Discover the wonders that lie beyond the well-traveled shorelines with private island access, bespoke beach experiences and rich cultural encounters that immerse you into the local lifestyle.
The Caribbean instantly conjures visions of endless beaches, soft sand shores and brilliant turquoise waters. With vibrant cultures, each unique to their islands and histories, the Caribbean offers so much more than what meets the eye. From secluded private islands that provide a unique serenity to customized beach activities and cultural immersion, discover the one-of-a-kind moments you’ll have with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
Private Islands
Your private terrace attached to your suite is the ultimate in privacy, but should you want to continue that feeling of seclusion on your shore excursions, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has exclusive access to private beaches. Canouan is favored by the rich and famous, particularly celebrities looking to take a break from the limelight. The exclusive Sandy Lane Yacht Club is available for our guests, whether you prefer to relax by the pool, lie on the white sand beach or do a water sport to get closer to the spectacular marine wildlife.
Tropical Taste
If you have made your way to the Sandy Lane Yacht Club, you cannot leave without experiencing a private beach barbeque at the Shenanigans Beach Club. With a wide variety of local fruits and vegetables, it’s the chance to truly taste the topics, down to the freshly mixed cocktails. If merely drinking cocktails isn’t enough, you can enjoy a cocktail masterclass in St. Jean, where you will learn from a professional mixologist how to make signature Caribbean cocktails.
St. Lucia is known for its Piton mountains, but did you know that there is a local beer named for the peaks as well? The award-winning beer was started in 1992, and the lager remains popular with the locals as well as visitors. Just don’t get too attached, it is an island treat and is challenging to find in the US.
Cultural Encounters
While the beauty of nature is the most obvious lure to the Caribbean, the culture of the islands is not to be missed. Colorful fish and stingrays beckon snorkelers, but scuba-diving history buffs will want to see the offshore shipwrecks in Saint-Pierre. Don’t miss what some call the Titanic of Martinique, the Roraima, which was tragically hit by fire from an active volcano in 1902.
If staying above water is your preference, the islands have plenty of museums to visit. The National Art Gallery in Nassau focuses on preserving traditional and promoting contemporary Bahamian art, while the house museums of Old Town in Barbados give a glimpse into the rich history of the island. The Nevis Heritage Trail offers a historical focused hike, with stops at former plantation estates, military outposts and local churches.
Natural Experiences
The legendarily beautiful beaches are not the only natural splendor awaiting you in the Caribbean. The lush mountains offer plenty of opportunities to hike, take in scenic views and explore natural rainforests. Grenada is an ideal destination for exploring, as you journey up winding roads to Grand Etang National Park. In the tropical rainforest, you will discover a huge crater lake framed by volcanic peaks. Take a trek through tropical flowers and local fauna at a height of almost 2,000 feet above sea level. Reward yourself with a refreshing swim at Bamboo Falls, where you might find yourself paddling next to one of the park’s iconic mona monkeys.
Other top tier hikes include Terre-de-Haut, where the peak of Le Chameau offers dazzling views over the water and neighboring islands. The volcanic islands — St. Lucia, the Grenadines — offer the opportunity to take a rainforest safari to discover secluded waterfalls, hot springs and more crater lakes.
