Explore, swim and snorkel. Barbuda has an abundance of colorful coral reefs and amazing beaches. For bird lovers, a visit to one of the world's largest Frigate Bird sanctuaries is a must. Take a stroll along Eleven Mile Beach and admire the soft, pink powder sand. In the village of Codrington, you can enjoy a very reasonably priced lobster dinner at a local restaurant.
Setting sail from Barbuda, an early start is once again suggested for your sail back to Antigua. Enjoy a 'power reach' southwards to Nonsuch Bay on the East Coast of Antigua, dropping anchor at West Bay on uninhabited Green Island. Time for a swim and fire up the BBQ while sipping a sundowner. Jump in the dinghy and explore Nonsuch Bay. Inside its protective reef, you will find some of the best snorkelling in the area - a place most folks find hard to leave. Visit Harmony Hall, a converted Sugar Mill, which houses an excellent, Italian-owned bar and restaurant, together with an art gallery.
A brisk two to three hour sail along the rugged Southeast coastline, past the unusual rock formation of the Pillars of Hercules, and into English Harbour. Moor stern-to at the famous Nelson's Dockyard, the only remaining working Georgian Dockyard in the world. Wander around the beautifully restored buildings dating back to the early 18th Century and soak up the historical atmosphere. Include a visit to the museum. Take a short taxi ride up to Shirley Heights for a magnificent view of the Southeast corner of the island and enjoy a sundowner as the skies turn from blue to crimson. Head back down to the Dockyard to enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants in the area.
Out of English Harbour and sail downwind to picturesque Carlisle Bay with its calm, clear, palm-fringed waters for a truly "away from it all" night. A great little beach bar on the beach serves West Indian food and provides an ideal spot to hang out with the locals.
Continue the downwind sail inside Cades Reef, enjoying the calm, turquoise waters. Drop the hook behind the reef for a snorkel and then lunch. Carry on North along the beach-studded West Coast, past Jolly Harbour and anchor off Hermitage Beach in the beautiful, protected bay of Five Islands Harbour.
Enjoy a leisurely start on your final morning before a short sail back to Jolly Harbour with time to spare for your debrief and a last chance to buy some mementos after your memorable cruise.
* Please note: You can also do this tour the other way around or leave from English Harbour (see: Day 8).
