Diving and Snorkeling in Martinique

Martinique's underwater world is decorated with multicolor coral, crustaceans, turtles, and sea horses. Expect to pay EUR 40 to EUR 45 for a single dive; a package of three dives is around EUR 110.

Okeanos Club (Pierre & Vacances, Ste-Luce, 97228. 0596/62-52-36. www.okeanos-club.com) has a morning trip close to shore; in the afternoon the boats go farther into open water. Lessons (including those for kids eight to 12) with a PADI-certified instructor can be conducted in English. It's always a fun experience. The dive shop looks out to Diamant Rock, which has wonderful underwater caves and is one of the preferred dives on the island.

Planète Bleue (Pointe du Bout Marina, Les Trois-Ilets, 97229. 0596/66-08-79) has a big, up-to-date dive boat, hand-painted with tropical fish and waves, so it's impossible to miss. The English-speaking international crew is proud to have been in business since the early 1990s. The company hits 20 sites, including the Citadel and Salomon's Pool. A boat goes out mornings and afternoons. Thursday is a full day on the north coast, with breakfast, lunch, and all drinks included. Half-day dives include gear and a 'ti punch. Sunday is a day of rest, except for the first one in the month, when it's off to Diamant Rock.