Your Next Idyllic Island Escape: Five Reasons to Visit Antigua and Barbuda

By Sophia Spanton

When visiting the Caribbean by superyacht, a host of different opportunities await those seeking the ultimate luxury getaway. Fine-dining restaurants, recharging spas, revitalising and exciting activities, and all-year-round good weather add up to the perfect enchanting island retreat. But, where can guests discover this and so much more? We take a look at five reasons why superyachts should visit the twin-island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda.

1. A wide range of unforgettable experiences

The most obvious reason to discuss is the countless experiences Antigua and Barbuda have to offer their guests; from ziplining, ranging from 52 feet to 328 feet in length, to a relaxing and revitalising spa day, to exploring the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda which was constructed in 1747. From listing only these three activities, it is clear that Antigua and Barbuda are ready to accommodate a vast variety of their guests' wants and needs. 

But it doesn't stop there. Other activities include but are not limited to; swimming with wildlife, kayaking, going on boat tours, watching cricket matches, experiencing canopy tours, attending a sunset party, exploring rainforests, riding on buggies and visiting an off-shore bar such as Kon Tiki bar, moored off Dickenson Bay. This is a recognised favourite, where the bar is resting on top of a wooden raft off-shore, large enough to hold a bar, grill and a couple of chairs. The atmosphere and scenery surrounding this bar undoubtedly make it a popular choice with visitors. However, the expansive activities list is not the only versatile quality of Antigua and Barbuda, segueing nicely into the next reason.

2. Antigua and Barbuda’s formidable versatility and accessibility

The versatility and accessibility found in these stunning Islands are another reason why superyacht guests should add the destination to their must-visit list. Antigua and Barbuda's extensive list of activities makes it easy to provide a variety of vacation experiences such as a romantic getaway, a family-friendly getaway, an adventure trip, a culinary trip, or a cultural trip. Whatever you are looking for, Antigua and Barbuda can provide it all. However, the accessibility available to Antigua and Barbuda is hard to beat with direct flights from London, New York and Miami.

3. Jaw-dropping scenery and an inviting tropical climate

Of course, the scenery and tropical climate of Antigua must not be overlooked, bringing us to the third reason to visit this twin island paradise. There is consistent tropical weather and 365 beaches in Antigua, where one can find glaringly clear blue and warm water, swaying palm trees, and exotic sea habitats brimming with fauna and powdery white sand. On the other end of the spectrum to the sumptuous beaches, are the green rainforests, rocky outcroppings, deep caves and volcanic rocks that rise to about 400 metres at Mount Obama, a great hike for all keen explorers out there. 

4. An abundance of culture and heritage

Not only are the beaches and landscapes essential scenery to view, but the Islands of Antigua and Barbuda are rich in culture and heritage. They have a national dish which is Fungee, a bread ball similar to polenta, consisting of cornmeal mixed with okra, and Pepperpot, a rich one-pot stew with tender meat and wonderfully seasoned vegetables that is let simmer away for several hours. Barbuda is also home to the largest Frigate Bird Colony in the western hemisphere. Don't miss the chance to explore historic sites like Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the stunning views from Shirley Heights.

When discussing culture and heritage, it is essential to also discuss the language and people of the nation. The islands are known for their vibrant festivals, where you can experience the pulsating rhythms of calypso and soca music, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Antigua and Barbuda are an ex-British colony, whilst they keep English as their official language, almost everyone speaks Antiguan Creole natively.

5. The fifth and final reason? The array of beautiful resorts and restaurants

In some Antiguan resorts, guests may find spas, luxury treatments, and fine dining, and in others, guests will experience an addictive atmosphere, cocktails and sea views. Guests on the island who prefer a sea view when dining and drinking may enjoy the Dennis Cocktail Bar & Restaurant on Ffryes Beach. However, for those guests looking for a more fine dining experience, Sheer Rocks Restaurant may be a better fit, perched on a rocky cliff in the heart of Antigua's picturesque west coast, is surrounded by vibrant landscape, offering a stunning background for relaxing in the sun, leisurely tapas lunches, and romantic sunset evenings.

 

It is clear that the multifarious Antigua and Barbuda have a plethora on offer for their guests to enjoy; the experiences available, the Islands versatility and availability, scenery and climate, rich culture and heritage and finally their resorts and restaurants. Antigua and Barbuda are beautiful Caribbean destinations. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Antigua and Barbuda have something for everyone.

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By Sophia Spanton