23 Locations
Barbados
Barbados
The luxurious island of Barbados has captured many of the charms of the British Empire and retained them in tropical island style.
Explore one of the most charismatic Caribbean islands with a Barbados yacht charter. Enjoying a seductive climate year-round, it’s all too easy to settle into the soothing rhythm of Bajan life. Barbados is an iconic destination from white beaches to a rum-infused party scene, especially for those who are able to explore the area on a Barbados yacht charter.
A British dependent for over 350 years, remnants of colonialism still linger and have become engagingly entwined with the rich cultural identity of the native people. The parishes of Barbados are dotted with Colonial houses and sugar plantations dating back to the 17th century, creating a stately backdrop to the West Indian vibe.
Barbados is the only Caribbean destination (and one of only four countries) to have had regular Concorde service from London. This contributed to the growth of the island’s west (or ‘platinum’) coast, which became adorned with both billionaire-owned houses and luxury hotels. Particularly busy with regulars over Christmas and New Year, it is a stretch of white sandy beach to the North of Holetown, where you can swim with turtles in the warm azure sea and enjoy a host of watersports, all from the comfort of your Barbados yacht charter.
Hiking and all types of surfing enjoy immense popularity throughout the island, and for those feeling less inclined to exertion, Barbados boasts the globally appreciated Mount Gay Rum. The rum sours are worth sampling – in a local rum shack just outside Holetown or in a more upmarket venue. After the sunset, there is plenty to keep your Barbados yacht charter exciting – the international beach club chain, Nikki Beach, has opened a venue near Port St Charles and Port Ferdinand and, even on a Sunday, The Cliff Beach Club and Sea Shed spark up live local music and are humming with an international clientele.
Serving spicy West Indian favourites, the bulk of Barbados’ top restaurants are found on the west coast – from The Cliff to Lonestar and Dockside 1359 further north. Trendsetters are also heading as far away as possible from the flashy west coast to the palm-tree-studded grounds of the island’s oldest hotel, The Crane. Built-in 1887, the huge East Coast resort combines historic features with modern design. Drop the anchor in Bridgetown and have your tender drop you on the pink sand beach at sunset before heading to one of the hotel’s five eateries for dinner. Try the crispy flying fish at the cliffside L’Azure, a local delicacy, or sample Japanese at Zen restaurant.
Barbados is famous for its golf, and in addition to Royal Westmoreland, the world-renowned Sandy Lane Hotel boasts a Country Club and the exclusive Green Monkey Course. The national cricket hero, Sir Gary Sobers, can often be spotted relaxing at the Sandy Lane Country Club after a swift 18 holes. This venue, where Tiger Woods once married, is a majestic clubhouse with a fantastic view. Sit to enjoy your lunch while the indigenous green monkeys canter across the colourful gardens and fairways. While on the island, why not soak up a little of Barbados’ English lifestyle and take in a polo match at Apes Hill Club or a game of cricket?
Northrop & Johnson stands out as a premier global yacht brokerage firm, renowned for its access to the finest and most opulent yachts available for charter, including those in the Barbados region. Our team of experienced yacht charter brokers in Barbados possess unmatched expertise and market insight. We prioritize understanding our clients’ preferences and aspirations, meticulously crafting extraordinary yacht charter itineraries that encompass Barbados and the wider Caribbean. Reach out to our dedicated yacht charter brokers in Barbados today to arrange your luxury yacht charter experience.
The following yacht charter destinations are in close proximity to Barbados:
Barbados is situated in the eastern Caribbean Sea, to the east of the Windward Islands and the Lesser Antilles, the closest neighbour being St. Lucia in the southern Caribbean. Notwithstanding its relatively small geographical size of only 21 miles by 14 miles, Barbados offers a myriad of top-class facilities for a Barbados yacht charter. Barbados is part of the Lesser Antilles island chain, which means other beautiful islands surround it. Crewed luxury yachts can easily explore neighbouring destinations such as St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Martinique, each offering its own unique attractions and landscapes. The waters surrounding Barbados are relatively protected, making for smooth sailing conditions and comfortable anchorage. Those on a luxury yacht charter can cruise along the island’s west coast, known as the Platinum Coast, to admire its luxury resorts and calm waters or explore the more rugged east coast with its dramatic surf and natural beauty.
Barbados is celebrated for its pristine beaches, boasting powdery white sands and sparkling turquoise waters. Spend leisurely days lounging on the shores of iconic spots like Crane Beach, Sandy Lane Beach, or Paynes Bay Beach. Guests can also soak up the sun and the surroundings from the comfort of their luxury yacht charter. For the adventurous at heart, a Barbados yacht charter offers many water sports opportunities. A luxury yacht charter provides the ideal opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life or glide atop the waves while windsurfing, paddleboarding, or kitesurfing in the warm Caribbean waters.
