Epic Voyage: Sint Maarten to Barbados

Your exciting Eastern Caribbean journey begins in Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, located on the Dutch side of Saint Martin. Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of your memorable yacht cruise into paradise. Please book your flight to arrive into Sint Maarten prior to 05:00 PM.

Today, you’ll cruise to the southwestern coast and lush hills of St. Kitts  for Basseterre, one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean and vibrant capital of dual-island nation, St. Kitts and Nevis, Basseterre’s storied colonial history is reflected in the striking architecture of several buildings, including Georgian structures that date back to the British colonial era.  The bustling harbour area is particularly noteworthy, providing a picturesque backdrop for the port city and a fascinating place to explore.

Welcome to beautiful Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands, justifiably popular for its diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat rides amid crystalline waters brimming with multi-coloured marine life. This low-lying island of coral and limestone dazzles all who are fortunate enough to visit, with its distinctive scenery of swaying palm trees, old plantation houses and vivid, viridian waters contrasting with powdery white sand beaches.

Enjoy your two days exploring the island of Virgin Gorda, so named, as its shape resembles a reclining woman. Part of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders, formed by volcanic eruptions.

Enjoy your two days exploring the island of Virgin Gorda, so named, as its shape resembles a reclining woman. Part of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders, formed by volcanic eruptions.

During your two-day stop, you’ll find plenty of time to explore Gustavia, capital of the chic Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy. This charming city was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785.  Today, stroll along the vibrant streets, uncovering distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region and photographing the city’s iconic, brightly painted wooden houses. Be sure to also feast on the unique local cuisine, a delicious blend of French and Creole influences.

During your two-day stop, you’ll find plenty of time to explore Gustavia, capital of the chic Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy. This charming city was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785.  Today, stroll along the vibrant streets, uncovering distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region and photographing the city’s iconic, brightly painted wooden houses. Be sure to also feast on the unique local cuisine, a delicious blend of French and Creole influences.

After breakfast, you can explore Philipsburg, Sint Marteen, renowned for its vibrant blend of French and Dutch influences. The town is set right on a long white sand beach and is one of the best places in the Caribbean for designer shopping. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second leg of your journey exploring the Eastern Caribbean islands.

The island of Virgin Gorda, so named because it resembles a reclining woman, is part of the gorgeous British Virgin Islands and popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders formed by volcanic eruptions.

Today, you’ll arrive in Gustavia, the capital of the Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy (also known as St. Barths). Gustavia was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785. In this vibrant city, uncover distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region, photograph the brightly painted, historic wooden houses, and feast on cuisine with a unique blend of French-Creole influences.

Welcome to Nevis and Saint Kitts, a dual-island nation located in the Lesser Antilles archipelago of the West Indies, in the sparkling Caribbean Sea; Nevis is the smaller island of the two. Fringed with unspoilt curves of powdery white sand, this volcanic island is dotted with Georgian-era buildings, remnants of former sugar plantations and beach-shack eateries.

The capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. John’s welcomes with a vibrant and fascinating blend of rich history, beautiful beaches and a lively culture. St John’s is also the gateway to other key attractions on the island, such as the historic Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights.

Known as Les Saintes, delightful Îles des Saintes presents a miniature archipelago of eight tropical islands with a distinctive fusion of French and Caribbean culture. Discover quaint villages revealing a collection of petite stone buildings and small, white sand beaches. Don’t miss a visit to Fort Napoleon, a significant historical site, which also provides incredible views of one of the islands.

Today, you’ll arrive in Soufrière, the original capital of Saint Lucia, and dramatically located in the Qualibou Depression, the crater of a dormant volcano. Here, you can indulge in therapeutic mud baths and sulphur springs as well as admire Saint Lucia’s iconic pair of lava domes, Gros Piton and Petit Piton – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to sample the delicious local cuisine, savouring anything from green figs and salt fish to traditional callaloo soup made with fresh crab or shrimp.

After breakfast, take your time exploring Bridgetown, renowned for its cultural diversity, bustling cultural scene, fantastic shopping and delicious cuisine. The historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautifully preserved example of British colonial settlements in the Caribbean. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the final part of your journey to the Grenadines and Windward Islands.

This morning, you’ll depart Bridgetown and cruise to Speightstown. This charming town, located on the north-west coast of Barbados is famed for its rich history, vibrant culture and picturesque setting. Speightstown features an eclectic mix of colonial-era buildings, colourful shops, and modest residences. Many buildings here reflect the islands rich architectural heritage and come painted in distinctive pastel hues.

Welcome to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a beautiful island-nation in the Caribbean Sea. The capital, Kingstown, is clustered around the bay on the island of Saint Vincent and offers excellent shopping and dining. Visit St. George’s Anglican Cathedral, an elegant Georgian-style church built around 1820, resplendent with colourful stained-glass windows. In the afternoon, your luxury yacht will sail onwards to Bequia Island.

Embedded in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Bequia Island  reveals a hidden paradise, with secluded peaceful spots and distinct lack of traffic. The island offers visitors a chance to experience an authentic Caribbean lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of mainstream beach tourism. Here, you can explore untouched pristine beaches and relax and unwind amid stunning natural beauty.

Today, you’ll arrive in Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines inhabited islands, measuring just 4—four-square kilometres (1.5-square miles), with a population of approximately 250 residents. From the charming church at the top of the island’s highest hill, on a clear day, you can see both Grenada and Saint Vincent islands, along with the vivid colours of the coral reefs and waters surrounding the Tobago Cays. In the evening, you’ll set sail for Union Island.

Union Island is renowned for its clear and calm turquoise waters and laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Enjoy the stunning white-sand beaches encircled by lush tropical mountains and a tempting range of beachfront bars and restaurants. Today, why not spend a blissful day swimming and snorkelling off your yacht’s Marina Platform, enjoying Emerald Cruises complimentary array of exciting aquatic toys.

Today, we set sail for Tobago Cays, an awe-inspiring archipelago known universally as the ultimate paradise destination. Naturally, this is a popular yachting anchorage spot, where warm, sandy bottomed aquamarine waters are brimming with turtles, tropical fish, stingrays, and starfish. One of the islands beyond the reef, Petit Tabac, is where the popular film franchise, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ (2017) was partly filmed.

Your time on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end, returning to beautiful Bridgetown, Barbados. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guests, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home, or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Bridgetown after 01:00 PM. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.