Five Caribbean UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Visit by Charter Yacht

By Editorial Team 10 December 2014

As arguably the popular luxury charter destination during the winter months, there are many reasons to visit the vast scattering of Caribbean islands – some of which have been awarded a spot on the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

Presently there are approximately 6000 spectacular sites from 171 countries on the UNESCO World Heritage list categorised as United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Nineteen of these sites can be found in Caribbean waters, set across 10 islands with a further 41 sites that are under consideration.

A luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean allows you the freedom of exploring these beautiful and significant destinations in the comfort and privacy of your own superyacht. Here are five fantastic UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth a visit on your next Caribbean cruising vacation.

1. Curacao, Historic Area of Willemstad, Inner City and Harbour
The Caribbean island of Curacao represents the ‘C’ within the Dutch ABC islands, the others being Aruba and Bonaire, all of which create a fantastic winter charter itinerary options. Originally a trading town, the colourful centre of Willemstad was listed in 2000 and encompasses a fusion of Spanish, Portuguese and Netherlands influences. It is renowned for its idyllic waterfront setting, lined with pastel coloured buildings which lead into a labyrinth of architectural alleys and open lay-out streets.

The Pitons Management Area in Saint Lucia is home to a plethora of marine life

Charter guests exploring the waters off Saint Lucia

2. Saint Lucia, Pitons Management Area
Listed in 2004, the Pitons Management Area on the island of Saint Lucia is a true natural wonder. Dominated two volcanic spires rising majestically out of the sea, standing at 770 m and 743 m high respectively, the breathtaking complex includes a geothermal field with sulphurous fumeroles and hot springs. Surrounding this is an expanse of kaleidoscopic waters occupied by almost 60% coral reefs which are home to a plethora of marine life, creating a snorkelling experience like no other.

3. Saint Kitts and Nevis, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
The Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park was listed in the UNESCO Cultural category in 1999 for its important place in history as a reminder of the slave trade and the expansion of European colonies into the New World. It also stands as a monument to the ingenuity of the British military engineers who designed it and to the skill, strength and endurance of the African slaves who built and maintained it. Located on the popular Caribbean island of St Kitts, it is a must-see during a day ashore.

Colourful colonial buildings fill the historic Barbados Bridgetown

Barbados is renowned for its spectacular beaches

4. Barbados, Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison
The spectacular superyacht destination of Barbados is renowned for its paradise island beaches but the historic Bridgetown and nearby Garrison successfully demonstrate the island’s exceptional architectural beauty. Lined with 17th, 18th and 19th century buildings, the well-preserved town is known for its serpentine urban layout and rich in maritime history, ideal for an afternoon ashore exploring the winding alleyways and stopping in one of the local restaurants.

5. Bermuda, Historic Town of St George and Related Fortifications
Founded in 1612, the town of St George is described by UNESCO as an ‘outstanding example of a continuously occupied, fortified, colonial town dating from the early 17th century and the oldest English town in the New World’. The World Heritage Site also includes fortifications on a number of smaller islands lying off the coast of St George, perfect for history buffs looking for a day of discovery in the beautiful Bermuda setting.

For more information about booking a luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean contact your preferred charter broker.