Windward Islands - A Yachting Destination Guide

W I N DWA R D I S L A N D S A YACHTING DESTINATION GUIDE

UNITED STATES

Martinique

OF AMERICA

St Lucia

St Vincent Barbados Bequia

The Grenadines VENEZUELA

Mayreau

Mustique

Tobago Cays Petit St Vincent

Carriacou

COLOMBIA

ECUADOR

Grenada BRAZIL

PERU

YACHTING IN THE WINDWARDS Sprinkled across the southern Lesser Antilles, stretching from Martinique to Grenada, the picture-perfect Windward Islands blaze a trail of powder-white beaches and crystalline waters. Volcanic and rugged, adorned with lush scenery and surrounded by whimsical reefs and cays, this intoxicating yachting destination is even more attractive thanks to small distances between islands. Those seeking secluded anchorages, incredible dive sites and sublime island beauty will not be disappointed with this little slice of paradise.

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MARTINIQUE A

seamless blend of Caribbean and French influence, Martinique fascinates with a dual personality.

To the north, volcanic Mont Pelée rises proudly amidst rugged, rainforest-clad terrain, while the south boasts sandy swathes and sparkling water - a nirvana for sun worshippers. Swim off the flawless beaches or snorkel alongside turtles feeding on sea grass, while colourful fish dart amongst rocky outcrops. Head east for an exhilarating kiteboarding and surfing experience, where you’ll also find the capital, Fort-de-France, with it’s excellent restaurants, chic boutiques and exclusive nightclubs.

Insider Tip: Be sure to sample the local Ti Punch, a delicious mix of rum, sugar and lime juice!

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ST LUCIA S

t Lucia is a tropical playground, characterised by meandering hiking trails, tumbling waterfalls in emerald forests and adrenaline-fuelled activities. Bustling coastal villages are packed with character - Anse La Raye hosts popular Seafood Friday street parties, while the incredibly beautiful, deep anchorage at Marigot Bay affords access to numerous golden beaches. Dominating the coastline are the dramatic volcanic spires of the Pitons - snorkel the coral drop-off under Gross Piton amid busy reef fish before visiting the natural warm springs in the rainforest at Piton Falls.

Insider Tip: Once a pirate base, Pigeon Island is now a national park - climb atop the fort tower for exceptional panoramic views.

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ST VINCENT & THE GRENADINES A

close-knit chain of 32 spectacular islands and cays (no more than 10 miles apart), island-hopping in St Vincent and the Grenadines is a breeze. These laid-back isles are celebrated for natural beauty, impeccable diving and inspiring sailing. With towering mountains and dense forests inland, St Vincent is surrounded by unique black coral blooming with tropical sea life. Warm, turquoise waters lap silky-sand beaches fringed by whispering palm trees and vibrant waterfront bars serve mouthwatering fresh local seafood. Only accessible by yacht - take a dip at the spectacular Falls of Baleine, dive or snorkel off the dark sands at Bottle Isle and spot whales who breed offshore in the summer months.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss an adventurous guided hike up the “rocky trail to heaven” to reach the cloudshrouded peak of active La Soufriere volcano.

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BEQUIA & MUSTIQUE R

eef-lined Bequia is a sandy haven of secluded shores - with snorkellers-paradise, Princess Margaret Beach, topping the list. Dive the depths at Moon Hole or the wall at Devils Table, take a hike along the coastal path to French Bay and enjoy a gourmet dinner on a panoramic terrace.

Private Mustique, dappled with luxury villas and celebrity haunts, oozes chic coastal appeal. Enjoy beachside seclusion at Macaroni or Sandy Bay, take a step back in time with afternoon tea at the Cotton House and drift dive at the Pillaries steep drop-off. As the sun goes down, sip a cocktail at iconic Basil’s Bar overlooking the harbour, where eminent superstars mingle.

Insider Tip: Visit inspirational Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary in Bequia - a programme dedicated to preserving the endangered Hawksbill Turtle.

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MAYREAU & TOBAGO CAYS T

ake a digital detox at tiny Mayreau, where picture-perfect Saltwhistle Bay is the ultimate dreamy escape. Snorkel at Mayreau Gardens amongst the brightly coloured sea life, or visit the incredible, single umbrella-marked Mopium Island sandbar and reef - where this little island’s size can vary with time and tide. Across the bay, turtle-filled lagoons at the Tobago Cays Marine Park offer an enclave of tranquillity with five small uninhabited atolls surrounded by extensive coral reefs. It is not unusual to spend more than one day enjoying this area of incredible beauty.

Insider Tip: Dive the impressive 140-foot Puruni Wreck, where you may be able to spot reef sharks in the shallows.

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CARRIACOU & PETIT ST VINCENT C

arriacou is the ultimate tropical isle, surrounded by perfect palm-fringed beaches and local boat boys who will bring fresh water oysters direct to your yacht. During carnival time the island explodes with life and locals are keen to share ancient folklore and legends with visitors. Exclusive and charming, barefoot luxury comes alive in private Petit St Vincent. Take a morning hike with your camera up Marni Hill for stunning views, relax in a hammock on deserted West End Beach or take some lessons at the outstanding scuba school run by Jacques Cousteau’s son.

Insider Tip: Kitesurfing at Southern Outpost, Union Island, is some of the best found in this archipelago.

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GRENADA F

ondly named the Spice Isle, the relaxed ambiance in southernmost Grenada radiates across idyllic beaches, quaint towns and protected bays - caressed by a fragrant cinnamon-infused breeze. The colourful port town of St George’s bustles with life, while the 3km arc of golden beach at Grand Anse is a popular stretch and eco-tourists flock inland to the carpet of rich rainforest. Embrace the spectacular scenery at the Seven Sisters Falls in Grand Etang National Park then sample taste-bud tingling chocolate at the Diamond Chocolate Factory. Be sure not to miss the unique experience of snorkelling the Molinere underwater sculpture gallery before leaving this paradise island.

Insider Tip:Visit nutmeg plantations and spice and craft markets, eat coconut-infused Oildown, drink local cocoa tea and listen to traditional crick-crack stories.

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