Antigua

Antigua is a major sailing centre in the eastern Caribbean, famous for its superyacht racing and regattas. The island has widespread sheltered anchorages and reliable provisioning, with most marine services based on the south coast.

English Harbour stands out as a historic and cultural landmark with its 18th-century naval history. Nelson's Dockyard in particular is a focal point for many visiting yachts, offering a glimpse into the past for visiting sailors.

Falmouth Harbour, adjacent to English Harbour, is a social hub for cruising yachts with numerous bars and restaurants ashore. This area is also the hub for various regattas, making it a lively spot for social and competitive sailing events.

The island's northern coast offers a number of beaches and anchorages, such as Jumby Bay, which provide good shelter and generally serene conditions.

Many visiting sailors also make the trip up to Shirley Heights, a popular evening gathering spot known for sunset views, drinks, live music and a strong cruising-community atmosphere.

Coral heads and reefs are present in several cruising areas, and some isolated hazards may not appear on older or small‑scale charts.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Rabbit Island	5.0 ★	Review summary: The anchorage is renowned for its calm and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by small uninhabited islands, it offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Visitors appreciate the stable anchoring conditions, with one review noting the excellent holding on sandy ground.
	Hermitage Bay	4.8 ★	Review summary: Anchoring in Hermitage Bay is noted for its excellent holding and spacious conditions. The setting includes beautiful beaches and peaceful surroundings, ideal for anchoring. Visitors appreciate the tranquil environment, although amenities from nearby resorts require a significant investment.
	Green Island	4.8 ★	Review summary: Visitors find Green Island a beautiful and less crowded anchorage, ideal for exploration. Good holding is noted, with sand and mud conditions providing stability for anchored vessels. The area offers calm winds, paddle boarding opportunities, and access to reefs.
	Pinching Bay	4.7 ★	Review summary: Staying overnight here often provides a peaceful experience, as day visitors tend to leave by evening. It is a popular spot during the day, but quiet once the sun sets. Visitors have noted its beauty and the lack of noise from ashore.
	Lee Cove, Great Bird Island	4.6 ★	Review summary: Navigating Lee Cove, Great Bird Island requires caution due to nearby dredging and potential depth issues. Visitors find good protection from swell and enjoy diverse snorkeling spots. The anchorage provides calm conditions with notable sandy patches and the opportunity to explore nearby islands.
	Jolly Harbour, Mosquito Cove	4.4 ★	Review summary: Nautical access to Mosquito Cove is favorable with ample space for anchoring. The area provides reliable holding conditions. Visitors appreciate the quiet nights and have access to nearby provisioning options, including a noted grocery store in Jolly Harbour.
	Carlisle Bay	4.3 ★	Review summary: Anchoring in Carlisle Bay is generally calm with good holding on sandy bottoms. Visitors appreciate the welcoming attitude of the resort and the opportunity to use their amenities when buying food or drinks. The presence of shallow, calm waters adds to the bay's appeal.
	Jumby Bay	4.3 ★	Review summary: Situated in a peaceful setting, Jumby Bay provides a sheltered anchorage for vessels seeking tranquility. The anchorage is relatively shallow at around 2.6 meters, making it accessible for smaller boats. Its calm environment and protection from southeast winds are notable features.
No image	Nonsuch Bay	4.3 ★	Review summary: Nonsuch Bay provides numerous options for anchoring in a wind-protected setting with clear water. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the area but should ensure they are well-stocked as there are no facilities available ashore for restocking supplies.
	Cade Reef	4.3 ★	Review summary: Cade Reef offers snorkelers a beautiful coral and fish experience, though anchoring can be challenging due to coral presence. Visitors often need to adjust plans when encountering tourist boats in the area. Proper navigation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable stay.

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Marinas

Antigua yacht club

4.3 ★

Review summary: Set on the water, this marina offers easy access to multiple restaurants and cafes. Its beautiful setting and great food contribute to its appeal. Visitors appreciate the convenience of its dinghy dock, making it a favored stop for those cruising the area.

Moorings

Bird island

4.7 ★

Review summary: Visitors anchor at Bird Island to enjoy its tranquil mooring buoys. The location offers a scenic setting, although they should ensure the mooring line is secure upon arrival. Checking mooring conditions is advisable to prevent potential issues during their stay.

Boatyards and services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

No image	Budget Marine North Sound	5.0 ★	Review summary: This chandler can arrange product delivery from other outlets, enhancing its service capability beyond its small physical space. Operational flexibility is highlighted by arranging deliveries, although experiential details are limited to staff interaction noted as friendly and helpful by visitors.
	Budget Marine Antigua - Jolly Harbour	4.3 ★	Review summary: Budget Marine in Antigua operates in Jolly Harbour with pedestrian-only access due to a cutoff from the parking lot. Visitors may use the adjacent JH parking lot, with staff assistance available for carrying bulky items. The chandlery offers a large inventory, benefiting from helpful staff interaction.
	Budget Marine English Harbour	4.0 ★	Review summary: Budget Marine in English Harbour offers a comprehensive selection of boating supplies. Despite being pricey, it maintains a strong inventory for various maritime needs.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Antigua and Barbuda.

Useful yacht clearance links