A Yachting Paradise – St Vincent and The Grenadines to Grenada
A Yachting Paradise – St Vincent and The Grenadines to Grenada an Archipelago of more than 35 islands in 60 miles, located in the South Eastern Caribbean
The beautiful archipelago of The Grenadines was hit by the devastating category 5 hurricane Beryl in early June this year. The island nations have shown remarkable resilience and the clean up and rebuilding is nearly complete and they are ready willing and able to accept tourists by yacht and by air to explore this pristine area of the southern Caribbean.
Accessible by flying to Barbados, St Vincent and Grenada’s International airports and Canouan’s new airport for small aircraft. Your charter yacht will be waiting to greet you and start your extraordinary trip though these islands.
We begin our voyage through the Windward islands, where the Grenadines, a chain of pristine picture perfect islands, offer an unparalleled yachting experience.
From the island of Saint Vincent we make our way south through the island group which forms a border between the Caribbean sea and the Atlantic, offering unique climate for sailors and sun buffs alike. A steady trade-wind breeze from the Atlantic and sheltered waters in the lee of the islands provides excellent conditions for any sailing sport and comfortable beach experiences. Add to that crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs and quiet beaches, whether you’re seeking luxury, nature or seclusion, the Grenadines have something for everyone.
Here are island gems you won’t want to miss on your yacht charter adventure.
Saint Vincent ~ A teardrop shaped island at the top of the Grenadines
Saint Vincent, the largest island in the chain, is often the starting point for exploring the Grenadines. With a dramatic landscape, dominated by the volcano La Soufrière in the north, the only active volcano on the island, offers a mix of rugged beauty and lush greenery.
Explore the black-sand beach of Wallilabou Bay, made famous by the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Hike the volcanic slopes for panoramic views or sail around Young Island Cut in the south to enjoy calm waters perfect for snorkeling. Saint Vincent’s rich history makes it a great place to immerse yourself in Caribbean culture before setting off to the Grenadines archipelago.
Bequia ~ The Gateway to the Grenadines
Bequia, the largest of the Grenadine islands, is rich in maritime tradition and local charm. For centuries, the island has been home to skilled boat builders, sailors and the people of Bequia maintain a unique whaling tradition. The island is one of the few places in the world where limited, small-scale whaling is still practiced, in keeping with it’s deep cultural heritage. Whaling here is done in a traditional way, using small sailboats and hand-thrown harpoons, preserving the island’s long-standing relationship with the sea.
The island is also famous for its handcrafted miniature boats, intricately detailed replicas of the whalers sailing these waters. These miniature boats are a testament of Bequia’s boat-building heritage and prized by collectors and sailors alike.
Dock at Admiralty Bay to explore Port Elizabeth, a colorful, bustling harbor town where you can soak up some relaxed local vibe in cozy bars and restaurants or soak up the sun on Princess Margaret Beach or Friendship Bay. The calm waters on Bequia west and southern shores are also perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering encounters with vibrant marine life. Don’t miss a visit to the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, where you can learn about local conservation efforts to protect the island’s sea turtles.
We continue our cruise south to the island of Mustique.
Mustique ~ An exclusive and private island
Mustique, known for it’s luxury, serenity and celebrity visitors, offers quiet, secluded beaches like Macaroni and Pasture Bay Beaches, where one can enjoy the sand and sea in peace. Explore the island’s hidden coves and calm waters, which are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Even though this island is often visited by the rich and famous, it has a laid-back island atmosphere providing a true escape for all.
The legendary Basil’s Bar is a must to visit. For decades it has been a cultural heartbeat of the island welcoming homeowners, guests, fisherman and pirates alike. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch overlooking the sea, a beer at the bar as the sun sets, or a cocktail in between dances at the Jump Up.
Further south we pass Petit Mustique, Savan Islands before we make land fall at Canouan.
