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Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua may boast 365 beaches on one small island, but with its crystalline seas, steady breezes, and a bustling regatta calendar, the beaches are just the beginning. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean's Leeward Islands, Antigua epitomizes the splendor of sailing. Here, warm, gentle trade winds, safe anchorages, turquoise waters, and deserted white sand beaches combine to create a sailor’s paradise.
From Nelson’s Dockyard, the epicenter of maritime life, charter a yacht and embark on an unforgettable voyage. As night falls, the dockyard comes alive with a vibrant nightlife, where sailors gather in lively bars to savor rum cocktails, sharing tales of the sea. This is your gateway to explore not only Antigua but also its serene sister, Barbuda. In Deep Bay, drop anchor and dive into the azure depths to discover the shipwreck of The Andes, a relic ensconced beneath the tranquil waters.
As evening descends, step ashore to experience one of Antigua’s famous 'jump-ups,' an exuberant celebration with all-night steel drum dancing. Set your course 30 miles north, and the next afternoon will find you in the tranquil embrace of Barbuda. Here, velvety stretches of pink coral sands beckon for relaxation, while vibrant reefs offer a kaleidoscope of marine life for snorkeling. On Barbuda, birds outnumber people, granting you the rare privilege of solitude along its reef-protected shores.
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Location
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda
Season
Late Fall through Late Spring
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at the base, Jolly Harbour, a relaxed Caribbean town with open air bars on the waterfront – perfect for atmospheric cocktails as the sun sets. Greencastle Hill Park is one of Antigua’s highest points and popular for its views and megaliths.
Day 2: Head to Five Islands Harbour and the boat accessible Pinching Bay, where you can enjoy a peaceful, undeveloped beach – something that’s becoming rare on Antigua. Snorkeling and beachcombing are good here but take your own provisions for lunch and dine on board. If you want amenities, try the neighboring Hawksbill Bay with its resort.
Day 3: Sail north to Deep Bay, which is renowned for great snorkeling thanks to a 100-year old shipwreck in the bay. You’ll be able to see a lot underwater here as the water is so clear and calm. If you are feeling energetic you can hike for 10 minutes and explore Fort Barrington, which was built in 1780.
Day 4: Head south to English Harbour, which is also known as Nelson’s dockyard due to its heritage as an important former British military base. Horatio Nelson lived in the dockyard in the late 1700s. This is the last working Georgian-era dockyard in the world and it’s recently undergone a major transformation and restoration.
Day 5: Head to Green Island, an uninhabited isle which is privately owned by the Mill Reef Club. The western part of the island is just the spot for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish, even turtles, as well as exploring quiet, sandy beaches. It’s often described as a charter highlight. You can also stop by Willikies and the rock formation Devil’s Bridge.
Day 6: Make for Carlisle Bay, known for its luxury resort where you can enjoy the fine dining ashore or stop at the wonderful anchorages to explore beautiful scenery. It’s a great place to kayak and explore the mangroves.
Crew
Private Chef
Meet the chefs
A Sailing Collective chef embodies our philosophy of travel, storytelling, learning, and sharing. We use local ingredients to create a unique culinary experience for each voyage. This is unlike any food adventure you've ever been on.
Professional Captain
Meet the captains
Your professional crew are talented explorers who combine their love of sailing with personalized hospitality. Each captain is professionally certified and able to lead your one of a kind experience at sea.
Location Information
MARINA AND STARTING LOCATION
Marina: Jolly Harbour Marina
Meeting time: 9:00 am on Day 1
Disembarking time: 9:00 am on the final day
AIR TRAVEL
For your Antigua charter, you can get to VC Bird International Airport (ANU) via several daily direct or connecting flight options from the US.
From Miami (3 hours flight time), New York (4 hours flight time), Atlanta or Charlotte.
Carriers include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and US Airways. Most direct flights are from the eastern US.
WEATHER
The best time to visit Antigua is between January and May when the weather and trade winds are more stable, and temperatures are comfortable.
The average temperature in Antigua between December and May (the winter months) can reach 86ºF with cooler nights around 68ºF and a water temperature of 78ºF. Between June and November, the weather is warmer and less stable with temperatures around 89ºF and a water temperature of 82ºF.
In the summer, winds blow from the east to southeast between 10 and 25 knots.
CURRENCIES / MONEY EXCHANGE
The currency in Antigua is Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Use any chip debit card at an ATM at the airport to get local currency.
FAQ
How do I get to Antigua?
Antigua & Barbuda is one of the easiest places to get to in the Caribbean because there are direct flights throughout the East Coast and customs & immigration is quick and simple. Antigua is not a big island as your taxi to your hotel or the starting marina is roughly 20 minutes. All in all, it is hassle free which makes it one of our favorites.
Is Antigua a good location for families?
Yes, the sailing around Antigua & Barbuda is typically very calm and easy. The most challenging aspect is the sail from Antigua to Barbuda which takes roughly 5 hours. If the seas and wind is too much, we can easily create a new itinerary without missing anything.
Are there beaches? What is it like?
They say Antigua has 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Whether that is exactly true or not doesn't really matter. There are beaches and they are amazing! From isolated beaches along Great Bird Island to the pink sand beaches in Barbuda, having picnics during sunset with a glass of wine is absolutely perfect.
When is the best time to visit these islands?
Like everywhere in the Caribbean, we recommend anytime between November through June. The weather is pretty much perfect and the peak season runs from February through March.
Is it busy?
Surprisingly no, Antigua & Barbuda is not overly tourists and you're able to get a sense of local island life. The historic towns of English Harbour and Falmouth make for an interesting land excursion where you can enjoy a mellow way of life while enjoying a historically significant UNESCO Heritage Sight.
Best time to go?
Anytime in winter really .. Starting in early December and running until the end of June, Antigua is an easy getaway. It's not overly busy during the holidays and a great option for New Year's or Spring Break
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