From the centuries of colonial rule by the Dutch, French, British and Spanish the Caribbean has absorbed these traits, while maintaining their own individuality.

In the heart of the Caribbean, the archipelago of the British Virgin Islands with over 60 islands is an activity lovers’ dream with deep sea fishing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, snorkeling and parasailing on offer. The pretty island of St. Thomas is both cosmopolitan and unspoilt by tourism. Drop anchor for a while to browse designer boutiques, art galleries and admire colonial architecture lining the shores. Discover the natural beauty of St. Johns, home to a verdant national park or delve into local history and sample rum in picture-perfect Tortola. One highlight of a British Virgin Islands yacht charter is the feeling of escapism it brings – it’s just you, unspoilt natural beauty, island hospitality and the deep blue.

Sailing south to the Leeward and Windward Islands

St Kitts & Nevis – St Kitts residents or KIttitians always give visitors to the islands the warmest of welcomes. With a volcanic past, the interior is mountainous and cloaked with tropical rainforest, while some of the beaches are black volcanic sand.

Antigua and her sister island of Barbuda, the first known for her 365 whites beaches and the second for the pink coral sand.

Guadeloupe – Grande Anse is Guadeloupe’s best-known beach, with white sand, sheltering palms and aquamarine sea. If that works up a thirst quench it with rum made on the island.

Martinique – like Guadeloupe Martinique is still a French colony. Similarly, impressive volcanic mountains rise from the centre, while stunning beaches fringe the coast. History is plentiful and the blooms in the tropical gardens will take your breath away.

St Lucia – While maybe small in stature St Lucia makes up for it in variety. White sand beaches and crystal-clear water makes snorkelling and diving memorable. Inland take a jeep safari up into the rainforest to see the volcano.

Barbados – Barbados is an island of opposites. On the West Coast, the beaches are wide with brilliant white sand and calm, aquamarine surf. While on the opposite Atlantic coast the wind whips up huge waves amid the stunning scenery.

St Vincent & The Grenadines – On a yacht charter you will be among good company visiting St Vincent & The Grenadines, with plenty of other yachts cruising the islands. The islands have a strong cosmopolitan feel from the influx of African slaves and Portuguese, French and British immigrants over the years.

Trinidad & Tobago – The dual island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is only just off the coast of Venezuela. The Creole influence extends to the cuisine and the Islanders traditions. The islands are a hot spot for hummingbirds, which shelter in the interior forests.