Vibes of the Virgin Islands

Your exciting Emerald Cruises Caribbean voyage begins in Saint. Thomas, in the gorgeous US Virgin Islands.  Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of an adventure in paradise.

Please book your flight to arrive into St Thomas prior to 07:00 PM.

This stunning island offers a charming blend of natural wonders and rich history. This is a true Caribbean gem that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With its unspoilt landscapes, lush tropical forests, picturesque hills, breathtaking coastlines harbouring magnificent beaches, and enchanting atmosphere, Saint John Island is a paradise destination that leaves a lasting impression.

The Island of Virgin Gorda, named after its resemblance to a reclining woman, is part of the British Virgin Islands and popular for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, The Baths are arguably the most famous, a series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders formed by volcanic eruptions. In the afternoon, you’ll sail to Norman Island.

Renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkelling, Norman Island offers a variety of activities, including hiking trails and caves to explore. The island is also steeped in pirate lore, with local legend implying that this was a favourite hiding spot for pirates who buried their treasure on the island; hence why it has been nicknamed ‘Treasure Island’ by locals and visitors alike. Without doubt, this is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil and alluring tropical getaway.

This morning, you’ll cruise to Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands and popular for its wondrous diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat rides.  A low-lying island of coral and limestone, Anguilla boasts beautiful island scenery of palm trees, plantation mansions and vibrant, viridian-hued waters contrasting with the dazzling white sand. In the late evening, you’ll sail on to Philipsburg.

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

With its blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, Philipsburg presents a bustling port town with a vibrant atmosphere, striking colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. It also offers a range of activities and attractions, including historic sites and a lively street market where you can sample the local cuisine, and peruse the island arts and crafts. In the late afternoon, you’ll sail on to Gustavia.

You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.

The capital of the Caribbean Island of Saint Barthélemy, Gustavia was named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, who boldly declared it his own exclusive island getaway in 1785. In this vibrant city, uncover distinctive treasures in the historic downtown shopping enclave, photograph the brightly painted wooden houses, and feast on unique cuisine that fuses French and Creole culinary influences.

Today, your Emerald Cruises luxury voyage draws to a close, returning to St. Thomas. From the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday. 

Please book your flight to depart out of St Thomas after 01:00 PM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.