Cruising the Caribbean's Windward Islands

Vieux Fort lies to the far south of the island of Saint Lucia. This town, which was a strategic location in the sugar industry from the 18th to the 19th centuries, derives its authenticity from its rich history. Renowned for its LCVIF and beaches typical of the Caribbean, it is also famous for its mythical Moule-a-Chique Lighthouse. Built in 1912 and standing 200 metres (656 feet) tall, this lighthouse will be visible as soon as you arrive on the Saint Lucian coastlines. The beauty of Vieux Fort is also reflected in the underwater kingdom that surrounds it. It is home to an abundance of marine species, such as eagle rays or leatherback sea turtles. Vieux Fort is most likely to evoke feelings of enchantment and it reserves a soothing welcome, paced by the rhythm of its waves, for each of its visitors.

With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Set on sweeping Prince Rupert Bay, backed by steep hills and fronted by a long black-sand beach, Portsmouth is your gateway to this little-known land. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Portsmouth:

• enjoy a boat ride up the Indian River
• hike the Syndicate Nature Trail
• visit the Chocolate Factory in Pointe Baptiste
• explore Cabrits National Park

Iles Des Saintes or Les Saintes is formed by nine unspoiled islands, two of which are inhabited. Forest-coated island cones rise from the turquoise waters and crystalline tropical beaches line the shores of these heavenly Caribbean islands. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the island, Terre de Haut.

Top Things to Do on Iles Des Saintes:

• sail around the isles of Les Saintes
• explore the waters in a clear kayak
• hike to the summit of Mount Morel
• visit Fort Napoleon

Bequia, an island of the Grenadines, is a rustic, unassuming and off-the-beaten-path choice. Offering glorious, often deserted, beaches of pure golden sand, and hillside sweeps of forest and almond trees, Bequia Island is an extraordinary feast for the senses. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to Port Elizabeth.

Top Things to Do on Bequia:

• explore the Island of St. Vincent
• sail around Bequia
• hike through the forest to Crescent Beach
• relax at Bequia Beach Resort

At two square miles, Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadine Islands. With picture-postcard beaches, a friendly village with a quaint old church and a peaceful atmosphere, Mayreau is the untouched Caribbean you only hear of in whispers. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do on Mayreau:

• relax on the beach at Saline Bay
• sail and snorkel the Tobago Cays
• sail to Mopion Islet
  
• visit the Station Hill village and take in the views of the surrounding islands

Scattered between St Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park whose turquoise lagoons provide a home and safe haven for some outstanding marine fauna, including peaceful green turtles. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers and snorkellers.

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine