Magazine Onboard #5

O r i e n t B a y

P i n e l • T i n t a m a r r e

A n s e Ma r c e l

G r a n d C a s e

P i c Pa r a d i s

Ma r i g o t

B a i e N e t t l e

L e s T e r r e s B a s s e s

SAINT

MARTIN

t h e b u t t e r f l y f a r m

On the bumpy road to le Galion, the Butterfly Farm

is a venerable institution in Saint Martin and one of

the most frequently visited tourist sites over the last

twenty years. This is largely because the owners

have done absolutely everything to make this poetic

and bucolic interlude in your tropical vacation an

unforgettable memory. Open every day of the year,

the farm breeds and shows a variety of butterflies

in a netted observation garden covering more than

900m

where hundreds of exotic species fly free

among the lush vegetation. The visitor is invited to

observe every stage of their life. Birth, breeding,

the nymph stage, reproduction, etc... To see the

butterfly emerge from its chrysalis is always,

of course, the highlight of a visit, especially for

younger visitors who are enthralled to witness this

miraculous natural event. It is also interesting to

note that the Butterfly Farm works in collaboration

with scientists from around the world to prevent

the extinction of threatened species. One last

thing, if you arrive carrying a fruit drink or if you

are wearing a floral perfume, don’t be surprised

if some of the butterflies come and settle on

your hand or shoulder.

l e g a l i o n

Just around the point from Orient Bay lies Le Galion, a lovely unspoiled beach,

low key and family-friendly, that Saint Martiners love for its quiet atmosphere and

calm waters. It offers the ideal bathing conditions for young children at any time

of year. Protected by a coral reef that forms a natural barrier against the ocean

waves, the beach slopes very gradually into the sea. It is possible to venture out

more than 50 meters from the shore without getting out of your depth. Coco

palms and sea grapes offer welcome natural shade throughout the day. The

atmosphere is “Roots, relaxed and cheerful”, with a lot of local color and tropical

atmosphere. Food and drinks are available at Tropical Wave, ownedby Pat Turner,

an “island personality”. It is the only bar-restaurant on the beach.

Paradoxically, this beach is also a paradise for free-ride surfers. Beyond the coral reef,

the surf is often high and ideal for almost every kind of board sport. The famous “SXM

Waterboys and Girls” surf club is based here. Situated in the very heart of the Marine

Reserve of Saint Martin, le Galion is a protected area where many species of bird are

found. It is also the starting point of a delightful walk along the shoreline.

O n b o a r d # 5