Classic Caribbean Yacht Harbors

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

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

Located on the French-Caribbean island of Martinique, Trois Ilets is where the two cultures really mesh together. Best known as the birthplace of Joséphine, Napoléon Bonaparte’s first wife, the town retains much of its historic culture and offers magnificent views over the bay of Fort- de- France.

Top Things to Do in Trois Ilets:

• visit the Belfort Banana Plantation
• enjoy a tasting at the Rum Distillery
• explore the Botanical Garden
• visit the La Pagerie museum
• sail Martinique's northern coast

Basse-Terre, the capital of Guadeloupe, is a vibrant city nestled on the western half of the island. It is renowned for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Dominated by the active La Soufrière volcano, the surrounding national park offers numerous hiking trails through tropical rainforests, leading to stunning waterfalls such as Carbet Falls.

The city itself boasts historical sites, including the 17th-century Fort Delgrès and the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral. The bustling market in Basse-Terre is perfect for sampling local Creole cuisine and purchasing handmade crafts.

Charlestown is the laid back capital of the island of Nevis, which offers glorious golden beaches, fiery sunsets and verdant tropical backdrops. The city itself is full of Georgian-era structures and colonial features. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the pier.

Top Things to Do in Charlestown:

• hike the Golden Rock Nature Trail
• go deep sea fishing
• play a round of golf at Four Seasons Resort
• visit the botanical gardens
• stroll along Pinney's Beach
• dive to explore the ship wrecks offshore
  

Antigua and Barbuda beckon with their pristine beaches and vibrant history. For beach enthusiasts, Antigua presents a different shore for each day of the year, like the tranquil Half Moon Bay. Adventure seekers can explore the mysterious caves at Two Foot Bay in Barbuda, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.

History buffs will find Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Antigua, a compelling visit, showcasing the island's rich naval history. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda, one of the world’s largest, to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Culinary explorers can delight in the local cuisine, with seafood and Creole dishes highlighting the islands’ cultural melting pot.

Antigua is blessed with an abundance of shining white beaches, and many of these have sprouted top-end resort hotels that engender golf courses and other amenities counted among the best in the Caribbean. A pleasant drive up through farms and tiny villages leads to the commanding fortress on Shirley Heights, from which you can survey the town and the harbor of Nelson’s Dockyard across the island. Once a carenage for British frigates, today it is an enclave of shops and restaurants.

Carambola Beach, located on the northern coast of Saint Kitts, is celebrated for its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. This beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the lush mountains that form a dramatic backdrop.

The area offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling, with vibrant coral reefs just a short swim from the beach. Visitors often spot tropical fish and occasionally sea turtles amongst the corals. Carambola Beach is a prime destination for a leisurely day of sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach's amenities, including sun loungers, bars, and restaurants serving local cuisine, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Sint Martin, a gem in the Caribbean, is renowned for its dual French and Dutch heritage. This unique blend offers travelers a diverse cultural experience. In the French capital, Marigot, visit the bustling open-air markets and savor gourmet dining, while in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, indulge in duty-free shopping and lively beach bars. Maho Beach, famous for its low-flying planes, is a must-see spectacle.

For nature lovers, the island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Loterie Farm provides an adventurous escape with zip-lining and hiking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies like conch fritters and guavaberry liqueur, which reflect the island’s rich culinary traditions.

Philipsburg is the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten and it's port is conveniently located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from downtown Philipsburg, taking roughly 5 minutes by car or a leisurely 20-minute walk. Visitors can explore the vibrant Front Street, known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boutiques, and lively cafes. Transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and water taxis. Don’t miss a visit to the Great Bay Beach, just steps from the main shopping area, or venture to Maho Beach to watch planes land dramatically close to the shore.