Dominican Republic yacht charter
The Dominican Republic is a gorgeous charter yacht destination thanks to its white sandy beaches and turquoise seas. The capital and largest city, Santo Domingo, is one of the most important sea ports on the southern coast. Many of the marinas in the Dominican Republic already have useful facilities for yachters, or are in the process of creating them. Should you be there in hurricane season, head to Luperon Bay Marina, found on the north coast, which offers great shelter when moored or at anchor – indeed, Christopher Columbus is said to have used the hurricane hole on his visit. A construction programme means the soon-to-be-named Marina Tropical will have extensive facilities including a dry dock, boat storage and fuel berth.
There are many beautiful places to stay in the Dominican Republic, but any visit should include a trip to the capital, Santo Domingo. There’s a wealth of history and stunning architecture frozen in time as a result of UNESCO declaring it a World Heritage Site in 1990, as well as world-class restaurants and a vibrant night-life scene. Elsewhere, Punta Cana is always a favourite. It’s got the beaches and the luxury hotels but also many championship golf courses which are worth a trip in themselves for fans of the game. As well as golf, there’s mountain-climbing – Duarte Peak is the highest mountain in the Caribbean at two miles above sea level – diving and snorkelling, lagoons and botanical gardens and the chance to explore the city’s history through the many museums and historical parks. Learn about the country’s turbulent past, from its beginnings with the peaceful Taino Indians through to Christopher Columbus’s arrival and the many civil wars, occupations and unstable governments that followed.