At the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua acts as a central hub to outer islands giving you the opportunity to explore Barbuda, Guadeloupe, St Barts and St Martin, all within a days sail.
Sailing Destinations
Whilst Antigua has everything to keep you occupied for at least 2 weeks, we realise you may wish to venture further afield. Due to Antigua’s location in the heart of the Caribbean, there are various islands little more than a days sail, and they all offer some fantastic sights.
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Barbuda
For those who want true seclusion and deserted beaches, Barbuda is the island for you. With very little development, humans are largely outnumbered by the turtle population! Take a stroll along one of its beaches at night, and you might be lucky enough to stumble upon a turtle laying its eggs. Some would agree that Barbuda is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, yet, very few people come here. The endless turquoise waters are breath-taking and will make you want to stay here forever. Go here before the word spreads!
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Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is French and is the centre of the Caribbean’s creole culture, with both French and African influences. Guadeloupe’s group of islands offers a mix of modern towns, rural villages, rum distilleries and beautiful peaceful beaches. Basse-Terre is home to the national park, where the dormant La Soufriere volcano lies. Here, there are hiking trails for those who want to climb to the top of this brooding volcano. Grande-Terre has an indented coastline, which is surrounded my beautiful coral reefs. The island’s beaches offer both white and black sand, as well as magnificent cliffs.
Tiny Pigeon Island offers some of the best snorkelling and diving on the island, with turquoise waters and an array of colourful tropical fish. Definitely worth a visit are a small group of islands which make up Les Saintes. The village of Terre-de-Haut is a true delight, with its colourful streets and little boutiques; this place is ideal for relaxing and really is beautiful.
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St Martin / St Barts
St. Martin is split into two: one side is French and the other Dutch. This island really is the St. Tropez of the Caribbean. It has an array of fine restaurants and boasts the best duty-free shopping in the Eastern Caribbean. The best bargains can be found in the Dutch capital of Philipsburg, with everything from high fashion and electronics to jewellery.
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Dominica
The island of Dominica is a paradise for nature lovers and has been nicknamed the “nature isle of the Caribbean” for its unspoiled natural beauty. The island is largely covered by rainforests and there are a number of national parks. Treks can be organised through amazing fruit plantations, where your lunch can be all natural and picked off the trees!
The locals are so friendly and are always eager to help and show off their island to willing tourists. Inland, many stunning waterfalls can be found as well as the world’s second largest boiling lake. Unsurprisingly, the most popular and breath-taking waterfall is Trafalgar falls, where you can bathe in the natural pools.
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