Antigua

Antigua sits in the northern Leeward Islands, the eastern Caribbean arc between the Virgin Islands and Guadeloupe. The island's geography is unusual for the Caribbean: a relatively flat limestone plateau over much of the island — unlike the volcanic peaks of Dominica or St. Lucia — with a deeply indented coastline that has produced 365 beaches, the classic tourism claim. More relevant for water use is the harbour architecture: English Harbour on the south coast is a deep, landlocked hurricane hole, protected by high ridges on three sides, that served as the Royal Navy's principal Caribbean base in the 18th century under Admiral Horatio Nelson. Today it is the axis of the world sailing circuit, most visible during Antigua Sailing Week in late April–May. Tidal range at Antigua is among the smallest in the Caribbean: spring range approximately 0.3 m, with a mixed semidiurnal pattern and significant diurnal inequality. Wind direction matters far more than tidal state — the northeast trades blow consistently from November through April, the calm season runs roughly May through October. St. John's on the northwest coast is the commercial capital and cruise ship terminal, with a large, sheltered natural harbour that handles deep-draft vessels at all tide stages. Jolly Harbour on the southwest coast is a purpose-built marina behind a sandbar entrance, sheltered and popular with long-term liveaboard cruisers circumnavigating the Caribbean.