The Grenadines

Last updated: 2 March 2026

Overview

The Grenadines form a chain of islands and cays extending south from Bequia to Petit Saint Vincent. Distances between stops are short, often allowing for day passages between islands.

Facilities vary from island to island: Bequia and Union Island have the widest range of shops and services, while smaller cays may offer little ashore beyond day‑stop access from nearby anchorages or moorings. Some bays have marinas or organised mooring fields, but many crews spend most of their time at anchor.

Attractions

Tobago Cays Marine Park, a major attraction in the area, incorporates several anchorages and mooring areas behind Horseshoe Reef, with marked seagrass and reef zones where turtles and other marine life are frequently seen by visiting crews.

Fort Hamilton in Bequia overlooks Admiralty Bay and is reached by a short walk from Port Elizabeth, where the waterfront brings together most of the island’s small shops, bars and service businesses used by cruising yachts, making it a natural place to stretch your legs ashore. Salt Whistle Bay on Mayreau is a sheltered anchorage with a curved sandy beach, beach bars and small stalls ashore, and an easy walk over the hill to the island’s village and a great kitesurifing beach.

Notes for mariners

Although inter‑island hops are short, trades and squalls can funnel across the reefs, so exposure and lee‑shore risk need regular reassessment, with extra room and closer watch in busy anchorages around the Cays, Mayreau and Canouan.

Tobago Cays Marine Park uses moorings and sand patches, and skippers are expected to avoid anchoring in coral or seagrass, respect no‑fishing rules, brief crews not to touch wildlife, and keep dinghy speeds low near snorkelling areas.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

Port Elizabeth 5.0 ★
Review summary: Anchoring is straightforward with good holding over sand. The bay features ample dinghy docks, enhancing access to shore. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, with local services providing food and groceries delivered directly to boats.
Petit Nevis 4.8 ★
Review summary: The anchorage offers calm conditions with good holding on sandy ground. Snorkeling opportunities are highlighted, and the remoteness adds to its appeal. Some boats may find space limited, leading to a more intimate experience.
Mopion Island 4.5 ★
Review summary: This anchorage provides a scenic setting with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring. Visitors mention challenges with shallow waters and rocky bottoms, but overall highlight the enjoyment of the location. Precautions regarding swell and dinghy access are advised.
Chatham Bay 4.4 ★
Review summary: Strong gusts often challenge this anchorage, prompting the need for ample swing space. Visitors appreciate the well-protected bay with good holding and friendly locals, although some amenities remain limited post-hurricane. Expect a tranquil environment with opportunities for snorkeling and local cuisine.
Tobago Cays 4.4 ★
Review summary: The anchorage features clear waters and vibrant marine life, including turtles and rays. Fees are approximately 60 EC per boat and 15 EC per person. While some find conditions challenging during high winds, many appreciate the stunning scenery and snorkeling opportunities.
Point Bay, Bequia 4.3 ★
Review summary: The anchorage provides quiet conditions with some good holding capabilities. Visitors can choose to anchor or take a buoy. Access to town is feasible with a dinghy landing option available.
Princess Margaret Bay 4.3 ★
Review summary: Princess Margaret Bay is known for good holding in sandy bottoms and easy access to nearby amenities. While the anchorage can be busy, there is ample room to swing, though some visitors noted gusts causing discomfort. The area hosts a friendly boating community with regular activities.
Isle Quatre 4.3 ★
Review summary: Anchoring at Isle Quatre allows for a peaceful experience. Expect some roll, especially from wrap-around swells, and excellent holding in clear sand. Snorkeling opportunities are available along the eastern shore, while views from hiking on land are noteworthy.
Savan Turtle Island 4.3 ★
Review summary: Limited space exists for anchoring, accommodating only a few boats. The anchorage may experience a significant swell, making settled easterly conditions preferable. Visitors have noted that accessing the beach is challenging for dinghies, but swimming or paddleboarding remains feasible.
Salt Whistle Bay (Carnash Bay) 4.2 ★
Review summary: Anchoring in Salt Whistle Bay offers beautiful surroundings with good holding and accessibility to the beach. Visitors report the area can become crowded, particularly with charter boats close to the shore. The beach bars and local vendors have resumed operations post-hurricane.

Marinas

Sandy Lane Yacht Club 4.6 ★
Review summary: The marina features excellent amenities and helpful staff, particularly praised for the cleanliness of the showers. Visitors have noted challenges with costs and limited food options. A local distributor for beverages is available for quick deliveries to boats.

