The Caribbean is made up of more than 7000 islands, islets and reefs, so there is plenty of scope for you to find your very own stretch of paradise. We have itineraries up our sleeves to suit all your needs, for those who want privacy and peace head to St Vincent and the Grenadines, an area far less commercial and less developed than its neighbours. For culture head to Jamaica to get under the skin of the Caribbean’s musical and cultural heritage.

For something more active; jump on board a private yacht to explore quaint archipelagos in the British Virgin Islands, climb volcanoes and take on the hiking trails of St. Lucia, try your hand at deep-sea fishing or scuba-diving in the Turks and Caicos islands. Private islands and exclusive resorts in the Caribbean make white sand beaches - fringed by warm, turquoise waters and tropical vegetation - feel like they were created for you alone.

OUR TO DO LIST 

• Opt for the 1.5 hour yacht transfer from Cotton House Mustique to Petit St Vincent, on arrival you’ll be welcomed with a cocktail and whisked straight to your cottage!

• Stay at the spectacular Fleming Villa at Goldeneye Resort, where James Bond was penned into 20th century fiction (the decor includes Ian Fleming's writing desk)

• The British Virgin Islands are considered the best sailing destination in the Caribbean. Year-round warm weather, consistent trade winds and line of sight sailing make it a sailor's paradise

PRIVACY

For complete seclusion, Petit St Vincent remains un-spoilt despite its luxurious accommodation, boasting 113 acres of land surrounded by two miles of white sand beaches with just 22 exclusive cottages. There is a refreshing absence of TVs and telephones here, when guests need room service they get in touch with staff by hoisting a small yellow flag on a bamboo pole outside the front door. Located two miles off the northern coast of Antigua, Jumby Bay is on a private and secluded island only accessible by boat. Following a major overhaul, Jumby Bay is now at the top of the leader board of idyllic Caribbean escapes. There are 40 colonial yet contemporary rooms and suites spread across the 300-acre private island, each allowing for complete privacy. For something more laid back there's the privately owned Guana Island, the self-styled 'Virgin Island that still is.'  One of the best preserved of the British Virgin Islands, the 850 acres of jungle, lagoons and beaches here are for the exclusive enjoyment of just 40 guests, spread out across a variety of private villas and rooms all furnished in an unfussy style inspired by the Quakers who first populated the island and ran the sugarcane plantation here. The cottage on North Beach, with its own saltwater pool, is the loveliest and most remote. There are no phones or TVs, but there is Wi-Fi.

LUXURY

Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos wraps guests up in easy-going luxury from the moment they arrive by speedboat. Infinity pools, a holistic spa and elegant rooms make it impossible to feel anything but calm and well-rested on Parrot Cay, even after a day diving on the nearby world-famous reefs. The 29 vast suites at Jade Mountain are all designed to maximise the impact of the breathtaking Pitons, the defining feature of St Lucia. Each suite is missing its fourth wall, so the views are entirely uninterrupted. The Caribbean inspired décor is combined with modern touches such as iPod docks and jacuzzi baths, and the plunge pools are all set at the edge of the suites to maximise the breathtaking views. Designed to harmonise with nature, there are no child-filled swimming pools or raucous bars, but one small restaurant serving delectable cuisine. For the best of both worlds, Jade Mountain guests have full access to the many facilities at Anse Chastenet, the sister property and just a 5 minute stroll down the hill.

BAREFOOT

Barefoot beach lovers will enjoy a stay at the Goldeneye Resort part of Island Outposts collection. What used to be Ian Fleming’s home and a social hub for artists, actors and musicians is now the intimate and quirky project of legendary music producer Chris Blackwell. Originally an 18th century coral warehouse and sugar mill, the Cotton House in Mustique has been transformed and completely renovated to combine contemporary chic with a blissfully relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation consists of a variety of rooms, suites and West Indies style cottages, all beautifully decorated and luxuriously appointed with the finest in comfort and amenities. There is also an extremely private, two-bedroom 'Cotton Hill Residence', with its own swimming pool and panoramic views.

FAMILY

For families looking for more structured fun, Carlisle Bay in Antigua manages to provide all the entertainment and convenience of a resort without detracting from its peaceful setting. The Four Seasons Resort Nevis is a tropical oasis set amidst sweeping rain forest, golden beaches and coconut palms providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Caribbean. The hotel boasts unparalleled facilities on the island, including an 18 -hole golf course, tranquil spa, 10 tennis courts, swimming pools and of course a stunning expanse of beach. Located in the tranquil little fishing community of Shermans on the fashionable west coast of Barbados, Little Good Harbour’s charm is all down to it being one of the last family-run ocean front hotels. Their one to three bedroom self-catering apartments offer a great home-from-home set up for young families, with the Fishpot Restaurant, a local favourite, right on your doorstep. If you’re looking to get away from it all with your kids, Peter Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands might just have a hammock with your name on it. It’s low-key environment where nature and the beach are the main highlights. Indeed, the island has five private beaches to choose from, secluded by hillsides and tropical gardens. The resort has tennis and water sports as well as opportunities to hike, bike and snorkel.  The gift shop has toys, children’s books and beach gear. There is babysitting for a fee, but no kids’ program. This is probably the best option for families with kids under three or with teens who don’t need organised activities to keep busy.

Looking to extend your trip?

The Caribbean is generally booked as a stand-alone destination but there are a number of stopovers that can be incorporated in to a Caribbean holiday...