Island Yachting

The historic capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, contains centuries of colonial architecture that display the spread of the British Empire. The Barbados Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consists of many old buildings filled with the fascinating history of how the island grew into what it is today. Lying along the southwest coast of Carlisle Bay, it also offers beautiful and serene beach scenes with soft, white sand. And it’s an enticing destination with ancient shipwrecks to dive and explore near the coast, like the S.S. Stavronikita, one of the most popular dive sites in the entire Caribbean. A trip to Barbados is not complete without a sampling of the local rum at St. Nicholas Abbey, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean.

Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, St. Vincent and the Grenadines bring to mind idyllic island living. Perhaps the most remote among these islands is Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines. Among Mayreau’s most well-known spots is Salt Whistle Bay, an unspoiled beach protected from rough Atlantic waves by a strip of land extending out into the ocean. This makes it the perfect locale to spend a calm and soothing day taking in the sun’s rays with a craft cocktail in hand. Bask in the sun all day as you revel in a beach party along its immaculate shores.

Roseau capital city of Dominica is known for its lush landscapes. Nestled on the western coast, Roseau blends colonial charm with vibrant Caribbean culture. The town is characterized by colorful wooden houses, markets bustling with local produce, and streets lined with coconut palms. Dominica’s botanical richness is showcased in the nearby Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. Roseau’s historic sites include the Old Market Square, adorned with the statue of a Carib Indian, and the French Quarter’s colonial architecture. The city serves as a gateway to Dominica’s natural wonders, including waterfalls, hot springs, and tropical rainforests, making it a captivating destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and unspoiled natural beauty.

Of the eight islands of Îles des Saintes, part of the Guadeloupe archipelago, Terre-de-Haut is the largest and most cosmopolitan. Lush mountains and beaches with crystalline waters beckon you to relax amid paradise. Spend a day at Baie de Pompierre, a golden stretch protected by reefs where the local goats may even join as you sunbathe. Or try Pain de Sucre (Sugarloaf), a 53-meter-high basalt peninsula with snorkeling opportunities. Explore Fort Napoléon, where your inner historian is delighted with a walk-through naval museum. Delight your palate with the local specialty, crêpe de poisson (fish crêpes), or a traditional coconut cake.

The new capital for the island of Montserrat, Little Bay contains a rich, natural beauty. Most famous for the Soufriere Hills volcano, it’s on the rise once more as a must-visit Caribbean destination. Pique your curiosity at the volcano observatory, where you can gain insight into how scientists monitor its natural activity. Immerse yourself in indigenous and exotic plants at the National Trust Botanic Gardens, where you’ll learn about the traditions of using plants for medicinal purposes. Near the gardens, find the Runaway Ghaut, an essential geological feature of rainforest ecosystems. Legend has it that if you drink from it, you’re destined to return to Montserrat.

St. Barts, an island within the archipelago of the French West Indies, contains deep valleys, stunning beaches, and verdant, formerly active volcanic hills. Within all this sits the capital city of Gustavia with a diverse cultural heritage on display through Swedish colonial and French Creole architecture most easily seen in its signature red-roofed buildings. The beaches are the main attraction, offering unspoiled coves such as Gouverneur and quiet scenes like Saline for more intimate beach days. For a more active adventure, do the Colombier hike that leads you to the perfect snorkeling spot. Savor the exquisite flavors of Cajun and Creole seafood and staples like conch gratin, minced beef, and the island specialty – banana flambé.

Fort-de-France is the capital city of Martinique, a Caribbean island. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, historical sites like Fort Saint Louis, and the colorful spice market. The city offers a mix of French and Caribbean influences, with charming streets, shops, and cultural events.

The Grenadines are a small island chain that inconspicuously lies between the larger islands of Saint Vincent and Grenada in the Lesser Antilles. On the northernmost tip is the tranquil and relaxing Bequia with a mere 5,300 residents, the majority of them taking residence in Port Elizabeth. You'll be mesmerized by its golden sands, calm azure waters, and laid-back atmosphere. With the trade winds providing almost year-round breezes, and brisk winds in the winter, Bequia offers great conditions for windsurfers. In the calm beach shallows on the leeward side, kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular pastimes. Beyond the shoreline, there are nearly 30 identified dive sites around Bequia.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you disembark today. Then, head to the airport for your flight home.