Caribbean - all islands
The site of a Puritan colony established in 1629, Providencia is a remote gem of striking topography, golden beaches and turquoise blue waters. Pirate Henry Morgan made this his base to raid the Spanish empire, and treasure is rumored to be buried here. Far from the Colombian mainland, the island feels more Caribbean than Colombian and more English than Spanish, as Creole is spoken and road signs have English town names.
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.
St. Barthélemy – better known as St. 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.
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.
Discover curated experiences designed to ensure each moment ashore is uniquely rewarding. No matter which you choose, each excursion has been created to provide an exceptional travel experience. For those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of independent travel, the Concierge Ashore can transform tours into a private experience or craft an entire bespoke event just for you.
The secluded beaches, untamed forests and jungle rivers of Belize offer the perfect fusion of Caribbean bliss, natural wonders and fascinating ancient history. While Belize City has a nice museum and cathedral, most attractions lie in the surrounding countryside and waters. The offshore islands of Ambergis Caye and Caye Caulkner boast not only pristine beaches but also access to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
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.
Arguably Panama's most beautiful region and an ecotourism favorite, the Bocas del Toro archipelago consists of nine densely forested islands, scores of uninhabited islets and the Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos, Panama's oldest marine park. At the southern tip of Colón Island is Bocas Town, the province capital offering dining and shopping opportunities. Sun, sand and surf are obvious highlights – stunning seashores include Bluff Beach to the east and sheltered Starfish Beach to the northwest. Carenero Island is a tranquil aside with some of the province's best seafood.
Carriacou, part of the Grenadines chain, belongs to the multi-island nation of Grenada. Early colonial records suggest the name was derived from the Kalinago word for “land surrounded by reefs.” A hilly, rural island of villages, it is an off-the-beaten-track destination with fantastic snorkeling. Hillsborough is the main town, close to scenic west coast spots like Paradise Beach and the pretty anchorage at Tyrell Bay. The town’s Carriacou Museum is an introduction to the history and heritage that shape the vibrant local culture.
