Portsmouth, Dominica’s second largest town sits on the edge of Prince Rupert Bay and is a favourite with visiting sailors. The principal attractions of a Portsmouth Dominica Yacht Charter or Flotilla are the Cabrits National Park and Indian River, the fabulous snorkelling and diving opportunities and the chance to go whale-watching. The seas around Portsmouth are home to sperm whales that grow up to 21 metres (70 feet) in length as well as orcas, pygmy sperm whales, pygmy killer whales, false killer whales, pilot whales and humpback whales.

Take a boat trip up Indian River, winding through the tall swamp bloodwood trees rising out of the shallows and get a close-up view of the animal life that lives on the shady banks. Stop for drinks at the Indian River Bar and be sure to try a glass or three of its signature rum punch, a mixture of fruits, herbs and ‘local atmosphere’. The Cabrits National Park, a scenic peninsula that lies just to the north of Portsmouth, is the site of Fort Shirley, an impressive 18th century British garrison that is home to scores of hermit crabs, harmless snakes and lizards that scurry about the ruins and along the hiking trails that lead up to the two volcanic peaks.

The National Park also encompasses the island’s largest swamp and the coral reefs of Douglas Bay, which are good for snorkelling. As you would expect from a town that’s as popular with the sailing set as its namesake, Portsmouth the town has a good range of bars and restaurants. The Purple Turtle is something of an institution and Big Papas serves excellent Jamaican food.