Discover the Yachting Islands of the Caribbean

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Your memorable voyage begins in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s historic capital and the oldest European-founded city in the America’s. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on your magical discovery of some of the Caribbean’s most idyllic yachting hideaways.

Please book your flight to arrive into San Juan prior to 05:00 PM.

The quaint Puerto Rican coastal town of Esperanza reveals gorgeous beaches and a picturesque waterfront with a bustling strip of restaurants, bars, and guesthouses. You can stroll along the boulevard and visit the various establishments, immersing yourself in the local culture and activities on offer. Like the locals, enjoy spending the afternoon relaxing at Sun Bay, the main urban beach located in the town’s eastern outskirts.

St. John, the smallest most idyllic of the three United States Virgin Islands, is best known for its dozens of post card perfect white sand beaches, turquoise bays abounding in colourful corals & rainbows of tropical fish endless vistas of green velvet hills. Only nine miles long (14.5 kilometres) and three miles (4.8 kilometres) wide, two thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park, so its spectacular beaches & untouched forests will remain that way for generations to come and remain accessible to all. There are tours of the National Park by Jeep or safari bus and hikes on spectacular trails led by Park Rangers who enrich the experience with talks on the island's history and geology as well as its flora & fauna. While it is only twenty minutes from St. Thomas by convenient hourly ferry, St. John is the peaceful, uncommercialised paradise of island fantasies. It has no high-rise buildings, cruise ship docks or airport. Visitors can obtain discounted air fares to St. Thomas. Despite its unspoiled atmosphere, it offers every facility and amenity found at major resorts.

Welcome to Cruz Bay, the economic and social hub of St. John, the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands located amid the Caribbean Sea.  Here, a busy inter-island ferry dock connects with the other beautiful islands in the region. The busting  bay is lined with restaurants and shops, while striking Caribbean architecture in Mongoose Junction can be admired on a leisurely stroll through town.  

In the evening, you’ll set sail for Jost Van Dyke.

Jost Van Dyke, four miles long, is truly known as the 'barefoot island'. The smallest of the British Virgin Islands, it is known as a popular destination for yachts and is celebrated for its casual lifestyle, protected anchorages, fine beaches and beachfront restaurants and bars. The island has fewer than 200 inhabitants and they are widely known as a welcoming people. The island's name conjures up its rich, colorful past. Jost Van Dyke is said to have been named for an early Dutch settler, a former pirate. At Great Harbour, Little Harbour, and White Bay there are safe, protected bays and pristine beaches shaded with coconut palms and seagrape trees. Discover inviting shops selling local treasures, restaurants, and bars. 'The Painkiller', one of the Caribbean’s most popular drinks, originated at the Soggy Dollar Bar. Foxy’s and Gertrude's in White Bay are renowned for drinks made with the island's famous rum, frosty beers, and tales of pirates and sunken treasure. Explore Jost Van Dyke's history in the vegetation-covered ruins of centuries-old sugar mills, or on the old trails that crisscross the island. Revel in the natural beauty of the pristine, untouched beaches. Hike up to the highest spot on the island, Majohnny Point, and take in a stunning 360 degree view of the Caribbean. Relax in the natural 'bubble pool', a popular tourist attraction. Jost Van Dyke conjures up images of what the British Virgin Islands may have looked like many years ago.

Jost Van Dyke, four miles long, is truly known as the 'barefoot island'. The smallest of the British Virgin Islands, it is known as a popular destination for yachts and is celebrated for its casual lifestyle, protected anchorages, fine beaches and beachfront restaurants and bars. The island has fewer than 200 inhabitants and they are widely known as a welcoming people. The island's name conjures up its rich, colorful past. Jost Van Dyke is said to have been named for an early Dutch settler, a former pirate. At Great Harbour, Little Harbour, and White Bay there are safe, protected bays and pristine beaches shaded with coconut palms and seagrape trees. Discover inviting shops selling local treasures, restaurants, and bars. 'The Painkiller', one of the Caribbean’s most popular drinks, originated at the Soggy Dollar Bar. Foxy’s and Gertrude's in White Bay are renowned for drinks made with the island's famous rum, frosty beers, and tales of pirates and sunken treasure. Explore Jost Van Dyke's history in the vegetation-covered ruins of centuries-old sugar mills, or on the old trails that crisscross the island. Revel in the natural beauty of the pristine, untouched beaches. Hike up to the highest spot on the island, Majohnny Point, and take in a stunning 360 degree view of the Caribbean. Relax in the natural 'bubble pool', a popular tourist attraction. Jost Van Dyke conjures up images of what the British Virgin Islands may have looked like many years ago.

