| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 14th14 | DecDec | 202424 | Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda, embark on the Emerald Azzurra | | |
| With its superb beaches, historical attractions and beautiful coral reefs, Antigua provides a host of diversions. It is said that the island contains 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Antigua maintains its traditional West Indian character, with gingerbread-house style architecture, calypso music and carnival festivities. St John’s has been the administrative capital since the island’s colonisation in 1632, and has been the seat of government since it gained independence in 1981. From the port you can explore the colourful Redcliffe district, with its restored wooden houses, and Heritage Quay with its shopping mall and craft shops. The city has some fine examples of Colonial architecture, including the twin-towered cathedral, built in 1845 and considered one of the finest church buildings in the Caribbean. All coaches in Antigua are operated by smaller vehicles, and commentary will be given by a driver/guide. Your luxurious yacht cruise begins in St. John’s, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on your discovery of the Caribbean. Please book your flight to arrive into St John's prior to 04:00 PM. |
| 15th15 | DecDec | 202424 | Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy | | |
| You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats. The capital of the lovely Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy, Gustavia was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own exclusive island getaway in 1785. In this vibrant city, uncover distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping enclave, photograph the brightly painted wooden houses, and feast on unique cuisine that fuses French and Creole culinary influences. DiscoverMORE
Discover St. Barths (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Experience the beauty and charm of St. Barts on a comprehensive island discovery tour led by the knowledgeable and friendly guide. As Ernest navigates through the bustling streets of Gustavia, you'll have the opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this picturesque Caribbean town. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and iconic landmarks as you journey around the island, with several stops planned along the way to enrich your understanding of St. Barts rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes DiscoverMORE
Snorkelling tour (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Enjoy an exhilarating snorkelling adventure exploring the crystal-clear waters surrounding Gustavia. In Colombier Bay, you can swim alongside colourful fish, discover coral formations, and soak in the natural beauty of this pristine underwater paradise. After, you set sail to Gros Ilets, another fantastic snorkelling spot located at the entrance of Gustavia. Here, you'll continue your underwater exploration, encountering a diverse array of marine species in this thriving ecosystem.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours Opportunity to spend the day swimming off the yacht and enjoying our marina toys. |
| 16th16 | DecDec | 202424 | Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda | | |
Barbuda is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, northeast of the island of Antigua. It is one of the two islands that make up the country of Antigua and Barbuda, along with Antigua. The island is known for its stunning beaches, including the famous Pink Sandy Beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is also home to several wildlife reserves, including the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island has a strong sense of community and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful and secluded getaway. Today choose between our Included Excursion or our EmeraldACTIVE option. Included Excursion
Highlights of Barbuda
Revel in the unique and exclusive opportunity to explore Antigua’s sister island, Barbuda. Known for its stunning pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the renowned Frigate Bird Sanctuary, this excursion offers a comprehensive look at Barbuda’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours EmeraldACTIVE
Hiking tour
Experience the natural beauty and intriguing history of Barbuda with a guided hike to the island's famous caves. This excursion offers a mix of adventure, stunning landscapes, and fascinating geological formations. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from the meeting point to the starting location of the hike. Here, your knowledgeable guide will provide an overview of the trail and what to expect. The hike will take you through diverse terrain, including sandy paths, rocky sections, and lush vegetation.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes |
| 17th17 | DecDec | 202424 | Îles des Saintes, Guadeloupe | | |
