Caribbean Enchantment: roundtrip Antigua

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 enchanting Caribbean voyage begins in St. John’s, capital of the island-nation of Antigua and Barbuda. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on your marvellous discovery of the Eastern Caribbean and the Grenadines.

Please book your flight to arrive into St John's prior to 03:00 PM.

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.

Known as Les Saintes, Îles des Saintes, is a miniature archipelago of eight tropical islands, revealing a distinctive fusion of French and Caribbean culture. Discover the island’s quaint villages, with their collection of petite stone buildings and small, white sand beaches. Don’t miss a visit to Fort Napoleon, a significant historical site offering incredible views of one of the islands.

The oldest town in St. Lucia and the island’s former French colonial capital, Soufrière was founded by the French in 1746 and named for its proximity to the volcano of the same name. The wharf is the center of activity in this sleepy town (population, 9,000), particularly when a cruise ship anchors in pretty Soufrière Bay. French colonial influences are evident in the second-story verandahs, gingerbread trim, and other appointments of the wooden buildings that surround the market square. The market building itself is decorated with colorful murals. Soufrière, the site of much of St. Lucia’s renowned natural beauty, is the destination of most sightseeing trips. This is where you can get up close to the iconic Pitons and visit colonial capital of St. Lucia, with its "drive-in" volcano, botanical gardens, working plantations, waterfalls, and countless other examples of the natural beauty for which St. Lucia is deservedly famous.

Today, you’ll arrive in Soufrière, the original capital of Saint Lucia, which is dramatically located in the Qualibou Depression, the crater of a dormant volcano. Here, you can indulge in therapeutic mud baths and sulphur springs, as well as admire Saint Lucia’s iconic pair of lava domes, Gros Piton and Petit Piton – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to sample the delicious local cuisine, savouring everything from green figs and salt fish to traditional callaloo soup made with fresh crab or shrimp.

Located beside the island’s only natural harbour, the capital of Barbados combines modern and colonial architecture with glorious palm tree-lined beaches and a number of historical attractions. Experience the relaxed culture of the city renowned for its British-style parliament buildings and vibrant beach life, and seek out the Anglican church and the 19th-century Barbados Garrison. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.

Welcome to Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, located on the southwestern coast of this charming, Caribbean island-state. As the largest city in Barbados, Bridgetown serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural centre.  This port city has a rich history, with roots dating back to the 1620s when it was founded by British settlers and is known for its striking colonial-era architecture.

The Tobago Cays are the breathtaking archipelago located in the southern Grenadines, famous for five small, uninhabited islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tobac and Jamesby. The main attraction here is the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a national park and wildlife reserve. Renowned for its massive 1,400-acre lagoon, the park is surrounded by a vivid-hued, horseshoe-shaped reef. This is an idyllic area to enjoy the sandy-bottomed and crystal-clear waters teeming with colourful tropical fish and turtles. In the evening, you’ll arrive in Mayreau.

The small island of Mayreau, just one and 1/2 square miles in area (3.9 square kilometres) is the smallest inhabited island of The Grenadines, and is part of the independent state of St.Vincent in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Two of the best known islands in The Grenadines are Mustique and Bequia, the second largest island in this group. The Grenadine Islands are strung out in a gentle sweep between St.Vincent and Grenada. Most visitors to Mayreau arrive from cruise ships, on the regular ferry, or by yacht. There are no proper roads on the island, only a few vehicles, no airport and only a single unnamed village. Mayreau and the neighboring Tobago Cays are very popular for divers and snorkellers. Saline Bay, on the west coast of the island, has a wonderful broad beach and a few local vendors selling T-shirts and local craft. A climb up the road to the hilltop village on the island provides breathtaking views across Mayreau, Canouan, the Tobago Cays and Carriacou.

The small island of Mayreau, just one and 1/2 square miles in area (3.9 square kilometres) is the smallest inhabited island of The Grenadines, and is part of the independent state of St.Vincent in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Two of the best known islands in The Grenadines are Mustique and Bequia, the second largest island in this group. The Grenadine Islands are strung out in a gentle sweep between St.Vincent and Grenada. Most visitors to Mayreau arrive from cruise ships, on the regular ferry, or by yacht. There are no proper roads on the island, only a few vehicles, no airport and only a single unnamed village. Mayreau and the neighboring Tobago Cays are very popular for divers and snorkellers. Saline Bay, on the west coast of the island, has a wonderful broad beach and a few local vendors selling T-shirts and local craft. A climb up the road to the hilltop village on the island provides breathtaking views across Mayreau, Canouan, the Tobago Cays and Carriacou.

