Windward Islands

On Barbados's untamed, rugged east coast, secluded beaches shimmer with sunrise hues, their red sands carried across the Atlantic from the distant Sahara Desert. Barbados seems to extend a hand toward Africa and the Old World as the easternmost island of the Windward chain—and the entire Caribbean—as though it straddles the line between past and present. Bridgetown, the island's lively capital, is a city of fascinating contrasts. Fun fact: George Washington once stayed here! In Trafalgar Square, reminders of British influence abound, blending seamlessly with the island's laid-back spirit, where cricket matches and afternoon tea coexist with a love for rum and revelry.

Rodney Bay, nestled northwest of Saint Lucia, is a vibrant hub and a visitor favorite. Renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lively marina, it blends relaxation, adventure, and nightlife. The area is steeped in history and culture, showcasing the enduring legacies of British and French colonial influences through its architecture and traditions. Whether you seek serene shores, thrilling water sports, or cultural exploration, Rodney Bay promises an unforgettable experience.

The charming four-masted Star Flyer and the five-masted Royal Clipper will sail alongside each other as passengers travel towards Cabrits on the north-western tip of Dominica. This breathtaking 525-hectare national park is home to a beautiful tropical forest, vibrant coral reefs, and wetlands teeming with native wildlife. It is also home to Fort Shirley – a restored 18th-century British garrison that offers panoramic views of Prince Rupert Bay.

Dominica is a dream-like island full of surprises. Glide through a steamy orchid-festooned rainforest in a fascinating boat ride or hike to breathtaking Trafalgar Falls and a bubbling lake.

The dockyards, marinas, old inns, venerable pubs, and convivial crowds of sun-tanned yacht crews are the epicenter of the Caribbean yachting world. Today, every faded pink brick and weather-worn bollard of Nelson's Dockyard evokes the presence of the greatest naval commander in history.

St. Kitts' was the first successful colony in the British West Indies. Shop in colorful Basseterre, play golf and tour old plantation houses. For the adventuresome, there's a brisk hike through the rainforest.

The beach you visit is beautiful, with golden sands and calm, clear waters, and is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Lush hills flank the beach and offer a tranquil setting, with several beach bars and restaurants providing a laid-back atmosphere.

Les Saintes is a thoroughly entrancing group of islands lying off Guadeloupe. Enjoy the superb beaches, snorkeling, diving, and other watersports on offer.

Martinique's beaches are renowned for their stunning white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering picturesque spots for relaxation and water sports.

On the wild and rugged east coast of Barbados, the isolated beaches are the color of sunrise, the red sands having blown across the Atlantic from the Sahara. The easternmost island of the Windwards, and indeed, of the entire Caribbean, reaches out to Africa and the Old World as if not quite part of the New. Bridgetown, Barbados, is an interesting town full of contrasts. George Washington slept here! Trafalgar Square reminds you that the laidback, rum- and fun-loving island's British-influenced heritage includes revered traditions like cricket and high tea.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.