Top Leeward and Windward Islands Yachting Route

The Windward and Leeward Islands are groups of islands comprising the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. The majority of the islands are small and uninhabited while the larges ones have become sovereign countries. Major islands in this area, a number of them are independent countries while in some instances two islands may be governed as a single country.

The Windward Islands include the southeastern islands of the Caribbean. They’re called the Windward Islands because they are exposed to the wind of the northeast trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean.

Between the islands of the Greater Antilles and those of the Windward Islands are the Leeward Islands. Mostly small islands, they are called the Leeward Islands because they are away from the wind.

The capital and largest town is Bridgetown, which is also the main seaport. Visit the east coast to picnic under shady trees at Bath or Bathsheba and beach comb on Cattlewash, one of the longest beaches of Barbados.

When you travel to any Caribbean island, you expect sun, sea, and sand. Saint Lucia is in a league of its own, the island’s unmatched splendor is due in part to its volcanic origin. Rich in minerals, the soil produces vegetation so lush colorful. Explore the rainforest and fill your lungs with the fresh island air.

Dominica has been nicknamed the ”Nature Isle of the Caribbean” for its natural environment, largely covered by rainforest. It is the youngest island in the Lesser Antilles, and in fact, it is still being formed by geothermal-volcanic activity, as evidenced by the world’s second-largest hot spring, called Boiling Lake.

Antigua has tons of unique natural features like the Devil’s Bridge, which is a natural arch into the sea, as well as old plantations, sugar mills, rainforests, and the popular Nelson’s Dockyard. Apart from lots of high-end duty-free shopping, many people may not know that gambling is legal in Antigua and has been for many decades, unlike some other Caribbean islands.

Saint Kitts has three distinct groups of volcanic peaks: the North West or Mount Misery Range, the Middle or Verchilds Range, and the South East or Olivees Range. The largest port in the town of Basseterre, there is a modern facility for handling luxury yachts and large cruise ships.

The most important historical site on Guadeloupe’s miniature archipelago of Les Saintes also boasts one of the most breathtaking views in the Caribbean. It was restored in the 1980s and houses a museum showcasing the history of Les Saintes. The bay of Les Saintes ranks among UNESCO’s list of most beautiful bays in the world.

The highest point is the volcano of Mount Pele at 1397 meters above sea level. The south is more easily traversed, though it still features some impressive geographic features. Because it is easier to travel to, and dut to the many beaches and food facilities throughout this region, the south receives the bulk of the tourist traffic.