Cruising the Southern Caribbean on the Silver Whisper – Silversea Cruises

There is so much history surrounding each of these islands and every one of them has unique characteristics and plenty of opportunities for excursions planned from the ship or for sightseeing on your own.  There is also breathtaking scenery of the beaches and mountains, particularly when looking back at the islands from a catamaran or boat ride.

One of the best ways to sail around the islands is by catamaran

In St. Lucia, the people speak a blend of French, English, and historic Carib language among themselves, but English to everyone else. We traveled by van to a beautiful resort overlooking The Pitons, the landmark and symbol of the island. These volcanic mountains were named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. With the breathtaking view of The Pitons in the background, we enjoyed lunch at Ladera Resort high atop the mountain in a town called Soufrière, followed by an afternoon cruise on a catamaran with a little time for swimming in the beautiful and rejuvenating Caribbean waters.

View of the Pitons

Another view of this famous symbol of the island from Ladera Resort

View of The Pitons from our catamaran

Time for a little swimming in St. Lucia

Dominica was named by Christopher Columbus and is known for its’ natural beauty and lush rainforests. On this charming island, we opted for a chance to do some sightseeing through the town of Roseau followed by a whale and dolphin sightseeing cruise, which of course, included a little rum punch and some Reggae music. The dolphins and whales didn’t disappoint as they made an appearance close to the end of our trip. Of course, nor did the rum punch.

Taking a walk through Roseau in Dominica

We tried all the local beers in every port

The whales finally decided to show up during our tour

The dolphins were escorting our boat and another sightseeing boat

The very chic port town of Gustavia in St. Barts was filled with luxury yachts and upscale shopping. A French island, St. Barts is inhabited by many French nationals, so there were cafés and cuisine reminiscent of sidewalk cafés in the South of France. Following our snorkeling trip to one of the reefs not far from the port, we enjoyed a very French bistro lunch of an herb-seasoned roast chicken with pommes frites that was fabulous, at a spot close to the harbor.

Gustavia, St. Barts

Enjoying a glass of wine and the local beer in St. Barts

A delicious lunch at a French café

The last port of call was Sanish Town, Virgin Gorda or “Fat Virgin,” as it’s commonly known.  A quiet island with a very different landscape than some of the other lush and green islands with rain forests or volcanos, Virgin Gorda is covered with scrub brush and cactus, while its grottoes are ideal for snorkeling.

Looking back at St. Lucia from our catamaran

Enjoying the views