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Windward Islands The Eastern Caribbean is comprised of two sets of islands, the Windwards and the Leewards. The Windward Islands lie to the southeast and are the first to receive the Trade Winds. The chain stretches from Martinique to Grenada and includes St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Grenadines are flat and sandy with extraordinary reefs under clear turquoise water, while mountains and lush tropics characterize the larger islands. The diverse terrain and combined beauty of the many islands in the archipelago make the Windwards an exceptional charter destination. Martinique is the largest of the Windwards and is known as “a little bit of France in the Caribbean.” The French ambience is immediately noticeable in the language and superb cuisine. The island distinguishes itself, however, as uniquely Caribbean. The rich soil produces sugar cane used to make rums considered among the world’s finest. Martinique is also known as the Isle of Flowers with an incredible variety of anthuriums. Diamond Rock, a landmark in the south, rises 600 feet from the sea. Cruising south to St. Lucia, consider a visit to the shops and restaurants at Rodney Bay, as well as the pristine Reduit beach. Marigot Bay, on the west coast, is a popular marina with many amenities. The signature twin coastal peaks of Les Pitons tower 2,000 feet above the southwest coast, not far from the quaint island town of Soufriere. Twenty miles southeast of St. Lucia is St. Vincent, capital of, and gateway to, the Grenadines. On the northwest tip of the island are the exhilarating waterfalls of Baleine, where clear mountain water plunges 60 feet as it makes its way to the sea. A nature trail through the rainforest leads to the volcanic crater of La Soufriere. An eight-mile sail south brings you to Bequia, the largest of the Grenadines. The white sands of Princess Margaret Beach greet you as you sail into Admiralty Bay. Fine shops, bars and restaurants line the waterfront. Colorful reefs off the shores of Bequia are great for snorkeling or diving. One look at the coastline scattered with traditional wooden boats being built and tended to on the beach shows why Bequia is a favorite among boating aficionados. Southern Bequia offers Friendship Bay, a horseshoe of calm water ideal for water sports. As you approach the turquoise waters and white coral sands of Mustique, you will know why many stars are attracted to this island gem. Stop for an island specialty drink at the place to be, Basil’s Bar, on the main harbor of Brittania Bay. After a short sail to Canouan, you can once again enjoy excellent diving through enchanting reefs. On the northern part of the island, take a stroll through the abandoned village, destroyed by a hurricane in 1921. Mayreau and the extraordinary underwater world of the Tobago Cays lie to the south of Canouan. Although the tiny islets are virtually deserted, people are drawn to these Cays for the impressive World’s End Reef and its unsurpassed coral gardens and marine life. Looking south, you will see Palm Island and the peak of the larger Union Island, where Clifton Harbor is the center of activity. In between these extraordinary islands that make up the Windwards, take the time to drop anchor, soak up the sun and observe the absolute beauty of your surroundings from the deck of your yacht. Contact Abiego Yacht Charters to realize this dream. |
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