Note: A special thanks to Doug and Gabrielle Leury of Yepton Estate Cottages for sharing their home, Antigua’s history and the best ways to explore their island.

Set in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago, the Leeward Islands nation of Antigua and Barbuda is a haven for beach lovers and sailors. Located 43 miles due east of Nevis, Antigua (pronounced An-TEE-gwa or locally as An-Tee-ga) is one of the most popular destinations for those on a Caribbean charter. Just a four hour flight from the east coast of the U.S., this 108 sq. mile flat island of coral and limestone is often a gateway for visitors heading off to other islands. For those that chose to stay, Antigua is famous for cricket; historical sites; sparkling blue waters; a spectacular coastline with abundant coves, natural harbors and bays; approximately 365 white sandy beaches; its festivals (Carnival, International Literacy Festival, a number of indigenous food festivals, the Warri Festival, and of course the Antigua Sailing Week); its upscale tourism industry which offers offshore banking and Internet gambling, and just about every outdoor activity imaginable. It is also internationally famous as a yachting destination and as a provisioning and marine supply center. Twenty-five miles to the northeast lies the tiny sister island of Barbuda (60 sq. miles). Although less visited, those on a Caribbean charter who really want to get away from it all will, like the late Princess Diana, appreciate the desert island remoteness and miles upon miles of pale pink and white sandy beaches. No matter how you spend your time on the island nation of Antigua & Barbuda, you will have a choice of experiences to make your vacation dreams a reality.

History

Antigua’s first settlers were the Ciboney – a nomadic people from South America. Beautifully crafted shell and stone tools found in sites around the island trace their presence from around 3100 B.C. After they moved on, the island was settled between 35-1100 A.D. by the peaceful Arawak Indians, who called the island, “Wadadli”, meaning “our own.” They were subsequently raided by the Caribs. The first European sighting of Antigua was made by Christopher Columbus in 1493 on his second voyage. Although he never landed, he named the island Antigua in honor of Santa Maria la Antigua – a saint he worshipped in Seville. A European settlement did not occur until 1632, when a group of English colonists left St. Kitts to settle on Antigua. Among them was Sir Christopher Codrington, who guided development on the island as a profitable sugar colony. When the demand for sugar increased during the 17th century, sugar production became the country’s dominant industry, bringing enormous wealth to the planters. Unfortunately, local labor was not sufficient and this period saw a rapid rise in the slave trade. By 1770, according to “A History of Antigua” by Bran Dyde, the slave population on Antigua was 37,500 compared to the white population of 3,000.

For a large part of Antigua’s history, the island was an important strategic port as well as a valuable commercial colony. It was considered Britain’s “Gateway to the Caribbean” as it was located in the major sailing routes to and from the region’s resource rich island colonies. Lord Horatio Nelson arrived in 1784 to preserve the island’s commercial shipping prowess. With the construction of Nelson’s Dockyard, he ensured the island’s safety from invasion. In addition, there were massive fortifications built around the island. In fact, between the end of the 17th century and well into the 19th century 53 forts existed on Antigua, making it one of the most heavily fortified places on earth. Thus, unlike most of Britain’s West Indies colonies, Antigua remained British throughout the colonial era except for a brief 6-month incursion by the French in 1666 at Fort Barrington.

With the abolition of slavery in 1834 and the wane of the sugar industry, poverty was widespread across the island. After World War II, the rise of a strong Labor movement under VC Bird began the move towards independence. In 1967, Antigua – with Barbuda and the tiny island of Redonda (an uninhabited ½ sq. mile rocky island 24 miles southwest of Antigua) as dependencies – became an Associate State of the Commonwealth, answering only to Britain in matters of defense and foreign policy. Slowly the national economy turned towards the development of tourism. Finally, in 1981, the country achieved full independent status.

Exploring Antigua on Land….

Antigua is small. You can drive around the entire island in one day. The roads are well-marked and smoothly paved (except for the rutted dirt tracks that lead to some of the more remote beaches), and most driving tours begin and end in St. John. Therefore, for those on a Caribbean charter that want to explore at your own pace, the best thing to do is rent a car. Be advised, however, that driving is on the left and most Antiguans drive at break-neck speed- honking their horns rather than braking or moving over.

