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The Winter Migration: Where Superyachts Anchor After Fort Lauderdale
As the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is soon to close its doors for another year, the world’s most spectacular superyachts begin their annual migration south. The Mediterranean cools, the Atlantic crossings are complete, and attention shifts to the warm trade winds and turquoise anchorages of the Caribbean. From Antigua’s lively harbours to the secluded luxury of St. Kitts, these five marinas represent the beating heart of the winter yachting season, where the world’s largest yachts gather to play, charter and prepare for the year ahead.
Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas
Often the first Caribbean port of call after an Atlantic crossing, Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas is the Caribbean’s flagship superyacht marina. With berths for vessels up to 200 metres, world-class crew amenities and direct access to provisioning and technical support, it’s the perfect gateway to the Virgin Islands. Part of the IGY Marinas network, Yacht Haven Grande has repeatedly been named “Superyacht Marina of the Year,” a benchmark for service and professionalism across the region.
Christophe Harbour, St. Kitts
Combining seclusion and sophistication, Christophe Harbour is designed for owners seeking a private Caribbean base. Its 60 secure berths accommodate yachts up to 91 metres, and its on-site customs and immigration make arrivals effortless. Surrounded by luxury villas, a private beach club and crystalline anchorages, St. Kitts offers a refined alternative to the busier hubs of Antigua and St. Barths.
Marina Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic
Situated at the heart of the Caribbean basin, Marina Casa de Campo is both a destination and a strategic stopover. Its 370 slips host yachts up to 76 metres, and the marina’s resort environment, with championship golf, polo and fine dining, delivers one of the most complete lifestyle experiences in the region. Perfectly placed between the Bahamas and the Leeward Islands, it is a favourite for yachts repositioning or chartering through the season.
Antigua Yacht Club Marina, English Harbour
Few places capture the spirit of the Caribbean yachting season like Antigua Yacht Club Marina. Nestled in historic English Harbour, it offers berths for yachts up to 85 metres and serves as the centrepiece of the Antigua Charter Yacht Show each December. With easy access to provisioning, repair services and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful cruising grounds, it is where the winter social scene comes alive.
Marigot Bay Marina, Saint Lucia
Framed by lush hillsides and calm beautiful waters, Marigot Bay Marina is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque superyacht destinations. Capable of accommodating yachts up to 85 metres, it is a favourite for owners seeking serenity and scenery with five-star service. The marina’s partnership with the luxurious Marigot Bay Resort ensures guests enjoy world-class hospitality, while its central location makes it a natural stepping-stone between the Windward and Leeward Islands.
As the Caribbean yachting season begins, these five marinas will serve as hubs of energy and elegance, welcoming yachts fresh from FLIBS and ready to explore. From high-end infrastructure to the effortless charm of island life, each marina embodies what makes winter cruising in the Caribbean so enduringly irresistible.
"The world’s largest in-water boat show has once again brought an extraordinary display of vessels, marine products, and lifestyle experiences to seven show locations across Fort Lauderdale."
"The world’s largest in-water boat show has once again brought an extraordinary display of vessels, marine products, and lifestyle experiences to seven show locations across Fort Lauderdale."
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show