Barbados Yacht Charter Guide

A British dependent for over 350 years, remnants of colonialism still linger and have become engagingly entwined with the rich cultural identity of the native people. The parishes of Barbados are dotted with Colonial houses and sugar plantations dating back to the 17th century, creating a stately backdrop to the West Indian vibe.

Barbados is the only Caribbean destination (and one of only four countries) to have had regular Concorde service from London. This contributed to the growth of the island’s west (or ‘platinum’) coast which became adorned with both billionaire-owned houses and luxury hotels. Particularly busy with regulars over Christmas and New Year, it is a stretch of white sandy beach to the North of Holetown, where you can swim with turtles in the warm azure sea and enjoy a host of watersports.

Hiking and all types of surfing enjoy immense popularity throughout the island, and for those feeling less inclined to exertion, Barbados boasts the globally appreciated Mount Gay Rum. The rum sours are certainly worth sampling – be it in a local rum shack just outside Holetown or in a more upmarket venue. After the sunset, there is plenty to keep your Barbados yacht charter hot – the international beach club chain, Nikki Beach, has opened a venue near Port St Charles and Port Ferdinand and, even on a Sunday, The Cliff Beach Club and Sea Shed spark up live local music and are humming with an international clientele.

Serving spicy West Indian favorites, the bulk of Barbados’ top restaurants are found on the west coast – from The Cliff, to Lonestar and Dockside 1359 further north. Trendsetters are also heading as far away as possible from the flashy west coast to the palm-tree-studded grounds of the island’s oldest hotel, The Crane. Built in 1887, the huge east coast resort combines historic features with modern design. Drop the anchor in Bridgetown and have your tender drop you on the pink sand beach at sunset before heading to one of the hotel’s five eateries for dinner. Try the crispy flying fish at the cliffside L’Azure, a local delicacy, or sample Japanese at Zen restaurant.

Barbados is famous for its golf, and in addition to Royal Westmoreland, the world-renowned Sandy Lane Hotel boasts a Country Club and the exclusive Green Monkey Course. The national cricket hero, Sir Gary Sobers, can often be spotted relaxing at the Sandy Lane Country Club after a swift 18 holes. This venue, where Tiger Woods once married, is a majestic clubhouse with a fantastic view. Sit to enjoy your lunch while the indigenous green monkeys canter across the colorful gardens and fairways. While on the island, why not soak up a little of Barbados’ English lifestyle and take in a polo match at Apes Hill Club, or a game of cricket.