The smallest island in the world shared by two countries, St. Martin/St. Maarten is big on shopping. Whether you go Dutch in Philipsburg or prefer Marigot's French touch, you're always welcome.

Columbus thought this long flat island with its multitude of white sand coves looked like an undulating eel, so he named it Anguilla. The island has been a British colony/dependency since it was first settled in 1650. Recently, Anguilla has been discovered by the cognoscenti, who find the island's small upscale resorts an ideal retreat to get away from it all. Try the haute cuisine at Malliouhana, or the Arabian Nights ambience of Pimms.

Once the hideaway for a Dutch pirate of the same name, Jost van Dyke welcomes visitors with first-rate hiking trails and the best beaches in the British Virgin Islands. Be sure to have a drink at the famous Foxy's Tamarind Bar in Great harbour.

Soper's Hole is where ‘laid back' is a jealously cultivated way of life. Visit the nearby ruins of 17th century Dutch Fort Recovery. There are also several favourite ‘watering holes', beloved by crews of visiting yachts, where the local gossip flows as freely as the rum.

This famous channel of water named after the famous sailor lies south of Tortola and runs the full length of the island from St John to Virgin Gorda. On the south side of the channel are several smaller islands where you will find Norman and Peter Island.

This uninhabited island is where many believe Robert Louis Stevenson became inspired to pen his famous pirate novel, Treasure Island. Star Clippers will drop you off on a jetty where you can walk onto the beach.

Take a bath at the "Baths", Virgin Gorda's unique water grottos formed eons ago by ancient lava flows. Huge boulders lie scattered around the natural pools, which are delightful for swimming or soaking. Virgin Gorda is also home to Little Dix Bay, the Bitter End Yacht Club, some excellent beaches, and the bestsailing around.

The Captain will choose an anchorage with a lovely beach. BVI beaches are among the world's most beautiful, and better yet, are endlessly varied.

St. Kitts' was the first successful colony in the British West Indies. Shop in colourful Basseterre, play golf and tour old plantation houses. For the adventuresome there's a brisk hike through the rainforest.

In its elegant little capital of Gustavia, French joie de vivre is tempered by Swedish spic and span neatness. Diversions include duty-free shopping in exquisite boutiques, beautiful beaches, excellent dining and people-watching.

The smallest island in the world shared by two countries, St. Martin/St. Maarten is big on shopping. Whether you go Dutch in Philipsburg or prefer Marigot's French touch, you're always welcome.