Soufriere

After chart briefing and orientation, clear customs out of St. Lucia and depart for an easy, long reach along the coast to Soufriere, 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.

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 here.

Things to do

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.

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 snorkeling. 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 harbors, 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 harbor of Blue Lagoon, also popular among charterers, is within walking distance.

Mooring

Moorings are available and highly recommended asswift 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 also 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 cruisers. Scuba dive tour businesses abound. For scuba aficionados, this is reason enough to visit Young Island Cut and the surrounding area. Snorkeling 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 harbor 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 harbor little hotels, a variety of shops, boutiques, food markets, a bookstore, as well as 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 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, 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 also available.

Things to do

There are dozens of bars and restaurants, with highlights including 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 one of several 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, garbage disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (Wi-Fi too!), and taxicabs are available.

Mustique

Sail to the tiny island of Petit Nevis for lunch and more beach time. Then move on to Mustique, the island of royals, the rich and the famous, where you can overnight in Britannia Bay. A spine of hills 400 to 600 feet in elevation runs down the midsection of Mustique, providing sweeping views of the sea that make 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.

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 beach at Macaroni Bay. 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

Day 4 of your Grenada sailing itinerary is a real highlight. Here, you’ll explore the five deserted isles of the Tobago Cays, which are the jewels of Tobago Cays Marine Park, comprising 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 snorkeling and diving locations within the Grenadines, and the entire Windward chain, , it’s no surprise that Tobago Cays cruising is the main attraction when exploring these waters.

The day’s sailing

• 1 Hr Sailing time
• 5 Nautical miles

Mooring

Moorings are available for a fee; plans for adding some have been in the works. Charterers may anchor in one of several locations. The anchorages north and south of Baradel are popular.No dinghy docks are available, but you can beach your dinghy to take a swim on one of the cays.

Things to do

The waters of the Tobago Cays Marine Park, encompassing Mayreau Island and the five isles comprising Tobago, are known as one of the premier snorkeling and scuba diving locales in the Grenadines. Visibility is excellent (typically 100 to 120 feet) for viewing the sea life of the extensive reefs in the area. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving (diving on your own isn’t permitted).

Completely undeveloped and uninhabited, the park is a place where time seems to have stopped. Take your time observing the sea turtles at the sea turtle-watching area on Baradel, or line up a vendor for a beach barbecue. In the evening, recline for some stargazing as the yacht swings with the warm breeze is balm for the soul.

Facilities

Local vendors frequently visit the anchorages, offering essentials such as ice, fresh bread, and seafood, but it’s a good idea to stock up ahead of time.

Chatham Bay

A scenic sail from Tobago Cays brings you to Chatham Bay, a secluded anchorage tucked behind a prominent headland on Union Island. This pristine bay is surrounded by rolling green hills with little development, offering a peaceful retreat. Along the beach, a handful of beach bars provide a laid-back atmosphere, including Sekki’s Sunset Beach Bar, featured on the Travel Channel’s No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain

The day’s sailing

• 1 Hr Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

There are no mooring balls available, but anchoring in the northeast portion of the bay provides excellent holding. Dinghy dockage is not available, but you can beach your dinghy anywhere along the shore.

Things to do

Snorkeling at Rapid Point is among the best in the area, with clear waters and vibrant marine life. The long sandy beach invites visitors to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax in the quiet beauty of the bay. For a casual evening, enjoy fresh seafood and drinks at one of the small beachside bars.

Facilities

There are no formal yacht facilities in Chatham Bay, preserving its untouched and tranquil nature.

Little Martinique

Sail toward Petit Martinique, Grenada’s northernmost island, known for its rich boatbuilding heritage and tranquil charm. This small island provides a wonderful opportunity to stock up on essentials while soaking in its laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. Before arriving, stop at Mopion, a tiny sandbar surrounded by some of the most stunning reefs in the region, perfect for a refreshing swim and snorkeling.

The day’s sailing

• 1 Hr Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

Anchoring can be challenging due to the soft mud seabed. Allow time for the anchor to settle properly before applying strain. Secure your dinghy at the government dock or the wooden gas dock.

Things to do

Wander the island to observe local craftsmen constructing traditional plywood speedboats, an essential part of Petit Martinique’s economy. Take a short dinghy ride to Fota and Petite Dominique, both excellent spots for snorkeling and exploring. Relax on Mopion’s untouched beaches, where the only structure is a lone, picturesque thatched umbrella.

Facilities

Basic provisions, fuel, water, and ice are available at Matthew’s Shopping Center. Adjacent, you’ll find a boutique selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. A few small restaurants on the island offer freshly caught seafood and local Caribbean cuisine.

Union Island

Complete customs and immigration clearance before setting sail to Union Island, the gateway to the Grenadines. Arriving in Clifton Harbour, you’ll find a lively town filled with vibrant markets, friendly locals, and a welcoming Caribbean charm. The island’s rugged terrain offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region, with panoramic views of surrounding cays. Before heading off, make time for a stop at Happy Island, a one-of-a-kind bar constructed entirely from conch shells, where you can enjoy a cocktail with a view.

Mooring

Mooring balls are available but are not recommended due to strong currents. If anchoring, ensure your boat is well-secured. Convenient dinghy docks are available at The Anchorage, where fresh water is also accessible

Things to do

Explore the island’s bustling streets, filled with unique boutiques offering handmade jewelry, local artwork, and island-inspired fashion. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy breathtaking hikes to Fort Hill, Mt. Campbell, or Ashton, with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding Grenadines. If you’re looking for adventure, the island is known for its excellent kitesurfing conditions and scuba diving spots.

Facilities

Essential services such as provisioning, garbage disposal, and laundry are available. Free Wi-Fi is offered at several locations, including Anchorage Yacht Club, Aquarium, and Captain Gourmet. Ice, fresh produce, and seafood can be purchased from local markets and vendors around Clifton Harbour.

Carriacou

Sail into Carriacou, the largest island in the Grenadine chain belonging to Grenada. This peaceful island is known for its unspoiled beaches, relaxed pace, and rich maritime history. Stop in Hillsborough, the main town, where you can explore local shops, enjoy waterfront dining, and visit the town’s small but charming museum. Before heading to Tyrell Bay, take a break at Sandy Island, a pristine strip of sand perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Mooring

Tyrell Bay provides excellent protection for overnight anchorage. Holding is best in clear sand, though some areas may have weeds that can affect anchor grip. Dinghy docks are available at Tyrell Bay Yacht Haul Out, the Yacht Club, and the main dock. You can also pull your dinghy up on the beach.

Things to do

Spend the afternoon at Sandy Island, where the calm waters make for an ideal snorkeling experience. Hillsborough offers a great opportunity to experience local culture, with rum shops, restaurants, and artisans crafting wooden boats using traditional techniques. For nature lovers, take a dinghy ride through Tyrell Bay’s mangrove swamp, a protected marine area filled with wildlife. Hiking trails near Chapeau Carre offer spectacular views of the coastline.

Facilities

Hillsborough serves as Carriacou’s only port of entry, with a customs office and a visitor center offering maps and information. In Tyrell Bay, you’ll find restaurants, provisioning stores, and a lively atmosphere where vendors sell fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handcrafted jewelry. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the bay, supported by local businesses.

Grenada

Sailing south on 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 as one of the best anchorages amongst cruisers.

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

In Prickly Bay, enjoy relaxing, swimming and sunbathing on the palm-fringed beach, and later, listen to live steel drum band music from the yacht club’s bar. Consider organizing a land tour into the rain forest and cool off in one of Grenada’s many waterfalls.

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.