Caribbean Loop

The Caribbean Loop, also known as the “Caribbean Circuit” or “Eastern Caribbean Sailing Route,” is a popular itinerary among sailors and cruisers seeking to explore the diverse islands and cultures of the Eastern Caribbean. It’s a loosely defined route, offering flexibility and allowing sailors to tailor their journey based on their preferences, experience, and available time.

Typically, the loop begins in either the British Virgin Islands (BVI) or St. Martin/St. Maarten. The BVI are known for their sheltered waters, numerous anchorages, and vibrant beach bars, making them an ideal starting point for novice sailors. St. Martin/St. Maarten, on the other hand, offers larger marinas, duty-free shopping, and a blend of French and Dutch influences.

From the starting point, the general direction is southward, usually following the trade winds. Common stops include:

• Anguilla: Famous for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts.
• St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy): A chic island with luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and fine dining.
• Saba: A small, volcanic island offering stunning hiking trails and world-class diving.
• St. Kitts and Nevis: Two islands offering a mix of history, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches.
• Antigua and Barbuda: Antigua is known for its numerous beaches (allegedly 365!), historic Nelson’s Dockyard, and sailing week. Barbuda boasts pink sand beaches and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Montserrat: A volcanic island with a recovering landscape and unique charm.
• Guadeloupe: A French overseas territory with diverse landscapes, including rainforests, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.
• Dominica: The “Nature Island” offers stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and lush rainforests, making it a haven for eco-tourism.
• Martinique: Another French overseas territory, Martinique offers a blend of French and Caribbean culture, with bustling markets, rum distilleries, and stunning beaches.
• St. Lucia: Known for its iconic Pitons, St. Lucia offers stunning scenery, lush rainforests, and luxurious resorts.
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines: A chain of islands offering pristine beaches, secluded anchorages, and excellent diving and snorkeling. Bequia and Mustique are particularly popular.
• Grenada: The “Spice Isle” offers fragrant spice plantations, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture.

After exploring the southern islands, the loop typically heads back north, often taking a more direct route. Some sailors choose to cut across from St. Lucia or St. Vincent back to the BVI, while others may continue north through the islands they skipped on the southward leg.

The time required to complete the Caribbean Loop varies depending on the number of stops and the length of stay at each island. It can range from a few weeks to several months. Many sailors choose to spend the hurricane season (June to November) outside the Caribbean, either further south in Trinidad and Tobago or returning to their home ports.

Sailing the Caribbean Loop offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures, landscapes, and marine life of the Eastern Caribbean. However, it’s essential to carefully plan the trip, considering weather conditions, provisioning, and potential challenges such as navigating reefs and dealing with strong currents. With proper preparation and a spirit of adventure, the Caribbean Loop can be an unforgettable sailing experience.