Windward Islands yacht charter guide: Volcanoes, rainforests and Caribbean adventure

St Lucia

One of the most naturally beautiful islands in the Caribbean, St Lucia is a tropical paradise, home to numerous volcanic and white sand beaches, hot springs and pretty coves. Cruising around the island you will have plenty of opportunity to step ashore and discover both the natural wonders and the man-made variety. The iconic St Lucia Pitons dominate the skyline – a titanic pair of dormant jungle-covered volcanic peaks rising 800m (2,625ft) high in sheer walls from the sea. Anchor beneath them and take the tender ashore to hike Gros Piton, or if you have a head for heights you can even zip wire down through the rainforest.

But the island shouldn’t just be explored on foot. On a St Lucia yacht charter, don your snorkelling gear and head beneath the surface to discover the vibrant marine life. During the winter months, watch the migrating whales, or swim with turtles at Anse Cochon. Whether hiking up a volcano, taking Caribbean rainforest tours and snorkelling forays, or sampling rum punch in an unpretentious bar, St Lucia really has it all.

St Vincent and the Grenadines

Oozing unspoilt charm, St Vincent and the Grenadines is a multi-island nation of secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back tropical rhythm. From the dramatic, rainforest-cloaked peaks of Saint Vincent to the palm-fringed islets of the Grenadines, it offers a wilder, more untouched side of the Caribbean.

Sprinkled in the clear waters between St Vincent and Grenada, the Grenadines form a 96km (60 mile) chain of coral reefs, white-sand cays and tiny islets, each with its own character. Bequia is among the most lively, with bustling Port Elizabeth offering shops, restaurants, and an easy local charm, while nearby Mustique is the epitome of barefoot luxury. Further south, the Tobago Cays promise deserted beaches and exceptional snorkelling, while Union Island is a sailor’s delight with pretty anchorages and bars and restaurants ashore. A stone’s throw from Union Island, Petit St Vincent is your own offers total seclusion, while Carriacou, aka ‘Island of Reefs’, is perfect for diving.

On a Grenadines yacht charter, you’ll be able to spontaneously flit from idyll to idyll along the stunning islands – with your private yacht the key to unlocking the best of this nation.

Grenada

Known as the 'spice island', mountainous Grenada is covered with fragrant spice trees and lush green scenery, with miles of pure white sands almost encircling the island. As you draw near this southernmost of the Windward Islands, the fresh ocean breeze mingles with the aroma of spices carried on the trade winds and will permeate your senses. 

On a Grenada yacht charter, step ashore to enjoy the island’s verdant volcanic rainforest landscape as you go in search of waterfalls, embark on tours of old spice plantations and ancient rum distilleries, and explore the Grand Etang Forest Reserve – one of the finest natural areas in the whole Caribbean, it is filled with towering bamboo, razor grass, wildflowers, and the crystal-clear Grand Etang Lake. After an adventurous day ashore, cool off with a swim around the gentle bay of Grand Anse Beach – without doubt the best beach on the island.

Martinique

Martinique brings together the rhythm of the Caribbean with unmistakable French sophistication, making it one of the region’s most rewarding yacht charter destinations. From volcanic peaks and rainforest-covered interiors to secluded anchorages and chic waterfront villages, the island offers a rich contrast of experiences both ashore and at sea. Cruise along the rugged Atlantic coast, drop anchor in calm bays on the Caribbean side, and discover a culinary scene that blends Creole flavour with French finesse.

Whether exploring vibrant markets in Fort-de-France, diving in crystal-clear waters, or enjoying long lunches overlooking the marina in Le Marin, on a Martinique yacht charter you can enjoy an experience that feels effortlessly refined, yet deeply authentic.

The Tobago Cays

Movie buffs might recognise the four islets that make up the Tobago Cays, having provided some of the backdrops for the Hollywood blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean. An archipelago located in St Vincent and the Grenadines, they’re ringed by pristine, white sand beaches and clear azure waters. On a Tobago Cays yacht charter, anchor between Petit Rameau and Petite Bateau and swim and snorkel in the kaleidoscope of colourful waters that are protected by the famous horseshoe reef.

A sample 10-day Windward Islands superyacht charter itinerary

A luxury Caribbean yacht charter from St Lucia to Grenada showcases the region at its very best, taking you from the dramatic volcanic peaks of the north to the laid-back coral cays and spice islands of the south. Meet your yacht in St Lucia, anchoring beneath the majestic Pitons and exploring the island’s many adventures before an open-water passage to the Grenadines. A Bequia yacht stop, just south of St Vincent, offers some of the Caribbean’s best snorkelling and exhilarating drift dives.

From there, a short sail brings you to the exclusive island of Mustique. With its eclectic atmosphere, Mustique has attracted famous names and royalty for more than 50 years. Visit during peak season for glamorous New Year’s Eve parties, or at quieter times for peaceful days and sundowners at the famous Basil’s Bar.