The first place to begin exploring is in St. John, Antigua’s capital and only city. Nearly half the island’s population lives in this bustling city which is a mixture of modern buildings as well as old stone and wooden buildings either near collapse or beautifully restored. Since most of the main places of interest are close together, the best thing to do is park the car and walk. Starting at the south end of the city, on Market Street, you will get a chance to savor some local culture, especially on Friday and Saturday mornings. The market is a vibrant display of lively crowds, fruit, flowers and local produce. Next to the fruit market is the Arts & Crafts market. Across the street, local fishermen bring in their fresh catch to the fish market. Heading north towards Redcliffe Quay (formerly the site of the town’s slave market) turn west down Nevis Street. You will find the remains of barracoons- compounds where slaves were held upon their arrival in the island before being auctioned off at the market. Redcliffe Quay is the oldest part of the city. Explore the wooden boardwalk that runs along the waterfront, past old warehouses that once held barrels of rum and sugar, ship lumber, cotton and other supplies for the British Navy. Today, the area is a quiet place to take a rest in the shade or grab a bite in one of many restaurants. Continuing north, at the foot of High Street, you will find Heritage Quay – the duty-free shopping district for cruise ship tourists. At the corner of Long and Market Streets, the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda is housed in the 1750 colonial courthouse. Toured in about 30 minutes, this charming museum tells the story of Antigua & Barbuda from its geological birth thought the present day. A cool oasis in the middle of St. John, the museum contains a wide variety of fascinating exhibits and objects, including a full-size replica of an Arawak dwelling and the bat of Viv Richards, one of the world’s greatest cricket players. Two block eastward on Church Street, you will find St. John’s Cathedral, offering some of the best views of the busy capital. The twin towers of the church are a dominant landmark of the city. Two previous churches stood on this site, one from 1682, another from 1789, but both were destroyed by earthquakes and hurricanes. The present church was built in 1845-48. Its gray stone façade is not extraordinary, but the beautiful interior is encased in dark pine and dotted with white marble tablets commemorating Antigua’s historical figures. Finally, no visit to St. John would be complete without a stop at Fort James. The harbor entrance to St. John is protected by two early 18th century bastions: Fort Barrington to the south and Fort James on the north promontory. The walls of Fort James remain in pretty good condition and a few canons are still intact, but the main attraction is the excellent view of the harbor.

The second tour of Antigua is along the Northeast coast, which is pounded by the Atlantic. Among the highlights is the small town of Parham where the first British colonists from St. Kitts arrived in 1632. St. Peter’s – the village church built in 1840 – has an unusual octagonal shape. About 4 miles southeast, near the village of Pares, stands the partly restored Betty’s Hope – the first sugar plantation established on Antigua in 1674. Built by Christopher Codrington and named after his daughter, it is now a small open-air museum that includes the old twin windmill towers (one works) and the ruins of the stillhouse, boiling house, overseer’s house, great house and cistern. With about 100 stone windmill towers dotting the landscape, Betty’s Hope provides an interesting insight into the importance of the sugar industry for Antigua. Five miles away, at the eastern tip of Antigua, is Indian Town National Park. Indian Town Point is thought to have been an Arawak campsite. Devil’s Bridge, a large natural limestone arch on the shoreline of Indian Town Point has several blowholes formed by the incessant pounding of the Atlantic’s forceful waves. It is a pretty spectacular sight.

A must-see for anyone on a Caribbean charter to Antigua is the Falmouth and English Harbour area on the south coast. This picturesque area is truly the historical heart of Antigua. As early as 1671, the British navy recognized the potential of using the magnificent natural harbours as protection from hurricanes and tropical storms. In addition, because it was completely hidden away from the enemy, the dockyard was a safe place to repair ships. Developed as a base for the British Navy it served as the headquarters of the fleet of the Leeward Islands and was used by Admirals Hood, Rodney and Nelson. The Dockyard has been completely restored and is the only Georgian dockyard in the world. Each April, it is also home of one of the world’s biggest yachting events – Antigua Sailing Week. Part of the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is the area above the harbor, known collectively as Shirley Heights. This rambling array of gun emplacements and military buildings is known for its breathtaking view of English Harbour, as well as panoramic views on clear days of Montserrat and Guadeloupe. The area is named for Thomas Shirley, Governor of the Leeward Islands, who ordered the construction of the fortifications in the late 18th century. As you head up Shirley Heights, if you turn left, you will come to Cape Shirley – a cluster of ruined stone buildings including officers’ quarters, ammo storerooms and barracks. A wide gun platform looks down to the Indian Creek inlet as well as out to sea. The right hand fork of the road leads to the ruins of Fort Shirley, where you will find the overgrown ruins of the officers’ quarters, the remains of the military hospital and cemetery, and a restored guardhouse that now serves as a bar and restaurant. Be sure to check out the courtyard for your “Kodak moment” of English Harbour.

The west coast of Antigua offers one of the most scenic drives on the island – Fig Tree Drive. This picturesque drive winds along the low central plains past old sugar mills and quaint churches up to Boggy Peak (the highest point on the island), through the lush vegetation and steep farmlands around Fig Tree Hill (where the road is lined with bananas – locally called “figs”- pineapple, mango and coconut groves, and then, heading back down, follows the coast past several outstanding beaches. Be sure to stop at a small roadside shack called the, “Cultural Centre” about halfway along the drive. You can sample the famous black pineapple – a variety of thin, tall and super sweet pineapple grown only on Antigua.

