11-Day Yachtsman's Holiday In
Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

Sint Maarten

Tucked away in a small corner of the Caribbean lies the island of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin, the world's smallest area of land divided into two nations. The French and Dutch have shared this strip of paradise peacefully for more than 350 years, ever since a gin-drinking Dutchman and a wine-imbibing Frenchman allegedly walked around the island to see how much territory they could claim for their country in a day. The French won more land, but the Dutch lay claim to the most prized part.

The Dutch may well have a point. Sint Maarten is known for its beaches, casinos and rum-fuelled festive nightlife. Duty-free shopping is the order of the day for tourists filling the numerous condos and resorts. Those who find it overdeveloped and artificial can get a taste of a different side of the Caribbean on the quiet, picturesque beaches of Simpson Bay and Little Bay, while visitors looking for a more rugged holiday would do well to head north to the French side of the island.

Saint Martin is significantly quieter than its Dutch counterpart. The French side of the island is a lovely mix of white-sand beaches, small town centres and beautiful stretches of mountainside. Shopping is a more relaxed affair at the outdoor markets, offering up some of the finest Caribbean cuisine.

The island as a whole hosts 120 different nationalities, giving it a rich cultural heritage. Food, drink and friendly Caribbean hospitality are all on the agenda. Visitors enjoy snorkeling, diving and jet-skiing, or head inland to hike in the mountains or zip-line through the treetops.

Frenchman's Cay

Frenchman's Cay is a picturesque island located at the western end of Tortola, in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Known for its breathtaking landscapes, exclusive resorts, and tranquil atmosphere, the cay is a small paradise that attracts travelers seeking a blend of adventure, luxury, and seclusion. With a land area that spans just a few hundred acres, Frenchman's Cay is connected to the main island of Tortola via a short bridge, making it easily accessible while still providing an aura of privacy and exclusivity.

The island's history is rich with stories of pirates and settlers who were drawn to the natural beauty and strategic location of the cay. Today, Frenchman's Cay maintains its historic charm while embracing modern amenities, ensuring a unique and comfortable experience for visitors and residents alike.

One of the island's most notable features is the Soper's Hole Marina, set on its southern shore, which serves as the gateway to Frenchman's Cay. This bustling marina is a hub for yachting enthusiasts and the charter boat industry. Colorful local shops, boutiques, and eateries line the waterfront, creating a vibrant atmosphere that contrasts with the otherwise peaceful island. The marina also provides essential services for boaters, including customs and immigration for those coming from international waters.

Accommodations on Frenchman's Cay range from intimate beachfront villas to luxurious vacation rentals and high-end resorts like the Frenchman's Cay Hotel. These accommodations are designed to maximize the stunning ocean views and provide privacy and comfort to guests. Often adorned with lush tropical gardens and private pools, they offer an idyllic setting for relaxation and contemplation.

Beyond the indulgences of its resorts, Frenchman's Cay is surrounded by some of the clearest and bluest waters in the Caribbean, making it an ideal spot for water sports and outdoor activities. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and fishing are popular, with abundant marine life and coral reefs waiting to be explored. Several dive shops and charter companies operate in the area, offering equipment rental and guided excursions for both beginners and experienced divers.

For those interested in terrestrial adventures, the island has a number of trails for hiking and nature walks. The surrounding hills provide panoramic views of the Caribbean sea, the BVI archipelago, and the nearby US Virgin Islands. The island's relatively untouched environment is home to a variety of tropical wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and plant species unique to the Caribbean region.

Frenchman's Cay also offers a culinary journey with restaurants featuring both local and international cuisine. Fresh seafood is a staple of the island's gastronomy, and many dining establishments boast locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste of the Caribbean.

Despite its small size, Frenchman's Cay plays a significant role in the local economy of the British Virgin Islands. It is a prime location for real estate investment, with many expatriates and investors drawn to the exclusive properties and potential for high-end vacation rentals. The island's infrastructure supports a comfortable lifestyle while maintaining the natural beauty and charm that make it a sought-after destination.

In conclusion, Frenchman's Cay is a jewel of the British Virgin Islands that offers an enchanting combination of luxury, seclusion, and adventure. With its stunning natural beauty, excellent marina facilities, upscale accommodations, and myriad of activities both on land and in the water, it's no wonder that this little island has become a prestigious retreat for those looking to experience the best of the Caribbean lifestyle.

Road Bay

Road Bay is a charming and bustling coastal settlement located on the northern shore of the island of Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. Known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and serene atmosphere, Road Bay serves as the main port of entry for sea vessels and plays a vital role in the island's economy. As a hub for both commercial activity and tourism, it's a location where visitors can experience the harmonious blend of local island life and the hospitality that Anguilla is famous for.

The bay is surrounded by powdery white sand beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. These beaches are often less crowded than those on more well-known Caribbean islands, offering a more private and tranquil beach-going experience. The calm, clear waters of Road Bay are also ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Snorkelers and divers are particularly fond of the area due to the abundant marine life and coral reefs that are situated nearby.

