Description

The magical Maravillas caves
The Spanish name for this natural structure – Cuevas de Maravillas – means “Cave of Wonders”, and for good reason: Visitors to this incredible underground world cannot help but be amazed. With stunning lighting and echoes of cathedral architecture, the ceilings are lined with huge stalactites, while stalagmites protrude from the ground like Gothic pinnacles, and pre-Columbian Taino Indian ritual murals adorn the walls.

The British Virgin Islands – a sailor’s paradise
With more than 60 islands and reefs (of which just 16 are inhabited), the British Virgin Islands are a real dream destination. Fans of sailing from all around the world are drawn to their idyllic and tropically warm waters, and the quaint beach bars bring together everyone from luxury yacht owners to solo sailors. It is so easy to get used to the carefree lifestyle, and with your feet in the sand as you gaze out over green hills and the tranquil sea, you will soon forget about the stresses of everyday life back home.

Luxury in a relaxed atmosphere on St Barths
Known for attracting a certain class of visitor, St Barthé- lemy has been a top holiday destination for the rich and famous from around the world ever since billionaire David Rockefeller discovered the island back in the 1960s. St Barths is all about quality not quantity, so you are more likely to brush shoulders with Hollywood stars than with tourists on its 22 white sandy beaches. In the capital Gustavia, houses with red roofs nestled into the green hills look just like rows of spectators in an amphitheatre, transforming the idyllic port into an impressive stage. As you walk along the luxurious promenade, you will be sure to pass by some spectacular yachts.

French style on the ÎIes des Saintes
The ÎIes des Saintes give such a welcoming first impression, though the historical Fort Napoléon that towers over the main island is a reminder of less peaceful times. This small town’s promenade is perfect for taking a stroll, and the savoir-vivre of life here unfolds against a backdrop of the glowing pastel colours of the Caribbean.

Stunning islands: St Lucia and Dominica
Although St Lucia is not considered a saint by everyone, the island is certainly the true queen of this idyllic
realm. Even from a distance, its twin volcanic peaks, the Pitons, proffer a regal greeting to the approaching Sea Cloud. And once we have docked, the island welcomes us with its lush tropical scenery. Dominica, unofficially dubbed “Nature Island”, is proud of its unspoilt scenery. One of its national parks is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A delight for all the senses: Grenada, the island of spice
There is a reason why nutmeg is immortalised on this country’s national flag. Since colonial times, nutmeg – along with cloves, cinnamon and ginger – has been one of the island’s most important exports. If the aromatic fragrance of the tropics were to have a name, it would have to be “Grenada”.

Snorkellers’ paradise in the Tobago Cays
For many, life under water is a fascinating world – one that becomes even more magical the closer you get. The Tobago Cays’ Horseshoe Reef is such a place. This horseshoe-shaped coral reef encloses four small islands that glow in rich shades of green. The sea, in contrast, embraces turquoise, emerald and every shade of blue.

A lecturer accompanies the trip
A lecturer will accompany this trip to deliver interesting and informative talks on a range of specialist subjects.