No land tour of Antigua would be complete without mentioning the beaches. Antiguans boast that there are 365 of them – one for each day of the year. Most are on the Caribbean side, making them calm and protected. All are open to the public, but sometimes access to them is a challenge. Some you can drive directly to, others are found at the end of rutted dirt tracks. Since many are remote, it is always best to never swim alone. Some beaches to check out include: Jabberwock Beach in the north for kite surfing, Rendezvous Bay that can be reached along a path leading from the rain forest, the popular Darkwood Beach between Jolly Harbour and Johnson’s point and the reef-protected Long Bay. My favorite beach? In fear of ruining its tranquility, I will not tell you, but it is outside of Bolan. Say hi to Almond and Elvis who offer amazing hospitality at the only bar/restaurant on the beach. Just start exploring to locate the beach that tickles your fancy!

…And By Sea

There are so many anchorages around Antigua, those on a Caribbean charter could spend their entire charter moving around and never begin to cover them all. The best bet is to use the Leeward Island Cruising Guide provided with each booked charter. That being said, here are some anchorages to consider…It goes without saying that Falmouth and English Harbours should not be missed. If you are looking for something quiet, the well-protected Indian Creek anchorage is so deserted you will see more goats than people. Green Island and Nonsuch Bay are a reef-protected expanse of water covering several square miles. Both areas offer numerous places to anchor from wide open vistas to protected mangrove creeks. Five Islands Harbour also offers several anchorage options where you will find nothing but mangroves, beaches and birds. If you are looking for a full service marina, head over to Jolly Harbour. Again, use your guide book. Like the beaches, you will find anchorages to suite every taste.

Exploring Barbuda

Barbuda can be reached easily from Antigua, either by air (a 20 minute ride) or by boat (1 ½ -3 hours depending if it is by ferry or sail). It is one of those rare Caribbean islands that is so untouched by development, it seems almost deserted. Barbuda is an island of mostly white beaches, of which the most beautiful is a 17 mile stretch of sand running from Palmetto Point to Cedar Tree Point. Sand color varies depending on the wind and sea conditions, but often there is a soft pink glow due to the millions of tiny shells thrown up by the sea. The interior of the island is mainly scrub and for the most part is uninhabited save for a few tiny villages connected by dirt roads, as well as a handful of small luxury resorts, lodges and guest houses. The main village is Codrington, where most of the island’s population of 1,300 lives. In 1680, four years before sugar was cultivated on Antigua, King Charles II leased Barbuda to both Sir Codrington and his brother. For most of the 18th Century, the land was used to produce food and to supply additional slave labor for the sugar plantations on Antigua. It is said that Codrington placed the largest and strongest African slaves on Barbuda, and even today, the Barbudans tend to be taller than Antiguans. Today, most of the activities on Barbuda include beachcombing, fishing and hunting, snorkeling or diving, bird watching or simply soaking up the sun. The main points of interest are the Frigate Bird Sanctuary (reached only by boat and containing over 170 species of birds and up to 5,000 nesting frigate birds), Martello Tower (a 50 ft. high watch tower used by the British as part of their fortifications) and Highlands House (the ruins of the Codrington estate located on Barbuda’s highest point- 124 feet above sea level).

Things to Do While Visiting Antigua

Antigua offers a range of activities for those on a Caribbean charter. You will find everything from deep sea fishing, wind and kite surfing to tennis and golf, horse riding and horse racing, hiking and bird watching. Hunting for deer, wild boar and various game fowl can be done on Barbuda. For a truly unique experience, take in a cricket match at the Antigua Recreation Ground. The island has historically been a very strong contributor to West Indies and international cricket. Matches can be found almost anywhere on the island at almost any time. Both diving and snorkeling on Antigua & Barbuda are excellent with well-preserved coral reefs, cliffs and canyons, and shipwrecks. Most of the dives are fairly shallow with depths ranging from 25-80 feet. The sites are along the southern and eastern coasts of Antigua and most of Barbuda. The sites are relatively close to shore – rarely more than a 15 minute boat ride away. Visibility ranges from 50-140 feet and the water temperature averages 80°F. Two of the more popular dive sites are the ledge of Sunken Rock on the south coast of Antigua, and in Deep Bay you will find the wreck of the Andes – a 3-masted merchant ship that sank in 1905. In addition, part of Cades Reef is a designated underwater park. Barbuda’s diving is as good as Antigua’s, but there is no established dive outfit on the island. Therefore, it is best to make arrangements with one of the numerous dive shops located on Antigua. Snorkeling is also possible at many of the beaches.

Nightlife on Antigua comes alive as soon as the sun sets. You will hear it in the rhythm of steel bands, reggae, calypso and DJ music playing the latest hits both in bars and restaurants as well as in the streets. The sounds are a mixture of African and American music with a bit of European influence. There are plenty of places to party and dance the night away. If you are looking for a place to test your luck, Antigua has several casinos. If you are thirsty, the local Wadadli beer is widely consumed on the island, as is the local white or amber rum. Look for English Harbour Premium as rum to bring home. Most restaurants offer variations of Euro-American style food, but it is worth trying a classic Antiguan dish. For instance, try Pepperpot (a slowly simmered stew of fresh and pickled meats combined with fresh spices and lots of local vegetables), Fungi (a cornmeal pudding similar to polenta) and Ducuna (a deliciously sweet mixture of sweet potato, coconut, sugar and spices steamed in a banana leaf). No matter where you eat, you will find something for any taste and budget.