Today, you’ll arrive in Jost Van Dyke, the smallest of all four main islands comprising the British Virgin Islands. Covering approximately eight-square kilometres (three-square-miles), lush and beautiful Jost Van Dyke is known as ‘The Last Virgin Island.’ Discover White Bay Beach, distinctive for its rugged, rocky scenery and colourful local culture. This pretty bay offers one of the loveliest beaches by far to relax and soak up the splendid Caribbean views.

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

With its blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, Philipsburg presents a bustling port town with a vibrant atmosphere, striking colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. Situated on the Dutch side of Saint Martin, this capital of Sint Maarten offers a fascinating array of activities and attractions, including historic sites and a lively street market. where you can sample the local cuisine and peruse the islands’ arts and crafts. In the evening, you’ll sail to Gustavia.

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.

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.

Named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785, Gustavia is the charming capital and main seaport of chic island, Saint Barthélemy, also known as St. Barth's. Saint Barthélemy is often considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and a tropical paradise infused with French flair. Today, enjoy the beauty of the island’s idyllic beaches and delicious French-Creole cuisine, as well as the charms of Gustavia and its colourful, old wooden houses.

Welcome to what is regarded as one of the most unusual and fascinating islands in the Caribbean. Prior to the recent volcanic eruptions that commenced in 1995, for those in the know, Montserrat was considered one of the most sought-after Caribbean islands. It was also home to producer George Martin’s Air Studios Montserrat recording studio, where some of the world’s most celebrated recording artists, including Eric Clapton and Paul McCartney among others, used to cut their albums. Recent history has dealt some unfortunate blows to the island ranging from hurricanes (Hugo in 1989) to multiple volcanic eruptions that destroyed the picturesque capital, Plymouth. In the evening, you’ll cruise to St. John’s on the lovely island of 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.

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.

After breakfast, take your time exploring St. John's on the beautiful island of Antigua. The capital and key port of dual island-nation, Antigua and Barbuda, St. John’s welcomes with its cultural diversity and cosmopolitan flair, British colonial-era heritage and delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second leg of your exciting Caribbean adventure.

Mountainous St. Kitts, the first English settlement in the Leeward Islands, crams some stunning scenery into its 65 square miles (168 square km). Vast, brilliant green fields of sugarcane (the former cash crop, now slowly being replanted) run to the shore. The fertile, lush island has some fascinating natural and historical attractions: a rain forest replete with waterfalls, thick vines, and secret trails; a central mountain range dominated by the 3,792-foot Mt. Liamuiga, whose crater has long been dormant; and Brimstone Hill, known in the 18th century as the Gibraltar of the West Indies. St. Kitts and Nevis, along with Anguilla, achieved self-government as an associated state of Great Britain in 1967. In 1983 St. Kitts and Nevis became an independent nation. English with a strong West Indian lilt is spoken here. People are friendly but shy; always ask before you take photographs. Also, be sure to wear wraps or shorts over beach attire when you're in public places.

Today, you’ll cruise to the southwestern shores and lush hills of St. Kitts for Basseterre, the vibrant. capital of dual island- nation, St. Kitts and Nevis. One of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean, Basseterre's colonial history is reflected in the striking architecture of several buildings, including Georgian structures that date back to the British colonial era. The bustling harbour area is particularly noteworthy, providing a picturesque backdrop for the port city and a fascinating place to explore.

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.

Welcome to Îles des Saintes, known as Les Saintes, a  small group of eight tropical islands with a distinctive French and Caribbean cultural fusion, within the Guadeloupe archipelago. 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 that offers incredible views of one of the islands.

Located on the northwest shores 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 amiable 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 capital of the chic 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 town, uncover distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping enclave and photograph the brightly painted, old wooden houses. Gustavia is also known for its gourmet dining, so be sure to feast on the delicious cuisine, a unique fusion of French and Creole culinary influences.

Welcome to the Island of Virgin Gorda, named after its resemblance to a reclining woman and part of the exquisite British Virgin Islands. Virgin Gorda is popular for its laid-back Caribbean lifestyle and picturesque landscapes, as well as its incredible natural wonders. The most famous of all are The Baths, a series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders formed by volcanic eruptions.

Renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vivid marine life, Norman Island offers a natural playground for a diverse range of activities, including hiking trails and caves to explore.  

The island also comes steeped in pirate lore, with local legend claiming that this was a favourite hiding spot for pirates to bury their treasure; hence, why it is nicknamed ‘Treasure Island’ by locals and visitors alike. Without doubt, this is a wonderful destination for those seeking a tranquil and alluring tropical getaway.

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Your Emerald Cruises luxury voyage draws to a conclusion in Puerto Rico and San Juan, the historic capital and oldest European-founded city in the Americas. After bidding farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, from the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday.*    

*Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a Discover MORE tour is available on disembarkation day.

Please book your flight to depart out of San Juan after 12:00 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.