Yacht charter guests who have an interest in history and visit sites such as St. Nicholas Abbey, a beautifully preserved plantation house, and the George Washington House, once a temporary abode for the first U.S. President. No luxury yacht charter holiday in Barbados is complete without indulging in its renowned rum production. Journey through time and taste at Mount Gay Rum Distillery or Foursquare Rum Distillery for an unforgettable tour and tasting experience.
Apart from the rich history and natural beauty, the island also has a vibrant culinary scene blending international and local flavours. The Cliff, Cin Cin by the Sea, and The Tides are all upscale restaurants offering exquisite dining experiences to those on charter yachts. Those fortunate enough to be on a Barbados yacht charter during the summer can participate in the largest cultural celebration, the Crop Over Festival. Join in colourful parades, lively street parties, and vibrant calypso music celebrations.
For golf enthusiasts, Barbados offers world-class golfing experiences with championship courses like Royal Westmoreland Golf Course and Apes Hill Club, offering breathtaking ocean views and lush tropical landscapes. Venture to the rugged coastline of Bathsheba on the east coast on your Barbados yacht charter. With its blend of luxury, adventure, culture, and natural beauty, Barbados promises to be a unique location for an unforgettable luxury yacht charter experience for discerning travellers.
When embarking on a Barbados yacht charter, you can generally expect warm and tropical weather, with variations depending on the season. The best time to go on a luxury motor yacht or sailing yacht charter in Barbados typically coincides with the island’s dry season and high tourist season, which runs from December to April. This period offers the most favourable weather conditions for charter yachts and motor yachts, with plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. The sea is generally calm during these months, providing ideal sailing conditions and clear waters for snorkelling and diving.
Temperature on a Barbados yacht charter
Barbados enjoys relatively consistent temperatures year-round, typically ranging from the high 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 25-30 degrees Celsius). During the peak dry season (December to April), those on a Barbados yacht charter can experience slightly cooler and more comfortable temperatures, while the wet season (May to November) may see higher temperatures and increased humidity.
Rainfall on a luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean
During the wet season (May to November), the island receives more rainfall, typically in the form of short, intense showers or occasional thunderstorms, especially in the afternoons or evenings. This provides the ideal time to enjoy the amenities on your Barbados yacht charter or venture inland to explore the many excursions on the island. The dry season (December to April) sees significantly less rainfall, with occasional light showers.
Barbados yacht charter winds and sea conditions
The area generally experiences consistent easterly trade winds throughout the year, which provide pleasant sailing conditions for Barbados yacht charters. The trade winds are typically gentler during the dry season, while they may be slightly stronger during the wet season. Wind patterns can vary depending on the time of day and location around the island. The waters around Barbados are generally calm and clear, especially along the west coast, which is sheltered from prevailing winds. However, sea conditions can vary depending on the season and weather patterns. During the dry season, seas are typically calm, making for smooth sailing and enjoyable water activities. In contrast, the wet season may see choppier seas and stronger currents, particularly during periods of increased wind or rainfall.
Embarking on a yacht charter in Barbados offers an unparalleled experience of sailing across the crystal-clear waters of the Southern Caribbean. Opting for a luxury yacht charter allows you to explore the island’s exquisite west coast and the serene Carlisle Bay aboard magnificent charter yachts. Whether you prefer sleek motor yachts or elegant sailing catamarans, Barbados yacht charter services cater to every seafaring desire. The island, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life, including the iconic flying fish, is a haven for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation on their holiday.
With crewed luxury yachts, guests can indulge in the ultimate comfort, savoring the finest local cuisine, perhaps even the national dish, while gliding past the historic Parliament buildings in the capital city. Activities like paddle boarding and snorkeling with turtles offer an intimate encounter with Barbados’s rich marine biodiversity. Sunset cruises and coastal cruises along the picturesque coast, especially near the famous West Coast and the tranquil bays of the north, become unforgettable experiences, providing a unique perspective of the island’s allure. From the laid-back rhythm of Caribbean life to the exhilarating thrill of sailing, a yacht charter in Barbados encapsulates the essence of a paradisiacal vacation, setting the stage for a journey filled with relaxation, exploration, and the luxuries of charter yachts.
The charter experience in Barbados isn’t just about the yachts; it’s an immersive journey into the island’s culture and history. From the birthplace of rum, guests can enjoy bespoke tastings aboard their boat, blending the rich history of the island with the luxury of their vacation. Crewed yachts ensure that every detail is taken care of, allowing guests to relax and sail through the Caribbean Sea with ease. For those interested in a more active holiday, catamarans offer the perfect platform for paddle boarding and exploring the coast, while motor yachts provide speed and comfort for those wishing to cover more ground. Whether it’s anchoring in secluded bays to enjoy an afternoon of snorkelling with turtles or taking a cruise to the nearby Virgin Islands or the Balearic Islands, the itinerary can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you wish. Boat rentals in Barbados open up a world of possibilities, where the sea becomes your playground, and every sunset brings a new horizon to explore.