Whether you are looking to party hardy or simply relax on a beach, the island nation of Antigua & Barbuda has something for everyone on a Caribbean charter. With natural harbours, miles of beaches, a vast history and rich heritage, the Treasure Islands will captivate you. Contact www.visailing.com to book your Caribbean charter. You will be stimulated, relaxed and renewed!

Hello and welcome to this month's edition of Charter Chatter.

As summer is upon us what better way to spend it than on a fully crewed all inclusive yacht in the beautiful Caribbean? If you have previously chartered in the British Virgin Islands and are looking for something different, why not charter the Leeward Islands?

Antigua is so rich in history. Nelsons Dockyard which is one of the spots that you may start your charter is very historic with most of the building dating back to Admiral Nelson in 1784. He constructed Nelsons Dockyard where the Royal Navy Ships did all of the refitting and maintenance on the tall ships. The original building where they did the sail work, copper work etc. is still standing. The desk at The Admirals Inn is an original work bench from one of the buildings. The cruising area around Antigua is wonderful with the aqua blue water and many anchorages and reefs to explore.

I would like to introduce to you some of the yachts that are available for charter in this area.

Zingara
Built in 2006 Zingara was the first of three 76 ft luxury catamaran yachts built by Matrix. She is pure luxury and offers anything you could ever want. Zingara can take up to 10 guests. Her master cabin has a panoramic view, and her other 4 cabins are queens, one with a 2 twin configuration, if needed. Zingara offers gourmet meals, many water toys, and diving. Zingara has a crew of 4 to pamper your every need. She also runs with 2 different sets of crew (each crew is on for 6 months and off for 6 months) so that your crew is always fresh. Whether you want to just relax on her spacious deck or drink a nice cocktail in the hot tub on the flying bridge, you will have many memories to take home with you.

Click to learn more about a Zingara Yacht Charter.

Texas Star
At 102ft in length this power yacht is sure to have all the room for you to spread out in. She has 6 cabins that can accommodate up to 10 guests. One king, 3 queens and one twin. With a very dedicated crew of 4 all of your needs are met. On the fly bridge is a wonderful relaxing area, with a bar, lots of comfy seating and a hot tub. In the roomy cockpit is another bar and more seating. There are so many places on this great yacht for you to escape and truly relax in the beautiful Caribbean.

Click to learn more about a Texas Star Yacht Charter.

The Dove
This is a great classic 54ft monohull, in pristine condition. Fitted with 2 double cabins both with ensuite bathroom and showers, and fully air conditioned, The Dove is a perfect yacht for 2 couples or a family of four. Capt. Larry is a very experienced sailor and has sailed all over the world. Choosing the Leeward Islands as his home he knows all the great snorkeling places and the best anchorages. Larry not only has done work for National Geographic but also has trained as a chef and loves to share the cooking with Chef/ Hostess Laura. Laura is originally from Italy and naturally loves cooking Italian food as well as other types of cuisine. Laura loves just about everything related to the sea. You get a bonus with 2 chefs when you go on a sailing adventure on The Dove.

Click to learn more about The Dove Yacht Charter.

I hope you have enjoyed my article.
Although we are in the doldrums of summer it is not too early to plan for your holiday charters. I have many great yachts available that will fit anyone's group and budget. There are quite a few great specials that are being offered for last minute summer sailing adventures as well. Just call me at 1 800 382 9666 and I will tell you all about them.

Time is running out! July 4th is the middle day of the year, which means we are on our way to Christmas and New Years. Now is the time to make your reservation for the upcoming holiday weeks! The big family cats are going fast, so please don’t delay in contacting us for availability.

Click to check yacht availability. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thoughts from recent Charters:

Yacht: SOUL'S CALLING with Alex and Carla
50' Catamaran, Charter Dates: June 20 - 27, 2010.
Click to read the Great review
Click to see the yacht SOUL'S CALLING

Yacht: ADASTRA with Barry and Bridget
57' Catamaran, Charter Dates: June 20 - 27, 2010.
Click to read the Great review
Click to see the yacht ADASTRA

Till next time, Fair Winds and Smooth Sailing!
Gail Hartman, Crewed Yacht Charter Specialist
gail@visailing.com

Looking for an excellent place to explore on your bareboat charter? Antigua and Barbuda made the list of Top 10 Beach & Sun Destinations in the Caribbean! “Lively Antigua and Barbuda move to the music of steel drums. You can visit a different beach each day and not repeat yourself for a full year—and that's why tourists and celebrities alike flock to this sun-soaked Caribbean island.” – Travelers’ Choice 2010. The desirable beaches are only the start… You’ll also enjoy fantastic sailing, pleasant breezes, delectable cuisine, friendly people and of course, the pure tropical ecstasy only the Caribbean can offer!

Click to learn more about a Beneteau 43 or a Jeanneau 494 Bareboat Charter.

