“Windward Islands yacht charter: island hopping with nature reserves, reefs, and warm water.”
Welcome to the enchanting Windward Islands, a tropical paradise best explored aboard a yacht. Imagine sailing to Mustique Island, where pristine beaches create the perfect private haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. For an unforgettable underwater adventure, make your way to the Tobago Cays—a protected marine park and wildlife sanctuary nestled in the southern Grenadines, just east of Mayreau and Union Island. This cluster of small, uninhabited islands, including gems like Petit Bateau and Petite Martinique, is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and a natural protective barrier. The calm lagoon here is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and diving among colorful coral formations and teeming marine life. The marine park is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, offering visitors the rare chance to encounter unique species and immerse themselves in the wonders of the Caribbean underwater world. Remember, protecting these delicate coral reefs and marine creatures is vital to preserving this pristine environment for generations to come.
Next, set sail to Grenada’s Molinere Bay to discover a truly unique underwater sculpture park. Located in the southern Caribbean, just north of Trinidad and Tobago and south of Saint Vincent, Grenada serves as a fantastic base for exploring nearby islands. This extraordinary site on the west coast blends art and nature, creating an ethereal underwater gallery that captivates and inspires all who visit. Over in Martinique, you can embark on some of the island’s most scenic hiking trails. Whether you prefer guided hikes or exploring on your own, you’ll find lush landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints along carefully curated routes.
Windward Islands Yacht Charter in Pictures
Top Tips for your Windward Islands Yacht Charter
Frequently Asked Questions
PLANNING YOUR WINDWARD ISLANDS YACHT CHARTER
What is the best time of year for a luxury yacht charter in the Windward Islands?
The ideal time for a luxury yacht charter in the Windward Islands is between December and May. April is an especially popular month for certain activities and optimal weather conditions in the region. During this period, the weather is generally sunny, humidity is lower, and trade winds provide excellent sailing conditions. This is considered the high season, offering calm seas, perfect for exploring islands, enjoying water sports, and taking part in on-water activities.
What is the weather like in the Windward Islands during the prime charter season?
During the prime yacht charter season, temperatures typically range from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. Trade winds from the east create ideal conditions for sailing, while rainfall is minimal compared with the wetter months of June through November. The abundance of sun during this period makes it important to use sun protection, such as sunscreen, when enjoying outdoor activities. This makes the region excellent for outdoor activities, sunbathing, and scenic cruising.
Which airports provide the most convenient access to the Windward Islands?
The main airports for accessing the Windward Islands include Martinique’s Aimé Césaire International Airport, Saint Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport, Saint Vincent’s Argyle International Airport, and Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport. Smaller inter-island airports and ferry services make it simple to transfer between islands, allowing seamless embarkation and flexible itineraries for your Windward Islands yacht charter/
VAT & Charter Costs
What is the applicable VAT or tax rate for a luxury yacht charter in the Windward Islands?
Most Windward Islands do not charge VAT on foreign yacht charters. However, local taxes, port fees, or harbour dues may apply depending on the island and itinerary. Your yacht broker will provide precise details for each destination.
What is the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) and what does it cover?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a sum paid in advance to cover charter expenses that are not included in the charter fee. These may include fuel for the yacht, tenders and water sports equipment, food and beverages, berthing dues and harbour charges, local taxes, divers’ fees, customs formalities, waste disposal, water and electricity taken from shore, ships’ agents’ fees (where applicable), personal laundry, communications and internet use, and any special equipment requested by the Charterer. The Captain will provide detailed accounts of expenditure, and any balance will be settled at the end of your Windward Islands yacht charter.
What is the standard percentage for gratuities in yachting?
Gratuities are not included in the charter fee. It is customary, though always at the Charterer’s discretion, to leave a gratuity in recognition of excellent service. As a guideline, a gratuity in the region of 10 to 15 per cent of the contracted gross Charter Fee is considered appropriate.
Destinations & Experiences in the Windward Islands
What are the most exclusive yacht charter destinations around the Windward Islands?
Exclusive yacht charter destinations in the Windward Islands include Grenada and the Grenadines, with notable islands such as Mustique, Bequia, Canouan, Union Island, and the Tobago Cays. Grenada is situated in the southern part of the Windward Islands, offering unique attractions, natural beauty, and a vibrant culture. The Grenadines are renowned for their stunning scenery and are a favorite for sailing and tourism, with Saltwhistle Bay in Mayreau standing out as a must-visit anchorage for its scenic beauty and tranquil waters. These islands offer privacy, pristine beaches, luxury accommodations, and calm waters for anchoring, making them popular among high-net-worth clients.
Which iconic attractions should I explore during my Windward Islands yacht charter?
Iconic attractions during your Windward Islands yacht charter include the Pitons in Saint Lucia, the mineral-rich Diamond Falls in Martinique, and the Tobago Cays marine park. The underwater sculpture park in Grenada offers a unique diving and snorkeling experience, showcasing vibrant marine life and art beneath the waves. Grand Etang National Park in Grenada is a top destination for hiking and observing wildlife in a lush rainforest setting. The Windward Islands also boast a rich history, with influences from indigenous cultures and colonial heritage shaping the region. Conservation sites, picturesque harbours, and scenic coastal villages provide additional highlights, and visitors have the chance to observe rare and endemic species in the islands’ parks and marine areas for a diverse yacht charter experience.
What bespoke experiences and activities can I enjoy while sailing in the Windward Islands?
There are many options for a yacht charter vacation in the Windward Islands, including day trips by tender to small islands and uninhabited islands such as Petit Bateau and Petite Martinique. This region is situated in the southern Caribbean and is surrounded by pristine waters, vibrant reefs, and a protected lagoon, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and observing diverse wildlife and fish species. Guided cultural tours, local culinary experiences, and visits to boutique resorts and hidden coves can be arranged for a truly personalised experience.
Charterers also can enjoy private beach picnics on secluded islands, scuba diving and snorkelling among coral reefs, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
Where are the best restaurants and culinary experiences in the Windward Islands?
Some of the best dining experiences that you can have during your yacht charter include Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke for a lively beachfront atmosphere, The Sugar Mill in Tortola for fine dining, CocoMaya on Virgin Gorda for Asian-fusion cuisine, The Dove in Road Town for gourmet dishes with island views, and the Anegada Lobster Shack for freshly caught local seafood.
