St Lucia Sailing Itinerary

The Pitons

The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton and Gros Piton are among the most noteworthy landmarks in St Lucia. Cruising the Pitons is certainly magic to the eyes of countless cruisers who visit every year. Just north of Petit Piton is the small town of Soufriére, which shares the name of the nearby dormant volcano, the only one in the world that you can drive a car right inside!

Creole buildings with gingerbread trim give the place an Old World ambience. Enjoy window-shopping and dining out in a variety of shops and restaurants here. Both scenic and accommodating to boaters, the waters around the Pitons are part of the Soufriére Marine Management Area and a highlight of yachting in St Lucia.

Mooring

Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are plentiful.

Things to do

There are many restaurants along the shore and in town. The most elegant is the Hummingbird Restaurant at Hummingbird Resort. Sulfur Springs, the volcanically heated waters of Diamond Baths and its surrounding tropical gardens, guided hiking tours in the rainforest near Morne Fond St Jacques (drop in at the Soufriére Marine Management office in town for more information), Maho waterfalls, and the Jalousie Plantation (part of Sunswept Resorts) are among the attractions in and around Soufriére.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.

Bequia

A short sail will take you to anchor in Admiralty Bay, Bequia’s main harbour on the island’s west side and the location of the only settlement, Port Elizabeth. When cruising in Admiralty Bay you’ll see at the head of the harbour small hotels, a variety of shops, boutiques, food markets, a bookshop, and a number of bars and restaurants, many with a nautical theme in keeping with the fishing and boatbuilding tradition that’s alive and well on the island. Artisans build small and large vessels from wood using traditional methods. On Bequia’s south side you can find the gorgeous Friendship Bay with its lovely white sand beach and an anchorage that’s well protected from swells.

Mooring

Moorings are available. Anchoring space is plentiful, and the holding is generally good in the more popular locations. In other parts of the bay, holding is less desirable due to occasional northerly swells that can make for an uncomfortable night. In addition to Admiralty Bay, there’s a snug and picturesque anchorage at Friendship Bay that is well worth a visit.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

There are literally dozens of bars and restaurants, too many to name. However, we would recommend the Frangipani Hotel for a romantic dinner featuring Caribbean fare, Auberge des Grenadines for sumptuous lobster and other seafood, and the Tradewinds Yacht Club restaurant, Devil’s Table, which has good food for all budgets and a charming island ambience. For charterers seeking a bit of pampering, get a massage at Jack’s Spa & Beauty Salon, or play a game of tennis any of the several tennis courts. Hiking is popular on Bequia, along the beaches and on the trails in the hills of Mount Pleasant. Visit the Bequia Maritime Museum, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, or the home of one of Bequia’s most famous harpooners, Athneal Ollivierre, where there’s a small whaling museum. Bequia is both beautiful and filled with attractions. Consider seeing all of the sights with a jeep, scooter or bike rental from Handy Andy. It’s a very fun island to drive around.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, showers, laundry facilities, rubbish disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (including Wi–Fi), and taxicabs are available.

Tobago Cays

The five deserted isles of the Tobago Cays are the jewels of Tobago Cays Marine Park, which comprises the surrounding waters as well. Horseshoe Reef almost encircles the four main cays, and beyond its protective embrace is Petit Tabac. As one of the premier snorkelling and diving locales within the Grenadines, and the entire Windward chain, for that matter, it’s no surprise that Tobago Cays cruising is the main attraction when exploring these waters.

Mooring

Moorings are available for a fee; plans for additional moorings are in the works. Charterers may anchor in any one of several locations. The anchorages north and south of Baradel are popular.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy docks available, but you can beach your dinghy to take a swim on one of the cays.

Things to do

Snorkel, swim, sunbathe, and relax in unspoilt beauty. Observe the sea turtles at the turtle-watching area on Baradel. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving, as diving on your own isn’t permitted. Line up a vendor for a beach barbecue (beach barbecues are regulated to protect the park).

Facilities

Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and fresh lobster.

Salt Whistle Bay, Mayreau, Tobago Cays

Salt Whistle Bay, located at the northern tip of Mayreau, is an ideal starting point for reaching the nearby Tobago Cays Marine Park. Pleasant anchorage can be found in the bay where no park fees are charged. The bay lies within the curve of a white–sand beach. Fanned by the balmy trade winds, this is a favourite spot for swimming. The Tobago Cays are known for their pristine waters, with excellent visibility and where snorkelling and diving are the best ways to experience the colourful marine life.

Mooring

Salt Whistle Bay does not offer moorings but a dinghy dock is available. The Tobago Cays offer moorings for a fee and cruisers may anchor in one of several locations with the most popular anchorages north and south of Baradel. 

Dinghy dockage: Available in Salt Whistle Bay. No dinghy docks available in the Tobago Cays, but dinghys can be beached to take a swim from one of the cays.

Things to do

Both locations offer pristine locations for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. Excellent visibility around The Tobago Cays makes this area more popular with divers.. Relax with a drink at a beachside bar or the club restaurant at Salt Whistle Bay. Rediscover nature at the Tobago Cays where you can watch sea turtles on Baradel or line up a vendor for an enjoyable beach barbecue.

