Anguilla

Anguilla is a low-lying island at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, visited primarily as a short stop within the northeastern Caribbean. Cruising activity centres on a small number of commonly used anchorages, with limited shoreside infrastructure compared to nearby islands.

Anguilla attracts visiting yachts with its uncrowded beaches and relaxed island atmosphere. Road Bay is the centre of activity for visiting sailors, combining clearance facilities with a compact area of beach bars and restaurants that form the island’s main social scene ashore.

Away from the main bay, the marine reserve around Prickly Pear Cay is the island’s primary natural highlight. This area is visited for snorkeling and its undeveloped character, offering a quieter Caribbean setting in settled conditions.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	Island Harbour Bay, Anguilla.	5.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring is a smooth experience with guidance from local boats and clear water visibility. The area allows for a pleasant visit with activities like snorkeling being easily accessible. Visitors appreciate the region, despite navigational advice against electronic charts.
	Road Bay	4.8 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Road Bay is straightforward, offering calm conditions and good holding on sand. The availability of numerous beach bars along the endless beaches offers Caribbean music and clear water nearby. However, beyond beach activities, available hiking options may be limited.
No image	Prickly Pear Cay Anchorage	3.3 ★	Review summary: Overnight visits at Prickly Pear Cay Anchorage often involve anchoring with care in sandy areas to ensure holding amidst varied conditions. The peaceful ambiance and opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying the small bar make it a favored spot in suitable weather conditions.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to Anguilla.

Useful yacht clearance links

After clearing in at Road Bay, you can obtain a cruising permit and, if needed, a Marine Park Mooring/Marine Park Permit from the local authorities.

At several popular locations in the Marine Park, fixed moorings are provided in place of free anchoring and are intended for short, daytime use. Environmental regulations within the protected areas are strictly applied, including bans on sewage or bilge discharge and on fishing or removing marine life, shaping how yachts plan stops and manage routine operations around the island.

During the hurricane season, cruising activity around Anguilla drops sharply. The island sees limited long-term yacht presence during this period.

• Best times of year to sail here: December to April
• Most common type of power: 110-120v 60Hz
• Cost for provisioning: High
• Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Personal security: Generally safe, with minor precautions advisable in isolated areas
• Emergency phone numbers:
  • Police, Fire, Ambulance: 911
  • Maritime emergencies: +1 (264) 497-2871
• International dialing code: +1 264
• Time zone(s): UTC -4

Anguilla's maritime history is significantly shaped by its indigenous and colonial past. Originally inhabited by the Arawak people and later the Caribs, these groups relied on maritime navigation and regional trade across surrounding islands. The arrival of European explorers in the 17th century marked the beginning of western colonization, although Anguilla saw few permanent settlements due to its arid conditions and the limited economic incentives for colonial powers.

Throughout the colonial era, Anguilla served as a strategic outpost due to its proximity to other key islands. While it lacked the sugar plantations that defined other Caribbean territories, the island's location provided its residents leverage in regional trade, particularly in salt. The 17th and 18th centuries saw periods of tension and conflict, leading to British control that shaped the island's political landscape and maritime economy.

In recent decades, Anguilla has transitioned from its colonial history to becoming a peaceful destination known for maritime leisure. The island embraces its maritime culture through fishing, sailing, and the development of marine-related tourism. Events such as the Anguilla Regatta featuring traditional wooden boat racing, celebrate this heritage, drawing sailors from around the world to participate in this rich tradition of seafaring. Anguilla's maritime past, while less dominant than economic centers of the Caribbean, remains a pivotal aspect of its cultural identity, visible through its attractions and island-navigating tours.