Discover the unspoiled beauty of these enticing Caribbean Islands on a catamaran charter.
Antigua and Barbuda is famous for its 365 picture-perfect beaches, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and quintessential laid-back island culture. Sail from secluded cove to secluded cove, snorkel or dive into the region's world-class sites, or simply bask in the warmth of the Caribbean sun.
One of the reasons Antigua is so special for a catamaran charter is the abundance of secluded anchorages and hidden bays. The island boast numerous white sandy beaches providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and private getaway. Whether you seek an action-packed adventure or serene relaxation, we will help you create an unforgettable experience around Antigua's breathtaking natural scenery and renowned hospitality.
Antigua is often called the "Sailing Capital of the Caribbean" due to its ideal sailing conditions, consistent trade winds, and numerous regattas. It is a prime destination for catamaran charters, whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice looking to enjoy the sailing experience.
Antigua is strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean, making it an excellent starting point for island-hopping adventures. You can easily sail from Antigua to neighbouring islands such as Barbuda, Monseratt, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Barts and beyond. Each island offers unique experiences, landscapes, and cultural highlights.
With over 365 beaches, Antigua offers a plethora of options for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling, or hanging out at one of the many excellent beach bars and restaurants.
Antigua boasts vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and excellent diving and snorkelling spots.
Beyond its natural beauty, Antigua is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with landmarks like Nelson's Dockyard and historic forts offering a glimpse into the island's past.
Antigua has an incredible reef system, with sites like Cades Reef and the Pyramids offering vibrant coral and marine life.
This tiny, uninhabited island has gorgeous beaches with excellent snorkelling and diving right off its shores.
With 365 beaches, you can beach-hop around Antigua to find your perfect stretch of sand, like Half Moon or Rendezvous Bay.
This beautifully restored 18th-century British naval dockyard offers a glimpse into Antigua's maritime and colonial history.
Located off the northeast coast, this shallow sandbar allows you to swim and interact with wild stingrays.
The perfect venue for sunset drinks with stunning views overlooking English and Falmouth Harbours. Don't miss the famous Sunday evening barbecue and steel band parties.
Although there's plenty to keep you occupied in Antigua, it's also well-placed for visiting stunning islands like Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis and beyond.
Sail into picturesque bays like Falmouth Harbour, Nonsuch Bay and Half Moon Bay.
The high season runs from December to April and is typically dry and sunny, so expect more visitors around this time.
May to June is the shoulder season, with fewer visitors but still warm temperatures. The low season is July to November when temperatures remain high but are typically wetter.
Monthly weather for the area *
| Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Daily Rain (mm) | Avg. Wind Direction | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 26.9°C (80°F) | 24.1°C (75°F) | 1.7mm |  ENE |
| FEB | 26.9°C (80°F) | 23.6°C (75°F) | 0.5mm | ENE |
| MAR | 27.6°C (82°F) | 23.9°C (75°F) | 0.5mm | E |
| APR | 28.2°C (83°F) | 24.6°C (76°F) | 1.1mm | ESE |
| MAY | 29.4°C (85°F) | 26.1°C (79°F) | 1.5mm | ESE |
| JUN | 30.2°C (86°F) | 27.0°C (81°F) | 1.8mm | E |
| JUL | 30.3°C (86°F) | 27.2°C (81°F) | 2.5mm | E |
| AUG | 30.8°C (87°F) | 27.5°C (82°F) | 3.9mm | ESE |
| SEP | 31.3°C (88°F) | 27.8°C (82°F) | 1.9mm | ESE |
| OCT | 29.8°C (86°F) | 27.3°C (81°F) | 8.7mm | ESE |
| NOV | 29.1°C (84°F) | 26.5°C (80°F) | 1.3mm | E |
| DEC | 28.2°C (83°F) | 25.4°C (78°F) | 0.7mm | ENE |
English is the official language spoken in Antigua.
The official currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). However, the United States Dollar (USD) is widely accepted, and credit cards are commonly used in tourist areas.
It is common to give a tip of around 10% to 15% of the total bill if a service charge hasn't already been added
A catamaran charter from Antigua and Barbuda is all about comfort, luxury and convenience, with their twin hulls making them extremely stable. Expansive open decks allow for spacious seating, socialising and sunbathing, while below deck each hull typically contains its own cabins, complete with ensuite bathroom.
This layout is particularly good for couples or families travelling together as it offers more personal space. Our catamarans are available as either bareboat or skippered charters, with a host or hostess if needed, or fully crewed.