Facilities

Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and lobsters at the Tobago Cays.

Mustique

Sail to the tiny island of Petit Nevis for lunch and more beach time. On to Mustique, the island of royals, the rich and the famous, you can overnight in Britannia Bay. A spine of hills 400 to 600 feet in elevation runs down the midsection of Mustique, providing the sweeping sea views that make this area such an ideal setting for the palatial estates, about 90 in all, dotting the lush green slopes extending to the edges of pristine white-sand beaches. Celebrities, business magnates, and royalty have made the island a cherished retreat. Mustique yachting ushers you into this exclusive world.

Mooring

Moorings are available in Britannia Bay. Anchoring is prohibited without permission from the Mustique Company, which supervises local waters.

Dinghy dockage: A dinghy dock is available.

Things to do

Hike the trails and quiet roads of the island, or take a tour via taxicab or rented mountain bike or motorbike. Enjoy a swim at the beautiful Macaroni Bay beach. Horseback riding is also an option. Or snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal clear waters.

Facilities

Provisions, garbage disposal, Internet access at the library, and taxicab service are available.

Kearton's Bay, St. Vincent

Spend your day in the Grenadines exploring the western shores of St. Vincent then drop anchor for the night in Keartons Bay. This anchorage is a secret little hideaway and home to top-rated Rock Side Cafe. Soak up the sun on one of the island’s best black-sand beaches and enjoy your favourite water activities—swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or floating atop a raft—amidst a picture-perfect and pleasantly uncrowded backdrop.

Mooring

Moorings balls available. (Free if you dine Rock Side Café)

Things to do

Swimming, Snorkelling, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding, Beachcombing

Facilities

Restaurant/bar

Marigot Bay

Tucked away below the verdant hilltops on the west side of St Lucia, Marigot Bay is a secluded anchorage for boaters seeking a relaxing quiet harbour during their journey along the coast. Charming homes overlook the seas in a colourful collage of white and red-roofed houses. The nearby Marina Village features a variety of unique stores and boutiques perfect for shopping. Waterfront restaurants offer an array of French, Creole and Caribbean cuisine with the added benefit of jaw-dropping sunset views.

Mooring

Sheltered anchorage space and mooring buoys available for use. 

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

An attractive waterfront greets visitors entering Marigot Bay from the sea. The area is protected by sloping hills and dotted with various restaurants known for their French cuisine. Take a sightseeing tour of the surrounding land or head to St Lucia’s marine park for excellent diving and views of the numerous shallow reefs near the shore.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

Sainte-Anne

A popular access point into the island of Martinique, Sainte-Anne is a bustling community of postcard-worthy beaches and a bounty of things to do during a yacht charter vacation. Cruise to the nearby anchorage and take the dinghy to La Pointe Marin, a breathtaking blue-water beach with dozens of bars, restaurants and shops nearby. Snorkel and swim among the vibrant reefs near the shore, or venture inland and explore the small-town streets lined with painted wooden houses and one-of-a-kind shops.

Mooring

There’s an attractive anchorage just across from Sainte-Anne, six nautical miles from Le Marin. The holding is good. Anchor across from the small town and take the dinghy across to the dock.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Hiking

Facilities

Cul-de-Sace du Marin Marina in nearby Marin offers a variety of stores, a bakery, restaurants and car rental service.

Grand Anse D’Arlet

One of Martinique’s most beloved beachside towns, Grand Anse d’Arlet offers an array of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages. Pick a spot and kick back on the half-mile strip of golden sand where the protected clear-blue waters provide an idyllic location for swimming. A handful of hotels and restaurants line the coast and there’s a local art gallery about a half-mile into town, but ultimately the beach reigns supreme in Grand Anse’ d’Arlet.

Mooring

Mooring buoys are available for a small daily fee. Anchoring, however, is strictly prohibited in the waters of Grand Anse d’Arlet.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing

Facilities

There is a small marina about three miles north-east on Pointe du Bout. Here, you can explore a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants within walking distance.

St. Pierre

Saint-Pierre is a small town on the north-west side of Martinique. Sitting at the base of the infamous Mt Pelee, this island community is home to a number of unique attractions that make it a must-visit on your charter from St Lucia. After a massive volcanic eruption occurred here more than 100 years ago, Saint-Pierre was completely rebuilt around the ruins of its former self. Venture into town and explore the undisturbed ruins before a walk through the nearby museum. Sink your toes into the black-sand beach, or cruise only a couple of hundred yards off the shore to see more than 10 shipwrecks just below the surface.

Mooring

In order to preserve its famous shipwrecks, the French state has designated the coast of Saint-Pierre as a no anchor zone. Four mooring buoys are available around the various sunken ships.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Explore the ruins of old St Pierre, demolished by a volcanic eruption from nearby Mt Pelee in 1902. Relax on the black-sand beach or venture off the coast to explore shipwrecks from Saint-Pierre’s pre-disaster past.

Facilities

No facilities available for yachts.

