did it on the north coast, with no stopovers ashore.”
This determination illustrates the deep bond between the people of Anguilla and their marine environment.
Over time, the event has also spread throughout the region. Wendell Herbert launched a Poker Run in St. Kitts, in tribute to his parents who died at sea in 1994.
“I started in 2022, on Father’s Day.”
For him, this initiative is more than just a competition. It’s a way of honoring memory, creating links and passing on a legacy.
A highlight of the Anguilla Summer Festival
The Anguilla Summer Festival, also known as the Anguilla Summer Festivalis held every year between late July and mid-August. It’s the island’s biggest popular festival, featuring music, dance, boat races and cultural events. The Anguilla Poker Run takes pride of place, alongside traditional regattas, the Calypso Monarch and a parade of costumed troops.
The event usually takes place on the Saturday of the Festival devoted to nautical activities, often around August 9 or 10. The start takes place at Sandy Ground, the heart of Anguilla’s maritime life, where crews gather in the morning for the briefing and the first distribution of cards.
The route: a festive loop around the island
The circuit varies from one edition to the next, but follows the same spirit: sailing around the island, stopping off at several emblematic beaches. The most frequent stops are Crocus Bay (Da’Vida Beach Bar), Island Harbour, Rendezvous Bay and Meads Bay, sometimes with a fifth stop on Scrub Island when weather permits.
Each stop is an opportunity to enjoy a heavenly setting and a unique atmosphere. Local DJs provide the entertainment, while participants take time for refreshments and entertainment.
As Wendell Herbert sums it up: “Five stops, five beach parties.”
Safety and respect for the sea
Even if the day is all about fun, the organizers remind us each year of the strict rules: speed limits, respecting distances, zero waste, and compulsory safety equipment (life jackets, VHF radio, fire extinguishers). These measures are supervised in collaboration with the Royal Anguilla Police Force and local maritime authorities.
The event also has an educational dimension, raising awareness among young people and visitors alike of the importance of preserving the coastline and coral reefs, Anguilla’s true natural treasures.
A proud moment for the whole island
Today, the Anguilla Poker Run is much more than just a race. It’s a contemporary tradition that unites generations, attracts visitors and reinforces the sense of belonging to an island community united by the sea.
Each edition is a reminder of the extent to which Anguilla remains true to its identity: that of a proud island, open to other Caribbean territories, and deeply attached to its maritime heritage.
The arrival of two Super Post-Panamax cranes on October 6, 2025 confirms Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited ‘s ambition to make Jamaica one of the most efficient logistics hubs in the region. Long-awaited, this delivery is the culmination of the US$50 million investment program launched in 2024 to modernize the terminal’s infrastructure and boost its competitiveness with the hemisphere’s major ports.
An industrial turning point for Jamaica
Since the signing of the concession in 2016 between the Jamaican State and the French group CMA CGM, Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited has led an in-depth transformation of the port. More than $450 million has been mobilized to dredge the channel to 14.5 meters, rehabilitate quays and modernize operating systems.
These investments have enabled Kingston to rank 81ᵉ worldwide in the
Lloyd’s List 2023
with annual traffic exceeding 2.3 million TEUs. This result, the fruit of an efficient public-private model, confirms the Jamaican port’s place among the Caribbean’s most efficient maritime infrastructures.
Equipment adapted to the giants of the seas
The two new Ship-to-Shore cranes delivered to Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited stand 52 metres high and have a reach of 60 metres, enough to handle up to 22 rows of containers. The Chinese-designed cranes are designed to operate Neopanamax vessels transiting the enlarged Panama Canal.
They join the four cranes already in service since 2017, bringing the total number of Super Post-Panamax at the terminal to six. Their arrival significantly increases handling capacity and reduces turnaround times for stopovers. Integrated differential GPS guidance and automated control systems enhance precision and safety, while reducing maintenance costs.
A decisive geographical position
Jamaica has a unique geographical advantage that Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited takes full advantage of. Located at the intersection of the North-South and East-West shipping lanes, the port is two days from the Panama Canal and a further two days from Miami. This configuration enables it to play a natural interface role between continents, and to become an essential transshipment point for inter-American trade.
Since 2016, freight volume handled in Kingston has increased by over 50%, illustrating the effectiveness of the expansion strategy and the growing confidence of international shipping lines.
The Westlands project: a strategic extension
The terminal’s expansion is accompanied by the launch of the Westlands project, led by Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited in partnership with the Port Authority of Jamaica. Worth $80 million, this project aims to extend the port’s surface area by 15 hectares and add 600,000 TEU of annual capacity.
This expansion, which includes an automated gate and a redesigned traffic system, will bring the terminal’s total capacity to 3.6 million TEUs. It will enable the terminal to accommodate more scheduled lines and improve the fluidity of land-based operations, a key asset for the Caribbean transit trade.
Ongoing technological modernization
Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited’s investment goes beyond heavy engineering. It includes a complete digital upgrade: deployment of a Nokia pLTE network for internal communications, updating of the Navis N4 system, and integration of high-precision differential geopositioning.
The aim is to optimize each stage of the logistics cycle: planning, handling, storage and shipping. These developments are in line with the CMA CGM Group’s strategy of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, with priority given to reducing emissions and improving the energy efficiency of equipment.
Economic benefits and skills development
Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited’s impact extends far beyond the perimeter of the port. Since 2016, the company has created over 500 skilled jobs, bringing its workforce to around 1,400. Jamaican operators now benefit from international training and take part in exchange programs, notably at the Port of Lekki in Nigeria.
This increase in skills, combined with a preventive maintenance rate in excess of 97%, demonstrates the ongoing professionalization of our teams and the solidity of the technical model we have put in place.