Recently, Melody and her family had the divine pleasure of sailing a Moorings Beneteau 51.5 through the BVI. We enjoyed many of our favorite spots: The Bight at Norman Island, snorkeling at the Indians (love it!), sea glass collecting on Salt Island, a breath-taking Cooper Island sunset (thumbs up to the Beach Club renovation…and good dinner) and of course the Baths! After chartering yearly for the past several years, we unfortunately had to skip last year. None of us realized how much we missed our favorite family vacation until we were back on the water. We’re already planning for next year!

The Moorings Beneteau 51.5 features a powerful mainsail and a short overlapping roller-furling genoa, a spread of sail totaling 1,184 square feet, more than enough to deliver superlative performance. All sail control lines are led aft to the very spacious cockpit for safety and convenience, and the dual helm stations provide superb visibility. The full electronics package includes a color chartplotter and autopilot, and some yachts include digital wind direction and speed indicators. Below-deck accommodations include a spacious U-shaped salon with a dining table that seats ten and can be converted to a double berth. There’s also a stereo/CD player with interior and cockpit speakers. The fore-and-aft galley to port has many features with lots of counter space and storage, plus two refrigerators. The water capacity is excellent at 246 gallons, plus the galley sink has a built-in salt water pump for additional water conservation. There’s a forward-facing chart table aft of the saloon, and two luxurious double staterooms with changing areas, hanging lockers, and en suite toilets and showers. Forward are two similarly well-appointed double cabins. There’s also a single cabin forward (deck access) with a head. Opening ports and hatches provide excellent ventilation throughout the yacht, and it’s equipped with a generator and air conditioners. The Moorings Beneteau 51.5 is offered at the majority of Moorings’ 25 worldwide locations.

Click to learn more about a Beneteau 51.5 Bareboat Charter.

Crunch Time! July 4th is the middle day of the year, which means we are on our way to Christmas and New Years. Now is crunch time to make your reservation for the upcoming holiday weeks! Some types of yachts are already sold out, so please don’t delay in contacting us for availability.

Knowledge is Power! Our constant goal is to provide you with all the information necessary to choose the best yacht for your group to charter. We are nearly finished updating the hundreds of yacht pages on our web site with specific Features & Equipment and What’s Included in your Charter. We know this information will not only assist you in making an informed decision, but will also ensure you are adequately packed for a worry-free vacation! Remember…we are working for you!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words! Why choose Virgin Island Sailing as your charter broker? We could give you many reasons, but wouldn’t you rather hear directly from clients? …

D. Williamson writes: “As our searches for a charter in USVI/BVI that met our requirements turn up short, we contacted Virgin Island Sailing. VI Sailing quickly found a match to our requirements. Our charter fully met our needs and provided a family vacation that was exciting, fun, and provided a truly bonding family experience.“

N. Nosrati writes: “Virgin Island Sailing did a great job finding the best boat and maintained great communication throughout the whole process.”

M. Jenkins writes: “I was pleased with the professional way things were handled. My greatest fear was not getting a suitable boat or company we had trouble with a boat on a previous charter. Moorings and your service were both excellent. I've not used a broker before and definitely would again.”

Please call Melody and Joann to discuss your tentative plans. We will take the time to create a personalized web page with specific availability of yachts that meet your requirements.

We do the work so you don’t have to!

Click to find your perfect bareboat!

Are you looking to restore your body and mind? Cruising the canals and rivers of France on a luxury hotel barge is an intimate way to savor the beauty of pristine landscapes and the charm of quiet villages. Accommodations are spacious and comfortable; the cuisine is memorable and of course only the wines of distinction are served. While you are en route, the captain may stray from the beaten path and let you experience the charm of the French countryside. Hotel barges carry between two and twenty-four guests on a variety of six-night adventures. We especially recommend these cruises to grandparents who wish to introduce their grandchildren to the experience of a wider world and the lifestyle of other countries.

The finest things in life are best savored slowly, and there is no better way to experience the lovely countryside of France’s Upper Loire region than a cruise aboard MEANDERER. Originally built in 1948 to serve as a commercial barge, she was converted to a luxury hotel barge in 1992. Since then, she has undergone further upgrades- including new teak decks – and now offers one of the most luxurious barge vacations available in Europe. From stem to stern, MEANDERER stretches 123 feet, a delightful mix of old-world style and modern convenience. The décor is beautiful, light and exquisitely comfortable – perfect for guests who want to relax, slow down and experience life at a slower, more elegant pace. The ship’s attractive, full-width saloon and dining area has large picture windows on each side that are perfect for taking in the passing scenery. For those who love modern conveniences, MEANDERER also offers air conditioning, satellite TV, and free broadband Internet access. There is even a heated Jacuzzi on the sundeck. Below decks, passengers stay in airy twin/queen cabins, each with its own private bath, flat-screen TV and DVD/CD player.