Anse Mitan

Situated on the south-west edge of Martinique, Anse Mitan is a palm-studded beach offering deep, clear water and a quaint array of restaurants and attractions just footsteps away from the shore. Feast on fresh-caught seafood or get adventurous and snorkel in a wide-open world brimming with sea life. Just a mile and a half away, the town of Trois Ilets is the place to be when the sun goes down. Visit Casino Trois-Ilets and challenge yourself with classic games like roulette, stud poker and craps. Designed in the style of New Orleans’ famed French Quarter, the Casino offers everything from live music to dancing, refined cuisine and more.

Mooring

Many boaters choose to anchor in the bay. There’s also a small marina just a short cruise north-east on Pointe du Bout.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Relax with your favourite cocktail on the beach, or visit any one of the nearby restaurants for a taste of some of the freshest seafood in the Caribbean. Visit nearby Trois Ilets to experience a variety of attractions including a famous casino, restaurants, live music venues and more.

Facilities

You‘ll find repair facilities, shops and supermarkets in the area surrounding the marina.

Marigot Bay

Tucked away below the verdant hilltops on the west side of St Lucia, Marigot Bay is a secluded anchorage for boaters seeking a relaxing quiet harbour during their journey along the coast. Charming homes overlook the seas in a colourful collage of white and red-roofed houses. The nearby Marina Village features a variety of unique stores and boutiques perfect for shopping. Waterfront restaurants offer an array of French, Creole and Caribbean cuisine with the added benefit of jaw-dropping sunset views.

Mooring

Sheltered anchorage space and mooring buoys available for use. 

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

An attractive waterfront greets visitors entering Marigot Bay from the sea. The area is protected by sloping hills and dotted with various restaurants known for their French cuisine. Take a sightseeing tour of the surrounding land or head to St Lucia’s marine park for excellent diving and views of the numerous shallow reefs near the shore.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

The Pitons

The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton and Gros Piton are among the most noteworthy landmarks in St Lucia. Cruising the Pitons is certainly magic to the eyes of countless cruisers who visit every year. Just north of Petit Piton is the small town of Soufriére, which shares the name of the nearby dormant volcano, the only one in the world that you can drive a car right inside!

Creole buildings with gingerbread trim give the place an Old World ambience. Enjoy window-shopping and dining out in a variety of shops and restaurants here. Both scenic and accommodating to boaters, the waters around the Pitons are part of the Soufriére Marine Management Area and a highlight of yachting in St Lucia.

Mooring

Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are plentiful.

Things to do

There are many restaurants along the shore and in town. The most elegant is the Hummingbird Restaurant at Hummingbird Resort. Sulfur Springs, the volcanically heated waters of Diamond Baths and its surrounding tropical gardens, guided hiking tours in the rainforest near Morne Fond St Jacques (drop in at the Soufriére Marine Management office in town for more information), Maho waterfalls, and the Jalousie Plantation (part of Sunswept Resorts) are among the attractions in and around Soufriére.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.

Rodney Bay

Situated on the north side of St Lucia, Rodney Bay offers easy access to restaurants, shops and island attractions. The full-service marina is surrounded by protected waters and brings visitors into a scenic area of the island with nearby beaches, such as Reduit Beach. Explore the scenic Pigeon Island National Park surrounded by pristine waters or spend the evening at one of the many restaurants and bars for a sundowner and an unforgettable island sunset.

Mooring

Berths for sailboats and superyachts up to 280 feet with drafts of up to 15 feet.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Rodney Bay is one of St Lucia’s most favoured areas for yachters seeking full marina amenities amongst a beautiful setting. Explore the bay with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and accommodations as well as its close location to some of the area’s quieter spots. Relax, swim or try a watersport at Reduit Beach and stroll along the national park just north of your anchorage to experience some of the island’s best natural features.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

Soufriere

After chart briefing and orientation, clear customs out of St Lucia and depart for an easy, long reach along the coast to Soufriére, a picturesque town that shares its name with a nearby dormant volcano (the only one in the world where it’s possible to drive a car inside!). Creole buildings with gingerbread trim and balconies overlooking the lanes and streets create an Old World ambience. Enjoy window shopping and dining out. Both scenic and accommodating to boaters, the waters around the Pitons are part of the Soufriére Marine Management Area and a highlight of yachting in the Pitons. The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton (elevation 2,460 ft) and Gros Piton (elevation 2,619 ft) are magic to the eyes of cruisers heading south, marking a picturesque entry into the charm of the Eastern Caribbean.

Mooring

Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations. A boat boy can help at Hummingbird Beach (to tie your stern to a palm tree while you anchor), or pick up a mooring ball between the majestic Pitons.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are plentiful.

Things to do

There are many restaurants along the shore and in town. The most elegant is the Hummingbird Restaurant at Hummingbird Resort. Sulfur Springs, the volcanically heated waters of Diamond Baths and its surrounding tropical gardens, guided hiking tours in the rain forest near Morne Fond St. Jacques (stop by the Soufriére Marine Management office in town for more information), Maho waterfalls, and the Jalousie Plantation (part of Sunswept Resorts) are among the attractions in and around Soufriére.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.

