As bucket list items go, sailing the Caribbean from end-to-end is one that countless beach bums dream about on a cold winter’s day.
If you are on the verge of making it happen, this post will give you an idea of the islands that you shouldn’t miss on your voyage through one of the world’s most beautiful regions.
1) Dominican Republic
Make the Dominican Republic the first island that you visit. With endless white sand beaches studded with palm trees and a mysterious interior filled with mountains cloaked in rainforest, you will understand why Christopher Columbus decided to make this place his beachhead in the Americas.
After spending a few days ashore, the friendliness of its people and their rich culture may convince you to stay longer than you had planned.
Since you will be spending most of your voyage aboard a small boat, take advantage of the luxuriousness that many Punta Cana all inclusive resorts offer and spoil yourself before heading out towards the Leeward Islands.
With all the food, drink, and free entertainment you can handle, as well as some of the most divine spas and pools that can be found in the Dominican Republic, this will be a very hard splurge for other resorts to beat in the future.
2) British Virgin Islands
Want to find the stereotypical deserted island in your Caribbean travels? You’ll find plenty to choose from while sailing through the British Virgin Islands.
These beautiful cays has captivated many people over the years, not the least of which was Sir Richard Branson, who laid claim to Necker Island after purchasing it for $175,000 in 1978.
Avid divers will love this place, as there are scores of established dive sites throughout the archipelago, and hikers will love the views from atop the many mountains located throughout the BVI’s.
3) Anguilla
Those in search of the perfect beach will find plenty of worthy candidates in Anguilla, as some of the best beaches in the world can be found here according to various sources in the travel media. Do not forget your sunglasses when coming ashore here, as the sand here is blinding in its whiteness.
With plenty of luxury villas dotting the coast, it would reasonable to conclude that there might be something worth experiencing here, as many celebrities have habitually made this quiet isle their home during the winter months.
4) Saint Lucia
As you make your way south through the Leeward Islands, many places will tempt you with their beauty.
If you are having a difficult time deciding which ones to call on, we recommend that you set a course for Saint Lucia.
Although its culture features an intriguing mix of French and Creole influences, its natural attractions are the star attraction here.
This includes The Pitons (twin peaks that formed from ancient volcanic activity), steaming hot springs in its center, and a stunning variety of beaches that range in shade from bleach white to pitch black.