For those interested in sailing and boating, Road Bay provides a picturesque anchorage. The natural harbor is a safe haven for yachts and sailboats, making it a popular stop for boaters exploring the Caribbean Sea. The annual Anguilla Regatta, which hosts a series of boat races and sailing events, attracts sailors and spectators from around the world and is one of the highlights of the local calendar.

The waterfront along Road Bay is lined with a variety of dining options where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine. Several beach bars and casual eateries offer the opportunity to sample local flavors and refreshments while taking in beautiful ocean views. Dining by the seaside, visitors can often enjoy the sounds of live music and the laid-back rhythm of island life.

The area behind the beachfront is the commercial heart of Road Bay and Sandy Ground, the neighborhood which serves as its backdrop. This district is filled with a mix of businesses including duty-free shops, small boutiques, and convenience stores, where both visitors and locals can find a wide array of goods and services.

One of the distinctive features of Road Bay is its deep cultural heritage. The Old Salt Factory and Pumphouse are historical landmarks located in the vicinity, a reminder of Anguilla's salt industry past. These preserved sites offer a glimpse into the island's history and the importance of the salt trade in its development.

Road Bay is not just a daytime destination. As the sun sets, the nightlife begins to flourish with bars and clubs opening their doors and welcoming patrons with a mix of Caribbean rhythms and international tunes. The area becomes a festive scene where locals and tourists mingle, creating a warm and vibrant nighttime atmosphere.

Accessibility to Road Bay is straightforward, with the Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport situated only a few miles away. The proximity of the airport to the bay area allows for easy transitions from air travel to enjoying the sandy beaches.

As a key component of Anguilla's maritime tradition, Road Bay encapsulates the island's blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and friendly community spirit. It remains a jewel in the crown of Anguilla, bringing together sailors, vacationers, and locals in a picturesque and lively setting that epitomizes the best of Caribbean charm.

English Harbour

With a whopping 365 shimmering sandy beaches, a near-perfect climate, and a laid-back attitude to life, it is no surprise that Antigua, together with its smaller sister island Barbuda, is today one of the Caribbean's most popular tourist spots.

Along with the uninhabited Redonda Island, Antigua and Barbuda form a tiny nation with a population descended largely from African slaves and a mix of Europeans. Visitors flock to enjoy the stretches of beach and miles of excellent hikes on Antigua, the exclusive resorts and superb bird sanctuary on Barbuda, and world-class snorkelling and scuba diving among wrecks along the nation's coral reefs.

In 1784, Admiral Horatio Nelson chose Antigua as the base for Great Britain's Caribbean Fleet. The warm winds that Nelson relied on to bring his ships safely into harbour now contribute to one of the world's biggest maritime events known as Sailing Week.

The capital city of St John's is a lively hub for shopping and dining. Most tourist activity is confined to the harbour-front complexes of Heritage Quay, and the more traditional Redcliffe Quay. For those interested in the early history of the island, there is the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, housed in the colonial Court House (circa 1750). Codrington (named after sugar plantation owner Christopher Codrington) is Barbuda's main city and acts as a base for explorations of the many coastal shipwrecks, as well as the island's diverse bird population.

Antigua's highest point is Obama Peak, at 1,319 feet (402m), but the island is mostly flat and covered with sugar cane, tropical fruit trees, palms and exotic flowers. For those tired of lazing on the beach, there is sailing, diving, snorkelling, and other leisurely pursuits on offer in this Caribbean paradise.

South Friars Bay

South Friar's Bay is a bay in Saint George Basseterre Parish, Saint Kitts and Nevis. It is one of the two bays that stretch along the coast of the isthmus connecting the Southeast Peninsula, with the rest of the island of Saint Kitts. It is longer than its northern neighbour (North Friar's Bay). At their closest, the two coasts are less than one kilometre apart.

Terre-de-Haut

On visiting Terre-de-Haut, an island commune part of the French overseas collectivity of Guadeloupe, you can expect a true Caribbean paradise. The island is only two square kilometers, but it boasts a population of 2,000 people who are passionate about their island home.

From the moment your boat or plane arrives, you’ll be welcomed by the vibrant natural beauty of the island. With its rolling hills, lush tropical vegetation, and sparkling turquoise waters, Terre-de-Haut is an inspiring and energizing place to be. Sunsets here are gorgeous and the night sky glitters with stars in every direction.

The main village, also called Terre-de-Haut (after the island itself), rests on a high hill in the center of the island. Here you’ll find quaint little cafes, local eateries and stores, plus some of the best views of the harbor around. Additionally, the village offers several historic sites worth visiting, including Pigeon Island – a little hill in the center of town said to have been an important strategic point during the various wars that have taken place in this area.

But it’s what lies beyond the village that makes Terre-de-Haut truly special. The surrounding waters are a dream come true for snorkelers and divers. You can expect to find stunning coral reefs, vibrant fish of all colors, and even occasional sightings of dolphins and whales. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided tour of the mangroves on the east side of the island – you won’t regret it!

Everywhere you go on the island, you’ll find friendly locals eager to share their stories and offer insight into their culture and way of life. There’s even an annual Terre-de-Haut music festival filled with locals and visitors alike who come together to celebrate music and dance.

