Port of Call

BY LORI EASTES | PHOTOS BY QUIN BISSET

Island Hopping

The Caribbean is calling: Escape from it all by exploring the glamorous and gorgeous Leeward Islands.

The Caribbean offers a great expanse of islands to explore. If you enjoy the vibe of The Exumas, get set for a similar, equally grand adventure in the nearby Leeward Islands. Comprised of seven main islands within proximity of each other, this northernmost chain of islands located in the West Indies boasts calm sailing waters and a breezy reprieve from the tropical sunshine. Take time to experience the unique atmosphere of each island during your tour of this breathtaking archipelago.

Anguilla

Begin your journey in Anguilla, an idyllic island offering a variety of adventures. Walk along one of the gorgeous ivory sand beaches as you drink in views of the crystal clear seas, or find a secluded cove to enjoy a peaceful day on the water enjoying the sublime scenery. Head to Big Spring Cave, where you can decipher the prehistoric petroglyphs before making your way to Scilly Cay, a well-known restaurant that serves barbequed lobster that will leave you wanting more.

St. Maarten/St. Martin

Experience the best of two cultures on this beautiful island, known as St. Maarten in Dutch and St. Martin in French. Visit one of the world’s most exceptional beaches, Orient Bay, located on the French half of the island, before dropping in at the Sunset Bar and Grill, located to the southwest on the Dutch side of the island. Wind down your day by sipping on rum punch as the sun drenches you with its tropical rays.

St. Barths

A popular destination among socialites and celebrities, this exclusive and lavish island offers the ultimate in luxury shopping and opulent cuisine. Gaze at the glistening superyachts and megayachts filling the harbors and cruising along the aqua-colored waters. Tour Gustavia, the capital of the island nestled between the headlands and the cliffs, to learn about the unique culture and rich history of the island. Before making the short jaunt to Antigua, take in the natural beauty; the powder fine sand beaches complement the rustic red roofs dotting the island between the lush green landscapes.

Antigua

With 365 beaches to choose from, you could spend the whole year exploring the shimmery beaches of this tropical heaven. Make your way to the south coast, a pristine location for thrill -seekers wishing to fill their day with water sports or leisure-seekers wishing to spend the afternoon on tranquil beaches. End your Antigua experience by driving up to Shirley Heights Lookout, the best place to watch the stunning Caribbean sunset.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Arguably the most primitive of the Leeward Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis presents old-world style and vintage Caribbean charm. The unique landscape here allows for a wide variety of activities. On land, hike through the lush rainforests past the lively monkeys to the dormant Mount Liamuiga volcano. In the water, dive through the hull of a sunken freighter ship as you swim past the colorful marine life

Montserrat

Named by Christopher Columbus, this island has been influenced by a variety of cultures over the past centuries, giving it a one-of-a-kind vibe. Start your day with a delicious beach picnic before taking the tender to peer at the very active Soufriere Hills volcano. Located along the west coast, this volcano had Pompeii-like eruption in 1997, burying the island’s past capital city of Plymouth in ash. Before cruising to neighboring island of Guadeloupe, be sure to walk along the magnificent black sand beach.

Guadeloupe

Wind down your epic journey on the bustling island of Guadeloupe. Known for its butterfly shape that can be seen from the sky, you can choose from a wide variety of activities to do on the island or on the water. Walk through the sugar cane fields before making your way to the rum museum for an exquisite tasting. Find delight in this magical wonderland of golden beaches and shallow turquoise waters that extend as far as the eye can see. These glamorous and magnificent islands will leave you wanting yet another Caribbean vacation aboard your private yacht. Regardless of where you choose to visit, the vast and wonderous islands of the Caribbean are sure to be an experience of a lifetime.

Lori Eastes is thrilled to be on the team at Worth Avenue Yachts because chartering private yacht vacations combines everything she loves: party planning, travel, and boats. With a background in hospitality, Lori is committed to providing an unparalleled experience for her clients. To chat with Lori about making your yacht vacation a reality, give her a call at 206.209.1920.

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