| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 10th10 | JanJan | 202626 | Bridgetown, Barbados, embark on the Emerald Sakara | | |
| 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. Fly from the UK to Bridgetown. Your Caribbean cruise begins in the bustling capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on a vibrant itinerary in search of paradise. Flight to arrive into Bridgetown prior to 07:00 PM. |
| 11th11 | JanJan | 202626 | Bridgetown, Barbados | | |
| 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 will depart Bridgetown to set sail for Port St. Charles. Located on the northwestern coast of Barbados, Port St. Charles is a stunning beachfront marina overlooking the aquamarine Caribbean Sea. It’s known as the gateway to the Barbados Riviera and boasts waterfront eateries, a yacht club and crystal-clear waters for swimming, sailing, and snorkelling. |
| 11th11 | JanJan | 202626 | Speightstown, Barbados | | |
| 12th12 | JanJan | 202626 | Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. Its capital Kingstown is clustered around the bay on the island of St Vincent and has excellent shopping and dining. Visit St. George’s Anglican Cathedral, an elegant Georgian-style church circa 1820, with colourful stained-glass windows. In the afternoon we will sail to Bequia. |
| 12th12 | JanJan | 202626 | Port Elizabeth, Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 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. |
| 13th13 | JanJan | 202626 | Port Elizabeth, Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 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 Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a hidden paradise, with secluded spots and no traffic. It offers visitors a chance to experience true Caribbean living without the hustle and bustle of beach tourism. Guests can explore untouched pristine beaches, relax and be pampered. |
| 13th13 | JanJan | 202626 | Mayreau Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 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. |
| 14th14 | JanJan | 202626 | Mayreau Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 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. Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadines’ inhabited islands, measuring only four-square kilometres (1.5 square miles), with a population of approximately 250 people. From the church on top of the hill you can see both Grenada and St Vincent islands on a cloudless day, along with the vivid colours of the coral reefs. In the evening, we sail to Union Island. |
| 14th14 | JanJan | 202626 | Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 15th15 | JanJan | 202626 | Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
Union Island is renowned for its clear and calm turquoise waters and laid-back lifestyle. It has stunning white-sand beaches encircled by lush tropical mountains and various beachfront bars and restaurants. Today why not spend the day swimming and snorkelling off the yacht enjoying our Emerald Cruises marina toys. |
| 16th16 | JanJan | 202626 | Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
Today we set sail to Tobago Cays, an awe-inspiring archipelago known globally as the ultimate paradise destination. It’s a popular yacht anchorage spot and the warm, sand-bottomed aquamarine waters are brimming with turtles, vibrant fish, stingrays, and starfish. One of the islands outside the reef, Petit Tabac, is where Pirates of the Caribbean (2017) was partly filmed. |
| 16th16 | JanJan | 202626 | Tobago Cays, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | | |
| 17th17 | JanJan | 202626 | Bridgetown, Barbados | | |
| 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, first-rate cultural scene, and delicious cuisine. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second leg of your journey exploring the Eastern Caribbean and St. Barth. |
| 18th18 | JanJan | 202626 | Soufrière, Saint Lucia | | |
| 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. Soufrière was the original capital of Saint Lucia and it’s located in the Qualibou Depression, the crater of a dormant volcano. Visitors can indulge in mud baths, sulphur springs, and see the pair of lava domes, Gros Piton and Petit Piton. The local cuisine is delicious — savour everything from green figs and salt fish to local callaloo soup made with crab or shrimp. |
| 19th19 | JanJan | 202626 | 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 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. |
| 20th20 | JanJan | 202626 | Falmouth, Antigua and Barbuda | | |
| The British colonial influence is everywhere in pretty English Harbour. And yet, located on Antigua’s south coast, you are just minutes away from some of the loveliest beaches in the Caribbean. With its long ribbons of white sandy shores including the superbly named Rendez-Vous Bay Beach, the cold English drizzle and chimes of big ben have never been farther away! English Harbour is how the Caribbean is meant to be. Beautifully restored, the area still retains much in the way of its rich historic past. Nelson’s dockyard is absolutely not to be missed; a working dockyard that dates from the 18th century, this is part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage Site (Nelson’s Dockyard and National Park) which also contains Clarence House and Shirley Heights. Perhaps one of the best examples of British colonial development, the dockyard is named after the famous Admiral who lived on the island in the 1780’s. The fascinating naval history is palpable in all the buildings of this historic site and just a little further along you find beautifully restored warehouses that are now home to enchanting restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and hotels, all proudly stating their historic credentials on prominent, easy to read signs. Venturing beyond the “town” and you’ll find nature trails for all levels of fitness. Famous for having 365 different beaches, it is unsurprising then that a lot of Antiguan life takes place on its sandy shores. Beaches here offer all things to everyone so whether you want to rekindle the romance, indulge in some adrenaline fueled water sports, swim, snorkel or sail your way around the island, you’re sure to find you’re your own personal paradise here. Located on the island of Antigua, Falmouth Harbour is a peaceful port encircled by historic buildings and plantation mansions of a bygone era. Nelson’s Dockyard is worth visiting — the UNESCO World Heritage site dates to the 18th century and houses interesting naval heritage, boutiques, bars and restaurants. |
