Epic Voyage: Sint Maarten to Barbados

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.

Your exciting Eastern Caribbean journey begins in Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, located on the Dutch side of Saint Martin. Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of your memorable yacht cruise into paradise.

Please book your flight to arrive into Sint Maarten prior to 05:00 PM.

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 coast and lush hills of St. Kitts  for Basseterre, one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean and vibrant capital of dual-island nation, St. Kitts and Nevis, Basseterre’s storied 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.

Welcome to beautiful Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands, justifiably popular for its diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat rides amid crystalline waters brimming with multi-coloured marine life. This low-lying island of coral and limestone dazzles all who are fortunate enough to visit, with its distinctive scenery of swaying palm trees, old plantation houses and vivid, viridian waters contrasting with powdery white sand beaches.

Enjoy your two days exploring the island of Virgin Gorda, so named, as its shape resembles a reclining woman. Part of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders, formed by volcanic eruptions.

Enjoy your two days exploring the island of Virgin Gorda, so named, as its shape resembles a reclining woman. Part of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders, formed by volcanic eruptions.

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.

During your two-day stop, you’ll find plenty of time to explore Gustavia, capital of the chic Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy. This charming city was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785.  Today, stroll along the vibrant streets, uncovering distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region and photographing the city’s iconic, brightly painted wooden houses. Be sure to also feast on the unique local cuisine, a delicious blend of French and Creole influences.

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.

During your two-day stop, you’ll find plenty of time to explore Gustavia, capital of the chic Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy. This charming city was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own island getaway in 1785.  Today, stroll along the vibrant streets, uncovering distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping region and photographing the city’s iconic, brightly painted wooden houses. Be sure to also feast on the unique local cuisine, a delicious blend of French and Creole influences.

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.

After breakfast, you can explore Philipsburg, Sint Marteen, renowned for its vibrant blend of French and Dutch influences. The town is set right on a long white sand beach and is one of the best places in the Caribbean for designer shopping. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second leg of your journey exploring the Eastern Caribbean islands.

The island of Virgin Gorda, so named because it resembles a reclining woman, is part of the gorgeous British Virgin Islands and popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the incredible natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous; a breathtaking series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders formed by volcanic eruptions.

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.

Today, you’ll arrive in Gustavia, the capital of the Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy (also known as St. Barths). 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, photograph the brightly painted, historic wooden houses, and feast on cuisine with a unique blend of French-Creole influences.

Welcome to Nevis and Saint Kitts, a dual-island nation located in the Lesser Antilles archipelago of the West Indies, in the sparkling Caribbean Sea; Nevis is the smaller island of the two. Fringed with unspoilt curves of powdery white sand, this volcanic island is dotted with Georgian-era buildings, remnants of former sugar plantations and beach-shack eateries.

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.

The capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. John’s welcomes with a vibrant and fascinating blend of rich history, beautiful beaches and a lively culture. St John’s is also the gateway to other key attractions on the island, such as the historic Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights.

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, delightful Îles des Saintes presents a miniature archipelago of eight tropical islands with a distinctive fusion of French and Caribbean culture. Discover quaint villages revealing a collection of petite stone buildings and small, white sand beaches. Don’t miss a visit to Fort Napoleon, a significant historical site, which also provides 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, and 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 anything 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.

After breakfast, take your time exploring Bridgetown, renowned for its cultural diversity, bustling cultural scene, fantastic shopping and delicious cuisine. The historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautifully preserved example of British colonial settlements in the Caribbean. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the final part of your journey to the Grenadines and Windward Islands.

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.

This morning, you’ll depart Bridgetown and cruise to Speightstown. This charming town, located on the north-west coast of Barbados is famed for its rich history, vibrant culture and picturesque setting. Speightstown features an eclectic mix of colonial-era buildings, colourful shops, and modest residences. Many buildings here reflect the island's rich architectural heritage and come painted in distinctive pastel hues.

Welcome to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a beautiful island-nation in the Caribbean Sea. The capital, Kingstown, is clustered around the bay on the island of Saint Vincent and offers excellent shopping and dining. Visit St. George’s Anglican Cathedral, an elegant Georgian-style church built around 1820, resplendent with colourful stained-glass windows. In the afternoon, your luxury yacht will sail onwards to Bequia Island.

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

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.

Today, you’ll arrive in Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines inhabited islands, measuring just 4—four-square kilometres (1.5-square miles), with a population of approximately 250 residents. From the charming church at the top of the island’s highest hill, on a clear day, you can see both Grenada and Saint Vincent islands, along with the vivid colours of the coral reefs and waters surrounding the Tobago Cays. In the evening, you’ll set sail for Union Island.

Union Island is renowned for its clear and calm turquoise waters and laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Enjoy the stunning white-sand beaches encircled by lush tropical mountains and a tempting range of beachfront bars and restaurants. Today, why not spend a blissful day swimming and snorkelling off your yacht’s Marina Platform, enjoying Emerald Cruises complimentary array of exciting aquatic toys.

Today, we set sail for Tobago Cays, an awe-inspiring archipelago known universally as the ultimate paradise destination. Naturally, this is a popular yachting anchorage spot, where warm, sandy bottomed aquamarine waters are brimming with turtles, tropical fish, stingrays, and starfish. One of the islands beyond the reef, Petit Tabac, is where the popular film franchise, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ (2017) was partly filmed.

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.

Your time on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end, returning to beautiful Bridgetown, Barbados. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guests, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home, or to continue your holiday. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Bridgetown 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.