The Caribbean promises turquoise waters, white sands, vibrant culture and unforgettable cuisine. The charter team at Northrop & Johnson take us on a trip around some of their favourite islands to discover the exclusive island escapes, where luxury blends with authentic Caribbean life, adventure and the timeless rhythm of the sea, sun and celebration
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
A luxury yacht charter is the ideal way to experience this classic Caribbean gem that teems with lively music, breathtaking views and ornate architecture. The Dominican Republic is renowned for its stunning azure waters, bustling nightlife and charming villages. On a Dominican Republic boat charter, you will be in awe of the effortless mixture of laid-back Caribbean ambience and the rich melting pot of cultures.
A luxury yacht charter to the Dominican Republic is the quintessential holiday for adventure, breathtaking landscapes and total relaxation. The warm sparkling waters that lap upon the white sand beaches are the perfect playground for your yacht’s full suite of water toys. The country is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, inviting you to explore its idyllic waters. Those seeking underwater adventure will be in awe of the dazzling coral reefs, sunbathers and beach go-ers will appreciate the versatile topography, and foodies will be impressed by the local cuisine. The Dominican Republic’s myriad of landscapes wait to be explored, and with your luxury charter yacht as your home base, there is no better cruising ground.
SANTO DOMINGO
The Dominican Republic’s capital, Santo Domingo, is celebrated as one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities, boasting a historical core. Its colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled to the brim with museums, arts and wonderful restaurants. While visiting, an afternoon spent strolling through this cosmopolitan city is highly recommended. You will find elegant eateries, vibrant nightlife and sprawling white sand beaches.
THE SAMANA PENINSULA
On the northeast side of the country lies the Samaná Peninsula. The effortless blend of green mountains and swaying coconut trees make this a hidden gem that must be seen. Underwater, you will be greeted by plenty of marine life, making this an excellent diving spot with many coves. Whale watching is also common while visiting Samaná. If you’re keener to enjoy a relaxing day on one of the stunning white sand beaches, head to Las Terrenas, one of the most developed towns on the Peninsula. You can walk barefoot on the soft sand in complete serenity or take a chance and explore underwater caverns like Dudu Lagoon.
LA ROMANA
Famous for its sugar cane plantations and turquoise beaches, La Romana is a renowned location home to Casa de Campo, an ultra-luxurious vacation haven for well-known figures in politics, finance and entertainment. Architectural aficionados will appreciate visiting Atlas de Chavon, a stunning recreation of a 16th-century Mediterranean-style village.
CATALINA AND SAONA ISLAND
Although Catalina Island is only 1.5 miles from the mainland, it is a quiet and secluded haven famous for ‘El Muro’, a diving spot on the island’s east side. The drop starts at about 16. (5m) and descends to 131’+ (40m+). The underwater ecosystem is second to none, with a myriad of corals and sponges and a variety of fish.
PUNTA CANA
Famed for its lavish resorts and long stretches of beaches, will seduce you with its classic Dominican charm. Those seeking vibrant nightlife will fall in love with Punta Canan’s passion for music, with merengue and Bachata blaring through the streets.
ABC ISLANDS
ARUBA, BONAIRE, AND CURAÇAO
An island trio offering a complete Caribbean experience without too many other visitors Nestled in the heart of the southern Caribbean Sea, these three enchanting islands offer a paradise for sailors and adventurers alike.
Whether you’re drawn to the pristine beaches of Aruba, the world-class diving of Bonaire, or the rich cultural heritage of Curaçao, embarking on a yacht charter in the ABC Islands promises to be a journey filled with sun-drenched days, turquoise waters and boundless exploration. Navigate the azure seas and uncover hidden coves on a Caribbean island yacht charter holiday.
Aruba boasts long beaches, full-service resorts, shopping opportunities and casinos. If you want to try your hand at wind and kite surfing, the island is perfect with consistent trade winds. If you’re a nature fan, check out the exotic pink birds wandering around Flamingo Beach, visit the Casibari Rock and Ayo Rock formations, or visit the local ostrich farm – the island is a wildlife lovers paradise.
Of the three islands, Bonaire is known for having the most spectacular diving spots. You can swim with sea turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays across 63 official dive sites in the Bonaire Marine Park. Although tiny, and ringed by a coral reef, Bonaire boasts a big personality. The hustle and bustle can’t be ignored, but with more than 22 beaches, there are multiple places to unwind. Take a beach picnic to the uninhabited Klein Bonaire, home to turtle nesting grounds.
The strikingly intense blue-colored sea is the namesake of Curaçao blue liquor, and just off the northern shore of Curaçao, you can find the “blue edge.” This steep, seafloor drop-off is an incredible scuba diving experience that you won’t forget.
