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Exploring the Windward Islands ?
On a Windward Islands yacht charter, there are many islands and cays you can easily sail between within a short time. There are five principal islands to explore, along with the larger Grenadines group.
With so much to see, we’ve dived into the top locations you can reach on a yacht below, to help you pick the places that most excite you (with our bespoke itineraries, you can choose exactly where you sail!).
Places to visit
Martinique
Found in the heart of the region, Martinique is a mountainous island that’s favoured as a starting point for a Windward Islands yacht charter. This French island offers a unique blend of European and Caribbean culture, steeped in history and tradition, with a lively personality.
Its capital, Fort-de-France, offers beautiful waterfront views, French cafés and shopping. You’ll also find historic spots here, including a cathedral, market halls and the Schoelcher Library. The most notable feature of this island is the striking Mount Pelée. This volcano is a popular hiking spot due to its rugged terrain and surrounding rainforests. Martinique’s landscape was dramatically shaped by the eruption of the volcano in 1902, which destroyed the main town, Saint-Pierre. Once called the ‘Paris of the Caribbean’, visitors can walk the old stone streets and see the ruins which remain or learn more about the area in the dedicated museum.
While the north of the island is characterised by rainforest trails, valleys, and black-sand beaches, the south offers gentle turquoise bays, sheltered anchorages and white-sandy stretches like Les Salines.
If you relish exploring untouched nature and wild environments, like those in Martinique, you would also enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter. Its shallow reefs, vast ecosystems and wildlife offer unmatched experiences for adventure lovers. Speak to our team to find out more.
St. Lucia
One of the most striking islands in the Windward is St. Lucia. Its landscape is shaped by twin volcanic peaks, lush mountains, and golden beaches, all backed by rainforest.
Known as The Pitons, its twin peaks (Gros Piton and Petit Piton), rise sharply from the sea, forming a UNESCO-listed landscape and one of the Caribbean’s most iconic landmarks. Beyond the stunning scenery, St. Lucia offers a range of natural wonders to explore. These include the highest peak, Mount Gimie, botanical gardens, waterfalls and hot springs. You can also experience the so-called world’s only ‘drive-in volcano’ at the Sulphur Springs. These geothermal springs give visitors a chance to enjoy hot pools and mud baths for a truly memorable escape. The warm climate here year-round also means excellent conditions for hiking, birdwatching, and rainforest exploration. Alternatively, the coast of St. Lucia offers quiet coves, golden beaches, and calm anchorages ideal for snorkelling, diving, and water sports.
St. Lucia also offers a laid-back atmosphere, with local markets, fishing villages, and beachside rum bars to enjoy.
Grenada
Found at the southern end of the Windward Islands is Grenada, often called the ‘Spice Isle’ for its history of producing nutmeg, cocoa, cinnamon, and mace. Grenada’s rugged terrain offers volcanic ridges, valleys and dense rainforests, all surrounding Mount St. Catherine. This landscape is rich with treasures, such as crater lakes (Grand Etang), river-carved gorges, waterfalls and freshwater pools.
Trek through forests, spot wildlife, and swim in unique areas, or head to Grenada’s smaller sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, for quiet beaches, charming communities, and calm waters.
Grenada’s coastline is strewn with white-sand beaches, mangrove habitats, and sheltered coves ideal for snorkelling. Its waters are renowned for vibrant coral reefs and excellent dive sites, including the world-famous Underwater Sculpture Park. Alternatively, explore the island’s capital, St. George, with its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and hillside fortresses.
For a unique island experience, take a tour of the working estates (such as Belmont Estate or Dougladston Estate) growing spices, see the traditional process and sample products.
St. Vincent
In the centre of the Windward Islands lies St. Vincent. This island is strewn with green mountains and lush rainforests, while its landscape is dominated by the volcano, La Soufrière. This rich natural landscape gives the island unique black-sand beaches and stunning valleys. While on the coast, you can enjoy calm bays and vibrant waters.
For the explorers, there are waterfalls, rivers and many inland trails ready to be discovered. Alternatively, the island’s lively capital of Kingstown offers 18th-century forts, colourful markets, and the Caribbean’s oldest botanical gardens, ideal for a relaxing wander.
The Grenadines
Just south of St. Vincent, you’ll find The Grenadines, a gorgeous stretch of 32 islands and cays known for their clear waters, white-sand beaches, and unique island character. Very few islands in the archipelago are inhabited, making for a peaceful, exclusive sailing experience.
Bequia has a welcoming sailing culture, while Mustique and Canouan offer refined luxury and serene resorts. Short passages and sheltered anchorages make island-hopping here effortless, with calm waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxed days at anchor.
At the centre of the chain lies the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a protected cluster of uninhabited islets surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear lagoons. Snorkel with sea turtles, paddle over colourful reefs, or spend the night anchored beneath an expansive, star-lit sky. Further south, Union Island brings lively Caribbean energy with its waterfront restaurants and world-class kite-surfing, while nearby Palm Island, Petit St. Vincent, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique offer peaceful escapes where local traditions thrive.
If you enjoy island-hopping between nearby locations, you would enjoy a yacht charter in the Leeward Islands. This chain of islands is perfect for relaxed travel, with diverse spots all within easy reach. Speak to our booking team to consider the Leeward Islands for your next trip.
