The Caribbean remains one of the most popular yacht charter locations, and for good reason. You have 7,000+ islands to choose from, with an abundance of sugar-sand beaches, gently swaying palm trees, and diverse natural beauty. Add in friendly locals, and it’s a steadfast hub for superyachts big and small. The 148-foot (45-meter) Feadship Gladiator (below), her crew, and her new rotational captain, Owain Rowlands, have frequented the Caribbean on numerous occasions. They’ll be based there again this winter, too, with some charter weeks still available. Here, Capt. Owain shares his top three Caribbean hot spots for charter guests.
We have seen some charter guests keen to go off the beaten track since the pandemic began. But, when it comes to the Caribbean, many of the same “go to” spots still prove popular. There are many amazing cruising locations in the Caribbean. One would be a fool not to mention St. Barths, the BVIs, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As a captain, I keep itineraries for these islands in my top pocket.
ST. BARTHS
Clients’ requests and preferences will always determine the destination we choose in the Caribbean. If they are looking for quality restaurants and a good atmosphere, then we take them to St Barths. Here, French elegance meets laid-back Caribbean life. Restaurants such as La Guérite and Orega offer sophisticated dining options. Shellona and Nikki Beach, meanwhile, provide more laidback beach-club vibes. We also arrange fun activities such as a guided ATV tour of the island, or a day fishing for tuna, dorade, and mahi mahi on our brand-new 48-foot Anvera chase boat, Spartacus. Colombier beach (above), accessible only by boat, is a great spot for a beach BBQ and a day of games, water sports, and relaxation. The Gladiator crew knows how to set up a truly spectacular beach day.
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
If we are chartering with a young family, then the BVIs are ideal. Here the Gladiator crew can create a Pirates of the Caribbean style adventure for kids of all ages. Treasure hunts on Norman Island are always a hit, and guests can kayak or take a paddleboard to explore one of three sea-level cave complexes dotted around the coast. For New Year’s Eve celebrations, the atmosphere is always electric at Foxy’s or Soggy Dollar (above) over on Jost Van Dyke.
ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
When we have guests that want to get away from it all and to connect with nature, we recommend heading to St Vincent and the Grenadines. On the main island of St. Vincent, guests can head inland to soak in stunning natural hot springs. Or, we can take them to the northern coast on our chase boat at speeds of up to 45 knots, where the Falls of Baleine cascade into a natural swimming pool below. The island of Bequia is surrounded by 30 established dive sites. Mustique (above), meanwhile, boasts spectacular sea and birdlife, and Canouan has a tropical golf course so close to the ocean you could reach the green from Gladiator’s aft deck. Many of the Grenadines are uninhabited, and it’s possible to find a deserted island for a day of true privacy and seclusion.
Gladiator is very well suited to Caribbean cruising and all the crew are very familiar with these waters. Our extensive watertoy collection and chase boat both add another level to the charter experience, and open up so many opportunities for exploring, excursions, and fun on the water.
Gladiator gladiatoryacht.com
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