The second largest of the Windward Islands, St Lucia manages to be both elegantly laid-back yet comfortably sophisticated in the same instant. Live music and eager chatter flow through the winding streets of its small towns, dramatically framed by the towering site of the volcanic Pitons.

Cruising Grounds
Blessed with the same transcendent waters and pristine coastline that surround its Windward sisters, the spectacular cruising grounds of St Lucia are enhanced by the whales, dolphins and leatherback turtles that inhabit its waters throughout the seasons. Aside from its opulent hotels and exclusive resorts offering all the modern indulgences of more developed yachting destinations, St Lucia boasts proud roots rich in culture and regional cuisine.

Shopping and Cuisine
Wandering the bustling markets is a morning well spent, especially in the Marina Village of Marigot Bay where there are fabulous selections of high-end jewellery and clothing alongside unique and attractive local art and crafts. Cuisine on the island is also a source of local pride, enriched with natural flavours and exotic spices that ensue some of its restaurants are true Caribbean contenders.

Activities
The delightful Pigeon Island off St Lucia’s west coast is perfect for serene lunches and relaxing on its white-sandy shores coloured by the lizards, tropical birds, and mongooses that call it home. The west coast is also where you will find the island’s most beautiful beaches including the lengthy panorama of Reduit and the southerly Anse Chastanet which is wonderful for snorkelling.

Fishing
Like its Caribbean neighbours, St Lucia is full of world-class fishing opportunities where an abundance of marine life makes reeling in a catch satisfyingly simple.

Diving
The range of colourful reefs dotted along the coastline also makes the island a vividly interesting spot to both dive and snorkel. Back on land, there are also tempting options for the adventurous including hiking, biking and horseriding.

Festivals
If visiting in the later half of the year you will witness St Lucia in a different light as several exciting festivals, carnivals and feasts take over the events calendar. In particular, November sees the arrival of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), the largest transatlantic sailing event in the world, as well as the Saint Lucia International Billfish Tournament.