The Leeward and Windward islands together make up the Caribbean islands group of the Lesser Antilles. The Leeward islands of the West Indies are one of the most popular tourist travel destinations in the World with a huge demand within the Caribbean yachting industry. The Leeward Islands have high temperatures all year and the region attracts large numbers of people seeking a yachting vacation on an idyllic tropical Caribbean island paradise. A perfect

These islands are referred to as "leeward” because the prevailing winds in the area blow from the east. Thus these islands are downwind from, or leeward of, the southeasternmost  Windward Islands, the group of islands that first meet the trade winds

:The Leeward Islands: Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Antigua, Barbuda, St. Kitts, Nevis, and Anguilla. They're called the Leeward Islands because they're away from the wind ("lee").

Anguilla

The northernmost island of the Leeward Caribbean Islands, Anguilla is a British Dependent Territory. While it was once one of the Caribbean's best kept secrets, Anguilla's recent development has transformed it into one of the most chic island destinations.

High-end hotels and shops have thrived in this urban and sophisticated setting, putting Anguilla among the most exclusive yachting  destinations in the Caribbean. The tiny island of Anguilla is said to have more gourmet dining choices per acre than New York City - and many of these choices have world-renowned chefs

Antigua

The island of Antigua is an ideal place for yacht chartering, cruising, and racing. Consistent trade-winds and many harbors to exploring make this an irresistible yacht charter destination. These same harbors that provide numerous quite anchorages necessitate exact navigation to avoid some of the reefs and shoals. Some yacht charterers will decide to visit Antigua's nearby sister, Barbuda. At 30 nautical miles north, this open water sail is worth the trip if you desire private pink unspoiled beaches instead of the louder party scene at Antigua.

Antigua remains a popular destination for ocean goers. The large Antigua Sailing Week and Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, both of which are held in April, are a huge draw. The island has options for both experienced and non-experienced yachters and sailors. Those with ocean experience will find Antigua's rugged east coast to be adventurous sailing, while others may stay close to the island's popular western coast.

Guadeloupe

Located at the bottom of the Leeward Islands just above the Windward Islands, Guadeloupe is an accessible cruising destination in the Caribbean. Guadeloupe has up-to-date yachting facilities and several ports of entry. Travelers can also explore a number of the small outlying islands while cruising the area.

Guadeloupe offers the adventurous yachters and sailors different experiences of the island. Travelers who call on the Marina Bas-du-Fort in Point-à-Pitre, Grand-Terre, are calling on an island that has significant development, including resorts, shopping, and fine dining. Travelers who call on Deshais or the marina of Rivière Sens in Basse-Terre will find an island that is less developed, with exciting opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure. Iles des Saintes and Marie-Galante lie south of the butterfly shaped Basse-Terre and Grand-Terre, and can offer a quiet and secluded retreat. Of course, the wonder of Guadeloupe is that travelers can easily cruise to all of these islands during their visit.

St Maarten/St Martin

The island of St. Maarten/St. Martin is the smallest space to be shared by two countries. For over three centuries, these Caribbean countries have co-existed so peacefully that a visitor can cross borders from one nation to the other without realizing it.

St. Maarten, the Dutch half of this divided island, is home to more than seventy nationalities, and is one of the most well developed islands in the Caribbean. Philipsburg, its capital, is a hub for cruise lines and duty-free shopping, but despite the recent economic and developmental boom in the port and city area, St. Maarten still boasts 36 beaches with strikingly white sand.