| 21st21 | JanJan | 202626 | Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis | | |
Nevis and Saint Kitts are a dual-island nation in the Lesser Antilles archipelago of West Indies in the Caribbean Sea — Nevis is the smaller island of the two. Edged with unspoilt curves of sand, the island is dotted with Georgian-style buildings, remnants of sugar plantations and casual, beach-shack eateries. |
| 22nd22 | JanJan | 202626 | 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. Gustavia, the capital of the Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy, 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 wooden houses, and feast on unique cuisine with French and Creole influences. |
| 23rd23 | JanJan | 202626 | Prickly Pear Island, Antigua and Barbuda | | |
This morning we cruise to Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands, popular for diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat rides. Anguilla is a low-lying island of coral and limestone and has beautiful island scenery of palm trees, plantation houses and vibrant viridian waters contrasting with white sand. In the late evening we sail to Marigot. |
| 23rd23 | JanJan | 202626 | Marigot, Saint Martin (French part) | | |
| French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg. |
| 24th24 | JanJan | 202626 | Marigot, Saint Martin (French part) | | |
| French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg. After breakfast, explore Marigot, a Caribbean Island renowned for its vibrant blend of French and Dutch influences. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the final part of your journey to the Leeward islands. |
| 25th25 | JanJan | 202626 | Marigot, Saint Martin (French part) | | |
| French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg. This morning we cruise to Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands, popular for diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat rides. Anguilla is a low-lying island of coral and limestone and has beautiful island scenery of palm trees, plantation houses and vibrant viridian waters contrasting with white sand. In the late evening we sail to Gustavia. |
| 25th25 | JanJan | 202626 | Anguilla, Anguilla | | |
| 26th26 | JanJan | 202626 | Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands | | |
The island of Virgin Gorda, named because it resembles a reclining woman, is part of the British Virgin Islands. It's known for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, the Baths are arguably the most famous. They are a series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders that were formed by volcanic eruptions. |
| 26th26 | JanJan | 202626 | Norman Island, British Virgin Islands | | |
| 27th27 | JanJan | 202626 | Norman Island, British Virgin Islands | | |
After a scenic cruise of British Virgin Islands, we arrive in Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the four main islands, covering 8 square kilometres. The lush greenery and undulating hills offer breathtaking views, making Jost van Dyke a paradise for nature lovers. The Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi formed by ocean waves crashing into a sea pool, is one unique attraction on the island. |
| 27th27 | JanJan | 202626 | Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands | | |
| 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. |
| 28th28 | JanJan | 202626 | Anegada, British Virgin Islands | | |
Anegada, the northernmost of the British Virgin Islands, is a unique and captivating destination. Unlike its volcanic neighbours, Anegada is the only coral island in the archipelago, which gives it a distinct ecosystem and topography. Anegada boasts miles of white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of wildlife, including the rare rock iguanas and flamingos. |
| 29th29 | JanJan | 202626 | Saba, Bonaire | | |
Saba and Bonaire are two unique islands in the Caribbean Sea. Both are part of the Caribbean Netherlands, making them special municipalities of the Netherlands. Saba, often referred to as the ‘Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean’, is a five square mile island known for its lush landscapes, diverse marine life, and world-class hiking trails. We sail to Gustavia in the afternoon. |
| 29th29 | JanJan | 202626 | 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. |
| 30th30 | JanJan | 202626 | 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. Gustavia, the capital of the Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy, 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 wooden houses, and feast on unique cuisine with French and Creole influences. |
| 31st31 | JanJan | 202626 | Marigot, Saint Martin (French part), disembark the Emerald Sakara | | |
| French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg. Your time aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end in Marigot. From the yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the UK or to continue your holiday. Flight to depart out of Marigot after 12:00 PM. 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. |