St. Vincent

Set sail early to reach Petit Bayhaut, in St Vincent, for lunch and snorkelling. Pick up a mooring ball at Young Island Cut for the night. Yachting in Young Island Cut waters brings you to the southern end of St Vincent, which has a variety of good harbours, including the one at Young Island Cut. Easy to enter from the west, you’re ideally situated to enjoy a nice view of Young Island to the south and the pleasure of going ashore to sample the cuisine at the restaurants lining the St Vincent shore and to barhop to your heart’s content into the wee hours of the night. The harbour of Blue Lagoon, also popular with charterers, is within walking distance.

Mooring

Moorings are available and highly recommended. Swift currents flow through the cut and make anchoring a challenge. You can anchor in the northern or western parts of the cut, but you’ll need to rig a bow and stern anchor to keep you from swinging into other boats when the tide changes.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is plentiful.

Things to do

A stroll westward to adjacent Indian Bay Beach brings you to a fine example of one of St Vincent’s elegant and traditional hotels, the Grand View Beach Hotel, with exquisite views from its hilltop perch. On the beach is the Grand View Grill, a casual restaurant and bar run by a local artist, who has a little art gallery on the premises. In the hotel itself is Wilkie’s, which bills itself as having “the best fine dining on St. Vincent.” The hotel’s squash and tennis courts, as well as the gym, are open to cruisers. Scuba dive tour businesses abound. For scuba aficionados, this is reason enough to visit Young Island Cut and the surrounding area. Snorkelling is superb in Petit Bayhut, and is easily accessible by dinghy along the coast of Buccament Bay.

Facilities

Provisions, garbage disposal, laundry services, propane, car rentals, taxicabs, guided tours, and Internet access (Wi-Fi too) are available.

Bequia

A short sail will take you to anchor in Admiralty Bay, Bequia’s main harbour on the island’s west side and the location of the only settlement, Port Elizabeth. When cruising in Admiralty Bay you’ll see at the head of the harbour small hotels, a variety of shops, boutiques, food markets, a bookshop, and a number of bars and restaurants, many with a nautical theme in keeping with the fishing and boatbuilding tradition that’s alive and well on the island. Artisans build small and large vessels from wood using traditional methods. On Bequia’s south side you can find the gorgeous Friendship Bay with its lovely white sand beach and an anchorage that’s well protected from swells.

Mooring

Moorings are available. Anchoring space is plentiful, and the holding is generally good in the more popular locations. In other parts of the bay, holding is less desirable due to occasional northerly swells that can make for an uncomfortable night. In addition to Admiralty Bay, there’s a snug and picturesque anchorage at Friendship Bay that is well worth a visit.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

There are literally dozens of bars and restaurants, too many to name. However, we would recommend the Frangipani Hotel for a romantic dinner featuring Caribbean fare, Auberge des Grenadines for sumptuous lobster and other seafood, and the Tradewinds Yacht Club restaurant, Devil’s Table, which has good food for all budgets and a charming island ambience. For charterers seeking a bit of pampering, get a massage at Jack’s Spa & Beauty Salon, or play a game of tennis any of the several tennis courts. Hiking is popular on Bequia, along the beaches and on the trails in the hills of Mount Pleasant. Visit the Bequia Maritime Museum, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, or the home of one of Bequia’s most famous harpooners, Athneal Ollivierre, where there’s a small whaling museum. Bequia is both beautiful and filled with attractions. Consider seeing all of the sights with a jeep, scooter or bike rental from Handy Andy. It’s a very fun island to drive around.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, showers, laundry facilities, rubbish disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (including Wi–Fi), and taxicabs are available.

Mustique

Sail to the tiny island of Petit Nevis for lunch and more beach time. On to Mustique, the island of royals, the rich and the famous, you can overnight in Britannia Bay. A spine of hills 400 to 600 feet in elevation runs down the midsection of Mustique, providing the sweeping sea views that make this area such an ideal setting for the palatial estates, about 90 in all, dotting the lush green slopes extending to the edges of pristine white-sand beaches. Celebrities, business magnates, and royalty have made the island a cherished retreat. Mustique yachting ushers you into this exclusive world.

Mooring

Moorings are available in Britannia Bay. Anchoring is prohibited without permission from the Mustique Company, which supervises local waters.

Dinghy dockage: A dinghy dock is available.

Things to do

Hike the trails and quiet roads of the island, or take a tour via taxicab or rented mountain bike or motorbike. Enjoy a swim at the beautiful Macaroni Bay beach. Horseback riding is also an option. Or snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal clear waters.

Facilities

Provisions, garbage disposal, Internet access at the library, and taxicab service are available.

Tobago Cays

The five deserted isles of the Tobago Cays are the jewels of Tobago Cays Marine Park, which comprises the surrounding waters as well. Horseshoe Reef almost encircles the four main cays, and beyond its protective embrace is Petit Tabac. As one of the premier snorkelling and diving locales within the Grenadines, and the entire Windward chain, for that matter, it’s no surprise that Tobago Cays cruising is the main attraction when exploring these waters.

Mooring

Moorings are available for a fee; plans for additional moorings are in the works. Charterers may anchor in any one of several locations. The anchorages north and south of Baradel are popular.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy docks available, but you can beach your dinghy to take a swim on one of the cays.

