Nevis Day Trips

Craving a casino? Salivating for some serious shopping? St. Kitts, Nevis’ sister island, has plenty of both and is just 3 miles away at the islands’ closest points – a cinch by ferry. They depart roughly on the hour from Charlestown, so you can pop over just to have lunch, if you like. Several sailing and diving charters also offer day trips off of St. Kitts, including the Kenneth Dive Center (www.kennethdivecenter.com).

Led by American marine biologist Barbara Whitman, these snorkeling and diving trips not only offer spectacular looks at Nevis’s underwater world, but inspiration to protect the environment. Whitman’s knowledge and hands-on programs, which move from the classroom to the aquarium to the sea, are always a huge hit. Expect to see coral, snapper, starfish, and stingrays among the aquatic life.

For a dinner that’s to "dive" for, check out this unique program at the Four Seasons, which sends guests out on a private diving/dinner excursion under the guidance of local dive master, Ellis Chaderton, and sous-chef Denis Bruemmel. Ellis ferries you out on a private boat a few miles off the island’s coast in search of the elusive Nevisian spiny lobster, which you then lasso and bring back. When you return to the hotel about five hours later, you can either help Chef Bruemmel prepare your succulent lobster dinner, or relax until it’s ready to savor.

Hop aboard the 41-foot Feisty for a chartered, seven-hour day trip around Nevis and St. Kitts, complete with snorkeling in secret cays and a picnic lunch on the beach or a bite to eat at a seafood shack. It’s all up to you – British captain Miles Denne, also a marine biologist, is happy to let you chart the course or take the helm – or just sit back and enjoy the ride. Sunset cruises are also offered for groups of up to eight people.

Just 45 miles from Nevis is St. Maarten/Martin. While many Nevisians make the trip for the über-affordable electronics and appliances, travelers enjoy the escape to the Dutch- and French-owned island for its gambling, shopping, and gourmet restaurants. Local airline Winair offers several flights daily; during holidays, including Christmas and Easter, ferry service is also offered.