When it comes to exploring the Caribbean — especially by yacht charter — there are so many fantastic locations to visit. The Caribbean is home to over 7,000 islands, and finding the right destination takes a bit of research.
The Caribbean’s countries vary wildly in topography, sailing conditions, natural wonders, and cultural vibe, so it pays to know which location is right for you and your particular tastes.
Below, we’re taking a deep dive into three historic Caribbean hot spots and breaking down what makes them ideal for those visiting by yacht. So strap in and get ready to take some notes, as we’re leaving no stones unturned as we explore these incredible locales.
Marvel at Martinique
Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Martinique stands out as one of the most enchanting yachting destinations in the entire region. This lush island offers a unique blend of the French and the Caribbean, making it a must-visit spot for yacht enthusiasts looking for a unique blend of cultures. From its calm, azure waters and spectacular coastlines to its rich history, vibrant marine life, and world-class facilities, Martinique offers an unforgettable yachting experience.
Ideal Sailing Conditions
Martinique is a premier yachting destination thanks to its ideal sailing conditions. The island benefits from a consistent trade wind system that makes sailing smooth and predictable throughout the year. The northeast trade winds blow steadily, typically ranging from 15 to 25 knots, which provides excellent conditions for both leisurely cruising and exhilarating sailing. The calm, warm Caribbean waters surrounding Martinique are also free from strong currents, making navigation easy and accessible for sailors of all skill levels.
Stunning Coastal Scenery and Secluded Coves
Another draw is Martinique’s coastline, which is both diverse and captivating. From the dramatic volcanic peaks of Mount Pelée to the pristine white-sand beaches along the southern coast, the island offers a wide range of anchorages and secluded coves that provide perfect spots for relaxation and exploration. Whether you prefer to anchor off the rugged northern coastline or the calm, protected bays in the south, Martinique’s shores offer unparalleled beauty and tranquility.
One of the most popular anchorages is Anse d’Arlet, a picturesque bay in the southern part of the island, where clear waters meet charming fishing villages. Grande Anse des Salines is another favorite, offering sweeping views, calm waters, and a serene atmosphere that draws sailors from around the world. For those seeking even more seclusion, Anse Couleuvre, located on the northern coast, is a hidden gem with dramatic volcanic backdrops and pristine waters.
Vibrant Marine Life and Diving Opportunities
Martinique’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it a fantastic destination for both snorkeling and diving. The island is home to rich coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater caves that attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world. The waters surrounding Diamond Rock and Anse Dufour are particularly renowned for their rich biodiversity, where visitors can encounter tropical fish, turtles, rays, and even dolphins.
For those who enjoy exploring marine life without diving too deep, snorkeling is equally rewarding, with numerous shallow reefs and calm bays providing a wealth of underwater beauty. The Robert Bay Marine Reserve, for example, is a protected area with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral formations, perfect for a leisurely snorkel or dive.
French Culture and Gourmet Cuisine
What sets Martinique apart from many other Caribbean islands is its unique blend of French and Caribbean cultures. As an overseas department of France, the island combines the laid-back charm of the Caribbean with the sophistication of French influence, creating a truly distinctive atmosphere. This fusion is especially apparent in the island’s culinary scene, where French gourmet cuisine meets the bold flavors of the Caribbean.
Yacht visitors can indulge in delicious seafood, freshly caught from the surrounding waters, and enjoy a variety of Caribbean dishes with a French twist. Local delicacies like colombo (a type of curry), accras (fried fritters), and rum-based cocktails are staples at the island’s beachside bars and restaurants. For those who appreciate fine dining, there are also Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite French fare, often accompanied by locally grown ingredients and spices.
In addition to its food, Martinique’s rich cultural history adds depth to the island’s appeal. Visitors can explore charming villages, vibrant markets, and colonial architecture, particularly in the capital, Fort-de-France. The island’s museums, such as the Musée de la Pagerie (the birthplace of Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon Bonaparte), showcase its fascinating history and blend of African, Caribbean, and European influences.
For those interested in a mix of favorable yachting conditions, water-based adventure, and culinary culture, Martinique makes for the perfect yacht charter destination.
British Virgin Islands Deliver on Scenic Charm
The British Virgin Islands (BVI), a serene archipelago nestled in the Caribbean Sea, have long been celebrated as one of the premier yachting destinations in the world. This cluster of over 60 islands and cays, each offering its own unique charm, is a yachting paradise. With its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, favorable weather conditions, and excellent facilities, the BVI has earned its reputation as a top-tier sailing haven. For both seasoned sailors and first-time yacht enthusiasts, the BVI offers an unparalleled experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and luxury.
Scenic and Diverse Islands
The BVI is composed of a diverse range of islands and cays, each offering distinct experiences for yacht visitors. The largest and most populous island, Tortola, serves as the heart of the BVI and boasts the main harbor and the capital, Road Town. From Tortola, yachts can easily venture out to smaller, more secluded islands like Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Peter Island, each offering a unique landscape and vibe.
Every island in the BVI offers its own charm, ensuring that each day spent sailing is an adventure full of discovery, relaxation, and natural wonder. Whether you are exploring lush landscapes, hidden beaches, or vibrant nightlife, there’s something to suit every kind of traveler.
Luxury Yachting Facilities
The British Virgin Islands are home to top-tier yachting facilities, including marinas, docks, and services that cater to the needs of luxury yacht charter guests. Some of the best-known marinas in the BVI include the Nanny Cay Marina, Scrub Island Resort, and the Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda. These world-class facilities offer everything a yacht needs: refueling, provisioning, repairs, and crew services.