Things to do

Snorkel, swim, sunbathe, and relax in unspoilt beauty. Observe the sea turtles at the turtle-watching area on Baradel. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving, as diving on your own isn’t permitted. Line up a vendor for a beach barbecue (beach barbecues are regulated to protect the park).

Facilities

Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and fresh lobster.

Chatham Bay

After a nice sail from the Tobago Cays enjoy the afternoon and evening at Chatham Bay, tucked in the embrace of the island behind a prominent headland. This anchorage is located in a pristine valley with no development on the hillsides. There are a few beach bars along the beach. We recommend stopping at Sekki’s Sunset Beach Bar, featured on the Travel Channel’s No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain.  A beach extends along much of the shore, an ideal site to relax, swim, or snorkel along the reef located on both sides of the bay.

Mooring

No moorings are available. The best anchorage is in the north-east portion of the bay. Holding is good.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available. Beach the dinghy just about anywhere.

Things to do

The snorkelling off rocky Rapid Point is excellent.

Facilities

No facilities are available for yachts .

Petit Martinique

Sail over to Petit Martinique, Grenada’s northernmost island. It’s a great place to come ashore to replenish water, alcohol, ice and more. Many of the residents here live by boatbuilding, and Petit Martinique is famous for its plywood speedboats. For great snorkelling and exploring, Fota and Petite Dominique are within range of a seaworthy dinghy. Be sure to stop at Mopion for lunch on your way! Mopion is surrounded by amazing reefs to dive, and is known as the world’s smallest island with a structure.

Mooring

When anchoring in Petit Martinique, be aware that the holding is in soft mud and not always easy. Keep the engine slowly in forward, allowing time for the anchor to sink into the mud before putting any strain on it.

Dinghy dockage: You may tie your dinghy up to the government dock, or the wooden gas dock.

Things to do

Petit Martinique is a unique island with local charm. Stop to observe the local boatbuilding culture, enjoy a picnic on the white sands of Mopion and snorkel the neighbouring reefs.

Facilities

Matthew’s at Matthew’s Shopping Centre is a great place to top up with fuel and select provisioning items, such as water, beer, wine, spirits and more. Next door, Matthew’s daughter owns a clothing and jewellery store, and there’s a gift shop too. There are several pleasant restaurants for dining ashore.

Union Island

Complete customs and immigration clearance out of Grenada; then enjoy a pleasant sail across to Union Island, which is part of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Arrive in Clifton Harbour, Union Island, to clear into St Vincent. Clifton is the island’s main town and a bustling small port that’s full of colour where you’re welcomed by warm, friendly islanders. The roads and trails offer some of the best hiking and biking in The Grenadines. Be sure to get a drink on Happy Island, an island made entirely from conch shells.

Mooring

Moorings balls are available in Union Island; however, we do not recommend using them.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are available at the Anchorage, where water is also available.

Things to do

Union has neat boutiques with clothing, original local art, hand-made jewellery and gifts. It’s also becoming well known for its entertainment and fun restaurants. Union Island offers superb hiking and biking – great vantage points include Fort Hill, Ashton, Mt Campbell and Mt Taboi. Consider hiring a local guide who is familiar with the local trails and can show you all of the best vantage points for great views.

Facilities

Anchorage Yacht Club, Aquarium and Captain Gourmet offer free Wi-Fi. Rubbish may be left in the dumpster on the fishing docks. Ice is available at Anchorage Yacht Club, Bougainville, Grand Union, Lambi and many rum shops.

Carriacou

Sailing into Carriacou, stop at the town of Hillsborough. Built on a wonderful beach, the town offers charming seaside dining. Just a short walk from the docks, the museum features an eclectic collection of artwork and historical pieces. To get a taste of the local culture, be sure to stop into one of the many rum shops or watch the locals build traditional boats by eye on the beach. Before heading for Tyrrel Bay stop at Sandy Island for lunch. This is a great spot for snorkelling, sunbathing, beachcombing and chilling out.  Moor for the night around the corner at Tyrell Bay and enjoy a drink at the Tipsy Turtle.

Mooring

Tyrrel Bay is deep and well protected, making it an ideal place to hang-out for the evening. Holding is good if you can find clear sand, but rather poor in the weedy areas.

Dinghy dockage: Leave your dinghy at Tyrrel Bay Yacht Haul Out, the Yacht Club, the main dock or pull it up on the beach. The Tipsy Turtle also has a dinghy dock.

Things to do

Sunbathe and enjoy excellent snorkel conditions around Sandy Island; then swing into Hillsborough for seaside dining, a taste of locally prepared rum and to experience the island’s unique culture. Tyrrel Bay is home to a mangrove swamp, which is protected by the fisheries department and well worth a visit by dinghy. Coming ashore from Tyrell Bay, there are plenty of hiking possibilities, including a walk up Chapeau Carre.

