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⛵ Boating to Grenada & The Grenadines: The Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure
  • By Capt. Ben Haddadnia
  • 29 June 2025

66. ⛵ Boating to Grenada & The Grenadines: The Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure

If your dream cruising grounds include unspoiled islands, vibrant reefs, warm hospitality, and short hops between anchorages, Grenada and the Grenadines should be at the top of your chart. Located in the southern Caribbean, this island chain is a sailor’s paradise, perfect for adventurous cruisers, romantic escapes, or laid-back island-hopping.

From bustling marinas in Grenada to deserted beaches in the Tobago Cays, here’s everything you need to know about boating Grenada & The Grenadines.

🗺️ Where Are Grenada & The Grenadines?

  • Grenada is the southernmost of the Windward Islands.
  • The Grenadines are a chain of smaller islands stretching north toward St. Vincent.
  • Politically split:
  • Grenada controls Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and the southern Grenadines.
  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines includes Union Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, and the Tobago Cays.

⚓ Grenada: Your Launch Point

🛥️ Port Louis Marina – St. George’s

  • Why Go: World-class marina with customs, immigration, and top-tier services.
  • Amenities: Slips for yachts up to 300’, restaurants, chandlery, fuel, provisioning.

🛥️ Prickly Bay Marina

  • Why Go: Cruiser favorite on the south coast.
  • Features: Moorings, bars, live music, and repair services.

🛥️ Secret Harbour Marina

  • Quiet and protected with a boutique vibe. Great for longer stays.

🏝️ Top Grenadines Islands by Boat

1. Carriacou

  • Known as the “Land of Reefs.” A peaceful, boatbuilder’s island.
  • Tyrell Bay: Customs check-out for Grenada. Anchorage, fuel, and provisioning.

2. Union Island

  • Entry point to St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
  • Clifton Harbour: Quirky town with kiteboarding, beach bars, and customs clearance.
  • Frigate Island anchorage offers great protection.

3. Mayreau

  • Tiny island with a classic Caribbean feel.
  • Salt Whistle Bay: Stunning crescent beach perfect for anchoring. Quiet, romantic, and picturesque.

4. Tobago Cays

  • Why Go: One of the most spectacular marine parks in the Caribbean.
  • Highlights:
  • Crystal-clear water, reef snorkeling, turtle spotting.
  • BBQs on the beach with local guides.
  • Moorings available to protect the reef.

5. Canouan

  • Home to upscale resorts and a beautiful marina.
  • Glossy Bay Marina: Full-service with luxury amenities, perfect for a splurge night.

6. Bequia

  • Laid-back and colorful, known for its sailing heritage.
  • Admiralty Bay: Large, friendly anchorage with easy access to restaurants, bars, and provisioning.
  • A cruiser’s favorite with a real community feel.

7. Mustique

  • Exclusive and upscale. Home to villas of royals and celebrities.
  • Rules apply: Moorings required; reservations encouraged.
  • Great beaches, a picturesque village, and cocktails at Basil’s Bar.

🧾 Customs & Cruising Rules

  • Clearance Required when moving between Grenada and St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
  • Passports, Crew List, and Boat Documents needed.
  • Marine Park Fees apply in Tobago Cays and Mustique.
  • Mooring Use: In high-traffic areas like the Cays and Mustique, anchoring may be restricted—mooring balls preferred.

🌊 Sailing & Boating Tips

  • Best Season: December–May. Expect steady trade winds and dry weather.
  • Hurricane Season: Grenada is often considered a "hurricane hole" (June–November).
  • Short Passages: Distances between islands average 5–15 nautical miles.
  • Provisioning: Good in Grenada and Bequia. Stock up before heading to remote islands.

🥂 Activities & Island Highlights

  • Snorkel with turtles in Tobago Cays.
  • Dive shipwrecks near Grenada.
  • Beach BBQs on Mayreau.
  • Explore forts and waterfalls on mainland Grenada.
  • Join cruiser nights in Carriacou and Bequia.

🛥️ Final Word

Grenada & The Grenadines offer one of the most diverse and breathtaking cruising grounds in the Caribbean. You’ll find the perfect mix of lively anchorages, off-the-grid cays, and welcoming locals—all under warm tradewinds and cobalt skies.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or on your first island-hopping voyage, this region promises adventure, serenity, and unforgettable Caribbean moments.

Need help planning your trip? BoatNCrew.com connects you with local skippers, charter options, marina info, and provisioning support for Grenada & The Grenadines.

Fair winds and reef-protected harbors await! 🇬🇩⛵🏝️