Many of the greatest activities available in Antigua are connected to the surrounding seas – the calm and clear Caribbean and the more exciting and challenging Atlantic Ocean. The following are just a sample of what is available.
Day SailinG A large number of crewed yachts and power boats are available throughout Antigua for daily charter to explore the Caribbean and Atlantic coastlines. No small sailboat is better than that of Captain Nash whose ‘Zorro’ offers daily bespoke excursions from Dickenson Bay for 2 – 4 passengers. Captain Nash offers exclusive services to Antigua Village guests.
Diving & Snorkelling As an island nation, Antigua is blessed with reefs surrounding it that offer endlessly fascinating underwater exploration for both beginners and expert divers, or for snorkellers. Scuba diving in Antigua means over 500 different dive sites, with coral canyons, wall drops, sea caves and wrecks, home to all manner of exotic marine creatures and tropical fish (there are almost 400 species of Caribbean reef fish!). as well as professional diving tuition at all levels, there are day and night dives; many dive operations also organise snorkelling trips. Our crystal clear waters invite you to a veritable diving odyssey! A short stroll along Dickenson Bay from Antigua Village you will find ‘Dive Antigua’, Rex Halcyon Cove, Dickenson Bay Tel: 462 3483 (DIVE). Beginner’s courses and certification, extensive day and night diving programme.
Deep Sea/Sport Fishing Get hooked! Antigua’s fleet of sports fishing boats has been modernised and expanded to offer a wide choice of deep sea fishing options, with experienced crew full safety equipment for this rapidly growing sport. A day’s sportsfishing is becoming one of the island’s greatest attractions. Depending on the season, fine catches can be made of tuna, wahoo, kingfish and dorado, although our relatively constant water temperatures give almost year-round fishing opportunities. Big game anglers have been attracted by this for many years and to the Antigua & Barbuda Sports Fishing Club Tournament held every Whit Weekend and other sports fishing events here. One of the best Deep Sea fishing boats is ‘Overdraft’ - a fully equipped 40 foot fibreglass fishing boat, available for picnic charters and any other pleasure cruise you desire. Enjoy all the action of deep sea fishing and their experienced fishing skipper.
Watersports The list is endless and includes all the latest, most up to date and safe equipment. Antigua Village retains a close relationship with the best operators on Dickenson Bay. Sunfish, Hobie Cats, Windsurfing, waterskiing, parasailing and numerous other watersport activities are available all over the island.
Sailing Sunsail Club Colonna in Hodges Bay is well known for its flotilla of sailing yachts for teaching and enjoyment. Non residents can purchase a full or half day pass for use of restaurant, bar, huge pool, and all watersports facilities including waterskiing, kayaks, snorkelling, windsurfing and Sunfast 20s yachts. Also sailing courses are offered.
There are some excellent excursion operators offering a wide range of Caribbean and Atlantic sailing trips. The following is just a selection:
Excellence The company that operates the Jolly Roger also now operates a splendid motor catarmaran – The Excellence. This magnificent vessel offers regular excursions direct from Dickenson Bay to Antigua’s sister island Barbuda. The excursion is warmly recommended.
Wadadli Cats Wadadli Cats have two well established catamarans and five successful cruises to choose from. The new state-of-the-art 66-foot long catamaran Spirit of Antigua guarantees the fastest sailing speeds, perfect for those who can be slightly ‘queasy’ when sailing, as this assures less boat rolling effects and helps potential sea sickness. Such exhilarating, fast travelling also allows for more time to enjoy the best beaches and snorkelling sites and relax over your al fresco buffet lunch.
Kokomo Cat A 61-foot catamaran, built in 1994 to American Bureau of Shipping standards, the twin-hull configuration allows this boat to sail at a very respectable 16 knots, whilst ensuring a smooth, stable and enjoyable passage. It is available for private custom charters but also offers a comprehensive and wide selection of full day cruises.
Treasure Island Cruises The large, luxury Caribbean Queen offers specially thought out days tours, and is the only one with a live steelband and professional limbo dancing! All cruises not only serve a super West Indian buffet lunch but also morning and afternoon snacks of fruit and local pastries. Free pick up for their four cruises, inclusive of snorkelling gear, open bar, onboard galley for snacks and buffet lunch, and friendly, experienced crew.
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