Facilities

Hillsborough is Carriacou’s only port of clearance, and the taxi square is located in front of customs. Facing the main dock, the tourist office provides maps and other helpful information. Businesses and restaurants line the waterfront at Tyrell Bay. Oysters, lobster when in season, fruits, jewellery and even calypso music can be purchased from local market boats. Free bay-wide Wi-Fi, funded by local businesses, is based at Tyrrel Bay Yacht Haul Out. If you need to use a computer, check out Shorebase Services, who were planning internet.

Grenada

Sailing on south to Grenada, you will pass the underwater volcano of Kick-Em Jenny; enjoy a nice sail along the coast of Grenada passing Dragon’s Bay, the historic city of St George’s and the world-renowned Grand Anse Beach. Eat lunch on the way and stop in at Customs and Immigration on Prickly Bay, unless you went ashore in Hillsborough, Carriacou to clear customs. Spend your last evening anchored in Prickly Bay, which is known amongst cruisers as one of the best anchorages. Enjoy live steel band music from the yacht club’s bar. Consider organising a land tour to the rainforest and cool off beneath one of Grenada’s many waterfalls.

Mooring

Anchoring is not permitted within 600 feet of the beach. This area is designated for swimmers, and marked by small buoys.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are available both at Prickly Bay Marina and Spice Island Boatyard (by De Big Fish).

Things to do

Enjoy relaxing, swimming and sunbathing on the palm-fringed beach of Prickly Bay. As a pleasant and more affluent area, you will find a diverse selection of dining options. Tennis courts are available at the hotels, and a golf club at Golflands. To reach True Blue, dinghy to Spice Island Boatyard and take a brisk walk down the road.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, and car rentals are available. Internet and computers are available at Boats and Harbors, located at Prickly Bay Marina.

Sainte-Anne

A popular access point into the island of Martinique, Sainte-Anne is a bustling community of postcard-worthy beaches and a bounty of things to do during a yacht charter vacation. Cruise to the nearby anchorage and take the dinghy to La Pointe Marin, a breathtaking blue-water beach with dozens of bars, restaurants and shops nearby. Snorkel and swim among the vibrant reefs near the shore, or venture inland and explore the small-town streets lined with painted wooden houses and one-of-a-kind shops.

Mooring

There’s an attractive anchorage just across from Sainte-Anne, six nautical miles from Le Marin. The holding is good. Anchor across from the small town and take the dinghy across to the dock.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Hiking

Facilities

Cul-de-Sace du Marin Marina in nearby Marin offers a variety of stores, a bakery, restaurants and car rental service.

La Pointe Marin/Marina Le Marin

For a beautiful beach experience, look no further than La Pointe Marin on the southern end of Martinique. Offering miles of bronze sand and calm blue water, Pointe Marin blends the best of seclusion and scenery for a relaxing reprieve from the everyday. Far from the typical beach crowds, La Pointe Marin offers a variety of things to do for visitors of all ages. Head to Club Med for resort-style amenities including bars, restaurants, and rentable water sports equipment like scuba gear kite boards. Or, take the two-minute walk into town and explore the outdoor market filled with one-of-a-kind foods, crafts, accessories and more.

Grand Anse D’Arlet

One of Martinique’s most beloved beachside towns, Grand Anse d’Arlet offers an array of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages. Pick a spot and kick back on the half-mile strip of golden sand where the protected clear-blue waters provide an idyllic location for swimming. A handful of hotels and restaurants line the coast and there’s a local art gallery about a half-mile into town, but ultimately the beach reigns supreme in Grand Anse’ d’Arlet.

Mooring

Mooring buoys are available for a small daily fee. Anchoring, however, is strictly prohibited in the waters of Grand Anse d’Arlet.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing

Facilities

There is a small marina about three miles north-east on Pointe du Bout. Here, you can explore a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants within walking distance.

Fort de France

As the largest city in the French Antilles and the centrally-located capital of Martinique, Fort de France can be conveniently accessed from almost anywhere on the island. Filled with rich history and 19th century architecture, Fort de France has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike, including a full-range of shops, dining experiences, and sights to explore. Stroll the iconic vegetable market established in 1901, tour the luminous Saint-Louis Cathedral, visit the grand Fort Saint-Louis, or wander through one of the local museums.

Mooring

Moorings available

Things to do

Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Hiking

Le Carbet

Wake up in your own Caribbean island oasis then spend the rest of the morning learning more about Martinique’s rum traditions at the well-preserved Neisson rum distillery in Le Carbet, which prides itself on producing something that is cherished by many and also supports local agriculture. Founded in 1931, the Neisson distillery has remained family-owned and operated, thanks to a deep-rooted appreciation of self-grown sugar cane and the precise method used to churn out exquisitely-aged bottles of handcrafted artisanal rum. During your exclusive tour of the factory, discover what’s so special about “Appellation d’Origine Controllee” Neisson rums and how the family perfected their production process, which continues to thrive on both passion and patience.

Things to do

After touring the Neisson rum distillery, enjoy a short northbound cruise to St Pierre, where you can visit the iconic volcano site of the former “Paris of the Caribbean” and learn about its unique history at the affiliated museum. There is also a guided train tour available in St Pierre, which highlights the significance of this former cultural capital of Martinique, prior to the volcanic eruption. When your day of sightseeing and exploring feels complete, enjoy a blissful overnight stay in either St Pierre or Le Carbet.