The island also boasts spectacular coral reef dives, and the south coast of Curaçao offers calmer waters with incredible anchorages, perfect for enjoying the water toys. The crown jewel of Curaçao is its capital city, Willemstad, this UNESCO World Heritage site is where you will find candy-coloured colonial buildings among boutiques and high-end stores, incredible restaurants, and a slew of bars and clubs.
TURKS & CAICOS
Once pirate-ridden, the idyllic archipelago of the Turks and Caicos may not be a classic Caribbean cruising ground. Still, the 41 islands offer an abundance of attractions for any private yacht charter.
As its name suggests, the archipelago is made up of the Turks Islands and the Caicos Islands. Clustered in two collections, each encircled by a coral reef. Here, you can enjoy the warm waters and stunning beaches protected from the Atlantic swell.
Marooned between the Caribbean and The Bahamas, the idyllic archipelago of Turks and Caicos is comprised of seven main islands and more than 40 uninhabited islets and cays, making them ideal for a Caribbean island-hopping adventure by luxury yachts.
Initially overlooked by developers, the area was previously only really known to divers, coming to experience the third-largest coral reef in the world with its wall dives, sun-drenched coral valleys, sharks and reef diving.
For the past decade, however, more and more superyachts have discovered Turks and Caicos, coming to explore the underwater world and get a dose of luxury ashore at a handful of discreet hideaways giving you the perfect opportunity to experience this up-and-coming destination.
THE PRIVATE ISLAND OF PARROT CAY
Anchor-up and cruise to the resort on the chic, private island of Parrot Cay. The first exclusive resort in the area, Parrot Cay brought glamor to these rustic islands, putting them on par with St. Barths and Mustique.
Here, you can step ashore to find five-star service, elegant and varied dining experiences, spas, and more. The resort also was the first to bring Asian style to the Caribbean and, in doing so, led the way for a growing trend. With the luxury resorts came several high-end beach clubs and a collection of stunning restaurants. Guests can also enjoy private villas, water sports, yoga sessions, and curated excursions, making every stay both relaxing and adventurous.
DIVING IN THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
If you’re a diving enthusiast, you’ll want to be sure the yacht you charter is outfitted with all the gear you need. There are countless spectacular dive sites in the Turks and Caicos, along with stunning white-sand beaches and protected anchorages. The Turks and Caicos Islands offer numerous cruising possibilities for those looking to get away from it all or explore the underwater world during a luxury charter.
BARBADOS
The luxurious island of Barbados has captured many of the charms of the British Empire and retained them in tropical island style. Explore one of the most charismatic Caribbean islands with a Barbados yacht charter. Enjoying a seductive climate year-round, it’s all too easy to settle into the soothing rhythm of Bajan life. Barbados is an iconic destination from white beaches to a rum-infused party scene, especially for those who are able to explore the area on via a yacht.
A British dependent for over 350 years, remnants of colonialism still linger and have become engagingly entwined with the rich cultural identity of the native people. The parishes of Barbados are dotted with colonial houses and sugar plantations dating back to the 17th century, creating a stately backdrop to the West Indian vibe.
DISCOVER BARBADOS: A YACHT CHARTER PARADISE
Barbados is the only Caribbean destination (and one of only four countries) to have had regular Concorde service from London. This contributed to the growth of the island’s west or ‘platinum’ coast, which became adorned with both billionaire-owned houses and luxury hotels. Particularly busy with regulars over Christmas and New Year, it is a stretch of white sandy beach to the North of Holetown, where you can swim with turtles in the warm azure sea.
ADVENTURE AND RELAXATION
Hiking and all types of surfing enjoy immense popularity throughout the island, and for those feeling less inclined to exertion, Barbados boasts the globally appreciated Mount Gay Rum. The rum sours are worth sampling – in a local rum shack just outside Holetown or in a more upmarket venue. After the sunset, there is plenty to keep you busy – the international beach club chain, Nikki Beach, opened a venue near Port St Charles and Port Ferdinand and, every Sunday, The Cliff Beach Club and Sea Shed spark up live local music.
Serving spicy West Indian favourites, the bulk of Barbados’ top restaurants are found on the west coast – from The Cliff to Lonestar and Dockside 1359 further north.
Trendsetters are also heading as far away as possible from the flashy west coast to the palm-tree-studded grounds of the island’s oldest hotel, The Crane. Built-in 1887, the huge East Coast resort combines historic features with modern design. Drop the anchor in Bridgetown and have your tender drop you on the pink sand beach at sunset before heading to one of the hotel’s five eateries for dinner.