Culture, History and Art
Sharing an island’s history and unique culture is all part of the Caribbean experience, and you can enjoy more of this on a yacht charter in the US Virgin Islands. Here you can meet welcoming communities, visit historic towns and learn about the region’s past.
Saint-Pierre Ruins (Martinique)
Explore the dramatic remains of the “Paris of the Caribbean,” destroyed by the Mount Pelée eruption in 1902. Visit the museum, see the theatre, and wander the ruins.
Plantation Estates and Rum Distilleries
Visit estates like La Mauny, Rhum Clément, or River Antoine to see traditional sugarcane processing and enjoy tastings of world-famous Caribbean rum.
Fort Charlotte and Fort Frederick (Grenada)
Experience the historic hilltop forts with cannons and panoramic views, offering insight into Grenada’s colonial and military heritage.
Botanic Gardens (Kingstown, St. Vincent)
Founded in 1765, these historic gardens feature centuries-old trees and tropical plants, perfect for scenic walks and learning about the island’s natural history.
Vibrant Local Markets
Sample fresh produce, spices, and crafts at lively markets in Fort-de-France or St. George, immersing yourself in everyday Caribbean culture.
Beaches and Coastline
Hiking the Pitons (St. Lucia)
Climb Gros Piton or Petit Piton for dramatic volcanic scenery, rainforest trails, and panoramic Caribbean views. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treat for adventure seekers.
Tobago Cays Marine Park (Grenadines)
Visit this protected marine park to snorkel, swim or paddleboard in turquoise lagoons and pristine coral reefs. Spot sea turtles and enjoy these enticing waters.
Grand Etang National Park (Grenada)
Rainforest trails, waterfalls, and a crater lake offer hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, including the island’s iconic Mona monkeys.
Sulphur Springs “Drive-In Volcano” (St. Lucia)
Walk or drive through bubbling mud pools and hot springs in a unique geothermal landscape, with optional therapeutic mud baths.
Diving at the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park
Snorkel or dive among coral-covered sculptures forming a one-of-a-kind underwater art reef, blending marine life with creative installations.
For those seeking more opportunities to dive, snorkel or hike incredible places, you should consider a yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands. These beautiful islands offer stunning national parks, world-class snorkelling sites and calm sailing conditions.
Cuisine and Nightlife
Martinique
Le Zandoli (Fort-de-France)
Upscale French-Caribbean cuisine with stunning hillside views.
Le Petibonum (Le Carbet)
Iconic beach bar with fresh seafood and rum cocktails.
St. Lucia
The Cliff at Cap Maison
Fine dining with dramatic cliffside ocean vistas.
The Naked Fisherman (Smuggler’s Cove)
Relaxed beachfront grill serving seafood and BBQ at sunset.
Grenada
Beach Club at Grand Anse
Stylish beachfront restaurant perfect for lunch or sunset drinks.
BB’s Crabback
Authentic Grenadian cuisine in a welcoming waterfront setting.
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Basil’s Bar (Mustique)
Legendary over-the-water spot for cocktails, seafood, and live music.
Jack’s Beach Bar (Bequia)
Chic, laid-back beachside dining with seafood and tropical cocktails.
Plan your trip
A smooth and enjoyable charter begins with good preparation. To help you get ready for your tip yacht charter in the Windward Islands, we’ve listed all the essential travel information below.
Seasons
The best time for a Windward Islands yacht charter is during the dry season (December to May), when rainfall is minimal, sunshine is abundant, and sailing conditions are optimal. Average temperatures remain warm year-round, typically 27°C to 30°C. January and February tend to be the coolest months, with temperatures around 27°C, while July and August are slightly warmer. The wet season, with a higher chance of showers and humidity, runs from June to November.
Currency
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency used throughout most of the Windward Islands. However, the Euro (EUR) is used in Martinique.
US dollars are widely accepted in shops, hotels, and restaurants.
Languages
English is the official language in St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines.
French is the official language in Martinique, along with Creole dialects spoken throughout the islands.
How to charter a yacht on the Windward Islands
Ready to explore the Windward Islands in comfort and style? Booking your luxury yacht charter with Princess Charter couldn’t be simpler.
Share your preferred dates and guest list, and our team will craft a bespoke itinerary and match you with the perfect yacht.
FAQ
What do I need to know before booking a Windward Islands yacht charter?
Decide when you’d like to travel, who will join you, and which destinations inspire you. Our specialists will take it from there, designing a tailored itinerary, selecting your perfect yacht, and arranging a first-class crew.
How do I secure my booking for a yacht charter in the Windward Islands?
Simply contact our booking team to begin the process. You can fill in our enquiry form, call us on +44 (0) 1489 557 755, or email info@princessyachtcharter.com.
How do I find the right yacht for a Windward Islands yacht charter?
Once we understand your expectations, group size, and style of travel, we’ll match you with the most suitable yacht from our premium fleet.
Why choose Princess Yacht Charter for my charter?
With over 50 years of experience, Princess Charter delivers exceptional service, luxurious yachts, and meticulous attention to detail. Our dedicated support teams and expert crews ensure every moment of your charter is seamless and memorable.