Anse Mitan

Situated on the south-west edge of Martinique, Anse Mitan is a palm-studded beach offering deep, clear water and a quaint array of restaurants and attractions just footsteps away from the shore. Feast on fresh-caught seafood or get adventurous and snorkel in a wide-open world brimming with sea life. Just a mile and a half away, the town of Trois Ilets is the place to be when the sun goes down. Visit Casino Trois-Ilets and challenge yourself with classic games like roulette, stud poker and craps. Designed in the style of New Orleans’ famed French Quarter, the Casino offers everything from live music to dancing, refined cuisine and more.

Mooring

Many boaters choose to anchor in the bay. There’s also a small marina just a short cruise north-east on Pointe du Bout.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Relax with your favourite cocktail on the beach, or visit any one of the nearby restaurants for a taste of some of the freshest seafood in the Caribbean. Visit nearby Trois Ilets to experience a variety of attractions including a famous casino, restaurants, live music venues and more.

Facilities

You‘ll find repair facilities, shops and supermarkets in the area surrounding the marina.

Marigot Bay

Tucked away below the verdant hilltops on the west side of St Lucia, Marigot Bay is a secluded anchorage for boaters seeking a relaxing quiet harbour during their journey along the coast. Charming homes overlook the seas in a colourful collage of white and red-roofed houses. The nearby Marina Village features a variety of unique stores and boutiques perfect for shopping. Waterfront restaurants offer an array of French, Creole and Caribbean cuisine with the added benefit of jaw-dropping sunset views.

Mooring

Sheltered anchorage space and mooring buoys available for use. 

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

An attractive waterfront greets visitors entering Marigot Bay from the sea. The area is protected by sloping hills and dotted with various restaurants known for their French cuisine. Take a sightseeing tour of the surrounding land or head to St Lucia’s marine park for excellent diving and views of the numerous shallow reefs near the shore.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

Rodney Bay

Situated on the north side of St Lucia, Rodney Bay offers easy access to restaurants, shops and island attractions. The full-service marina is surrounded by protected waters and brings visitors into a scenic area of the island with nearby beaches, such as Reduit Beach. Explore the scenic Pigeon Island National Park surrounded by pristine waters or spend the evening at one of the many restaurants and bars for a sundowner and an unforgettable island sunset.

Mooring

Berths for sailboats and superyachts up to 280 feet with drafts of up to 15 feet.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Rodney Bay is one of St Lucia’s most favoured areas for yachters seeking full marina amenities amongst a beautiful setting. Explore the bay with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and accommodations as well as its close location to some of the area’s quieter spots. Relax, swim or try a watersport at Reduit Beach and stroll along the national park just north of your anchorage to experience some of the island’s best natural features.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

Rodney Bay

Situated on the north side of St Lucia, Rodney Bay offers easy access to restaurants, shops and island attractions. The full-service marina is surrounded by protected waters and brings visitors into a scenic area of the island with nearby beaches, such as Reduit Beach. Explore the scenic Pigeon Island National Park surrounded by pristine waters or spend the evening at one of the many restaurants and bars for a sundowner and an unforgettable island sunset.

Mooring

Berths for sailboats and superyachts up to 280 feet with drafts of up to 15 feet.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

Rodney Bay is one of St Lucia’s most favoured areas for yachters seeking full marina amenities amongst a beautiful setting. Explore the bay with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and accommodations as well as its close location to some of the area’s quieter spots. Relax, swim or try a watersport at Reduit Beach and stroll along the national park just north of your anchorage to experience some of the island’s best natural features.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.

The Pitons

The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton and Gros Piton are among the most noteworthy landmarks in St Lucia. Cruising the Pitons is certainly magic to the eyes of countless cruisers who visit every year. Just north of Petit Piton is the small town of Soufriére, which shares the name of the nearby dormant volcano, the only one in the world that you can drive a car right inside!

Creole buildings with gingerbread trim give the place an Old World ambience. Enjoy window-shopping and dining out in a variety of shops and restaurants here. Both scenic and accommodating to boaters, the waters around the Pitons are part of the Soufriére Marine Management Area and a highlight of yachting in St Lucia.

Mooring

Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are plentiful.

Things to do

There are many restaurants along the shore and in town. The most elegant is the Hummingbird Restaurant at Hummingbird Resort. Sulfur Springs, the volcanically heated waters of Diamond Baths and its surrounding tropical gardens, guided hiking tours in the rainforest near Morne Fond St Jacques (drop in at the Soufriére Marine Management office in town for more information), Maho waterfalls, and the Jalousie Plantation (part of Sunswept Resorts) are among the attractions in and around Soufriére.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.

Admiralty Bay

The main harbour at Bequia is Admiralty Bay, on the west side of the island, and the location of the only settlement, Port Elizabeth. When cruising in Admiralty Bay you’ll see at the head of the harbour small hotels, a variety of shops, boutiques, food markets, and a bookstore. There are also a number of bars and restaurants, many with a nautical theme in keeping with the fishing and boatbuilding tradition that remains alive and well on the island. This is a place where whaling from open sailboats still happens now and then, by special agreement with the International Whaling Commission, which allows the harvesting of up to four whales per season. Artisans build small and large vessels from wood using traditional methods. The Eastern Caribbean has many unique islands and cultures. Bequia is certainly one of the more fascinating for anyone who appreciates maritime history.

