CARIBBEAN SAILING DESTINATIONS:
U.S. & BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
One of the most popular Caribbean sailing destinations is the U.S. & British Virgin Islands which include the islands of Tortola, Norman, Peter, Salt, Cooper, Beef, Marina Cay, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda & Gorda Sound, Anegada, St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix. The Virgin Islands were formed almost 100 million years ago, when volcanic eruptions forced the undersea crust above the ocean’s surface. Today, The Virgin Islands community is dedicated to protecting the beauty of the islands’ natural environment, while allowing visitors to enjoy the territory’s pristine wonder. Visitors come to the Virgin Islands to savour the steady, gentle trade winds, glorious sunshine, powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and spectacular coral reefs.
LEEWARD ISLANDS
The Leeward Islands include St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla, St. Maarten, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Marie Galante. The climate is tropical with an average temperature of 27 Celsius. Temperatures have been known to rise to 33 Celsius during the hot season (May to October) but the low humidity and constant breezes make for enjoyable vacation Caribbean sailing weather.
WINDWARD ISLANDS
The Windward Islands include Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Martinique, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Of volcanic origin, the islands are generally rugged, mountainous and well forested with many streams and lakes and an equable climate with ample rainfall. The islands are largely inhabited by descendants of Africans, who were brought as slaves during the colonial period. The culture varies from island to island, but the French influence is particularly strong.