These islands lie southeast of the Virgins. St Martin, St Barts, St Kits, Anguilla and Antigua are most easily recognized names. Unless you care to stay close to home you'll do some day-long passages in this area, often in fairly rough conditions. For those who enjoy lots of sailing the Leewards are an excellent choice. One of the things that's particularly Appealing about this area is the variety in both topography and cultures.
Some islands are high and mountainous while others are low and sandy.
Some islands were British and are now independent, like Antigua and St. Kitts. Anguilla remains a British protectorate, while St. Barts is French and St. Martin half Dutch and half French. Fierce battles were fought by the European nations for control of these islands before the days of refrigeration when salt, spices and sugar were valuable commodities used to preserve food. Each Island has it's own unique culture and is of great interest to history buffs. Excellent seven and ten day itineraries are possible in this area, and one-way sails between St. Martin and Antiqua can be arranged.