St Vincent & The Grenadines Yacht Charter
Luxury Yacht Charters in the Grenadines Discover the Authentic Soul of the Windward Islands
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a spectacular collection of 32 islands lining up in the Windward Islands. Known for lush, volcanic landscapes and pristine coral reefs, this archipelago is one of the Caribbean’s most rewarding yachting destinations.
From the bustling maritime heritage of Bequia to the world-famous turquoise lagoons of the Tobago Cays, a yacht charter is the only way to truly experience these hidden gems. At Nicholson Yacht Charters, we provide access to the finest vessels in the region, combined with the local intelligence needed to navigate this secluded island chain.
Whether you are looking for a winter escape between December and May or a deeper exploration of the Windward Islands, we ensure your voyage captures the authentic beauty and relaxed pace of the Grenadines.
Saint Vincent & The Grenadines – Bequia, Mayreau, Union Island, Canouan, Mustique..
Sailing St Vincent and the Grenadines
On St Vincent, visitors can catch a view of La Soufriere volcano, a towering feature of the landscape with hikes available into its surrounding forest. Others prefer the calm peacefulness of the Botanical Gardens, which has been around since the mid-1700’s. The Falls of Beleine are also nearby, a perfect view for those traveling to the Grenadines by yacht charter, as they are only visible by boat.
Grenadines yacht charter guests will enjoy the sail away from the mainland to the other nearby islands. Bequia lies just to the south, home of Port Elizabeth with plenty of shops featuring local artistry. An Easter Regatta takes place there every year and there is also an annual music festival featuring local sounds and talents. For a bit of luxury and world-class beaches, many enjoy Mustique with its exotic and tranquil atmosphere. Many Grenadines yacht charters make this location a priority, it has even won recognition for being one of the world’s sexiest beaches by The Travel Channel.
Grenadines Sailing Itinerary
Each island in the Grenadines has its own special charm, with plenty of sports and leisure activities to keep you occupied during your stay. Enjoy watching the local wildlife that populates the sea, from playful dolphins to majestic humpback whales. Catch glimpses of turtles out in the wild, or visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary to learn about local efforts to conserve these endangered creatures. Many people who take a Grenadines yacht charter also enjoy the local bird watching, hoping to see the famous St. Vincent Parrot, known for its brilliant and unique plumage.
Keep your vacation lighthearted with a bit of dancing to the local Calypso music, or enjoy the local casino and test your luck. And, of course, do not forget to sample the local cuisine and the various fine restaurants and local eateries that dot the islands. Or, if you prefer, select one of the pristine beaches, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the wind, surf, and sun. The Grenadines are a hidden jewel in the Caribbean, so you will not be bothered by bustling crowds as you relax. Whether seeking adventure or a bit of personal time, plenty of authentic experiences await, and Nicholson Charters can help you discover the island vacation of your dreams.
Top Destinations to Visit in St. Vincent & The Grenadines
While the archipelago consists of 32 islands, a few “must-see” locations form the backbone of a classic Grenadines yacht charter. From private island retreats to protected marine parks, here is what you can expect to discover:
St Vincent – Bequia – Mustique – Tobago Cays – Mayreau – Canouan – Union Island – Carriacou
St Vincent – The Gateway to the Grenadines
Type: The Northern gateway to the archipelago.
Vibe: Dramatic, lush, and culturally rich.
Location / Key Notes: The northernmost and largest island of the chain. This teardrop-shaped island is the often used as an embarkation point for exploring the Grenadines. The landscape is dominated by the majestic La Soufrière, an active volcano offering rugged hiking trails and panoramic views. Sailing south through the waters of Young Island Cut will bring you to the Grenadines archipelago.
Type: Traditional Seafaring Hub
Vibe: Laid-back, charming, and authentically Caribbean.
Location / Key notes: Just nine miles south of St. Vincent, Bequia is a sailor’s favorite. Admiralty Bay provides a spacious and scenic anchorage, surrounded by the colorful waterfront of Port Elizabeth. Known for its rich boat-building history, Bequia offers a perfect blend of high-end boutiques and authentic Caribbean charm. It is the ideal first stop for those looking to settle into the rhythm of the Grenadines.
Type: Private Luxury Estate
Vibe: Exclusive, manicured, and sophisticated.
Location / Key notes: A world-renowned private island, Mustique is synonymous with understated luxury and privacy. While much of the island is exclusive to homeowners, yacht guests can enjoy the pristine Macaroni Beach or head to the legendary Basil’s Bar for a cocktail at sunset. The island’s manicured landscapes and quiet roads make it a unique stop for those seeking a more refined island experience.
Type: Protected Marine Sanctuary
Vibe: Breathtaking, natural, and secluded.
Location / Key Notes: Southern Grenadines, east of Mayreau. This is the “crown jewel” of the Grenadines. A cluster of five uninhabited islands protected by the Horseshoe Reef, the Tobago Cays offer world-class snorkeling in crystal-clear, shallow lagoons. It is a sanctuary for green sea turtles and vibrant marine life. At Nicholson Yacht Charters, we often recommend catamarans for this area to take full advantage of the shallow drafts, allowing you to anchor right on the edge of the reef.
