Caribbean - all islands
The island of Cozumel is situated along part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. The coral here is some of the healthiest in the region, sustaining a diverse array of marine life and creating an undersea rainbow of color. There are any number of ways to witness this underwater spectacle, from snorkeling and diving to glass-bottom boats and submarines.
Stunning beaches, cerulean seas, colorful coral reefs and the Caribbean’s largest wildlife preserve: incredible tropical nature is the essence of Vieques, a small island less than 10 miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico. For decades most of the island was controlled by the U.S. Navy, whose former holdings – some 70 percent of the land – became the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge after the military withdrew in 2003.
A rich maritime heritage and ruggedly scenic seascapes welcome sailors and other visitors to Antigua’s southern coast. Falmouth Harbor is one of Antigua’s great natural anchorages, home to a laid-back coastal village and a modern marina designed for super yachts. Just a mile away is historic English Harbor, an important 18th-century base for the British Royal Navy. On this same bay, Nelson’s Dockyard – named after the legendary admiral – is a historic complex of restored Caribbean-Georgian architecture that today holds shops, restaurants and more.
France’s “Isle of Flowers,” Martinique enticingly combines tropical beauty, distinctive Creole culture and Gallic sophistication. Its mountainous north is volcanic – where gray and black sands separate blue seas from the lush greens of the rainforest – and dominated by Mont Pelée. The towering volcano last exploded in 1902, prompting the move of the capital to the scenic port on Martinique’s deepest natural anchorage.
Life revolves around the sea, sand and sun on the small Mexican island of Cozumel. At a mere 24 miles long, Cozumel has only one town, San Miguel. The port is the bustling hub for shopping, dining and all manner of watercraft, from fishing boats and catamarans to ferries and cruise ships. Away from the piers and waterfront promenade, Cozumel is laid-back, low-key and largely undeveloped.
On the island of Grand Turk, it’s all about the gorgeous beaches – and the impossibly clear waters surrounding them. The sea starts shallow at the shore and ever so gradually deepens, which creates a spectacular spectrum of every shade of blue imaginable. Step off your yacht, stroll right onto the beach and relax on the pearly white sands. There are also excellent snorkeling and diving spots around the island, including the offshore coral reefs and Gibbs Cay, where you can swim with friendly stingrays.
Saint Barthélemy – better known as Saint Barth – represents a special brand of Caribbean luxury. Exclusive yet unpretentious, its barefoot elegance is distinctly Gallic in style. Around a scenic harbor filled with yachts and sailboats, the tidy capital of Gustavia is a chic mix of designer boutiques, galleries, and fine restaurants serving elevated French-Caribbean cuisine.
Just south of La Romana is an island paradise that gives an idea of what these environs were like back in 1698 when pirate William Kidd anchored his ship offshore and fled his English pursuers. While less than six square miles in size, Isla Catalina supports diverse ecosystems including sand dunes, mangrove forests and impressive coral reefs. The entire island is a national park and rich in wildlife with numerous species of birds and tropical fish. Catalina is a haven for diving and snorkeling, and equipment can easily be rented.
Situated at the northwestern outlet of the Panama Canal, the city of Colón opens a window into the marvels of this engineering feat. A cruise along the Gatun Locks reveals the diverse wildlife that thrives on the islands created by the canal’s construction, and on the far shores, the Miraflores Locks further illuminate the genius, dedication and sacrifice required to build the canal. The Panama Canal Railway, created in response to the traffic brought here by the California Gold Rush, follows the same route of scenic views.
Toward the southern end of the Grenadines chain, Union Island is a favorite getaway for sailors and adventurous travelers drawn to its unspoiled scenery and relaxed lifestyle. Chatham Bay, on Union’s west coast, is a secluded anchorage backed by steep, verdant hills topped by the ruins of an old fort. Along its quiet beach are bars and a restaurant frequented by locals and visitors alike. On Union’s east coast, Clifton is an unpretentious port town with local shops, cafés and restaurants on the waterfront and main road.