A power catamaran combines the stability and spaciousness of a sailing catamaran with the speed and convenience of a motorised yacht. The twin-hull design ensures a smooth ride even in choppy waters, while the absence of sails allowing for more expansive, unobstructed deck spaces perfect for lounging and entertaining.
One of the key advantages of a power catamaran is its ability to cover greater distances in less time, allowing you to explore more destinations during your charter. These vessels also have shallower drafts than a traditional sailing yacht, granting easier access to tucked away coves and beaches that larger yachts can't reach.
Available as bareboat for experienced boaters or with a skipper or professional crew, power catamaran charters offer the ultimate blend of luxury, performance, and versatility.
Luxury Catamarans have state-of-the-art amenities, spacious master suites, gourmet galleys, and cutting-edge entertainment systems. The expansive flybridge provides panoramic views and alfresco dining areas, perfect for sunset cocktails. The high-performance engines and double hulls ensure power and stability for seriously smooth sailing.
You’ll have a professional crew to cater to your every need from superb meals to water sports or trips ashore. Whether exploring tucked away lagoons or hosting a lavish on-board party, a luxury catamaran charter delivers an unforgettable five-star experience for the discerning traveller.
Catamarans have two hulls, making them more stable than a regular monohull boat, both while sailing and at anchor. So if you don't like heeling over while under sail, a catamaran is the ideal choice.
The split-hull design allows for better separation of living spaces, with cabins in each hull providing more privacy for guests. A perfect option for two families or larger groups.
Catamarans have a shallower draft (less boat below the water), allowing them to access shallow anchorages and get closer to beaches than a typical monohull.
With easy access from the rear deck to the water, swimming and water sports activities are a cinch - not to mention getting in and out of the tender to go ashore.
Catamarans sail differently from monohulls. They don't heel (tilt) as much, which can be more comfortable for some passengers but may provide less of a "sailing feel" for purists.
Catamarans often feature a raised helm station with excellent visibility, and many have a flybridge for additional outdoor living space.
Catamarans offer more living space both above and below deck due to their wide beam. This means they tend to have larger common areas and more spacious cabins.
A bareboat charter with Pure Yachting gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore Antigua and Barbuda and beyond at your own pace. Tailor your trip to match your preferences, and if you need advice or inspiration our charter experts will always be on hand to suggest areas to explore.
We select our fleet of yachts from trusted operators, chosen by us for the quality of their boats and the fact they offer a high level of service. To charter a catamaran you'll typically need a qualification such as the RYA Day Skipper, the AS104 Bareboat Cruising, ICC certification or be able to demonstrate relevant experience.
With a professional skipper at the helm to confidently navigate around Antigua and Barbuda and beyond, you’re free to relax and enjoy every moment. The skipper's expertise ensures smooth sailing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
However, if you fancy getting more involved, our fully qualified skippers will be more than happy to show you the basics, or help you brush up your sailing skills.
On skippered charters, there's also the opportunity to add a host or hostess who can prepare meals and help with tasks such as childcare, concierge services and housekeeping.
Crewed yacht charters from Antigua and Barbuda come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from sleek superyachts to luxury catamarans, contemporary motor yachts to classic yachts and more, all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.
Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.
Antigua and Barbuda is a popular charter destination so booking your dream boat in advance (typically six months ahead) is best to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.
You can search for your dream catamaran via the link below, or if you'd like one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the link to get them working on creating the perfect trip.
For those seeking adventure, Antigua's offshore islands offer endless opportunities for exploration.
The uninhabited Great Bird Island and Green Island are perfect for day trips, where you can encounter exotic bird species, along with some excellent snorkelling. A visit to the unspoiled island of Barbuda is also a must, with its famous pink sand beaches and colony of frigate birds.
In addition to its natural beauty, Antigua has a rich cultural heritage reflected in its historic landmarks and charming towns. Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living testament to the island's colonial past and is a must-visit for history buffs. English Harbour, located nearby, offers a vibrant atmosphere with lively bars, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Ultimately, its warm, friendly people set Antigua apart as a catamaran charter destination. Antiguans are known for their hospitality and warm welcome and will go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable stay on their island.
In conclusion, Antigua's stunning scenery, secluded anchorages and welcoming atmosphere make it an extraordinary place for a catamaran
charter. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure or a mix of both, a catamaran charter in Antigua will not disappoint. It truly is a Caribbean paradise waiting to be explored.
If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.
When chartering a yacht from Antigua and Barbuda, consider factors such as budget, size and catamaran type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.
There are typically four main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Antigua and Barbuda, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, and Luxury Yachts which includes Superyachts.
The typical times for a yacht charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.
The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.
Once you've found your perfect catamaran, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.
You can sail all year in the Caribbean, but the high season is from December to May.