How to Explore Barbados: The Must-See Activities

Formerly nicknamed “Little England”, Barbados officially became a republic on 30 November 2021, replacing the British monarch as its head of state. The momentous day saw Barbados shed the vestiges of its 400-year old colonial system, with Dame Sandra Mason becoming the first native Head of State. 

Discover the must-see activities on your Barbados yacht charter

Despite the country’s recent departure, Barbados has left behind a blended history and a one-of-a-kind culture. British breakfast teas and cricket are followed by spearfishing in crystalline waters and fish sandwiches on the beach.

Barbados is the perfect start for a Caribbean yacht charter. With so much to see and do, a private yacht charter  is perfect! It will take you to powdery white sands with turquoise waters, vibrant beachfront towns with exquisite local restaurants, and blue lagoons where you can enjoy the incredible marine life. Read on to discover our must-see activities on your Barbados yacht charter.

Surf school

Barbados is home to the Caribbean’s most consistent surf conditions, with strong winds and year-round swells on the north, east and west coasts. Although there are plenty of areas for experienced surfers to try out, Barbados is best suited to beginners. You can enjoy chilling out under the fringed palms and riding the waves with an idyllic tropical backdrop. Make sure to sign up for surfing lessons for a relaxed atmosphere or rent boards for the morning. Then, follow it by a cold drink in a waterfront bar. Our favourite beginner surf spots to visit from your yacht charter include Surfers Point, Dover Beach, and Freights Bay.

Nikki Beach Club

After an active day exploring Barbados’ unparalleled waters from your yacht charter, cruise further north to the famed Nikki Beach Club. Spend an afternoon on the plush beach beds under chic canopy’s, cool off in the glistening swimming pool or organise a Champagne lunch with friends and family. Nikki Beach Club’s restaurant is second to none, serving food to satisfy all your guilty cravings: authentic pizzas, sushi platters, Angus steak sandwiches and grilled fish burgers.

Before heading back to your private yacht charter, this chilled beachfront club transforms into a vibrant nightclub during sunset. Enjoy live music, dancing, entertainment and endless cocktails.

Fish Friday at Oistins

Located in the heart of Barbados’ fishing community, Oistins is a must-visit. It hosts one of the best party and cultural events every weekend: the Friday fish fry. It’s a place where locals and tourists come together. Visitors are invited to feast on fresh fish by the waterfront, battle it out over local domino players, or peruse the stalls selling pottery, wood carvings, clothing and paintings.

Later on, the event takes off with live calypso music or a local DJ, with family and friends dancing on the waterfront. With the smell of fresh lobster in the air, the sound of steel pans and vibrant colours throughout, Oistins offers a wonderful insight into local culture for visitors.

Spearfishing

A one-of-a-kind experience! Jump off the back of your yacht charter and experience the ultimate underwater thrill in Barbados’ crystal clear waters. Spearfishing has long been recognised as the most eco-friendly and purest form of fishing. With no hooks, lines or nets, yacht charter guests can choose the fish they want to catch. Better yet, enjoy whatever fish you catch at a beachfront lunch, with grilled fish cooking on an open fire. Many dive operators will also provide you with unique footage of you pulling up your catch and exploring the divine waters.

Snorkelling

A Caribbean yacht charter would not be complete without a snorkel trip to see the area’s fantastic marine life. Barbados’ idyllic blue waters are ideal for snorkel adventures with visibility between 40 to 70 feet for most of the year. Head to Folkestone Marine Park, Carlisle Bay or Diver Beach for a diverse range of underwater scenery. These snorkel sites will treat their guests to tropical fish and turtles, stingrays, manta rays, barracudas and colourful coral formations. The spots also make for an incredibly colourful and mesmerising dive… With tunnels, walls and drop-offs packed with brain, staghorn, forganian and sea fans in a myriad of colours.

Dive a little deeper…

Want to dive a little deeper? Barbados is also home to exceptional dive spots to see from your private yacht charter. This includes wrecks dives, night dives and reef dives.

Without question, Barbados is home to a vast selection of activities both on land and in the water. It can be difficult to know where to start! Contact a yacht broker to discuss yachts for charter and start planning your Barbados itinerary, packed with unique adventures.

Sarah Clayton-Lea

Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York.

Contact [email protected]

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