Saint Barthélemy

Saint-Barthélemy (St Barts) is a small French island in the northeastern Caribbean, with most cruising activity concentrated along the leeward coast around Gustavia and nearby bays. Anchorage and mooring options are limited, and exposure can be significant outside sheltered areas. The marine reserves are a popular highlight for cruising yachts.

Gustavia is the island’s cultural and administrative centre, with historic streets and a compact harbour area reflecting its French and Swedish past. Don't miss the incredible views of the bay from the lighthouse. It’s the main place crews head ashore to wander the town, pick up supplies, and soak up everyday island life.

Close to Gustavia Airport, a well-known viewpoint at the end of the runway gives a close-up of arriving aircraft. Watching planes pass just overhead is a memorable stop for crews exploring the island.

Colombier Bay is valued for its undeveloped setting and marine reserve status. Further north Île Fourchue, an uninhabited island within Saint Barthélemy’s nature reserve, offers protected waters, scenic hikes and snorkeling close to shore.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	Anse du Colombier	4.6 ★	Review summary: A pleasant anchorage spot features free moorings and offers access to hiking trails and a beach. Snorkeling quality may vary due to swell conditions, but the area is generally well-protected, though patches of seaweed may affect water clarity. Rates apply for marine park access.
	Ile Fourchue	4.6 ★	Review summary: This anchorage features clear water and abundant marine life, including turtles and various fish. Conditions may vary with some rolling after passing vessels, along with potential discomfort from spiky growth onshore. Several visitors appreciated the less crowded setting compared to nearby locations.
	Gustavia	2.7 ★	Review summary: Conditions at Gustavia anchorage include incessant rolling and high density of boats, with some visitors paying around €40 per night. Reports mention good holding in clear waters but express concerns about comfort. The nearby town offers amenities but may not cater to every budget.

Moorings

	Ile Fourchue	4.7 ★	Review summary: A serene bay features free and well-maintained mooring buoys, with crystal clear water ideal for snorkeling. Visitors report a peaceful atmosphere, though minor roll may occur. Accessing the beach can be challenging due to rocky conditions.
	Anse du Colombier	4.7 ★	Review summary: Mooring conditions appear generally favorable with amenities including mooring buoys in good condition. Visitors highlight clear water and abundant marine life. Some boats experience rolling in certain areas, and network coverage is limited.
	Gustavia	2.8 ★	Review summary: Moorings in Gustavia are generally private and not available for use. Anchoring options may lead to a rolly experience, and although the bay is crowded, visitors note a beautiful nearby swimming beach. Costs for anchoring can be high, reaching €35 per night.

Boat services

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

Chandlers

St Barth Marine

5.0 ★

Review summary: Electronic equipment is available alongside hardware and cleaning products. Prices for electronics are higher compared to other islands, while hardware and cleaning items are deemed normal. Stock levels are surprisingly well maintained.

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

Useful yacht clearance links

The trade winds influence the weather pattern here, typically blowing from the northeast and remaining steady throughout most of the year.

There is no established off-season liveaboard community, and most cruisers relocate south to areas such as Grenada or Trinidad where protection and facilities are better suited to longer stays.

• Best times of year to sail here: December to April
• Most common type of shore power: 220-230 V, 60Hz, European-style plugs (type E)
• Cost for provisioning: High
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Personal security: Crime rate is low; petty theft can occur.
• Emergency phone numbers:
  • Police: 17
  • Fire: 18
  • Ambulance: 15
• International dialing code: +590
• Time zone(s): UTC -4 (with no daylight saving)

Saint Barthélemy's maritime history is rich, beginning with its earliest known Arawak and Carib inhabitants who navigated its waters long before European arrival. The island was named by Christopher Columbus in 1493. It was subjected to European colonization attempts from the 17th century onwards, involving French and later Swedish control, which shaped much of its coastal development and trade routes.

By the 18th century, Saint Barthélemy had gained significance as a free port under Swedish rule after being ceded from France. This established the island as a hub for seafarers and merchants, enhancing its development as a trading center and influencing its architecture and infrastructures, such as the notable fortifications.

Modern Saint Barthélemy reflects a tranquil blend of its Swedish and French maritime legacies. The annual Saint Barth’s Bucket Regatta has become an event of repute, attracting luxury yachts and crew from around the globe, showcasing both the island's enduring maritime importance and its luxurious modern-day appeal.

Among the island's historical sites, Fort Gustav offers insight into its Swedish era, providing spectacular views of the duty-free port below and illustrating the strategic importance of Saint Barthélemy throughout its maritime past.