Moorings

Admiralty Bay 5.0 ★
Review summary: Mooring services are available. Coordination for mooring was facilitated by staff, who provided assistance upon arrival. Visitors have noted helpful interactions with local drivers for tours around the island.
Mayreau Beach Club 4.8 ★
Review summary: Mooring balls are available and well maintained, with a notable presence of sea grass at the bay's bottom. Visitors find the area protective from wind, with a peaceful atmosphere. Some reported issues with rolling from swells, particularly during gusty conditions.
Sustainable Grenadines 4.6 ★
Review summary: Mooring buoys appear to be in solid condition, with reports of availability and free usage. Several reviews recommend checking the mooring for structural integrity. Environmental encouragement exists to use buoys instead of anchoring to protect local turtle grass.
Baradal-Tobago Cays Marine Park 4.4 ★
Review summary: The area features abundant turtles and clear waters for snorkeling. Multiple Reviews mention the cost of mooring at EC60. Visitors should be wary of crowded conditions and overlapping mooring balls.
Salt Whistle Bay. 4.4 ★
Review summary: Mooring buoys are available in a picturesque bay, with friendly boat boys willing to assist. Visitors noted the area can become rolly from large easterly swells and experienced noise from beach bars, particularly on weekend mornings.

Boat services

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

Chandlers

DockSide Marine 4.9 ★
Review summary: A well-stocked chandler with a friendly and helpful staff. Customers appreciate the organized store and fair prices. A variety of marine products, including fishing gear and snorkeling equipment, enhances the overall shopping experience.

Boat services

Grenadines Sails and Canvas 5.0 ★
Review summary: Quick service for repairs and customizations is highlighted multiple times. Most visitors appreciated efficient timelines, with some tasks completed in less than 24 hours. Customer service received high marks, leading to positive experiences and satisfaction.
Alick's Sail Loft & Canvas Shop 5.0 ★
Review summary: Alick's Sail Loft & Canvas Shop is operational and provides sail repair services. Reviews highlight excellent responsiveness, timely completion of projects, and knowledgeable service. The shop accepts cash payments only and offers services for mainsails, genoa, and trampolines.

Yacht clearance

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ports of entry offices

Bequia Customs & Immigration 4.5 ★
Review summary: Check-in and check-out procedures are typically straightforward. Overtime fees apply for both customs and immigration if checks occur outside of regular hours. Staff interactions are reported as friendly and efficient.
Place details mention: check in steps, required documents, fees or payments, opening hours and cruising permits.
Charlestown Bay Customs & Immigration 4.4 ★
Review summary: Check-in and clearance can take place at the office, typically completed in under 15 minutes. Multiple reviews mention friendly customs officers and the ability to handle immigration at the airport if necessary. Visitors should confirm hours of operation prior to their visit.
Place details mention: opening hours, prearrival requirements, required documents and cruising permits.
Clifton Customs & Immigration 4.2 ★
Review summary: Customs and immigration processes in Clifton are generally efficient, with many visitors noting friendly staff. Advance completion of SailClear is recommended to expedite check-in. The service operates primarily on a cash-only basis with specific fees.
Place details mention: prearrival requirements, required documents, opening hours, fees or payments and cruising permits.
Canouan Airport Customs & Immigration 4.0 ★
Review summary: Customs and immigration services are available at the airport for yacht check-ins and check-outs. The process is generally efficient, with minimal waiting times reported. Access from the marina can be a hot, 25-30 minute walk, so arranging transport is advisable.
Place details mention: check in steps, required documents, fees or payments, opening hours, prearrival requirements, cruising permits and official inspections.

Yacht clearance agents

JJ from JJ & Nia Restaurant 5.0 ★
Review summary: Clearing in with JJ is efficient, with multiple visitors noting he can handle customs paperwork quickly, even late in the day. Additionally, dining at the restaurant can offset clearance fees, enhancing the experience during the process. His assistance and service are frequently highlighted.
Place details mention: required documents.
Tenuta Chatham Bay Clearence 4.8 ★
Review summary: Tenuta Chatham Bay Clearance provides fast and efficient check-in and check-out services. Multiple visitors highlighted the convenience of dropping off paperwork and receiving calls when ready for collection, often at a cost of 100 EC. Staff interactions are reported as friendly and helpful.
Place details mention: check in steps, required documents and fees or payments.

Useful yacht clearance links