New barge owners George and Susan Kovalick speak fluent French and know France well. They also understand the difference between a great vacation and a truly exceptional one. That is why they make every effort to ensure that all of their guests fully enjoy their stays aboard MEANDERER – whether they want to tour local vineyards, bike the French countryside or simply relax. It is also why they offer an array of themed cruises, each focused on a particular interest, such as Antiques, Art, Biking, or Chocolate and Wine. For golf enthusiasts, MEANDERER offers a weeklong cruise that brings guests to some of France’s most spectacular courses, including “Les Bourdes”, one of Europe’s Top 5.

No matter what the theme, a cruise on MEANDERER provides guests with a chance to enjoy fabulous cuisine – served al fresco under a canopy or below decks in the elegant salon – while navigating some of France’s finest waterways, including the Pont Canal de Braire, designed by the famed Gustave Eiffel. Other popular destinations include the lovely town of Montargis, Fontainebleau, and the wine regions of Chablis, Irancy, St. Bris and the Caves de Bailly. At voyage’s end, you will be relaxed and happy.

Luxury hotel barge cruising is one of the most enjoyable and hassle-free ways to explore the beautiful countryside of Europe. Our goal is to help you choose the right vessel, select the perfect locale and make sure you have an unforgettable vacation. So come aboard, unpack and unwind as we pamper you like a celebrity for a week on your luxury hotel barge.

Go to our website at www.FrenchCanalConnection.com to book your luxury hotel barge

The French Canal Connection
Toll Free Tel: 1-800-742-7641
Click to Contact Us.
www.frenchcanalconnection.com

Air Travel:

If you are looking for contrasts for your next Caribbean charter, look no further than the island of Guadeloupe. You will find a charter destination that is a unique blend of France and the tropics with a twist of African and East Indian heritage. Located halfway down the Lesser Antilles chain- equal distance from the Virgin Islands and Grenada- and within the Leeward Islands, this French West Indies Island lies between Antigua and Dominica. Guadeloupe actually comprises five islands: Basse Terre, Grande Terre, La Desirade, Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes. At 629 sq. miles, this is the largest of the French overseas departments.

Guadeloupe’s History

Arawak Indians first populated the island prior to 1000A.D. The Caribs than settled Karukera – the land of beautiful waters. Seeking fresh water, Columbus landed on Guadeloupe in 1493 and christened it Santa Maria de Guadalupe after a famous image of the Virgin Mary. Fiercely guarded by the ferocious Caribs, no Europeans settled on Guadeloupe until the arrival of the French in 1635. Within five years, a thriving sugar economy existed with the institution of slavery. Guadeloupe was annexed by the King of France in 1674. As the island prospered, it became the scene of fierce battles between the French and British, who wanted to control the profitable plantations. The British occupied Guadeloupe for seven years beginning in 1759. In 1763, however, the island was restored to France in exchange for Canada. Victor Hughes was sent to Guadeloupe in 1794 to abolish slavery, but in 1802, when Napoleon came to power, slavery was reestablished. It was not until 1848 that slavery was permanently abolished on Guadeloupe. When the former slaves refused to continue working the plantations, 40,000 East Indians were recruited to work on the sugar plantations. Their cultural influence is still present today. Guadeloupe went into economic decline during the two world wars. In 1946, integration into the 3rd French Republic as an overseas department of France seemed the only way towards economic recovery. The promise of political decentralization in the late 1900s gave birth to pro-independence uprisings. In 2003, however, after two years of severe draught, residents of Guadeloupe voted to uphold the status quo- rejecting a referendum that would have allowed for greater autonomy from France.

Guadeloupe Today

The main butterfly-shaped Guadeloupe is actually two islands: Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre separated by a narrow sea water channel called Riviere-Salee. The two halves create an island of contrasts. It is France with a Caribbean twist! The arid lowlands of Grande-Terre with its flat fields of sugarcane dotted with colorful towns and rimmed by long, white sandy beaches is a distinct opposite from the mountainous rainforests ( marked by waterfalls, rivers, hot springs and volcano), black beaches and diving grounds of Basse-Terre. Although a part of France, the people and lifestyle are a beautiful blend of European, African and East Indies cultures. You will feast on spicy Creole cuisine washed down with fine French wines. Fishermen with brightly painted fishing boats will take a break with a café-au-lait or perhaps at croissant-packed patisseries. Ladies in traditional madras headdresses will be seen shopping at stylish boutiques with the latest French fashions. And on the street, you will hear French mingled with Creole. Grande-Terre is low and agricultural with cane fields, stands of pineapple and many ancient windmills. Fringed with coral limestone cliffs and white sandy beaches, it is also where most of the tourist facilities are located. Pointe-a-Pitre, the island’s bustling commercial center with its modern buildings, busy streets, chic French boutiques and open air markets is reminiscent of the French Riviera. Many French imports, such as wine, perfume and Lalique crystal can be bought at a discount, together with local artifacts such as madras-clad dolls, objects of straw, bamboo and spices. The harbor is crowded with schooners, freighters and often cruise ships. Most of the large resort hotels are in the Gosier area – a playground for water sports by day and dining, discos and gambling at night. Basse-Terre is mountainous with numerous banana plantations and some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular scenery. The 74,000 acre Parc Naturel is a wonderland of waterfalls, lakes, tropical rainforests and cascading rivers. The still active volcano of La Soufriere rises 4,813 feet to crown this remarkable preserve. The town of Basse-Terre, the capital of Guadeloupe, and one of the oldest towns in the Caribbean (1640), has narrow streets, many beautiful parks and a 17th century cathedral. The town of Malendure is the launching site for the 150 acre Reserve Cousteau, a marine park around the Ilets Pigeon. For those that like to dive, hot volcanic springs around the island have created a wonderfully warm environment for a much wider variety of sea life than other Caribbean coasts. Underwater forests of hard and soft corals and large communities of tube and barrel sea sponges in all colors give shelter to a universe of fish in all shapes, sizes and hues.