Terre-de-Haut is a perfect spot for those seeking adventure, rest and relaxation, and cultural experiences. From its unique cuisine to its stunning landscapes, this little island has something for everyone – even if only for a few days.

Aruba

Aruba, known as “One Happy Island,” is a sun-soaked paradise in the southern Caribbean, famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors flock to Palm Beach and Eagle Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while adventurous travelers can explore the island’s rugged interior at Arikok National Park, home to unique rock formations, caves, and native wildlife. The capital, Oranjestad, charms with its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, lively markets, and waterfront dining. Aruba’s warm, dry climate and steady trade winds make it perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding year-round. The island also boasts vibrant local culture, with a mix of Caribbean, Dutch, African, and indigenous influences celebrated in music, festivals, and cuisine. Friendly locals, luxury resorts, and a variety of attractions—from snorkeling and scuba diving to casinos and nightlife—ensure every traveler finds something to enjoy. Aruba truly offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Curaçao

Curacao, a gem in the Caribbean Sea, offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. The island, known for its distinctive European architecture painted in vibrant colours, provides a picturesque backdrop that mesmerises visitors. The capital city, Willemstad, boasts well-preserved colonial buildings, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site, while the colourful floating market showcases fresh produce and catch from nearby Venezuela.

The island's pristine beaches, like Playa Kenepa and Cas Abao, are perfect for relaxation and adventurous water activities such as snorkelling and diving. The underwater world of Curacao is teeming with marine life, making it one of the top diving destinations in the Caribbean. Exploring the Curacao Sea Aquarium or taking a stroll through the Christoffel National Park provides a deeper connection to the island's diverse flora and fauna.

Curacao’s gastronomic scene is a delightful fusion of Dutch, Caribbean and South American flavours, offering a mouthwatering culinary adventure. The local music and dance, deeply rooted in African traditions, enliven the island, especially during festivals like Carnival. Whether you are interested in lounging on the beach, exploring cultural sites, or diving into vibrant marine life, Curacao offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Bonaire

Meaning in French and nestled in deep in the Caribbean, Bonaire forms part of the ABC chain of islands in the Lesser Antilles (the others being Aruba and Curacao). With crystalline turquoise waters brimming with coral reefs for miles in every direction, this tiny island boasts the Bonaire National Marine Park, widely regarded as one of the best offshore diving destinations in the world. Originally inhabited by the tall Caquieto Indians, the Spanish first named the ABC islands ' , meaning 'the island of the giants' and Caquetios rock paintings can be seen at Spelonk, Onima, Ceru Pungi, and Ceru Crita-Cabai. Besides being one of the biggest scuba diving meccas in the world, Bonaire is also famed for its Flamingo population, which is drawn here by the abundance of shrimp found in the brackish waters. Donkeys can also be seen roaming freely and the Donkey Sanctuary is a major tourist attraction. Colonised by the English and Dutch, the latter of which is still prevalent today in the language and architecture, evidence of Bonaire's oppressive past can still be seen in the saltpans in Rincon where African slaves were put to work alongside Indians and convicts in the 1600s. The Caribbean is known a major thoroughfare for drug smuggling from South America and visitors should be vigilant with their luggage. There are no major health threats associated with visiting Bonaire, but travellers should arm themselves with insect repellent and be cautious of excessive exposure to the sun. With a perfectly consistent tropical temperature, which is moderated by Atlantic trade winds, Bonaire is the ideal playground for lovers of all things aquatic. From scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing to sea kayaking, wind surfing and kite boarding, this little slice of tropical paradise will beautiful memories to be relived for years for all who visit Bonaire.

Bridgetown

Bridgetown originally called 'Indian Bridge' is the capital and commercial centre of Barbados with about 80 000 inhabitants. It is a busy port with a natural harbour inlet known as the Careenage and is well utilised by pleasure craft and fishing boats.Bridgetown has a long and colourful history as a British settlement from the 17th century. A bustling city with many attractions for travellers its mix of modern and historic buildings are interspersed with markets monuments and a number of lush gardens.The main street Broad Street is where one finds banks department stores and duty-free shops. At the top of Broad Street is the Parliament Building (the Barbados Parliament is the third oldest in the Commonwealth dating from 1639) facing National Heroes Square. Bridgetown is home to a number of historical buildings that will interest visitors including the Garrison Historic Area which is a must-visit for military history buffs.Another attraction in Bridgetown is a massive Baobab tree (said to have been brought to the island from Guinea Africa around 1738). It takes 15 adults with outstretched arms to encircle the trunk.Tourists in Bridgetown will find much to see and do: cricket games at Kensington Oval which hosted the 2007 Cricket World Cup; the Barbados Derby at the racetrack in the Garrison area; and many other events and activities. A range of duty-free shops near the harbour sell staples like Mount Gay Rum while more colourful shopping options include the Cheapside Market and the Swan Street pedestrian mall. Local restaurants in the Careenage serve up fresh lobster and fish with Caribbean flair.