Exploring the South East Caribbean

Superyachts and the Caribbean: a classic combination, up there with such dynamic duos as Lennon and McCartney, strawberries and cream and C-3PO and R2-D2 (one for all of you Star Wars fans out there!). By Georgia Tindale

As we continue to emerge from the complications of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the world is moving once again, ever more yachts are returning to travel hotspots such as the Caribbean to pick up where they left off.

For those still keen to avoid crowds, or looking to discover somewhat more uncharted territory, there is an alternative: the South East Caribbean. Here, we take a look at two of the best yachting destinations in the area to provide you with some much-needed wanderlust.

Puerto Rico

With 300 miles of coastline all around the island ready for exploring and year-round winds averaging 10-15 knots, Puerto Rico represents a true yachting paradise at any time of year. Famous for its pristine cays and hidden beaches, if you are looking for that classic sandy-beach, salty-skinned boating experience, there is no need to look any further.

Particularly recommended is a trip to Vieques or Culebras islands, where you can enjoy a full day on some of the world’s most coveted beaches. As well as endless opportunities for snorkelling and sunbathing, fishing enthusiasts are also well-catered for in Puerto Rico, with several local tour operators offering bottom, tarpon and deep-sea fishing operations.

Finally, on a practical note, Puerto Rico is also home to a wide range of marinas primed to facilitate your on-water adventures, with three in San Juan and seven in Fajardo. Facilities include Puerto del Rey, the largest marina in the Caribbean, as well as the yacht club, Club Náutico de San Juan which is a fantastic events venue in its own right – best enjoyed, of course, with a rum and coke in hand!

‘THE ISLANDS ARE PERFECTLY SET UP FOR ADVENTUROUS ISLAND HOPPING AND RANK AS SOME OF THE SAFEST LOCATIONS IN THE CARIBBEAN TO VISIT’

Photos: Unsplash

American Virgin Islands

Less well-known than its neighbouring British counterparts, the beautiful US Virgin Islands consist of three main islands – Saint Croix, Saint John and Saint Thomas – as well 5o other surrounding minor islands and cays. Able to be visited without a passport by US citizens/residents, the islands are perfectly set up for adventurous island hopping and rank as some of the safest locations in the Caribbean to visit.

St. Thomas is the most popular of the three, with its numerous hills offering spectacular, panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Known for its music scene and buzzing nightlife which never sleeps, St. Thomas is the ideal destination for those looking to let their hair down in between beach trips. Other highlights include a Skyride to Paradise Point for yet more breathtaking views, a visit to the beautiful Magens Bay beach or a trip by car along the many mountains on the island.

Nature aficionados simply cannot miss out on a trip to the island of St. John. With two-thirds of the island a designated national park area, it truly is a hiker’s delight thanks to its countless trails perfect for exploration. The marine life is also not to be missed – with Maho Bay and Caneel Bay showcasing some of the area’s best snorkelling opportunities, where you can get up close and personal with sea turtles before retiring for a much-needed cocktail on the beach. I can certainly think of worse ways to spend a holiday; where’s my ticket?