Must Do Activities

Diving: With clear waters, multitudes of fish and some wrecks, there is enough to enchant any level of dive enthusiast. In addition to La Reserve Cousteau, popular dive sites include Aquarium, Jardin Japonais and Jardin de Corail. Most of the sites are located in Petit Cul-de-Sac Marin south of Riviere Salee. North of Salee, is another bay, Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, where the islets of Fajou and Caret also offer great diving. Note that most instructors have been certified under the French CMAS rather than PADI, so make sure you understand the differences and feel comfortable before you go.

Beaches: Guadeloupe has both Atlantic and Caribbean beaches – some of volcanic black sand, others shimmering white. Dozens of secluded beaches are scattered at the ends of dirt roads across the island. Wherever you go, you are never far from a beach.

Hiking: The top of La Soufriere is almost always covered in heavy clouds and drenched in rain, yet you will no doubt be drawn to the volcano and its slopes. Le Parc National has over 180 miles of marked trails that twist through the park’s rainforest and up into the mountains where waterfalls cascade into crystal clear ponds. The park is an ideal mix of rugged hikes, unhurried walks, and leisurely driving tours. Over 300 types of trees tower over a thick jumble of vines and flowering bushes that house tropical birds, small mammals and shy reptiles. Do not miss the Chutes du Carbet. The Grand Carbet River, which feeds these 3 waterfalls, begins at the La Soufriere Volcano and empties into the Caribbean at Capesterre-Belle-Eau. There are 3 different hikes, varying from easy to the second falls to moderate to the third to difficult to the first falls. The waterfalls plunge from 360 feet, 65 feet and 377 feet respectively. Wherever you hike, make sure to wear good shoes, bring water and a change of clothes. Hiking in the rainforest is wet, humid and muddy! Be sure to buy a detailed map from the park office, and better yet, hire a professional guide!

Fishing: The waters off Guadeloupe are filled with blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and dorado.

Dining: You will find great Creole and French cuisine throughout the island. Seafood is a staple on any menu, with everything offered from spiny lobster to stewed conch. The island’s East Indies influences are reflected in curry dishes. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are served with traditional French sauces, spicy Creole spices or a combination of the two. Meals are often a mixture of cultures. It is not uncommon to have a meal begin with ti punch (made from local rum) and spicy fritters followed by a gourmet French meal prepared by a Paris-trained chef. The main meal is usually lunch, and both lunch and dinner are accompanied by a fine French wine. Small cafes serve just as wonderful a meal as the restaurants. Word of warning: Although there is usually someone on staff that speaks English, sometimes descriptions of food get lost in translation. Hence, I was served a traditional Guadeloupian dish called bebele- a dish of boiled tripe –stomach lining- and green bananas! Oh,boy!!!

Culture: Guadeloupe’s culture is shaped by a diverse ethnic mix of African, European and Indian influences. It can be seen in the dress (women in particular wear many layers of colorful fabrics and the madras headdress), the dance (traditional quadrilles) the music (zouk which is uniquely Guadeloupian), the unusual black and white tiled cemetery at Morne a l’Eau and the numerous celebrations that take place throughout the year including sailing regattas and the Festival of Creole Music. Two events not to miss are: Fete des Cuisinieres (Festival of Women Cooks) – a colorful celebration in August that honors the patron saint of cooks, and Carnival that starts with Lent in January and culminates around Ash Wednesday.

Sailing: Of course, anyone on a Caribbean charter to Guadeloupe is there to sail. Internationally known as a favored spot among sailors, you will be thrilled with the perfect trade winds and calm waters. A myriad of anchorages around Guadeloupe offer everything from full-service marinas to secluded bays. Word of caution: Med-style mooring is frequently used. Make sure you know how to do it, or be able to ask for help.