Welcome to Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines’ uninhabited islands, measuring just four-square kilometres (1.5-square miles) and with a population of approximately 250 residents. The charming little church and community centre at the top of the island’s highest hill provide spectacular views across the islands. On a clear day, you can see both Grenada and Saint. Vincent, as well as nearby islands, showcasing the brilliant colours of the reefs and waters around the Tobago Cays. Today, enjoy a private barbeque onshore at a secluded beach, together with your fellow guests.

Bequia is a Carib word meaning "island of the cloud." Hilly and green with several golden-sand beaches, Bequia is 9 miles (14½ km) south of St. Vincent's southwestern shore; with a population of 5,000, it's the largest of the Grenadines. Although boatbuilding, whaling, and fishing have been the predominant industries here for generations, sailing has now become almost synonymous with Bequia. Admiralty Bay is a favored anchorage for both privately owned and chartered yachts. Lodgings range from comfortable resorts and villas to cozy West Indian—style inns. Bequia's airport and the frequent ferry service from St. Vincent make this a favorite destination for day-trippers, as well. The ferry docks in Port Elizabeth, a tiny town with waterfront bars, restaurants, and shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs—including the exquisitely detailed model sailboats that are a famous Bequia export. The Easter Regatta is held during the four-day Easter weekend, when revelers gather to watch boat races and celebrate the island's seafaring traditions with food, music, dancing, and competitive games.To see the views, villages, beaches, and boatbuilding sites around Bequia, hire a taxi at the jetty in Port Elizabeth. Several usually line up under the almond trees to meet each ferry from St. Vincent.

Bequia is a Carib word meaning "island of the cloud." Hilly and green with several golden-sand beaches, Bequia is 9 miles (14½ km) south of St. Vincent's southwestern shore; with a population of 5,000, it's the largest of the Grenadines. Although boatbuilding, whaling, and fishing have been the predominant industries here for generations, sailing has now become almost synonymous with Bequia. Admiralty Bay is a favored anchorage for both privately owned and chartered yachts. Lodgings range from comfortable resorts and villas to cozy West Indian—style inns. Bequia's airport and the frequent ferry service from St. Vincent make this a favorite destination for day-trippers, as well. The ferry docks in Port Elizabeth, a tiny town with waterfront bars, restaurants, and shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs—including the exquisitely detailed model sailboats that are a famous Bequia export. The Easter Regatta is held during the four-day Easter weekend, when revelers gather to watch boat races and celebrate the island's seafaring traditions with food, music, dancing, and competitive games.To see the views, villages, beaches, and boatbuilding sites around Bequia, hire a taxi at the jetty in Port Elizabeth. Several usually line up under the almond trees to meet each ferry from St. Vincent.

Embedded amid Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Bequia Island presents a hidden paradise, with secluded peaceful spots and distinct lack of traffic. This lovely island offers visitors a chance to experience the authentic Caribbean lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of mainstream beach tourism. Here, you can explore untouched pristine beaches and thoroughly relax and unwind amongst stunning natural beauty.

Home to around 5,000 residents, the village of Saint-Pierre was once almost wiped off the map in under two minutes. during an eruption of the Mount Pelée volcano in 1902. In more recent years, Saint-Pierre (also known as ‘Little Paris’) has been named as the 101st ‘City of Art and History. A visit to Saint-Pierre will allow you to discover a few remnants of Martinique’s colonial history: the old theatre, the ruins of the island’s fort and dungeon of Cyparis, as well as the wonderful village it is today, facing a gorgeous bay and nestled in the foothills of Mount Pelée.

Located on the northwest shores of the lovely Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe, this picturesque village is renowned for its traditional fishing community atmosphere, colourful Creole architecture, and stunning beaches, framed by verdant hills. Along with the friendly locals, lively markets and mouthwatering French-Caribbean cuisine, not surprisingly, Deshaies has emerged as a popular tourist destination, which you can discover for yourself today.

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 charming capital of the chic Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy, Gustavia was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785. In this vibrant city, uncover distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region and photograph the iconic, brightly-painted wooden houses. Be sure to also east on the unique local cuisine, a delicious blend of French and Creole influences.

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 time on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and memorable Caribbean adventure comes to an end, as you sail back to Antigua and St. John’s. After bidding farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday.

Please book your flight to depart out of St John's after 01:00 PM.

This 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 stated above.