No January Blues in the Caribbean – The Windward and Leeward Islands

Voyage Highlights

• The richly diverse heritage of the region
• St Lucia’s twin volcanic peaks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Lush rain-forests and thundering waterfalls of Dominica
• Duty Free Shopping
• Top rated white sand beaches
• The laid back Island vibe
• Sea turtles, stingrays and butterfly farms
• Snorkeling in the turquoise waters

Life on a sailing voyage

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights describe, but you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description below is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. If the following voyage description is not fulfilled for any reason, Maybe Sailing and Maybe Sailing Youth Initiative cannot be held responsible.

Breathtaking natural beauty combined with old-world charm defines the magical allure of the Eastern Caribbean. With a distinctive fusion of European, African and Latin American influences, this region boasts quaint towns alive with diverse cultures amongst a breathtaking backdrop of swaying palm trees, velveteen sands and turquoise waters accented with rainbow fish. The locals are friendly, the duty-free shops bustling and the cultures fascinating. Soak up the sun, adopt the laid-back island mindset or explore coral reefs teeming with marine life. There is something for everybody on this voyage

Join Blue Clipper on this voyage to some of the most exotic and desired destinations in the Caribbean. Make sure you start the New Year in Style by spending January exploring the Islands of the Caribbean. Join the boat in Bridgetown, Barbados, as we spend the next 2 weeks exploring the beautiful Islands of the Eastern Caribbean. Visits to many of the Windward Islands will be possible including Martinique, St Lucia, St Vincent, the Grenadines and Grenada.  The voyage finishes in St Martin, a gem of an island, home to some to some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, rugged mountains and a deliciously warm tropical climate.

Close to millionaires’ playground St Barts, Saint Martin is home to some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, rugged mountains and a deliciously warm tropical climate – average temperature 26 degrees.

At 37 square miles and with a population of around 75,000, it’s smaller than well-trodden holiday destinations such as Barbados and Saint Lucia, but is rich in history, culture and food.

Those who visit the Island may be surprised to find the island is part French and part Dutch and locals were keen to share the legend behind the country’s borders. Allegedly, a representative from each side attempted to define their land by starting at Oysterpond on the east coast, and walking in opposite directions around the island. Wherever they met, a line would be drawn, defining the border. However, the Dutch representative enjoyed a few beverages and kept falling over – so as a result the Dutch area is smaller!

Named originally by Christopher Columbus, who sighted it on St. Martin’s day, French signage calls the island Saint Martin, while the Dutch call it Sint Maarten… but as I travelled around the nickname that united the two was SXM, with the slogan ‘the friendly island’.

What is included in the voyage cost:

• All meals on board Blue Clipper – including daily breakfast, lunch and evening meal
• Refreshments throughout the day
• Use of safety equipment
• Accommodation in a twin en suite cabin
• All instruction and lectures on board by fully qualified crew

What is not included:

• Travel to and from the boat
• Personal travel insurance. Check out Top Sail for specialist Tall Ship sailing travel insurance
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Any shore excursions and meals on shore (unless otherwise stated)
• VISA fees