The Offshore Islands

La Desirade (“Sought After Land”) lies just 6 miles from Pointe des Chateaux on the far southeastern tip of Grande-Terre, and yet it is mostly untouched by tourism. Inhabited by about 1,700 people, the appeal of this barren expanse is its quiet seclusion along with sandy beaches and reef-protected bays. Caribs lived on the island long before Columbus stopped there in 1493. With no fresh water, poor soil and little rainfall, Europeans did not think much of this tiny island measuring 8 miles long and 1 ½ miles wide. In 1725, however, Guadeloupe authorities did find a purpose for this little island – a place to banish all lepers and their slaves. Later, wealthy Guadeloupeans also banished their undesirable relatives here as well. The island was slowly populated by a ragged band of outcasts and convalescents. Today, a desalination plant supplies fresh water and tourists have begun to discover the uncrowded white sandy beaches. Since only one road goes from one end of the island to the other, you will only need a bike or motor scooter to get around. The main village is Grande-Anse with its little town square, art-deco town hall, marine cemetery and pretty yellow church with a presbytery and flower garden. The tiny town of Le Souffleur is a boat-building community. It is nothing more than a handful of wooden houses at the base of some hills dotted with windmills. The ruins of the old leper colony are located at Baie Mahault. The best beaches are along the island’s south side between Souffleur and Baie Mahault. You will find white sand shaded by palm trees.

Marie-Galante: Low and pastoral, the circular 60 square mile island of Marie-Galante is a sugar and rum island. The island is bordered by white sandy beaches, of which the hidden coves of Anse Canot are the most secluded. Located just 20 miles south of Grand-Terre, the three main towns are home to approximately 13,000 inhabitants. The island is a world time forgot. The ruins of approximately 100 stone windmills dot the countryside, traditional ox carts still carry crops in from the fields and the best thing to do is enjoy the superb beaches. Columbus first anchored here in 1493. Although the Carib inhabitants prevented him from spending time on the island, he named it Santa Maria la Galante after one of his ships. French troops finally ousted the Caribs in 1660 and began setting up successful sugar refineries and farms. The island was invaded by both the Dutch and English until 1815, when it became a permanent French possession. Today, the island produces about 140,000 tons of sugar which is turned into some of the best rum in the Caribbean. If you want to visit a distillery, check out Distillerie Bielle and sample their chocolate and coconut rums. Other residents make their living as fishermen. There are several beaches to explore on Marie-Galante. Near the main town of Grand-Bourg is Plage de Feuillere, considered by many to be the most beautiful beach on the island and perhaps one of the most stunning on all the Guadeloupean islands. A long stretch of white sand (1 ¼ miles) is protected by offshore coral reefs, making it a great spot for swimmers and snorkelers. A series of beaches across the northern coast offer calm waters, relaxation and solitude. Two in particular worth seeing are Plage du Masscre (also called Plage du Vieux Fort) – a ½ mile stretch of white sand, and Plage de l’Anse Canot- a semicircular bay of white sand.

Les Saintes: Just six miles from the mainland, the Iles des Saintes are a huddle of eight islands, of which only two- Terre de Haut and Terre de Bas are inhabited by about 3,000 people. Like the rest of Guadeloupe, Columbus discovered Les Saintes during his second voyage in 1493; however, they were occupied by the Caribs and were left alone until 1648 when the French governor of Guadeloupe ordered them occupied to protect them from British settlement. After the fierce Battle of the Saintes in 1782 when the British destroyed the French fleet, the British gained control of the islands until 1815 when the French won possession again. Fort Napoleon was built on Terre de Haut, but since no attacks where ever again made on the islands, the fort became a prison during World War II. The soil on Terre de Haut is poor, thus the French that settled became fishermen. The population today is descended from Breton pirates. They are skilled sailors and fishermen identifiable by their wide hats called salakos. In contrast, Terre de Bas has better soil and thus many slaves were brought over to cultivate the land as plantations developed. Today, the population on Terre de Bas is mostly of African descent. Terre de Haut is the largest of the islands in the archipelago of Les Saintes and probably the most interesting. The only town, Le Bourg, sits in the curve of a large bay midway along its ragged northern coast. The picturesque village has charming homes and restaurants and shops line the narrow streets which are full of colorful flowers and tropical plants. The bay is one of the prettiest in the Caribbean! Only a few cars are registered on Terre de Haut, so if you do not want to walk transportation is mainly by scooter which you can rent at the ferry dock. It is a fun way to “beach hop” your way around the island. The main tourist attraction is the 18th century Fort Napoleon, located on top of a steep hill with panoramic views overlooking the sea. The view of the harbor from its ramparts is also extraordinary! In addition to the barracks and prison cells, take time to visit the two museums, as well as tour the botanical gardens and look for iguanas. Finally, just relaxing with a café au lait in the pretty town square is extremely tranquil and dining on delicious seafood from the morning’s catch cannot be beat!

The islands of Guadeloupe abound in natural beauty. They mix the best of France with a local culture that is rich in tradition and pride. From bustling modern towns to charming, quaint villages; to rural patches of sugar cane to soaring mountain rainforests; to arid deserted islands to an underwater wonderland – Guadeloupe has something for everyone on a Caribbean charter. Contact www.visailing.com to treat your senses to the fairyland known as the Guadeloupean archipelago. Whether you spend a day or a month- you will never be bored!