Canouan ~ Lush hills and luxury resorts
Canouan, a perfect blend of untouched beauty and luxury, with rolling green hills, long stretches of sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The island is home to high-end resorts but also offers more secluded areas such as Mysore Bay and Tamarind Beaches. The crystal-clear waters make this an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving, while the interior’s rugged landscape provides fantastic hiking opportunities. Sailors will enjoy the quiet anchorages and stunning natural beauty.
Before sailing to the island of Mayreau we travel between the islets and anchor off at the Tobago Cays reef.
Tobago Cays ~ The jewel of the Grenadines
The Tobago Cays Marine Park is perhaps the most iconic spot in the Grenadines, a series of small uninhabited islets surrounded by a horseshoe reef that protects a sparkling lagoon. These waters are a haven for sea turtles, rays and colorful fish, making it one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean. Drop anchor in the calm waters, swim with turtles and explore the vibrant coral reefs. Wind and kite surfers will take true advantage of the steady Atlantic trade-winds and protected waters for excellent days on the water.
The Tobago Cays are a must-see for nature lovers and sailors alike, offering a true paradise at sea.
Next island to visit is Mayreau.
Mayreau ~ Secluded charm and stunning beaches
Mayreau, one of the smallest inhabited islands, is a true hidden gem. It’s famous Carnash Bay is a paradise for yachts, with calm turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches. This quiet island has a single village, where the locals welcome visitors with open arms. Mayreau is the place to unwind, enjoy nature and take in the panoramic views from the hilltop church overlooking the Tobago Cays and nearby islands.
Union Island is next on our journey
Union Island — home of the Gonatodes daudini / Union Island gecko
This 9 square kilometres (3.5 sq mi) and was one of the first islands to have an airport in the Grenadines so has often been used as a pick-up / drop off spot for yacht charters.
Richmond bay, also made famous from the Pirates of Caribbean films, is a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle and located on the windward side of the island facing Mayreau and Tobago keys.
As we leave the Grenadines we make a stop in Carriacou before finishing our cruise in the island of Grenada.
Carriacou ~ Island of reefs
Carriacou, part of the nation of Grenada, offers beautiful diving, featuring crystal clear waters, some of the most unspoiled coral reefs in the region. Spectacular array of vibrant corals and schooling fish that have made Carriacou a famous diving hotspot for beginners as well as for those who love a challenge.
The famous Paradise Beach located in the village of L’Esterre boasts, crystal clear calm waters and a stretch of gleaming white sand and a good spot to experience local cuisine.
Grenada ~ The Spice Island
The state of Grenada includes the island of Grenada itself together with Carriacou and Petite Martinique and some smaller islands and is located south of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and north of Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, forming the south-eastern corner of the Caribbean sea.
Known as the “Spice Island” as the island is a leading producer of several different spices. Nutmeg and Mace are the most important and shipped worldwide. The island also produces other spices such as Allspice, Ginger, Gloves, Cinnamon and Orange/Citrus peels. A visit to the nutmeg factory is highly recommended and gives a grand insight not only of the actual production but also of island life. Grenada also has a Chocolate factory, The Grenada Chocolate Company, cultivation organic cocoa, which is also processed into finished bars. A variety of fruits are also cultivated and enjoyed locally as well as further afield.
Grenada offers a large variety of activities to explore, from historic sites, underwater gallery of sculptures, gardens, eco-adventures, festivals and fabulous waterfalls to cool by on a hot Caribbean day, just to mention a few so a perfect island to take advantage of the Caribbean sun before returning home via Grenada’s International airport, which has direct flight to Europe, USA and Canada.
The Grenadines offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury and Caribbean charm, making the it an ideal destination for a yacht charter.
From the volcanic landscapes to the pristine waters, each island has its own unique allure. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Grenadines provide an unforgettable sailing experience.
Visit our Grenadines destination pages to explore more Windward island cruising destinations.
Contact the team at Nicholson Yacht Charter & Services today for your next cruising adventure.