Type: Remote Island Escape
Vibe: Peaceful, rustic, and picture-perfect.
Location / Key Notes: West of the Tobago Cays.The smallest inhabited island in the chain, Mayreau is home to the breathtaking Salt Whistle Bay. This perfectly shaped crescent beach is a double-sided gem; a narrow strip of sand separates the calm Caribbean anchorage from the rolling Atlantic surf. It is an quintessential spot for a beach barbecue or a quiet hike up to the village for spectacular views of the surrounding cays.
Type: Superyacht Hub
Vibe: Upscale, modern, and high-end.
Location / Key Notes: Central Grenadines. Canouan has fast become a hub for the superyacht community in the Grenadines. With the development of world-class marinas and luxury resorts, it offers a sophisticated stopover for provisioning or enjoying a round of golf and fine dining. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the northern and southern islands alike.
Union Island
Type: Southern Activity Center
Vibe: Vibrant, colorful, and energetic.
Location / Key Notes: The southern “gateway” to the archipelago and southern hub of the Grenadines, Union Island serves as a vibrant port of entry. Clifton Harbour is famous for its unique “Happy Island”, a bar built entirely of conch shells. Union is also a premier destination for kiteboarding and provides a dramatic volcanic backdrop that has earned it the nickname “The Tahiti of the West Indies.”
Type: The island of reefs
Vibe: Unspoiled, tranquil, and authentic.
Location / Key Notes: Part of the nation of Grenada, situated in the southern Grenadines, north of Grenada. Renowned for having some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean, Carriacou is a premier destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Beyond the vibrant marine life, the island is home to the stunning Paradise Beach in L’Esterre, where gleaming white sands meet exceptionally calm, turquoise waters. It is an ideal stop for enjoying local Grenadian cuisine in a relaxed, traditional setting before continuing your voyage south.
Choosing the Right Yacht for the Grenadines
Catamarans, often the preferred choice because of the shallow lagoons and the expansive reef systems, particularly in the Tobago Cays and around Mayreau. Their shallow draft allows your Captain to anchor closer to the beach, while providing stability and deck space for enjoying the constant trade winds.
Motor Yachts, speed and sophistication for those looking to see the entire island chain from St. Vincent down to Grenada in a shorter timeframe, a motor yacht offers the speed and luxury required. Our selection of motor yachts provides a stable, high-performance platform for navigating the open-water passages between the Grenadines in total comfort.
Sailing Yachts, the traditional experience, the Grenadines offer some of the best blue-water sailing in the world. Feel the power of the Atlantic trades as you navigate between these historic islands on a professionally crewed monohull, continuing a seafaring tradition that Nicholson has championed since 1949.
Book a Grenadines charter
With softer winds, fewer crowds, and less yacht traffic, a Grenadines yacht charter is a more peaceful and relaxing option, compared to the more popular Caribbean island yacht charter destinations. Use this form to create the ultimate outline for sailing the Grenadines and St Vincent.
Every island has something different to offer. Do not forget to sample the local cuisine and the various fine restaurants and local eateries that dot the islands.
Or, if you prefer, select one of the pristine beaches, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the wind, surf, and sun.
Whether you want to visit Canouan or Windward Bay, Nicholson Charters can turn the island vacation of your dreams into reality.
Tropical Escapes to the Caribbean
Extended Windward Islands Voyage
For clients looking for longer immersion into the Caribbean, St. Vincent & The Grenadines serves as the perfect centerpiece for a longer voyage. By combining the Grenadines with the islands to the north or south, you can experience the full diversity of the Windward chain.
For the true adventurer, a southbound itinerary of the Windward Islands allows you to experience some of the most dramatic geography in the Western Hemisphere. It offers a classic “downhill” sail, taking advantage of the steady trade winds as you move toward the southern tip of the Windward Islands. This route is favored for its relaxed pace and the seamless transition between different island cultures. It transitions from towering volcanic peaks and rainforests of the larger islands to the low-lying coral cays of the Grenadines.
To the North St. Lucia, Martinique & Dominica
Dominica, the “Nature Island,” remains largely untouched, offering 365 rivers and lush emerald-green rainforests that are best explored with a local guide.
Martinique offers a taste of French Caribbean sophistication, famous for its world-class Creole gastronomy and chic boutiques in Fort-de-France.
Saint Lucia, where the iconic Pitons provide one of the most magnificent anchorages in the world.
To the South The Spice Island of Grenada
Grenada, the “Spice Isle.” This island is a sensory delight, where the scent of nutmeg and cocoa fills the air.
St. George’s is widely considered the most beautiful harbor town in the Caribbean, featuring colorful colonial architecture and a vibrant waterfront.
Ending your charter here allows for a final day of exploring spice plantations or relaxing on the world-famous Grand Anse Beach before your departure.
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