St Kitts and Nevis Yacht Charter Guide

The two islands of St Kitts and Nevis are among the less developed Caribbean islands. With no all-inclusive resorts or package tours, they remain the islands of choice for discerning travelers. The pair offer a special experience for charter yacht vacations – beyond the stunning white beaches, softly swaying palms, and mountains blanketed with thick jungles, each island has its own distinct personality and rich culture. The bustling St Kitts is home to a beautiful new marina, high-end villas, and an excellent golf course, where you can indulge in a little island luxury, while Nevis runs at a pace that is slow even by Caribbean standards. Make the most of your private luxury yacht to explore isolated beaches lined with fragrant frangipanes, visit impressive ruins and seek out some of the best diving spots in this island paradise.

Best Time To Visit: November to February are warm with mild trade winds making for perfect sailing. In July and August, the Culturama festival gives a real feel of island life.

Key Cruising Areas: There are many scenic anchorages to enjoy around the two islands, which are also an easy day to sail to St Maarten Leeward or St Barts. The rest of the archipelago also offers spectacular landscapes and sailing.

Don’t Miss: The underwater world around the islands may be more stunning than the land – the diving around St Kitts and Nevis is award-winning! Visit the wreck of M/V River Taw for an easy wreck dive, Monkey Shoals or Coconut Tree reef for incredible corals and marine life, or – for the thrill-seekers – explore the formations at the Devil’s Cavern.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: For relaxed local dining, moor off Pinney’s Beach in Nevis and visit one of the beach bars. For a more upmarket evening, the area around Basseterre Port offers several choices. Book a table at The Pavillion for stunning décor, views, and unforgettable food to match.

Best Local Dish: Embrace the laid-back nature of St Kitts and eat on the beach under the stars. Try the snapper with okra at Cathy’s Ocean View Bar and Grill, for authentic freshly cooked Caribbean food.

Local Culture: Basseterre, the capital of St Kitts, has a number of historic sites that are well worth visiting. St George’s Anglican Church and Independence Square offer interesting architecture, and the animated town is a great place to experience the buzz of local life.

Best Beach: Take a picnic at Majors Bay Beach on the south of St Kitts. With no developments, this once-secret bay remains quiet and unspoiled. Golden sands, clear waters that stretch to the foot of Nevis, and a swimming pool in an old wreck make for a beautiful, tranquil bathing spot.

IYC recommends: If you like a challenge, hike to the top of Nevis. Passing streams, through the rainforest and tropical ferns, the view across the blue water to the peaks of St Kitts rising above the sea mist will be worth the climb. Sit on the soft moss at the summit, surrounded by ginger flowers, and admire the tranquility of the islands, then descend and head to Bananas Bistro to refuel by eating mussels in a treehouse and recount the days' adventures over a rum cocktail as the fireflies glow.