Any Leeward Islands itinerary must include St. Barths. This exclusive French island with its picturesque port of Gustavia, lined with designer boutiques and upscale eateries, is a magnet for yachtsmen who appreciate its sophisticated combination of relaxing seaside vistas and chic inner sanctums.

But, it’s worth adding a few more nautical miles to your itinerary to experience St. Kitts and Nevis. These two neighboring isles offer the kind of lush tropical setting usually associated with the South Pacific. At the center of St. Kitts stands the spectacular volcano Mount Liamuiga (pronounced Lee-a-mweega), a dormant volcano covered by dense tropical forest. The ground on Nevis also rises to the clouds and is abundant with lush forests, Vervet monkeys and brilliant tropical flowers.

Basseterre and Charlestown, the two capitals, are among the most inviting of the Caribbean’s colonial harbor towns. By law, the buildings can’t be taller than the palm trees—on both St. Kitts and Nevis, nature preservation is a major value. If you love swimming, snorkeling or windsurfing amid pristine waters, these islands are bound to please. Divers also will enjoy exploring underwater shipwrecks and the islands’ abundant sea life. As a bonus infrequently found in the Caribbean, the golfers on board will find 18-hole courses on both islands.