Windward 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.

A lush island of tropical beauty, St. Lucia is part of the Windward Islands. Its 238 square miles are covered with rain forests, banana plantations, palm lined beaches, mountains and even a 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. One of St. Lucia’s truly spectacular attractions is the Pitons, two volcanic cones rising up from the sea that have become a symbol of the island itself. Today, St. Lucia offers its guests a wide range of natural charm with beautiful beaches, lush scenery, fishing villages unchanged by time and friendly Caribbean hospitality.

Dominica is a dream-like island, full of surprises. From Star Clipper’s anchorage in remote Prince Rupert Bay, the steep mountainsides and lush jungle-like beauty might remind you of a Rousseau landscape. Glide through a steamy orchid-festooned rain forest in a fascinating boat ride up the winding Layrou River. Alternatively, hike to breathtaking Trafalgar Falls and a bubbling lake.

The dockyards, marinas, old inns, venerable pubs and convivial crowds of sun-tanned yacht crews might remind you a bit of Newport or Annapolis, because this is the epicenter of the Caribbean yachting world. English Harbour, just south of where Royal Clipper docks in Falmouth, is probably one of the most atmospheric ports you’ll ever encounter. It was here that a soon-to-be-famous Royal Navy Captain set up his base in 1785. Today, every faded pink brick and weather-worn bollard of Nelson’s Dockyard evokes the presence of the greatest naval Commander in history.

St. Kitts’ was the first successful colony in the British West Indies. Indeed, when viewed from the top of Brimstone Hill, the “Gibraltar of the Caribbean” appears to dominate everything in the Southern Sea. Shop in colourful Basseterre, play golf and tour old plantation houses. For the adventuresome there’s a brisk hike through the rain forest.

St. Kitts’ was the first successful colony in the British West Indies. Indeed, when viewed from the top of Brimstone Hill, the “Gibraltar of the Caribbean” appears to dominate everything in the Southern Sea. Shop in colourful Basseterre, play golf and tour old plantation houses. For the adventuresome there’s a brisk hike through the rain forest.

Les Saintes is a thoroughly entrancing group of islands lying off Guadeloupe. You’ll enjoy the superb beaches, snorkelling, diving and other watersports on offer.

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.

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.