The BioSPACE project, led by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and its partners, aims to strengthen the sustainable management of natural resources, protect biodiversity and support island communities in the face of the impacts of climate change. Its actions focus on environmental data collection, ecosystem restoration and the development of sustainable livelihoods.
In the Eastern Caribbean, BioSPACE supports island territories in their transformation towards a more resilient model. Whether it’s farming, fishing, ecosystem restoration or bee-keeping, these initiatives strengthen livelihoods while preserving biodiversity.
These videos illustrate the concrete actions undertaken by BioSPACE in different parts of the region, giving a voice to communities and showing how they are becoming active players in the preservation of their environment.
Agriculture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sustainable agriculture is at the heart of the initiatives supported by BioSPACE. This video shows how adapted farming practices boost food security and enable communities to better cope with climate change.
Fishing in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Artisanal fishing is essential to the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. With the support of BioSPACE, sustainable management measures are helping to protect marine resources while ensuring stable incomes for local fishermen.
Restoration of the Woburn mangrove (Grenada)
The restoration of mangroves in Woburn, Grenada, illustrates the importance of coastal ecosystems in the fight against erosion and climate change. Thanks to the BioSPACE project , these vital areas are regaining their protective role and becoming areas of restored biodiversity.
Beekeeping at Produce Delight (Saint Kitts and Nevis)
In Saint Kitts and Nevis, beekeeping is supported by BioSPACE as a sustainable economic alternative. It adds value to honey production, diversifies livelihoods and protects pollinators, essential players in biodiversity and local agriculture.
Through these examples, the BioSPACE project is demonstrating its central role in the resilience of Caribbean communities and the preservation of island ecosystems.
To find out more about the project and discover other Caribbean initiatives, read Richès Karayib magazine #2 – The Caribbean’s Maritime Attractiveness
Sargassum, long considered a scourge of the Caribbean, is now at the heart of an innovative project in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The archipelago is embarking on a pilot initiative to transform this brown seaweed into agricultural and economic resources. This approach illustrates the small islands’ determination to move from an environmental constraint to a sustainable development strategy, by focusing on the blue economy.
A phenomenon that's shaking up the Caribbean
Since 2011, the massive proliferation of sargassum has become a major problem in the region. This brown algae, mainly from the species Sargassum natans and S. fluitans, forms huge floating rafts every year, drifting from West Africa to the Caribbean coast and the Gulf of Mexico. In 2018, more than a million tons covered Mexican beaches, marking a turning point in regional awareness of this phenomenon.
The consequences are far-reaching: disruption to tourism, damage to fishing equipment, obstruction of harbours and a threat to public health. As they decompose, they release hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas that can cause respiratory problems. For island states, managing this scourge represents considerable costs, making a value-added approach essential.
An international pilot project
Against this backdrop, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has become the setting for an ambitious experiment. British company Seafields Solutions Ltd has teamed up with local company Private Refuse and Garbage Disposal (PRGD) to implement a pilot sargassum recovery project, scheduled to run from September 2025 to April 2026.
With funding of $15 million, this initiative is part of the “Unleashing the Blue Economy in the Caribbean” (UBEC) program, supported by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the World Bank. It combines advanced maritime technologies, supplied by Seafields, with PRGD’s operational know-how in the field.
The system includes specialized vessels, floating barriers and offshore storage areas to manage seaweed flows. Once harvested, they are processed locally, creating a value chain of direct benefit to the island’s economy.
From biochar to biostimulants: promising agricultural outlets
The central aim of this project is to convert sargassum into high value-added products, useful for sustainable agriculture. There are two main thrusts:
- 💡Biochar, obtained from the carbonization of algae, improves soil structure, increases its water retention capacity and promotes plant growth. Agricultural yields observed with biochar sometimes exceed those obtained with chemical fertilizers, reaching over 4 tonnes per hectare.
- 💡Biostimulants, extracted from algae, boost crop resistance to climatic stress and improve nutrient absorption. They also reduce the use of nitrogen fertilizers by almost 30%, contributing to more environmentally-friendly agriculture.
Economic and social benefits
The implementation of this pilot project has a direct impact on local communities. By creating jobs in harvesting, transporting, processing and marketing by-products, sargassum recovery generates new sources of income. It also reduces the costs associated with clean-up operations, which are often very burdensome for public finances.
As Seafields CEO John Auckland explains:
“This partnership demonstrates how sargassum, once seen as a costly burden, can become a valuable, job-creating resource.”
The aim is also to perpetuate this industry through the creation of a joint venture, Seafields SVG, which could become a model for other Caribbean territories facing the same challenge.
A growing regional dynamic
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is not an isolated case. Across the Caribbean, entrepreneurs and institutions are exploring the valorization of sargassum. In January 2025, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and its IDB Lab innovation laboratory launched the Sargassum Innovation Quest, designed to support the most promising projects.
In Barbados, entrepreneur Joshua Forte has been transforming sargassum into organic compost through his company Red Diamond Compost since 2014. In Guadeloupe, SUEZ is working on the production of organic fertilizers and the decontamination of chlordecone-contaminated soil. In the Dominican Republic, SOS Carbon is working with Origin by Ocean to develop fertilizers and animal feed. In Mexico, C-Combinator is exploring the production of ecological leather and biostimulants.
This regional effervescence shows that the Caribbean is gradually moving towards an integrated blue economy, where sargassum is no longer perceived solely as a threat.
An opportunity for the Caribbean
The pilot project launched in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines illustrates a change in approach to environmental crises. Rather than endure the massive arrival of sargassum, the archipelago has chosen to transform it into a lever for growth. This strategy is fully in line with the objectives of the blue economy, which aims to make sustainable use of marine resources while protecting ecosystems.
By leveraging technology, innovation and regional cooperation, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is paving the way for a new way of looking at the future of sargassum in the Caribbean.