Sheltered Anchorages and Mooring Buoys
The BVI also offers an extensive range of sheltered anchorages and mooring buoys that make it ideal for yacht visitors. Many of the islands feature natural harbors and coves where boats can anchor safely, away from strong winds and rough seas. The North Sound of Virgin Gorda and Leverick Bay are prime examples of sheltered areas where yachts can drop anchor in calm, crystal-clear waters, providing perfect conditions for swimming and relaxing.
The BVI government and private marinas also offer mooring buoys, making it easier for yachts to dock without worrying about anchoring. This ensures that there are plenty of safe, well-maintained spots for yachts of all sizes, with easy access to shoreside amenities.
St. Vincent: An Island Dream Come True
St. Vincent, the largest island in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering everything a yachting enthusiast could dream of. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or new to the world of yachting, St. Vincent provides a diverse and vibrant sailing experience that is as exhilarating as it is breathtaking.
Ideal Sailing Conditions
One of the primary reasons why St. Vincent is considered a top yachting destination is its perfect sailing conditions. Situated in the southern Caribbean, the island enjoys a favorable climate with consistent trade winds, typically ranging from 10 to 25 knots. These winds, blowing from the northeast, provide excellent conditions for both leisurely cruising and more spirited sailing, making St. Vincent an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding islands.
The waters around St. Vincent are calm and clear, with gentle swells and sheltered bays, making the island particularly appealing to both novice sailors and experienced yachtsmen. The surrounding seas are free of strong currents, and the island’s position within the Windward Islands offers smooth sailing paths to other nearby islands such as Bequia, Mustique, and Tobago Cays.
Scenic Beauty and Pristine Anchorages
St. Vincent is also renowned for its lush landscapes and dramatic coastlines, making it an incredibly scenic place to explore by yacht. The island’s coast is dotted with numerous bays and coves, perfect for dropping anchor and soaking in the natural beauty. From the green hills and volcanic peaks to the tranquil, turquoise waters, the island offers stunning views at every turn.
One of the most famous anchorages is Admiralty Bay, located in the charming island of Bequia, just a short sail away from St. Vincent. This natural harbor is known for its calm waters and picturesque surroundings. Another must-visit spot is Wallilabou Bay, known for its serene waters and stunning landscapes. This bay is also famous for being the filming location of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, adding a layer of intrigue for movie buffs and adventure lovers. For those who enjoy a more rugged landscape, Cumberland Bay offers a tranquil setting surrounded by lush hills, perfect for experiencing St. Vincent’s unspoiled beauty.
Rich Marine Life and Water Sports
St. Vincent is a true haven for those who love to explore the underwater world. The island’s surrounding waters are home to an abundance of marine life, making it a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving. Vibrant coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish, rays, and sea turtles, are scattered around the island, providing plenty of opportunities for underwater exploration. Tobago Cays Marine Park, located just south of St. Vincent, is a protected area that is known for its incredible biodiversity and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the top dive spots in the Caribbean.
Authentic Culture and Friendly Locals
St. Vincent offers more than just natural beauty — it is also home to a rich cultural heritage and welcoming locals who embrace visitors with warmth and hospitality. As the largest island in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines chain, St. Vincent is the cultural hub of the nation, with vibrant markets, colorful festivals, and historic landmarks to explore.
Kingstown, the capital of St. Vincent, is a bustling town filled with colonial-era architecture, lively markets, and plenty of shops and cafes where yacht visitors can stock up on provisions. The town’s waterfront is a lively place, with fishing boats and yachts dotting the docks, offering a glimpse into the island’s maritime culture.
St. Vincent’s culinary culture is heavily influenced by its African, Carib, and European heritage, and visitors can experience this through local cuisine, music, and festivals. The island is known for its local rum, fresh seafood, and spices, and trying the local dishes is a must for anyone visiting. Vincy Mas, the island’s carnival celebration, offers a vibrant experience filled with music, dancing, and colorful costumes, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The friendly local people are eager to share their love for the island with visitors, making St. Vincent not only a beautiful place to visit but also a welcoming destination where travelers feel at home.
Gateway to the Grenadines
St. Vincent is often referred to as the gateway to the Grenadines, a chain of small islands that are a yachting paradise. From St. Vincent, sailors can easily access popular destinations like Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, and the Tobago Cays. Each of these islands has its own unique charm and appeal, from the luxury resorts of Mustique to the unspoiled natural beauty of the Tobago Cays.
Sailing from St. Vincent to these islands is an easy and beautiful journey, offering a combination of short hops and more leisurely passages. This allows visitors to experience the diversity of the Grenadines in a single trip, enjoying everything from serene anchorages and vibrant coral reefs to chic resorts and lively island culture.
St. Vincent offers everything a yachting enthusiast could desire: perfect sailing conditions, stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and authentic culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, a peaceful anchorage, or a cultural experience on land, St. Vincent has something for everyone.
Something for Everyone
The Caribbean is home to some of the most beautifully scenic islands in the world, and with so many to choose from, the discerning yachter will hopefully find some ideas here in this post. Whether you’re snorkeling in Martinique, sailing in the British Virgin Isles, or dining Michelin-style in St. Vincent, a luxury yacht charter from Moran Yacht & Ship will bring you closer to paradise — one island at a time.
Check in regularly with our blog to explore even more luscious Caribbean locations ideal for a yacht charter of any size. If you’re asking yourself: how much is a yacht charter, or you’d like to learn more about the Caribbean yacht charter options available at Moran Yacht & Ship, feel free to contact us anytime.