Guide to St Barts

Saint-Barthelemy (St. Barts, St. Barth’s or St. Barth) was named by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and since then has become a world-renowned hot spot for VIP travellers attracted to its dazzling beauty and casual elegance. Its strong French influences add a touch of Mediterranean flair and cosmopolitan atmosphere, though delve a little deeper and you will still find charming fishing villages, secluded beaches and steep winding roads to spectacular views on islands tailor made for exploration. The fantastic selection of marine parks offers breath-taking snorkelling and diving opportunities as well as great spots for surfing and other water-sports.

A place to be seen as much as to see, the ultra-chic capital of Gustavia plays host to a number of world-class restaurants and designer boutiques with colourful shop fronts and chilled out cafes lining the main strip of Rue de la Republique. The locals are descendants of the early settlers from Brittany and Normandy so French is the official language but French patois, Creole and English is widely spoken. Known for attracting the highest concentration of superyachts in the Caribbean, the beautiful Gustavia Port can accommodate up to 60 yachts of up to 200ft in its inner harbour and 100 more in the outer waters.

Each year St. Barts plays host to a number of prestigious yachting and sailing events, including the celebrated St. Barts Bucket. The spectacular surroundings are also a hotspot for other coveted events in the social calendar, including Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich’s annual New Year’s Eve party held on board his magnificent superyacht, Eclipse. Every year a plethora of high profile names fly in to both party and perform with the likes of Beyoncé, Prince, Rihanna and Kings of Leon among them. The climax of the St Barts New Year's Eve celebrations see the skies over Gustavia Harbor light up with a dazzling firework display to see in the New Year.

View all superyachts available for Leeward islands yacht charters today and start planning your next vacation with your preferred yacht charter broker.