Barbados is famous for its golf, and in addition to Royal Westmoreland, the world-renowned Sandy Lane Hotel boasts a Country Club and the exclusive Green Monkey Course. The national cricket hero, Sir Gary Sobers, can often be spotted relaxing at the Sandy Lane Country Club after a swift 18 holes. Sit to enjoy your lunch while the indigenous green monkeys canter across the colourful gardens and fairways. Or why not soak up a little of Barbados’ English lifestyle and take in a polo match at Apes Hill Club or a game of cricket?
GUADELOUPE
Embark on a yacht charter adventure in Guadeloupe, a gem in the Caribbean Sea, where the beauty of the French West Indies unfolds before you. This butterfly-shaped island is a paradise for sailors and sea enthusiasts, offering an exceptional blend of sailing conditions and cultural richness.
Set sail from the bustling Bas du Fort Marina, your gateway to exploring the enchanting Guadeloupe archipelago. Navigate through the serene waters of the Caribbean, where bareboat and crewed charters glide past lush tropical rainforests and white sandy beaches. The marina serves as a perfect starting point for your sailing journey, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for both novice sailors and experienced mariners.
EXPLORE THE ISLAND’S WHITE SAND BEACHES DURING A GUADELOUPE SAILING YACHT
Embark on a Guadeloupe yacht charter to explore the island’s pristine white sand beaches, a highlight of this Caribbean paradise. This dream yacht charter destination is known for its untouched beauty, where white and black sand beaches meet the clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The coast, adorned with lush greenery, frames the impressive La Soufrière volcano, adding an element of adventure to your sailing yacht journey.
The charming villages of Guadeloupe offer a retreat from the typical Caribbean islands’ hustle and bustle, inviting you into a serene world where history and culture thrive. Discover the island’s heritage through its ancient distilleries and remote sugar plantations, each telling a story of Guadeloupe’s rich past. For experienced sailors and wildlife enthusiasts, the island’s unspoiled landscapes and diverse ecosystems promise close encounters with exotic flora and fauna, making yacht charters in Guadeloupe a truly unique experience.
Whether you’re navigating the waters on a bareboat charter or a fully crewed vessel, Guadeloupe offers sailing conditions that are ideal for every level of sailor. From the tranquil bays perfect for anchoring to the challenging open sea passages that thrill adventurous sailors, Guadeloupe sail provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the beauty of the Caribbean islands.
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Trinidad and Tobago are a colorful pair of sister islands in the Caribbean that are well known for their rich culture of dance and music. Their classic Caribbean atmosphere showcases turquoise waters that lap upon the golden sand and picturesque coconut trees swaying in the balmy breeze.
Look no further if you are seeking a luxury yacht charter to a destination worth celebrating. Lying northwest of Venezuela in the southern part of the Caribbean, the two islands beat with the sound of steel-drums; each boasts unique qualities. Both have strong ties to the United Kingdom, but African, Indian, Chinese and French influences can be found ashore. These island nations are notably industrialised and relatively modern for their Caribbean location.
CARNIVAL TIME
A signature of these two main islands is Carnival. Initially brought by French settlers, it has been adapted to its current form. This celebration is held on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday in the Christian calendar and is widely associated with calypso and soca music. Individuals dress in costume and parade the streets dancing and playing music. The atmosphere is festive and the party can last into the wee hours. This experience, combined with the luxurious amenities of your charter, will promise an unforgettable experience filled with song and dance. Carnival defies description with pulsating music, spectacular costumes, and a euphoric atmosphere. Bring your dancing shoes and join the party before heading to the tranquil island of Tobago for something more relaxing.
PORT OF SPAIN
When the celebrations end, Trinidad has much more to offer. Port of Spain, the island’s capital, is ripe with activity. There is an array of cultures bursting into life here; you can navigate cathedrals, temples and mosques that stand side-by-side, showcasing the true melting-pot nature of this island. Trinidad is also home to a myriad of beautiful beaches. Along the island’s north coast, you will find powdery, white sand beaches lapped by crystal clear waters that provide a stunning backdrop for any charter.
THE ISLAND OF TOBAGO
Smaller and less intense, Tobago is home to many treasures as well. The craggy landscape of the north is due to volcanic origin, while the southern setting is flatter and made of coralline limestone. The lush, tropical rainforest of Tobago is perfect for a hike and exploration. Golf is a popular pastime in Tobago, which features two well-known courses, Mount Irvine Hotel Golf Course and Magdalena Grand Hotel and Golf Club. If you venture further inland, the Gasparee Caves are also a key attraction, with their blue grottos and awe-inspiring caverns.
The island is undoubtedly quieter than its sister, but has more wildlife, empty beaches and secluded coves. Buccoo Reef, a protected marine park, has fantastic snorkeling spots, and at Cotton Bay, you have the chance to see huge leatherback turtles (the nesting season is March to August). Tobago also has a lush, tropical rainforests and mangrove-fringed lagoons, perfect for the adventurous.
