Island hop through the Caribbean by luxury yacht
The Top Caribbean Beaches
The Pink Sand Beach of Barbuda
A deserted oceanfront spanning 12-kilometres (8-miles) from Spanish Point to Palmetto Point, this stunning pink sand beach is a must-visit destination on Barbuda - one of two islands that make up the dual-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. One of the Caribbean’s rare pink sand beaches, this iconic beach is conveniently situated near your luxury yacht's drop-off point, offering easy access.
The beach’s iconic blush hue comes from the tiny coral and shell fragments that are deposited by the waves, blending with the soft white sand, at its deepest colours between October and January. This romantic spot is lapped by crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, making it an ideal place to relax and soak up the incredible vistas.
Your Caribbean cruise may include a DiscoverMORE optional tour of the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning over 2,000 acres. This special sanctuary is home to the largest colony of frigate birds in the Western Hemisphere, offering a unique opportunity to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Your insightful local guide will explain the importance of frigate birds in the region’s ecosystem.
Perched on the northwest coast of Antigua at Fort Bay, Fort James Beach is a mere stroll from the vibrant heart of St. John’s. This stunning beach, adorned with pristine golden sand and fringed by palm trees, offers an idyllic retreat for relaxation. The serene, crystalline waters are ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Help yourself to one of the snorkelling kits provided on board; just some of the complimentary aquatic toys that Emerald Cruises provides for yacht guests.
History enthusiasts will delight in exploring the nearby remnants of Fort James, an 18th-century British fortification at the beach's end. Additionally, the beach offers numerous spots to savour local drinks and traditional Caribbean cuisine, with beachside shacks serving favourites like jerk chicken, fried plantains and rum punch.
Your itinerary may dock in Antigua at the beginning or end of your journey, allowing you to extend your stay to experience Fort James Beach. You can either walk to the beach from the cruise port or hop in a local taxi.


Located on the southeastern coast of Antigua in the parish of Saint Philip, Half Moon Bay is approximately a 40-minute drive from the cruise port in St. John’s, making it an ideal stop before or after your luxurious Caribbean cruise for those who are staying in the area.
This crescent-shaped bay, spanning 1.2-kilometres (0.75 miles), features clear blue waters, wonderful for snorkelling enthusiasts eager to explore the vivid reefs. If relaxation is more your style, the golden sandy beach offers a tranquil spot to bask in the sunshine, accompanied by the soothing rustle of palm trees swaying in the breeze. A beachside bar is on hand to serve cooling drinks and light snacks, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout your visit.


As you cruise into Soufrière, on the beautiful island of St. Lucia, you’ll be welcomed by dramatic views of the stunning bay and the iconic Twin Pitons, a pair of lava dome remnants. Around an hour's drive away from here, nestled on the west coast, lies the enchanting Marigot Bay, a destination well worth exploring.
American novelist James A. Michener once described Marigot Bay as "the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean," and it's easy to see why. The bay is a picturesque haven, surrounded by lush, tree-covered hills and dotted with catamarans, yachts and sailboats. Its stunning scenery has even served as a backdrop for Hollywood films, including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean.’
During your time visiting St. Lucia, you can enjoy some fun in the sun and take out one of our complimentary kayaks to leisurely explore the ocean and gorgeous coastline.
Afterwards, you may also like to indulge in a variety of traditional seafood dishes at the numerous seafront restaurants, while enjoying breathtaking views of the bay.
Another must-visit destination when we anchor in Soufrière is Sugar Beach, approximately a 15-minute drive from the port. This idyllic spot is surrounded by over 100 acres of lush, tropical rainforest.
While visiting Sugar Beach on the Eastern Caribbean with St. Barths cruise, join our Stairways to Pitons EmeraldACTIVE activity. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Twin Pitons are near enough to admire, and you can enjoy a guided hike along the renowned Tet Paul Nature Trail, which reveals breathtaking views and exotic plants as well as a fascinating glimpse into St. Lucia’s history.


Nestled on the northern coast of Mayreau, Salt Whistle Bay has been dubbed "Paradise Found" by National Geographic. Sheltered from the rolling Atlantic waves, this bay is ideal for various water activities such as snorkelling and paddleboarding.
Our Caribbean itineraries, such as Grenadines & Windwards Yachting, frequently visit Mayreau, with Salt Whistle Bay approximately a five-minute drive away. As part of your EmeraldPLUS program, you can relax on the pristine white sand beach and enjoy a private BBQ lunch featuring a mouth-watering array of barbecued dishes and other culinary delights. As you dine, a skilled local band will serenade you with Caribbean rhythms and soulful melodies, setting the scene for a truly unforgettable beach day.
No Caribbean cruise is complete without visiting its stunning beaches. Here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your trip:
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Bring ample sunscreen: The Caribbean's tropical climate means year-round sunshine. Protect your skin with plenty of sunscreen, especially as you can be more exposed on the beach.
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Stay hydrated: The heat can be intense, so carry plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
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Pack appropriate clothing: Light, breathable clothing is essential, especially fabrics such as cotton and linen, to help you keep cool and comfortable. Items such as shorts, T-shirts and swimwear are ideal for the yachting lifestyle. Be sure to pack accessories like sun hats, caps and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun. For a comprehensive list, please refer to our Caribbean Packing Guide.
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Respect the environment: Follow beach rules and dispose of litter properly to keep the surroundings as pristine as you found them.
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Enjoy local cuisine: Many beaches have nearby bars and restaurants offering traditional Caribbean food and drinks. Some of our cruises even include onshore excursions with a variety of regional dishes available.
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Dine on board: Savour the flavours of the regions you visit with local-themed cuisine prepared by expert chefs on your luxury yacht. Each dish incorporates regional ingredients to create an authentic culinary experience.


Enjoy the EmeraldDISCOVERY program
As you cruise the Caribbean, experience the best of the destinations you visit with our exclusive EmeraldDISCOVERY program.
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In addition to included onshore excursions, our curated EmeraldPLUS program immerses you in the local culture with guided tours, personal interactions and unique events, including our exclusive beach BBQs with live music on idyllic islands.
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For more active pursuits, join an EmeraldACTIVE experience: embarking on a guided hike, such as St. Lucia’s spectacular Tet Paul Nature Trail, exploring lush island landscapes on one of our complimentary bicycles, or participating in an onboard fitness session.
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Delve further into authentic Caribbean culture with our extra-special DiscoverMORE excursions, immersive experiences designed to inspire that venture beyond the ordinary travel encounters (available at additional cost).
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Highlights on some of our cruises include:
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Feeding the iconic ‘Swimming Pigs,’ and exploring a unique blowhole and ‘Windex Water’ in the stunning Exuma Islands (The Bahamas).
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Exploring the planet’s brightest bioluminescent bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico, by kayak at nighttime.
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Embarking on a private boat to an underwater marine paradise off the chic island of St. Barths, snorkelling around vivid coral formations.
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Unwind at the Marina Platform: On days when your luxury yacht is anchored, take advantage of our innovative Marina Platform and enjoy our complimentary aquatic toys, including a marina slide, snorkelling equipment, SEABOB scooters, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Relax and have fun in the water at your leisure.
Embark on a luxurious Caribbean cruise and experience the ultimate island-hopping adventure. Discover the Caribbean's most breathtaking destinations, where you can admire stunning landscapes and island views, delve into rich heritage and pirate folklore and savour tantalising food and drink.
Explore this tropical paradise in style on board your award-winning luxury yacht, where you'll enjoy exquisite meals, a selection of optional excursions, and unparalleled comfort in our suites and staterooms – tailored to suit every preference.




Your guide to luxury yacht cruising
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