Grenadine Islands

On the wild and rugged east coast of Barbados, the isolated beaches are the colour of sunrise, the red sands having blown all the way across the Atlantic from the Sahara. The eastern most island of the Windwards, and indeed, of the entire Caribbean, reaches out to Africa and the Old World, as if not quite part of the New. Bridgetown, Barbados is an interesting town full of contrasts. George Washington actually slept here! Trafalgar Square reminds you that the laid back, rum-and-fun-loving island’s British-influenced heritage includes revered traditions like cricket and high tea.

Thirty islands and specks of sand make up the gloriously untouched Grenadines. We’ll call on one of these Islands, for a blissful, laid-back beach day. We’re sure, you’ll never be disappointed.

The aromas of nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla baking in the sun – these are the tropical flavours of Grenada. From the horseshoe shaped Carenage at St. George’s, follow the Sendall Tunnel (hand-built in 1895) to the Esplanade and old Ft. George for a spectacular view of Grenada.

Four small islets, virtually deserted but enormously appealing for those who love underwater exploration, Tobago Cays is a national park where snorkeling is superb. There are picnic and camping sites and beautiful protected anchorages for overnight yacht stops.

Kingstown is the capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The port city is known for its Botanical Gardens, founded in 1765 and home to tropical plants and aviaries. On a ridge above the bay, the 1806 Fort Charlotte offers panoramic views of the archipelago. The city center has 19th-century churches such as St. Mary’s Cathedral. The lively Kingstown Market sells local produce. Popular Villa Beach is nearby.

Star Clipper usually anchors in the lee of ruggedly beautiful Young Island lying just 54 feet off the southern tip of St. Vincent which is just a 10 minute ferry ride away. The natural harbour of Port Elizabeth at Bequia the world. The exquisite waterfront beckons you for a gentle stroll along the harbour.

Martinique is the classic French Caribbean island. Wild and mysterious, yet urbane and sophisticated, it is France with a tropical twist, with something for almost everyone. You won’t be able to resist the charms of spicy Creole cooking and tempting boutiques in Fort de France.

Martinique is the classic French Caribbean island. Wild and mysterious, yet urbane and sophisticated, it is France with a tropical twist, with something for almost everyone. You won’t be able to resist the charms of spicy Creole cooking and tempting boutiques in Fort de France.

Marigot Bay, one of the prettiest anchorages in the Caribbean, is surrounded by lush hills and ringed by drooping coconut palms. James Michener described it as the archetype for paradise in the Caribbean. On the bay are restaurants (Doolittle’s is the most famous) and inland you can visit a banana plantation. Our alternate stop, the little Port Town of Soufrière was named after a nearby volcano by the French, who ruled St. Lucia before the English took it over. Locals call it the world’s only drive-in volcano. Prettier sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where you can walk the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls. St. Lucia’s lush rainforested mountains including the famous Pitons are truly spectacular.

Marigot Bay, one of the prettiest anchorages in the Caribbean, is surrounded by lush hills and ringed by drooping coconut palms. James Michener described it as the archetype for paradise in the Caribbean. On the bay are restaurants (Doolittle’s is the most famous) and inland you can visit a banana plantation. Our alternate stop, the little Port Town of Soufrière was named after a nearby volcano by the French, who ruled St. Lucia before the English took it over. Locals call it the world’s only drive-in volcano. Prettier sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where you can walk the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls. St. Lucia’s lush rainforested mountains including the famous Pitons are truly spectacular.

On the wild and rugged east coast of Barbados, the isolated beaches are the colour of sunrise, the red sands having blown all the way across the Atlantic from the Sahara. The eastern most island of the Windwards, and indeed, of the entire Caribbean, reaches out to Africa and the Old World, as if not quite part of the New. Bridgetown, Barbados is an interesting town full of contrasts. George Washington actually slept here! Trafalgar Square reminds you that the laid back, rum-and-fun-loving island’s British-influenced heritage includes revered traditions like cricket and high tea.