| This small group of islands lies opposite the western part of Guadeloupe. They were discovered in November 1493 by Columbus, who named them Los Santos. French settlers established themselves in 1648 and changed the name to Iles des Saintes, commonly known as Les Saintes. Since then the islands have been closely connected with Guadeloupe. Until a recent influx of tourism, Les Saintes were among the Caribbean’s most unspoiled destinations. Only two of the eight islands are inhabited: Terre-de-Bas and Terre-de-Haut. The latter is known for its impressive Fort Napoleon built in the early 19th century to replace an earlier 17th-century fort. From its vantage point there are fine views of the many tiny islets scattered in the bay and across to Guadeloupe. Terre-de-Haut is the main island of Les Saintes, with steeply scarped hills, scenic valleys, hidden coves and beautiful beaches. Its main settlement consists of a charming village of red-roofed houses situated along a curving bay. A number of small boutiques and gift shops invite browsing. Quaint cafés and restaurants offer food and drink. To the east of the village lies Grande Anse, a fine sand beach. Most of the attractions on this small island can be seen on foot. With just a few vehicles on the island, there are no organized tours possible. Time ashore here is at your leisure. Îles des Saintes, known as Les Saintes, is a miniature archipelago of eight tropical islands with a distinctive French and Caribbean culture fusion. Discover the quaint towns, with their collection of petite stone buildings and small white-sand beaches. Don’t miss Fort Napoleon, a significant historical site with incredible views of one of the islands. DiscoverMORE
Snorkelling tour (extra expense)
Admire the tropical beauty of Isles des Saintes with this panoramic sightseeing and snorkelling excursion in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean paradise. Your guide will provide interesting commentary about the history and natural beauty of these islets, making it a captivating journey. You will explore the underwater world, encountering colourful fish, coral reefs, and other marine creatures.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes DiscoverMORE
Fort Napoleon's and views of paradise (extra expense)
Embark on a cultural journey through history and local charm as you explore the quaint village and iconic Fort Napoleon,an historic fortress originally constructed for defence against British invasions. Venture into the heart of the village to uncover its hidden gems, visit the local church and wander through its small streets lined with charming houses. Indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Tourment d'Amour, a delectable local cake made with coconut and ham.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours |
| 18th18 | DecDec | 202424 | Deshaies, Guadeloupe | | |
Located on the northwest shores of the Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe, this picturesque village is renowned for its traditional fishing village atmosphere, colourful Creole architecture, and stunning beaches framed by verdant hills. Not surprisingly, Deshaies has emerged as a popular destination, attracting visitors with its friendly locals, and delicious French-Caribbean cuisine. DiscoverMORE
Tropical World Discovery (extra expense)
Explore the vibrant heart of the Guadeloupe Archipelago with a journey to the Botanical Garden in Deshaies. Just a short ten-minute drive from the pier, this lush oasis awaits, created by the visionary M. Michel Gaillard. As you wander through the garden's winding paths, immerse yourself in a sensory delight of exotic scents and vivid colours. Admire the stunning collections of flora, including the delicate wax rose, fiery red ginger, vibrant bougainvillea, and graceful orchids.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours |
| 19th19 | DecDec | 202424 | Norman Island, British Virgin Islands | | |
Renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Norman Island offers a variety of activities, including hiking trails and caves to explore. The island is also steeped in pirate lore, with local legend implying that this was a favourite hiding spot for pirates who buried their treasure on the island; hence why it has been nicknamed ‘Treasure Island’ by locals and visitors alike. Without doubt, this is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil and alluring tropical getaway. Today, you will enjoy a barbeque on shore together with your fellow travellers. EmeraldPLUS
BBQ lunch on fully equipped beach with live band
Enjoy a fully equipped beach, complete with lounge chairs, vibrant beach umbrellas, and powdery white sand beneath your feet. Settle in for a delicious BBQ lunch, surrounded by the laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear ocean. As you indulge in your meal, the sound of live music floats through the air, courtesy of a talented local band. Their Caribbean rhythms and soulful melodies have you swaying to the beat, feeling carefree and relaxed. DiscoverMORE
Snorkel at The Caves and The Indians (extra expense)
Embark on an unforgettable snorkelling adventure around the legendary Norman Island in the British Virgin Islands. This excursion combines scenic boat rides, historical intrigue, and prime snorkelling spots, making it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Depending on sea and weather conditions, you will either explore the Indians, known for its vibrant marine life and coral formations, or the Caves at Treasure Point, reputed to be a hiding spot for pirate treasure and immortalized in Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous book "Treasure Island." Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the underwater world teeming with colourful fish, corals, and maybe even glimpses of hidden treasures.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes |
| 20th20 | DecDec | 202424 | Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands | | |
The Island of Virgin Gorda, named after its resemblance to a reclining woman, is part of the British Virgin Islands and popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous, a series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders formed by volcanic eruptions. DiscoverMORE
The Baths discovery (extra expense)