The amenities aboard every Barbados yacht charter will differ depending on your choice of vessel. Typical amenities you can expect aboard a luxury motor yacht include:
The number of crew will vary depending on the size of the charter yachts; however, at a minimum, you can expect a crew of at least four, including a captain, deckhand, stew or stewardess, and a chef. Aboard a larger Barbados yacht charter, you can expect a crew of around 10, including specialist crew members such as personal trainers and spa therapists, with the largest yacht charters boasting a crew in excess of 20.
Absolutely! While Barbados itself offers an array of attractions and experiences, there are several nearby destinations that you can explore during your yacht charter in the region. Here are some popular places to consider:
The price of a Barbados yacht charter varies depending on several factors, such as your chosen charter yacht, the duration of the yacht charter, and the planned itinerary. Typically, the larger and more prestigious the yacht, the higher the rental cost. For a luxury yacht charter in Barbados, prices usually start at around US$50,000 per week, with rates exceeding one million for the most luxurious superyachts and mega yachts. If you’re interested in experiencing a luxury yacht charter in Barbados, the expert team at Northrop & Johnson is here to assist you. Our yacht charter brokers will help you select the perfect yacht and curate an unforgettable getaway in Barbados, including making reservations at the island’s most exclusive restaurants, beach clubs, and spas. Contact us today for more information or browse our luxury boat rentals in Barbados, including the world’s best motor yachts, sailing vessels, catamarans, superyachts, and mega yachts.
These marinas and harbours in Barbados cater to a range of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans, providing essential services, amenities, and convenient access to the island’s attractions and amenities.
For your Barbados yacht charter, you will most likely fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), located in Seawell, Christ Church Parish, Barbados. Grantley Adams International Airport is the main airport serving Barbados and is the primary gateway for international flights to the island. It offers connections to major cities in North America, Europe, and the Caribbean region, making it a convenient entry point for travelers visiting Barbados for yacht charters. Once you arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport, you can easily access the marinas and harbors where your motor yacht charter will embark, either by private transfer or rental car.
The currency in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar, abbreviated as BBD or B$. It is commonly denoted by the symbol “$” or “Bds$”. The Barbadian dollar is subdivided into 100 cents. While the United States dollar (USD) is widely accepted in Barbados, it’s important to note that transactions are typically conducted in Barbadian dollars. Visitors may encounter prices listed in both Barbadian dollars and US dollars, especially in tourist areas. However, when paying with US dollars, it’s common to receive change in Barbadian dollars. It’s advisable to check exchange rates and carry some Barbadian dollars for smaller purchases and transactions.
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most European Union countries, do not require a visa for short visits to Barbados for tourism purposes.
Typically, visitors from these countries are granted entry on arrival and are allowed to stay for a specified period, usually up to 90 days. Upon arrival, you will need to present a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
It’s important to note that visa requirements and entry regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the Barbadian embassy or consulate in your country or visit the official website of the Barbados Immigration Department for the most up-to-date information before travelling.
Additionally, travellers from countries not eligible for visa-free entry may need to apply for a visa in advance. Requirements for visas vary depending on the traveller’s nationality and purpose of visit. It’s essential to research and apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of your planned travel dates.
The official language of Barbados is English. English is widely spoken and understood across the island, and it is used for official purposes, education, business, and communication.
In addition to English, Bajan Creole, also known as Bajan, is a widely spoken language in Barbados. Bajan Creole is an English-based Creole language with influences from African languages, as well as other Caribbean languages such as Jamaican Patois. It is primarily spoken in informal settings, among friends, family, and in local communities.
While English and Bajan Creole are the primary languages spoken in Barbados, due to the island’s popularity as a tourist destination, you may also encounter other languages spoken by tourists and expatriates, such as Spanish, French, and German. However, English remains the dominant language for communication with visitors and among the local population.
Barbados generally has a reliable and efficient internet connection, especially in urban and tourist areas. The island has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, including high-speed broadband internet services provided by several telecommunications companies.
In hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes, and other tourist establishments, you can expect to find Wi-Fi access readily available for guests. Many accommodations offer complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms and common areas, while some may charge a fee for access or provide it as part of a package.
In addition to Wi-Fi, mobile data services are widely available in Barbados, with several mobile network operators offering 3G, 4G, and, in some areas, 5G coverage. Visitors can purchase prepaid SIM cards or data plans from local mobile operators to access mobile internet services during their stay.
Overall, visitors to Barbados should find the internet connection to be sufficient for staying connected, browsing the web, checking emails, and using social media. However, internet speeds and reliability may vary depending on your location on the island, with more remote or rural areas potentially experiencing slower connections compared to urban centres.
While it’s possible to enjoy a bareboat charter in Barbados, Northrop & Johnson specializes in crewed luxury yacht charters aboard the world’s finest motor yachts and sailing yachts only.
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