Emerald Cruises in the Caribbean Sea
Embark on an 8-day journey across the Caribbean Sea departing from Marigot, Saint Martin, aboard a luxury yacht of Emerald Cruises for an unforgettable voyage through pristine beaches and sky-blue waters, traversing fascinating and diverse cultures from one island to the next.
The cruise begins in Marigot, the capital of Saint Martin, on a luxurious Emerald Cruises yacht, where guests are welcomed with a spectacular dinner. The first stop is Anguilla, an island of coral and limestone, known for its typically white sand and stunning landscapes against emerald green waters, framed by lush vegetation. It is the northernmost of the British Leeward Islands, famous for diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours. The included excursion features a tour of its fascinating historical landmarks: Sandy Ground, symbol of Anguilla’s first settlement; Salt Pond, a natural saltwater lagoon vital to Anguilla’s economy and culture; Island Harbor, a vibrant hub of the fishing industry, crucial to the island’s economy and culinary traditions. With EmeraldACTIVE, you can explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Katouche Estate, ending the excursion on an unspoiled beach.
Next, the cruise heads to Virgin Gorda, part of the British Virgin Islands, named for its resemblance to a reclining woman. Here, one can enjoy a tranquil pace of life and admire picturesque landscapes. The Baths are probably its most famous treasure: natural pools and caves formed by granite boulders after volcanic eruptions. Spend the day swimming in the blue waters, or enjoy DiscoverMORE Snorkeling at The Dogs (optional).
Following a scenic cruise through the British Virgin Islands, you arrive at Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the four main islands, with just 8 square kilometers, a paradise for nature lovers. The Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi formed by ocean waves crashing into a marine pool, is one of the island’s unique attractions. EmeraldPLUS offers the chance for a BBQ lunch on a fully equipped beach, with a live local band. DiscoverMORE Snorkeling at Sandy Pit (optional) reveals the natural wonders of the Caribbean underwater world at Sandy Spit and Diamond Cay. Sandy Spit is a tiny uninhabited island renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, while Diamond Cay is a secluded bay sheltered by Little Jost van Dyke, perfect for swimming and snorkeling directly from the boat.
The itinerary also includes a stop at Anegada, the northernmost island that, unlike its volcanic neighbors, is the only coral island in the archipelago. It boasts miles of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich wildlife, including rare rock iguanas and flamingos. Here, you can join an included excursion with shuttle to Cow Wreck Beach. Alternatively, DiscoverMORE (optional) offers a self-guided jeep adventure to explore the island at your own pace. DiscoverMORE (optional) also offers a sustainable bonefishing tour with expert local guides, who know the best spots and techniques for a fun experience, where the bonefish is released back into the sea, preserving the species and the environment.
Next stops are Saba and Bonaire, part of the Dutch Caribbean. Saba, the “Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean,” is a five-square-mile island known for its lush landscapes, diverse marine life, and world-class hiking trails. In the afternoon, you can sail to Gustavia. DiscoverMORE Scenic Tour of Saba Island (optional) takes you through winding roads showcasing all the breathtaking landscapes of Saba, to The Bottom, the picturesque capital, or Windwardside, one of the island’s largest villages, full of colorful houses, cozy shops, and friendly residents, or Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, offering spectacular views from its summit.
The final stop before returning to Marigot is Gustavia, the capital of the Caribbean island of Saint Barthélemy, named after the Swedish king Gustav III, who used it as a private escape (1785). Its historic center is phenomenal, enriched with typical colorful wooden houses and unique cuisine blending French and Creole influences. DiscoverMORE offers a comprehensive tour of St. Barths (optional), with an expert guide. Alternatively, DiscoverMORE offers snorkeling (optional) in the waters of Colombier Bay, then sailing to Gros Ilets, at the entrance of Gustavia, continuing the underwater exploration of this thriving ecosystem. There is also the free option to swim directly from the yacht, enjoying the marina games.
The cruise ends in Marigot after a rich breakfast, with transfers to the airport for the return journey or to continue the vacation, bringing home many memories of an unforgettable trip filled with meticulous services and comforts designed for every guest, enriched with numerous shore excursions and cultural experiences through EmeraldPLUS or EmeraldACTIVE. Moreover, the ships of the Emerald fleet offer various types of breathtaking rooms, from Oceanview Stateroom, Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Yacht Suite, to Owner’s Suite. Included in the experience are meals and drinks (plus welcome and farewell dinners), picnics on equipped beaches with live local music, excursions and explorations of caves, coral reefs, lush vegetation, and exotic nature, and finally airport transfers to and from the ship.
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