Sailing in Saint Vincent & The Grenadines
A necklace of 32 islands and cays, only nine of them inhabited, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the most popular destinations in the world for leisure sailors, who flock here for its numerous uncrowded anchorages and charming ports of call. Snorkelers and divers are drawn by the many underwater attractions, especially the coral-luscious Tobago Cays. And those who just want to get away from it all are drawn to the remote private-island resorts, with their secluded black and white sand beaches and lush tropical vegetation.
Under The Volcano
St. Vincent, “the mainland,” is almost 18 miles long and made imposing by its seething giant, La Soufrière volcano, which last erupted in 1979. Thick banks of clouds typically shroud La Soufrière, making its peak a rare sight. Guides lead hikes that wind through the surrounding forest for a close-up view.
St. Vincent’s other natural attractions include the Falls of Baleine, spectacular cascades that are accessible only by boat when we anchor at Cumberland Bay, and the broad and verdant valleys of the Mesopotamia region, the island’s breadbasket, with rows upon rows of banana trees.
Island After Island
Young Island: Situated on this tiny island, just 200 yards off the southern shores of the mainland is the privately owned Young Island Resort. With a handful of moorings, this is a wonderful place to stay on our first night as it also means we can walk up the 200+ steps of Fort Duvernette and get wonderful views of the south coast and Bequia.
Bequia: Lying just a few miles south of St. Vincent, Bequia, the largest and one of the loveliest of the Grenadines islands has only one real town, Port Elizabeth. It is a charming, sleepy port of call with a pedestrian footpath that stretches around most of the bay. Shops feature the works of model shipbuilders. Among the attractions are the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary and a number of galleries and artisans’ shops. We always anchor here on our trips as the people are lovely, the waters are crystal clear and the bars and restaurants are fantastic.
Mustique: This renowned 1,400-acre private island in the Grenadines is known as a favourite hideaway for the world’s most discerning travellers. Once ashore it is well worth taking a taxi tour with Boom Boom and you will get to see the huge contrast between this island and all those around it. After the tour, a drink or dinner in Basil’s Bar is a must, especially as it has been newly refurbished.
Mayreau: Just northeast of the Tobago Cays, this tiny 800-acre island has scarcely 300 residents but its lovely palm-lined beach, Salt Whistle Bay, is dreamy and magical and does wonderful beach BBQs for all the yachts.
Tobago Cays: Justly famous for its protected waters, this is now a national marine park. The turquoise waters of the Tobago Cays are populated with Hawksbill sea turtles, which provide friendly swimming companions, making the experience of swimming in the Tobago Cays a magical and memorable one. Petit Tabac just inside World End’s Reef, with only space for three yachts to anchor, is also a favourite stop of ours too…a real deserted island.
Union Island: With its mountain peaks and colourful market it is the ideal place for snorkelling and picking up some provisions. When we anchor in Clifton, snorkelling is a must as is a stop at Happy Island to see King and grab a rum punch. This is a man-made island that only has a bar on board. Chatham Bay is also a stunning anchorage with one of the best snorkelling spots we have found.
Petite St. Vincent: Home of the ultra-exclusive Petit St. Vincent (PSV) Resort; the island offers the ultimate in barefoot elegance and unobtrusive attentive service. Depending on the sailing trip you are on, we often pop here for a drink at Goatie’s bar after visiting Mopion, a tiny sandy islet with only one sunshade on it!
Sailing in Style
Don’t just visit St Vincent & The Grenadines…take a sailing holiday here! Join us on a shared yacht and experience an unforgettable crewed charter. You only need to book a cabin for your sailing vacation – ideal for solo and single travellers, couples and small groups. Then relax and recharge. Enjoy delicious healthy food cooked by Sam. Get hands-on sailing experience with Neil, an RYA sailing instructor. And, have lots of fun as we sail from one beautiful island to the next. Sail in style with BlueFoot Travel.
Further information
St Vincent & The Grenadines’ Official Site
