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St Lucia & Martinique
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St Lucia is a tropical treasure trove with some of the most beautiful anchorages in the Caribbean.
Its most famous and breathtaking sight has to be the Pitons in the southwest: twin volcanic peaks rising majestically and dramatically from the water. The beaches are relaxed, the nightlife is active and the island has a relaxed atmosphere.
Martinique is a delightful island with a distinctly French flavour, with many pretty seaside villages, unspoilt beaches and good snorkelling. The smell of fresh croissants and pastries mixes everywhere with the spicy aromas of West Indian cooking. Small cafés and charming bistros add a decidedly cosmopolitan flair to the place.
Where can I sail in St Lucia & Martinique?
St Lucia 
From St Lucia you can sail north to Martinique or south to the Grenadines but you may be tempted to linger on this lush island paradise. The western coast of St Lucia offers some lovely anchorages, including Marigot Bay and the Pitons in the south. In 1 week explore St Lucia and visit Martinique, some 20 miles to the north.
For a 2-week itinerary head south to the Grenadines. The southbound trip is a lovely broad reach but the return passage north of St Vincent can be gusty, so less experienced crews may consider a one-way trip dropping their yacht "down-island" at St Vincent or Union at extra cost.
Click here for suggested itineraries from St Lucia
Why not add a few days on the beach? Click here for Sail & Stay hotels in the Caribbean
Martinique
Like Guadeloupe and St Martin, Martinique is a French departement and is more relaxed than the islands to the north and more sophisticated than the islands to the south. The French influence gives well-stocked supermarkets, boulangeries and excellent Creole restaurants.
You can spend a whole week cruising the coasts of Martinique, from Sainte-Anne, the southernmost village to Saint-Pierre, famous for the 1902 volcanic eruption of Mount Pelée, sail near HMS Diamond Rock and explore the many delightful harbours and anchorages along the way. For a 2 week cruise head north to undiscovered Dominica or south to St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
What's the weather like for sailing in St Lucia & Martinique?
Temperatures remain in the 30°s all year with short tropical rain showers. Steady trade winds blow from the north-east at 20-25 knots during the peak winter months.
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