On the water in St. Barth’s

St Barth’s is a hive of activity year round due to its climate, there are a dozen fabulous beaches to explore, amazing seafood restaurants and sporting activities for those who want something more active. Today, I am exploring the underwater world – St Barth’s is a real mecca for scuba diving, sailing and yacht charter… here are my top tips:

Hire a motor boat

Get out and about, feel the rocking of the waves underneath, discover hidden coves and private beaches. Motor boat rental is available with or without a captain from 17’ to 55’. Looking for something more fast pace? How about a jet ski or sea scooter! There is a channel from the port of Gustavia which opens to 300 yards of coastal waters towards the high sea.

Scuba diving

Explore the magical underwater world, branch corals in full bloom, multi-coloured coral fish, marine protected turtles and dolphins are a few of the wonders to be discovered. Something for the children? Why not try and find Nemo…

I recommend diving around Pain de Sucre (an islet off Gustavia harbour) or around a small cape called I’Ane Rouge just off Colombier bay.

Sailing and catamaran trips

Hire a boat for a full day or half day with your own crew, tour the island or quite anchor bays of Fourchue or Colombier, snorkel with the equipment provided and make friends with the rainbow coloured sea life. Stop off and set up camp on a deserted beach, dine on the feast provided and cooked by your on board private chef then sip on a glass of chilled wine while the sun sets. Don’t forget your camera!

For the children who sail, why not get involved with the regattas around the island.

Take a submarine tour

If getting wet is not your thing but you still want to witness the magic of the underworld, get your concierge to book you a seat on a submarine for an underwater adventure…

The sub is fully air-conditioned and any time you wish you can go to the deck outside, witness the pelican birds in the Marine Park preserved area one moment and the tropical fish the next.

This is a great adventure for children as the sub will sail past the shipwreck of a fishing vessel which sunk in 1995 during hurricane Luis, the ‘Marignan’ shipwreck is home to many species of underwater creatures like the friendly nurse sharks, schools of sergeant majors, blue tangs, snappers, parrot fish, angel fish, barracudas, butterfly fish, sting rays and other fish.

The sea excursion is a relaxing trip for adults and families, guided in English you’ll love the time on board!

Celine Renaud is Head of Sales for Leo Trippi.

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