Le Marin
Caribbean's largest marina with 838 berths hosting 55,000 yachtsmen annually, functioning as hurricane refuge and yachting industry headquarters.
Le Marin has engineered itself into the Caribbean's largest marina hub through deliberate niche construction—transforming a natural harbor into an 838-berth facility that attracts 55,000 yachtsmen annually. Classified as a Nautical Station since 1998 (earning three stars by 2017), the commune represents perhaps the clearest case of environmental modification driving economic specialization in the French Caribbean. The marina's Blue Flag certification since 2006, solar-powered infrastructure, and artificial nurseries for marine biodiversity demonstrate how ecological engineering can create competitive advantage. Le Marin occupies the perfect natural hurricane hole—a geographic feature that made it strategically valuable long before yacht infrastructure existed. This path-dependent advantage compounds: each yacht that shelters there during hurricane season returns during fair weather, building network effects that reinforce Le Marin's position. The commune now hosts the annual Martinique Boat Show (October 2025 edition scheduled October 17-19) and serves as headquarters for the Cluster Maritime Martinique, which merged with the Martinique Yachting Association to unify the island's marine industry. Capacity extends to superyachts up to 60 meters, with 400-volt power connections—infrastructure investments that lock in high-value clientele. The 2025 installation of radar-monitored dinghy speed limits in the inner harbor signals maturation from growth phase to quality maintenance. Le Marin has captured a niche that Fort-de-France cannot replicate: while the capital handles cruise ships, Le Marin dominates private yacht services.