Barbados Yacht Charter

They say that good things come in small packages and Barbados is a prime example. Despite being the 13th smallest country in the world, it is also one of the most beautiful. Enhanced by the warmth of the notoriously friendly locals, the island exudes a sophistication and charm that is sure to delight and enthral all who set foot on its golden shores. Barbados is blessed with a favourable climate all year round but November to June is the optimum time for warm, calm sailing conditions and very little rain.

There is much more to Barbados than the white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters you would expect. This place has a rich and intriguing history, and the influences of England, West India and Africa are still seen intertwined throughout island traditions, cuisine and architecture. An English afternoon tea whilst watching cricket can easily be followed by a local flying fish sandwich on the beach or a horseback trek through mountainous jungle.

Beyond the sun, sea and surf, the UNESCO world-heritage listed city of Bridgetown is the beating heart of the island and a fabulous place to get to know its fascinating heritage. Wander around the National Heroes Square and admire the awe-inspiring architecture of the neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings, which were constructed in 1871. The Careenage, a natural harbour running from the Caribbean Sea to the centre of Bridgetown is one of the most identifiable landmarks on the island. Once a place where merchants would dock to offload their wares, the warehouses have now been converted into a number of trendy and upmarket shops, bars and restaurants, whilst a stroll along the picturesque boardwalk is a photo opportunity not to be missed.

When it comes to wining and dining, Barbados is one of the most highly acclaimed places to eat in the whole of the Caribbean, with a multitude of fine-dining options including the well-known ‘Cliff Restaurant’ perched above a picture-perfect cove with exquisite dishes on offer including a shrimp ravioli and outstanding desserts. Of course, the Caribbean is famous for its rum and nowhere more so than Barbados. It features heavily on many cocktail lists but its history dates back to the 17th Century when the world’s first rum was distilled from Barbadian sugarcane. The island is still home to the world’s oldest operating distillery, Mount Gay Rum which is well worth a visit for a tour and tasting.

The western shores of the island are called the Platinum Coast and it’s not hard to see why. Undoubtedly one of the most prestigious parts of the island, a cruise from Payne’s Bay to Holetown in the North will take you past some of the most breathtaking stretches of sparkling sand and provide endless opportunities for diving, swimming or perhaps a picnic on the beach with local provisions picked up by your chef. A little further up the coast between Holetown and Speighstown, Gibbes Beach is a favourite spot for superyachts and is home to some of the most glamorous villas, which can be admired whilst at anchor on your own floating slice of heaven.

From the moment you step aboard your yacht in Barbados you will find that you’ve left the stresses of modern life behind. Discover a charismatic island full of vibrant culture and sophisticated luxury, where the laid back locals have mastered the art of living. It’s easy to see why so many visitors have been seduced by this Caribbean jewel’s many charms and have deemed Barbados a paradise island.