14 Fascinating Things about TradeWinds Yacht Cruises

TradeWinds is a leader in small ship cruising, allowing travelers to explore the world on intimate yachts without having to own and maintain their own vessels. A leader in sustainability, they have a 25-year history built on guiding principles best emulated by the select who sail with them. Find out more about this longstanding industry leader.  

1. Small Intimate Experiences Put Guests and the Oceans First

TradeWinds yachts can fit an average of 10 passengers, ensuring each guest is attended to and has plenty of space to unwind and relax onboard. The itineraries go to lesser-visited ports, like Bequia and Abacos, selected with sustainability and unique experiences in mind.

2. TradeWinds’ Small Yachts Can Access Areas Larger Ships Cannot

TradeWinds’ small yachts can visit small bays, harbors, and marinas larger vessels cannot access. Imagine following a pod of dolphins into a bay or the captain finding the best view of a sprawling rainbow that feels like it was painted across the sky just for you. All this is possible with TradeWinds cruises.

3. Embracing Electric and Hybrid Yachts

To reduce emissions, TradeWinds is integrating electric yachts into its fleet, replacing fossil fuel vessels with modern electric yachts especially built for TradeWinds. This forward-thinking initiative sets a new standard in yachting by blending luxury with environmentally friendly technology. It also emphasizes responsible travel, ensuring that guests can continue enjoying the sea's spectacular beauty for many generations.

4. Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence

TradeWinds was founded in 1999 and is built on six foundational pillars: Expertise, Fun, Luxury, Adventure, Memorable Experiences, and Consciousness. These principles guide everything from offering expert yachting services to creating joyful, sustainable luxury vacations. Guests cherish the memories from TradeWinds vacations long after their sailing experience has ended.

5. A Commitment to Sustainability  

TradeWinds is dedicated to sustainable tourism, focusing on reducing its environmental impact. With sustainability as a core value, the company aims to ensure luxury and nature can thrive together for future generations. Guests look forward to beach bonfires and relaxation at TradeWinds’ Mandala property, which embodies sustainability. It is built with local materials and is 100% powered by solar energy. The property utilizes reverse osmosis to create potable water for guests. 

6. Conscious (and Customized) Cuisine and Activities

From avoiding overfished species to steering clear of harmful activities like disturbing coral reefs, TradeWinds' sustainable practices extend to its cuisine. Locally sourced food is prioritized to reduce environmental impact. 

7. Milestone Launch of TradeWinds’ First Electric Yacht

A proud moment for TradeWinds was the launch of their first electric yacht, S/Y Aurora, in 2024. This significant step highlights the company’s commitment to combining luxury with environmental responsibility. The yacht embodies the company’s commitment to continuously contribute to creating a better world. TradeWinds is committed to having a fully sustainable fleet by 2036.

8. Responsible Destination Choices  

TradeWinds selects destinations that prioritize conservation and sustainability. They travel to St. Vincent, Bequia, Abacos, Greece, Seychelles, Fiji, and more. Read more about sustainability in cruising.

9. Reviving and Protecting Coral Reefs

TradeWinds contributes to programs that are helping protect the oceans. They helped facilitate research and education for marine life protection by donating the company’s first yacht, Turquoise Dreams. CLEAR Caribbean’s coral reef restoration project uses the donated yacht in the Southern Grenadines as a dive platform and on-site classroom.

10. Private Island Sustainability

Sustainability on land is just as crucial to TradeWinds as it is for our oceans. TradeWinds’ off-the-grid eco resort, Mandala, is situated on a private island in Tonga and serves as a model of environmental sustainability. It runs entirely on solar energy and was built using sustainable resources. Guests of TradeWinds can also visit Mimosa House in Bequia, a waterfront property purposefully constructed of local stone and wood.

11. Land Experiences Support Local Economies

TradeWinds carefully curates its experiences for guests on land. They also source products locally, ensuring they support local economies and reduce their carbon footprint. 

12. Sustainability-Driven Employee Training

At TradeWinds, sustainability starts with the crew. The company hires employees and crew who value sustainability. The TradeWinds Academy trains employees in eco-friendly practices, ensuring they are equipped to practice and educate guests on sustainability. Training covers things like the importance of using non-toxic cleaning products, waste reduction techniques, and protecting marine ecosystems. 

13. Leading by Example in the Cruise Industry

From pausing operations during the global pandemic to embracing new sustainability initiatives, TradeWinds continues to lead by example. Their consciousness-driven leadership shows in all aspects of the company, from putting people and marine life first to implementing the latest technology in the cruise and yachting industry. TradeWinds inspires guests to take the lessons they learn home with them to lead a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. 

14. How You Can Cruise with TradeWinds

TradeWinds is a top yacht-cruise company that guests can feel good about supporting. If you want to take a vacation with an eco-conscious company with values that align with yours, browse their destinations, then book your unique vacation by calling them directly.