Sailing the Grenadines: 7 Night Charter - Starting from Carriacou

Day 1:
Set sail from Hillsborough to the Tobago Cays - the most spectacular anchorage in the Windward Islands. The rich colours here are unbelievable - the blues, greens and deep turquoise of the water offset by the golds, browns and dark green of these islands. These are a small group of deserted islands fringed with golden beaches and crystal waters and protected by Horseshoe Reef, which offers amazing snorkeling. Swim with the turtles or play at being Jack Sparrow! Quite the most perfect place. Try an on board barbecue with the fish you might have caught that day or buy a lobster from one of the local fisher boys.

Day 2:
An early start sailing north brings you to Bequia. A small, very charming and pretty island. The people are very friendly and there are lots of arts and crafts to see. Different again to the other islands.

Day 3:
After a leisurely breakfast make a short sail to Mustique - home to many that live the reclusive millionaire lifestyle. A tiny exclusive island, try spotting the likes of Mick Jagger, Bono or a British Royal. Dine at Basil's Bar or really indulge yourself with some of the best food in the Windward's in the Cotton House.

Day 4
Set sail for Mayreau and Salt Whistle Bay, a tiny anchorage with a pristine beach that sweeps around in a majestic arc. The Salt Whistle Bay Resort is located just behind the beach. It has a charming, unique style and offers good food at a reasonable price. The snorkeling on Grand Col Point can be good and the beach offers safe, calm swimming. An unbelievable anchorage under a full moon.

Day 5
A short sail brings you to Palm Island; spend the morning swimming and exploring the island and boutique. On then to Petit Martinique and Petit St. Vincent. Petit St Vincent is an exclusive island resort, with tasteful stone cottages tucked into the trees. The main building stands on a hill overlooking the anchorage and Petit Martinique. It makes great spot to have some of the wonderful Petit St. Vincent cocktails and watch the sunsets. The islands has lots of beach and is small enough to walk around - no crowds, cruise ships or calypso fire eaters - a wonderful place with a secluded romantic atmosphere.

Petit Martinique is unique - quite different to the usual tourist spots. The people here live by boat building, seafaring and fishing and years ago smuggling! The men have reputations for being superb sailors and a number of Petit Martinique built wooden cargo vessels can be seen at anchor. Being unspoiled it's an interesting place to explore.

Day 6
Chatham Bay in Union Island is a small, beautiful, undeveloped bay only used by local fishermen to store their catch in nets. It's very secluded and very romantic. Terrific snorkeling.

Day 7
Set sail for Tyrell Bay, Carriacou. Swim in crystal waters or explore the mangroves. Carriacou is the only place where I have seen a Pelican on a buoy, with a Seagull sitting on the Pelican's head - both content. Somehow this symbolizes the relaxed easygoing nature of this island. Have a final night on board with a simple barbecue under the stars and a frosty beer or rum punch. On your last day, enjoy a leisurely sail south back to St. George's. Trawl a line on the way down and see what fish you can catch. Look for Diamond Rock, Isle de Ronde, Isle de Caille, Pelicans fishing and Boobies watching for the leftovers. Enjoy the stunning sights of quaint French style towns, Carib Indian ruins, lush vegetation and mountain tops disappearing into the clouds.

Magic!