Experience the natural wonders of Virgin Gorda with a scenic tour across the island and an exploration of the famous Baths beaches. This excursion offers a blend of breathtaking views, fascinating geological formations, and leisurely beach activities. Begin your adventure by boarding open-air safari buses at the tender dock. Take in the stunning views of the island's lush landscapes and turquoise waters on the way to the Top of the Baths, the highlight of Virgin Gorda, renowned for its unique granite boulders and crystal-clear waters. Learn about the origin of these fascinating rock formations as you roam through this natural wonderland.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours Opportunity to spend the day swimming off the yacht and enjoying our marina toys. |
| 21st21 | DecDec | 202424 | Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, disembark the Emerald Azzurra | | |
| If you fly to the 32-square-mile (83-square-km) island of St. Thomas, you land at its western end; if you arrive by cruise ship, you come into one of the world's most beautiful harbors. Either way, one of your first sights is the town of Charlotte Amalie. From the harbor you see an idyllic-looking village that spreads into the lower hills. If you were expecting a quiet hamlet with its inhabitants hanging out under palm trees, you've missed that era by about 300 years. Although other islands in the USVI developed plantation economies, St. Thomas cultivated its harbor, and it became a thriving seaport soon after it was settled by the Danish in the 1600s. The success of the naturally perfect harbor was enhanced by the fact that the Danes—who ruled St. Thomas with only a couple of short interruptions from 1666 to 1917—avoided involvement in some 100 years' worth of European wars. Denmark was the only European country with colonies in the Caribbean to stay neutral during the War of the Spanish Succession in the early 1700s. Thus, products of the Dutch, English, and French islands—sugar, cotton, and indigo—were traded through Charlotte Amalie, along with the regular shipments of slaves. When the Spanish wars ended, trade fell off, but by the end of the 1700s Europe was at war again, Denmark again remained neutral, and St. Thomas continued to prosper. Even into the 1800s, while the economies of St. Croix and St. John foundered with the market for sugarcane, St. Thomas's economy remained vigorous. This prosperity led to the development of shipyards, a well-organized banking system, and a large merchant class. In 1845 Charlotte Amalie had 101 large importing houses owned by the English, French, Germans, Haitians, Spaniards, Americans, Sephardim, and Danes. Charlotte Amalie is still one of the world's most active cruise-ship ports. On almost any day at least one and sometimes as many as eight cruise ships are tied to the docks or anchored outside the harbor. Gently rocking in the shadows of these giant floating hotels are just about every other kind of vessel imaginable: sleek sailing catamarans that will take you on a sunset cruise complete with rum punch and a Jimmy Buffett soundtrack, private megayachts for billionaires, and barnacle-bottom sloops—with laundry draped over the lifelines—that are home to world-cruising gypsies. Huge container ships pull up in Sub Base, west of the harbor, bringing in everything from breakfast cereals to tires. Anchored right along the waterfront are down-island barges that ply the waters between the Greater Antilles and the Leeward Islands, transporting goods such as refrigerators, VCRs, and disposable diapers. The waterfront road through Charlotte Amalie was once part of the harbor. Before it was filled in to build the highway, the beach came right up to the back door of the warehouses that now line the thoroughfare. Two hundred years ago those warehouses were filled with indigo, tobacco, and cotton. Today the stone buildings house silk, crystal, and diamonds. Exotic fragrances are still traded, but by island beauty queens in air-conditioned perfume palaces instead of through open market stalls. The pirates of old used St. Thomas as a base from which to raid merchant ships of every nation, though they were particularly fond of the gold- and silver-laden treasure ships heading to Spain. Pirates are still around, but today's versions use St. Thomas as a drop-off for their contraband: illegal immigrants and drugs. To explore outside Charlotte Amalie, rent a car or hire a taxi. Your rental car should come with a good map; if not, pick up the pocket-size "St. Thomas–St. John Road Map" at a tourist information center. Roads are marked with route numbers, but they're confusing and seem to switch numbers suddenly. Roads are also identified by signs bearing the St. Thomas–St. John Hotel and Tourism Association's mascot, Tommy the Starfish. More than 100 of these color-coded signs line the island's main routes. Orange signs trace the route from the airport to Red Hook, green signs identify the road from town to Magens Bay, Tommy's face on a yellow background points from Mafolie to Crown Bay through the north side, red signs lead from Smith Bay to Four Corners via Skyline Drive, and blue signs mark the route from the cruise-ship dock at Havensight to Red Hook. These color-coded routes are not marked on most visitor maps, however. Allow yourself a day to explore, especially if you want to stop to take pictures or to enjoy a light bite or refreshing swim. Most gas stations are on the island's more populated eastern end, so fill up before heading to the north side. And remember to drive on the left! Your Emerald Cruises luxury voyage draws to a close in Saint Thomas. From the yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home or continue your holiday. Please book your flight to depart out of St Thomas after 11:00 AM. *Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. |