Mooring

Moorings available. Anchoring space is plentiful, and the holding is generally good in the more popular locations. In other parts of the bay, holding is less desirable, and northerly swells can make for an uncomfortable night. In addition to Admiralty Bay, there’s a snug and picturesque anchorage at Friendship Bay, well worth a visit.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

There are literally dozens of bars and restaurants, too many to list. However, a few options include the Frangipani Hotel for a romantic dinner featuring Caribbean fare, Auberge des Grenadines for sumptuous lobster and other seafood, and the Tradewinds Yacht Club restaurant, Devil’s Table, which has good food for all budgets and a charming island ambience. For charterers seeking a bit of pampering, get a massage at Jack’s Spa & Beauty Salon, or play a game of tennis at any of the several tennis courts. Hiking is popular on Bequia, along the beaches and on the trails in the hills of Mount Pleasant. Visit the Bequia Maritime Museum, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, or the home of one of Bequia’s most famous harpooners, Athneal Ollivierre, where there’s a small whaling museum. Bequia is both beautiful and filled with attractions. It’s a great stop on any St Lucia yachting itinerary.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, showers, laundry facilities, garbage disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (Wi-Fi too!), and taxicabs are available.

Salt Whistle Bay, Mayreau, Tobago Cays

Salt Whistle Bay, located at the northern tip of Mayreau, is an ideal starting point for reaching the nearby Tobago Cays Marine Park. Pleasant anchorage can be found in the bay where no park fees are charged. The bay lies within the curve of a white–sand beach. Fanned by the balmy trade winds, this is a favourite spot for swimming. The Tobago Cays are known for their pristine waters, with excellent visibility and where snorkelling and diving are the best ways to experience the colourful marine life.

Mooring

Salt Whistle Bay does not offer moorings but a dinghy dock is available. The Tobago Cays offer moorings for a fee and cruisers may anchor in one of several locations with the most popular anchorages north and south of Baradel. 

Dinghy dockage: Available in Salt Whistle Bay. No dinghy docks available in the Tobago Cays, but dinghys can be beached to take a swim from one of the cays.

Things to do

Both locations offer pristine locations for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. Excellent visibility around The Tobago Cays makes this area more popular with divers.. Relax with a drink at a beachside bar or the club restaurant at Salt Whistle Bay. Rediscover nature at the Tobago Cays where you can watch sea turtles on Baradel or line up a vendor for an enjoyable beach barbecue.

Facilities

Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and lobsters at the Tobago Cays.

St. Vincent – Blue Lagoon & Young Island

Yachting in the waters of Young Island Cut brings you to the southern end of St Vincent, which has a variety of good harbours, including the one at Young Island Cut. Easy to enter from the west, you’re ideally situated to enjoy a great view of Young Island to the south and the pleasure of going ashore to sample the cuisine at the restaurants lining St Vincent’s shores. Here you can also enjoy bar hopping deep into the night. The harbour of Blue Lagoon, also very popular among charterers, is within walking distance.

Mooring

Moorings are available and highly recommended. Swift currents flow through the cut and make anchoring challenging.  You can anchor in the northern or western parts of the cut, however, you will need to rig a bow and stern anchor to keep you from swinging into other boats when the tide changes.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is plentiful.

Things to do

”A stroll west to adjacent Indian Bay Beach brings you to a fine example of one of St Vincent’s elegant and traditional hotels, the Grand View Beach Hotel, with exquisite views from its hilltop perch. On the beach is the Grand View Grill, a casual restaurant and bar run by a local artist, who has a little art gallery on the premises. In the hotel itself is “Wilkie’s”, which bills itself as having “the best fine dining on St Vincent”. The hotel’s squash and tennis courts, as well as the gym, are open to visiting yachts. Scuba dive tour businesses abound. For scuba aficionados, this is reason enough to visit Young Island Cut and the surrounding area.

Facilities

Provisions, garbage disposal, laundry services, propane, car rentals, taxicabs, guided tours, and Internet access (Wi-Fi too) are available.

Marigot Bay

Tucked away below the verdant hilltops on the west side of St Lucia, Marigot Bay is a secluded anchorage for boaters seeking a relaxing quiet harbour during their journey along the coast. Charming homes overlook the seas in a colourful collage of white and red-roofed houses. The nearby Marina Village features a variety of unique stores and boutiques perfect for shopping. Waterfront restaurants offer an array of French, Creole and Caribbean cuisine with the added benefit of jaw-dropping sunset views.

Mooring

Sheltered anchorage space and mooring buoys available for use. 

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

An attractive waterfront greets visitors entering Marigot Bay from the sea. The area is protected by sloping hills and dotted with various restaurants known for their French cuisine. Take a sightseeing tour of the surrounding land or head to St Lucia’s marine park for excellent diving and views of the numerous shallow reefs near the shore.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.