A person could spend an eternity taking in the culture, cuisine, nightlife, and beaches that give St. Martin its charm and allure. There is a reason why this island is our second most popular sailing destination in the Caribbean.
Chartering here allows you to sail to some of the most beautiful places in the Eastern Caribbean and enjoy swimming in some of the most unspoiled reefs in the world. The weather is pleasant year-round with an average temperature of 80 degrees, but the best time to visit is November through April.
Sailing from St. Martin to explore St. Barth is one of our favorite Caribbean itineraries. Begin at our base in Marina Fort Louis in Marigot, the capital of the French part of St. Martin. While there, take advantage of the outdoor activities available including surfing, scuba diving, windsurfing, kayaking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, or golfing, just to name a few.
Or just take time to explore the markets and sidewalk bistros in city of Marigot. Traveling by boat is the best way to experience the island. Sail the turquoise waters North to the protected cove of Grand Case. This village is typical with its colorful houses, beach bars, and restaurants of French and Creole cuisine.
Only a short distance away is the pristine island of Tintamarre, in the heart of the nature reserve on St. Martin. These white sandy beaches are accessible from your boat; take lunch on board as this island is completely uninhabited. Take a short sail back toward St. Martin and spend the night anchored off Pinel Island.
The sail to St. Barth will take around 2 hours from St. Martin. The island of Saint Barthélemy (pronounced san-BART), which is composed of volcanic rock, is only eight square miles in size, but offers so many places to relax, nature to explore, top of the line restaurants, and shopping.
St. Barth is a very chic and glitzy vacation destination, commonly referred to as the St. Tropez of the Caribbean; so do not be surprised to be sharing the beach with the world’s billionaires. It is also home to the St. Barths Bucket superyacht regatta each March which is an incredible sight.
Anchor at Anse Colombier and explore “Rockefeller’s Beach.” Swim or just take in the stunning beauty of the island. Sail to the red-roofed capital of the island, Gustavia, and spend an evening ashore for a treat. This small harbor town has everything from open-air markets to boutiques and gourmet restaurants, all against the backdrop of the beautiful green hills.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Fort Gustav or to any one of the museums or 1800s buildings within walking distance from the harbor. There is plenty of hiking nearby with rewarding views at the top. If there is time, set sail to explore some of the other world famous beaches on the island.
