Caribbean Cruising: The Islands You Haven't Yet Discovered
The Caribbean is one of the most renowned must-visit yacht-cruising grounds during winter, with classic haunts drawing luxury yachts in to explore. Whether it be the glamorous parties in St Barths, sailing regattas in Antigua, island-hopping itineraries of the BVIs, or the famous swimming pigs in the Bahamas, there is much to offer. And, while these headliner islands typically dominate the yacht charter landscape, the Caribbean has lots more islands to experience that you may not have come across yet.
Beyond the frequently visited routes and itineraries lie islands that still offer Caribbean charm but with fewer crowds and a more authentic experience. For the upcoming winter Caribbean yachting season, why not switch out, or even add to, the traditional destination itineraries for one of these alternative islands?
Here we have included our favorite lesser-visited Caribbean islands that you should consider adding to your list for your next luxury yacht charter:
Dominica
Hailed as the 'Nature Island' of the Caribbean chain, Dominica is a wild and untamed paradise offering a slice of Caribbean adventure. The jungle-clad and UNESCO-protected landscape is dotted with impressive waterfalls and volcanic peaks waiting to be explored.
Rich in Creole heritage, connect with communities ashore and visit local markets to get a taste of the island life here. The surrounding waters of Dominica are ideal for yachting, with crystal-clear waters perfect for countless scuba diving sites and for enjoying watersports from the yacht.
Guadeloupe
Just north of Dominica is Guadeloupe. The two main islands are made up of the twin islands of the western Basse Terre, full of lush landscapes, and the more beachy eastern island of Grande Terre. Enjoy the unspoiled island full of authentic culture, picturesque bays, and excellent snorkeling and diving. Thanks to its French connection, the food and wine offerings are great, blending island flavors with European cuisine.
Adding to an itinerary is Iles des Saintes, a cluster of nine small islets off the southern tip of the mainland, great for sheltered anchorages.
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Nevis (St Kitts & Nevis)
One half of the twin-island nation of St Kitts & Nevis, Nevis is the smaller, quieter island, perfect for those looking for an uncrowded Caribbean cruising option. The island, with its towering dormant volcano, feels like how one of the more frequently visited islands might have been years ago - laid-back and understated.
The coastline is full of secluded anchorages within a stone's throw of beautiful beaches. Ashore, explore the charming colonial architecture, rainforest trails, horse riding, and natural hot springs.
The Grenadines
Often referred to as the 'true Caribbean,' the Grenadines are a chain of classic Caribbean islands with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, offering less-crowded, more untouched experiences.
Each island has its own charm. Mustique is the celebrity hangout, perfect for exclusivity and for unwinding on unspoiled beaches. While one of the smallest islands, Mayreau, offers excellent anchorages and a friendly local atmosphere ashore. At the southern end of the chain is the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a turquoise lagoon protected by Horseshoe Reef, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel the coral gardens, and go ashore for delicious locally-run lobster barbecues.
Martinique
Typically overshadowed by the iconic pitons of St Lucia, its neighbor, Martinique, is full of French flair combined with Caribbean vibes, without the usual French island crowds like in St Barths. The varied scenery of volcanoes, rainforests, underwater landscapes, and seaside towns is as diverse as the things you can do on a yacht charter itinerary.
Visit the impressive rum distilleries, indulge in French cuisine restaurants and nightlife, hike the mountains, and snorkel the lagoons.
Anguilla
Anguilla is a short hop north of the popular St Martin; visit it as a standalone trip or add to a St Martin yacht charter itinerary. The British Overseas Territory hosts fewer mass-tourism facilities within this tropical oasis, resulting in a quieter experience in the bays and ashore.
Anchor opposite and relax on some of the Caribbean's best beaches, like Rendezvous Bay, and enjoy sundowners at the traditional beach bars. Full of colorful reefs and shipwrecks, the diving and snorkeling around Anguilla's waters is excellent, as well as being ideal for other watersports. You can also easily take trips to nearby islands like Prickly Pear Cays.
Tobago (Trinidad & Tobago)
The more relaxed sibling of Trinidad and Tobago is ideal for yacht charter groups looking for unspoiled landscapes. Tobago has an excellent mix of rainforests and mountains, with white sandy beaches, reefs, and coral gardens to explore in its waters.
With limited marina infrastructure, the stunning natural anchorages provide the ultimate, most relaxing backdrop. And for a livelier atmosphere, combine a yacht experience with Trinidad's music and carnival events throughout the year.
Saba
In between Anguilla and St Martin lies the tiny and rugged island of Saba. An island perfect for the adventurous charterers. Activities include rainforest exploring, birdwatching, and some of the Caribbean's best diving.
As a municipality of the Netherlands, Saba is worth a spot on a Caribbean yacht charter itinerary. Experience the authentic Dutch-Caribbean culture alongside its natural beauty and landscape, adventuring both ashore and beneath the surface.
Book Your Next Caribbean Adventure
Wherever you want to cruise in the Caribbean this winter, IYC's expert consultants can guide you toward the best itinerary based on your preferences, including some of these lesser-known spots. Enjoy a more authentic Caribbean yacht charter experience, far from the peak-season crowds.
Contact our team today to discuss your winter yachting plans for your next Caribbean charter adventure.