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 reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

Port Elizabeth 5.0
Bequia
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
Bequia
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.
Bequia
Anchoring conditions are variable, with both good holding in sandy areas and potential challenges from gusty winds. Visitors appreciate the nearby services and amenities such as dinghy docks, but caution is advised regarding anchor placement and checking chain paths to ensure safety.
Chatham Bay 4.4
Union
The bay offers excellent sandy holding in depths of 4 to 6 meters, though visitors should prepare for strong gusts. Locals are friendly, and some limited bar services are available. The ambiance is peaceful, but newer establishments are still being rebuilt.
Anchoring is challenging due to quickly shallow depths and rocky or coral bottoms. Approaching the island is advised via the western side, especially during low tide. Visitors can expect decent snorkeling experiences despite some coral die-off.
Bequia
Anchorage conditions in Point Bay feature good holding in sand, along with quieter surroundings compared to lower bay. Access to the island's dinghy docks and facilities is convenient, contributing to a favorable experience. Visitors report safety both at the anchorage and on land.
Isle Quatre 4.3
Bequia
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.
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.
Tobago Cays 4.3
Tobago Cays
Clear turquoise waters and abundant marine life attract visitors to this anchorage. While some report rolling conditions and increased park fees, many appreciate the snorkeling experiences and nearby BBQ options. Overall, it remains a sought-after destination despite varying opinions on comfort.
Palm island 4.2
Union
The anchorage at Palm Island offers beautiful sandy beaches and good snorkeling opportunities. However, significant construction is ongoing, and many visitor facilities have been destroyed. As a result, amenities and access may be limited.

Marinas

Canouan
Facilities and staff are well-regarded, with numerous mentions of cleanliness and helpfulness. Visitors note the high costs of amenities, but appreciate the exceptional showers and the variety of restaurants. The marina typically has a low number of boats present.

Moorings

Admiralty Bay 5.0
Bequia
Mooring assistance is readily available, with Zende noted for his helpfulness in managing mooring arrangements. Several visitors appreciated the lack of swell and the calmness in the bay. The beach and local services, including laundry and dining, enhance the stay.
Union
Multiple mooring buoys are available and have been checked for sturdiness. Conditions are favorable for activities like kiteboarding and snorkeling. Some missing buoys were reported, with local support for preserving turtle grass.
Mayreau
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.
Tobago Cays
Mooring in Baradal offers clear water with abundant turtle sightings. The mooring balls are well maintained; however, their proximity can pose challenges during the night. Visitors recommend self-catering due to high lobster dinner prices.
Union
The anchorage offers a peaceful environment with safe mooring options. Multiple visitors reported good dining experiences at the resort, which includes a system for waiving mooring fees when dining. Caution is advised due to potential underwater hazards near the moorings.

Boat services

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

Chandlers

Bequia
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

Bequia
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.
Bequia
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 links

Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines:

Ports of entry offices

Bequia
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.
Canouan
Offers: Customs.
Customs operations are available on site, but the immigration process requires a trip to the airport. Most visitors report fast service. The customs office is open on Saturdays, although it is closed on Sundays.
Place details mention: opening hours, prearrival requirements, cruising permits and required documents.
Union
Clearance interactions are efficient and often completed within 20 minutes. Most reports indicate the importance of pre-completing Sailclear forms. Despite a friendly atmosphere, visitors should ensure they bring the correct cash, as change is not provided.
Place details mention: check in steps, required documents, fees or payments, opening hours, prearrival requirements and cruising permits.
Canouan
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

Union
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.
Union
Clearing procedures are reliable, with multiple visitors reporting efficient service. Documents are handled through JJ and Nia, often at no additional cost when dining at the restaurant. Some visitors noted changes in service providers, with alternatives found nearby.
Place details mention: required documents.