Caribbean Leeward Islands - Great For a Yacht Charter

Sailing in Leeward Islands is both fun and sundry because the region is composed of several beautiful places. These are are the islands of Dominica, Saint Bartholomew, Anguilla, the American Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Martin, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Guadeloupe. Although it is not officially considered as part of the group, the Isla Aves has been informally included as one of the Leewards. The British part of Leeward Islands once have a colonial flag. It was officially used from 1871 to 1956. However, the formal use of the flag was discontinued when the colony of the Leeward Islands was ended in 1956.

The name "Leeward" was given to the group of islands because of the trade winds in the area that blows from northwest. These trade winds are almost constant all over the year and blows from 10 to 25 knots. Because of the Atlantic ocean, the strongest currents and largest waves are most often on the northeastern sides of the islands. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are normally much calmer and make sailing easier.

Cruising in Leeward Islands is best done from the months of November to July. This period is considered as the most perfect yacht season of the year. Also, the months of December to March is considered as the peak season wherein thousands of local and international sailors all around the world flock the Leewards and sail its brilliant coastal waters.
Average air temperatures range from 22º to 30º C (72º to 86º F) and the water temperatures stay between 20º and 23º C (68º and 74º F).
July to October is the least attractive months because this is when the hurricane season is very prevalent.

The island of Saba is one of the smallest islands of Leewards. Its size is only about 5 square miles. The place is almost completely made of rocks. However, it is an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling. If you want a little bit of British and Dutch blends, you should visit Saba.

One of the best bases when cruising in Lewards is in Antigua. This place is a major yacht hub not only in the Lewards but also in the Caribbean. Antigua became famous when it became Great Britain's base in the West Indies during the 18th century. Antigua has remarkable beaches with beautiful white sand.

The Lewards (as it is sometimes called) is volcanic in nature. Because of this, the islands have very fertile lands full of lush vegetation. The climate around the Lewards is considered as sub-tropic. It is warm with a touch of beachy temper.

The first post colonial history of Lewards started in 1493 when it was rediscovered by Christopher Columbus. However, it was in the first part of the 17th century when the islands hosted its first migrant settlement.

D. Browall writes for http://www.sboats.com - The Worlds Largest, Most Comprehensive Directory of Companies Offering Sailing Charters. Find more information on Caribbean yacht charter