Hidden Gems in the Caribbean
For many people, when they think of a luxury cruise, their mind immediately jumps to the Caribbean. They're certainly not wrong, as many luxury ocean cruises and super yachts visit the myriad of beautiful islands and sail the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. In fact, most seasoned cruisers have probably been on at least one Caribbean cruise throughout their time.
But where are the hidden gems in this well-known area?
This is a topic we wanted to delve into, as bookings for the Caribbean are on the rise and it seems that cruising may return to this part of the world before other destinations open up. Luckily our expert Connoisseur Emma Taylor is here to help out! Here's Emma's top recommendations for the Caribbean's hidden gems...
St. Kitts & Nevis
This happens to be one of my favourite ports and it's specifically due to one memory I have. St Kitts and Nevis are connected by a causeway and whilst on an independent tour of the island, our driver suggested, at the end of the day, that we drive up to the highest point on St. Kitts to be able to view Nevis.
This was such an incredible view, that even years on, it still sticks with me.
The view of Nevis is not only spectacular in terms of the scenery, but it also gives you an amazing view of the Caribbean Sea vs the Atlantic Ocean. The causeway cuts right between the two, so on one side you have the calmness of the Caribbean Sea and just a matter of feet apart, is the choppier Atlantic.
It really was a special end to the day.
Cozumel, Mexico
As an animal lover, I’m always keen to see any wildlife on my cruises and this port really didn’t disappoint! Cozumel is incredible for diving and snorkeling with some of the best reefs in the Caribbean, as well as a subaquatic art exhibit with submerged sculptures! The island is much smaller and feels more authentic than other Mexican islands, and gives you a wonderful opportunity to see sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins without the crowds of tourists.
Grand Cayman
With shimmering blue waters lined with starfish and stingrays, Grand Cayman is also an excellent destination for any animal lovers out there. There is the opportunity to make the most of a wonderful experience at a turtle sanctuary, where you can really learn about the incredible conservation work they do there and even spend the afternoon on the beach swimming with the turtles too! Well worth a visit!
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
St. Maarten is a world record holder for being the smallest island to host two nations: France and the Netherlands. Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of St. Maarten and is often overlooked as the French side is twice the size with more islands of its coast. It is the only town on the island with a 'city' feel and is home to some of the best places for authentic Caribbean cuisine which you can enjoy on Philipsburg's golden beach.
Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe
One of the lesser-known ports of the Caribbean can be found on the French-speaking island of Guadeloupe: Iles des Saintes. Boasting white sand beaches, azure waters and swaying palm trees, this small island port is one of the most untouched and unexplored regions of the Caribbean, making it the perfect port of call for a spot of R&R. Surrounded by lush jungle, the mountains, waterfalls, and La Soufriere volcano present opportunities for more adventurous excursions by day; while restaurants and bars offer a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, featuring traditional Caribbean cuisine and music.
It goes without saying that we are all excited for cruising to restart later this year, but I'm eagerly anticipating my next cruise in the sunny Caribbean! For some of our best offers on Elite Ocean and Yacht-Style cruises in the Caribbean for the end of 2021 and throughout 2022/ 23.
Want to experience this? Give the Panache Cruises team a call on 0161 513 8200 and they'd be happy to help!
