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The Leeward Islands are a chain of islands in the eastern Caribbean that include, north to south, St Martin, St Barts, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat and Guadeloupe. Temperatures generally range from around
24°C in the winter to
29°C in the summer. With over 7,000 islands, the
Caribbean offers a multitude of choice. Explore nature up close and enjoy the amazing coral reefs, which makes for ideal conditions for scuba diving.
Visit the rainforests, discover the stunning waterfalls, which cascade over the mountains and view the mysterious volcanoes.
The small
island of
Anguilla offers over 30 glorious white beaches, considered by many to be the best in the
Caribbean. St Barts offers French sophistication, comfort and chic. The small
island of
Nevis is a reminder of the West Indies as they used to be, and
Antigua has warm steady winds, safe harbours and 365 beaches, all with an abundance of history. From the barefoot chic island of St Barts to the lively French/ Dutch island of St Martin/ St Maarten, both ashore and on the water, the diverse history and varied nationalities, cultures and cuisines make this island chain a microcosm of the world.
Antigua is one of the major yachting centres in the
Caribbean, with deeply indented bays and perfect sailing conditions year-round.
Jolly
Harbour is the largest marina, golf and beach resort in the
Caribbean.
Deep
Bay is just north of
Jolly
Harbour. Here, you can dive to the wreck of
Andes, a three-masted barque seven metres under the surface of the bay.
Another short hop away,
Five
Islands is a beautiful, protected bay situated between
Deep
Bay and
Jolly
Harbour. Anchor off
Hermitage
Beach and swim ashore to collect shells and snorkel at the entrance to the bay.
Depart Antigua early to arrive in
Nevis in the late afternoon. This outstanding island features lots of wonderful colonial architecture, as well as excellent diving opportunities. Those more interested in man-made exploration can visit the botanical garden or try their hand at archaeology.
Intoxicating St Kitts is only a brief sail away. Anchor in
White
House
Bay to explore Bug's Hole,
Shitten
Bay and the colonial Batik Factory. Contemplate the old enmity between the English and French as you admire the wonderful fort on Brimstone Hill and embark for an exhilarating sail to St Barts.
Tiny St Barts has no large resorts, casinos or golf courses: It makes do with elegance, history, gastronomy and shopping, as embodied by the delightful capital Gustavia. Don't forget to visit some of the beaches on the windward side of the island.
St Martin's secluded beaches, lavish accommodations and dining experiences are among the best in the
Caribbean. Anchor off Grand Case and dine in any one of the varied establishments onshore. Take time to explore Marigot, the picturesque capital of the French side.
Popular
Leeward islands
St. Martin--The Dutch side has the casinos and duty free shopping; the French side has charming
Marigot
Bay with many cafes and beautiful anchorages.
St. Bart's--St. Bart's is home to the "rich and famous". This island is filled with excellent shopping, dining and the right mix of beaches and views.
Antigua--British base under Lord Nelson, filled with great beaches. A yacht charter paradise,
English
Harbor is filled with sailing charter yachts and the Antigua Yacht Club typically hosts the larger mega charter yachts.
Antigua is the largest of the British Leeward Islands.
St. Kitts and Nevis--Mountainous islands basking in the blue waters of the
Caribbean sea with idyllic beaches and rain forests.
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