The capital of Sint Maarten, Philipsburg straddles the narrow strip of land between Great Bay and Great Salt Pond. It was founded way back in the 18th century and has been the commercial buzzing hub ever since. Colorful and charming, Philipsburg brims with Dutch vibes, boasting a scenic boardwalk, fabulous shopping, and numerous spots for sipping a heady rum cocktail or two. For charter guests wanting to lap up the night life, Philipsburg won’t disappoint. Roll the dice at the casino, dine in style, and splurge on jewellery, designer wares, and perfumes over on Front Street. For those craving a little more nature, there’s the sprawling nature sanctuary of Loterie Farm with hiking trails and waterfalls and Simpsons Bay Lagoon for lounging.
Six miles north of Roa Bay, two charming uninhabited islands sit side by side, divided by a slither of salty blue. This is Prickly Pear Cay. The west side of Prickly Pear is all rocky reefs and with the eastern cay comes shrubs, but for those who push through to the north side - a long sweeping peach beach awaits you. Along with still shallow waters for frolicking and colourful reefs for snorkeling, Prickly Pear Cay is home to a flurry of bright birds and the local canaries will even eat straight from your hand. There’s lunch spots on the island for those who want to dig their heels in the sand and feast on fresh lobster. From oceanside massages to kayaking and exploring by seabob, Prickly Cay is well set-up for all the fun in the sun.
Believed to have earned its name from resembling a canine shape, Dog Island is just 6 miles out from the mainland of Anguilla. A private island of just over 500 acres, Dog Island is just beyond Prickly Pear Cay and Seal Island, making it a great stop in the yacht charter chain. Mangroves, cacti, sea grapes and prickly pear cloak the island in varying shades of flora but what truly makes the island stand out are the sky full of seabirds. With over a hundred thousand pairs of seabirds on the island and 43 different bird species, Dog Island is a dreamy location for nature lovers. Those who snorkel around the protected marine park reefs may also glimpse endangered turtles including the Leatherback, the Hawksbill, and the Green Sea Turtle too. Bright white sands and turquoise seas set the scene for the ultimate beach experience.
The third largest island of the BVI, is located at about 12 miles from Tortola, on the western side of Aguilla. The name Virgin Gorda is said to have been given by Christopher Columbus, who thought the shape of the island resembled a woman lying on her side, giving rise to the name "Fat Virgin". This is the quintessential Caribbean destination, with natural beauty, national parks, unspoiled beaches, safe anchorages & quiet coves for you to explore. One of the island's most well known attractions is "The Baths", which are an unusual geological formation of huge granite boulders lying on the beach, which form scenic grottos and pools.
Named after an early Dutch settler, Jost Van Dyke is a small picturesque island northwest of Tortola. At 4 miles long, the island is home to only a few hundred permanent residents and is known for its idyllic yacht anchorages. It is the ideal spot for those who want to get away from it all. You will be spoiled by its lush green forests, powdery beaches, turquoise waters and not much else!
With most of St John being swallowed up by a national park - it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most tempting destinations in the US Virgin Islands. Imagine a tiny ripe universe of carved out coves, rich coral reefs, and emerald waters. Diving and snorkeling are of course a must do activity where you can encounter over 500 species of fish and over 40 species of coral.
Touch base at Francis Bay before taking the tender or kayak to explore those lesser known corners. Be sure to spend a little while falling in love with the famed Trunk Bay (AKA one of the most picture perfect stretches of sand in the whole of the Caribbean).
For those charter guests who want a sprinkle of history, take the hike up to the nearby Catherineberg Ruins. This is the oldest plantation in St John and it’s mill dates all the way back to the 18th century. Afterwards, stroll down to the little town and delight in the buzzy local markets where local art and crafts can be bartered, bought, and treasured.
A jewel in the crown of the US Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay is forever collecting accolades for being one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Backed by dark green forests that run down to meet the satin-colored sands and the endless hues of blue, Trunk Bay is perfect for dropping anchor with a rum in hand or ducking underwater to follow the coral trail. There’s something about Trunk Bay that seems gloriously untouched.
The coral trail runs on for 225 yards and teems with coral and coloured fish. For those who prefer to prop up on the sands, the beach is well served with sun chairs, food and drink stands, and everything you need to stay put in paradise all day.
Peter Island lies 4 kilometers from the island of Tortola, and is a hotspot for Caribbean luxury charters. It is the largest private island in the BVI. As it is largely underdeveloped, featuring only one hotel, you can enjoy nature trails and walks to discover the wonderful fauna & flora, and enjoy the idyllic Deadman's Bay beach. You will also be able to spot various species of turtle around the island and dive or snorkel to discover the beauty offered by the surorundings.
We disembark in Road Town, Tortola. The busy harbour is the charter boat capital of the Caribbean and with good reason – along with some interesting ruins and the fabulous National Park at the top of Mount Sage, Tortola offers spectacular powdery white, sandy beaches offering wonderful snorkeling opportunities with fantastic restaurants & bars which serve local brew.