Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Last updated: 22 January 2026

Overview

Carriacou and Petite Martinique, at the southern end of the Grenadines, are smaller islands with a quieter feel. Facilities are more limited than in Grenada, but basic provisioning and repair services are available at Tyrrel Bay, the main yachting hub in Carriacou.

Attractions

Tyrrel Bay on Carriacou is one of the primary attractions for visiting sailors, with a wide choice of places to eat and a well-established long-term liveaboard community. Heading north, a popular overnight stop can be found at Sandy Island, where you can anchor or pick up a mooring ball and enjoy snorkelling or watersports off the beach.

Petite Martinique is smaller and offers a unique glimpse of traditional Caribbean life.

Notes for mariners

Following Hurricane Beryl in 2024, a Category 4 storm causing severe damage, it is advisable to monitor weather information closely throughout the season and to be ready to move south to Trinidad if a significant system appears likely to threaten the area.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

Petie Martinique
Anchoring conditions are favorable with good holding reported in sandy bottoms. The island is friendly and recovering from hurricane damage, with opportunities for local interaction and beautiful scenery. Visitors should bring cash as there are limited ATMs and possible credit card surcharges.
Carriacou
Anchoring is permitted in sandy areas with good holding, despite occasional roll from winds. Visitors report enjoyable swimming and snorkeling experiences, alongside a beautiful beach. Fees apply for moorings and anchoring, with friendly collection of dues noted.
Saline Island 4.7
Carriacou
Anchoring presents challenges with rapidly deepening waters and strong currents. Visitors recommend targeting sandy patches for improved hold, particularly in depths around 9 to 12 meters. Snorkeling opportunities are noteworthy, especially near turtle habitats.
Anse la Roche 4.6
Carriacou
Anchoring conditions vary, with good holding noted in sand. Many describe the beach as beautiful, complemented by hiking opportunities. A notable feature is Tim's restaurant, offering lobster dinners and a vibrant atmosphere, but rolling waves may occur, particularly overnight.
Ronde Island 4.4
Ronde Island
Ronde Island features good holding in sandy bottoms and offers clear waters for snorkeling with abundant wildlife. Visitors have reported a somewhat rolly experience at times, especially with northern swells, but still find it a peaceful stopover.
Carriacou
Moorings are in good condition and hold well, as confirmed by several users. Shallow waters make careful navigation essential, especially near the reef. Snorkeling offers decent experiences, though coral health is poor.
Hillsborough 4.2
Carriacou
Anchoring conditions generally provide good holding in sandy areas, yet unpredictable rolly conditions may be experienced due to prevailing winds. Limited dinghy dock access is compromised, potentially affecting onshore visits. Visitors reported friendly locals and some significant post-hurricane recovery.
Tyrell Bay 3.7
Carriacou
The bay offers adequate protection and good anchoring in sand. Visitors report friendly locals and convenient access to provisions, but noting the presence of many derelict boats impacting space. The area is still recovering from post-hurricane damage.
Paradise Beach 3.7
Carriacou
Moorings are available but some may have limited depth, creating risks for deep drafts. A local restaurant offers good food, though noise can increase during weekends. Several visitors mention the comfortable holding and convenient access to nearby amenities.

Marinas

Carriacou
Dinghy access at the floating dock is limited to boats in the yard. The haul-out service includes a 100 tonne lift, scaffold rental, and local provisioning options, though the marina appears unfinished and lacks water or electricity hookups. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Moorings

Carriacou
Mooring buoys are easily accessible with several being reinforced and able to withstand strong winds. Visitors have reported enjoying clear waters and vibrant marine life, though some buoys showed signs of wear, indicating careful checking is advisable before use.
Carriacou
Moorings appear in good condition as of late 2025. The area is noted for its impressive sculptures and rich marine life. However, gusty winds may impact comfort for overnight stays.
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Carriacou
Mooring is available, with no boat boys noted and space for anchoring. Fresh fruit is offered by local sellers, while mooring costs 80 EC per night. Some warnings exist regarding scams involving private buoys, though overall conditions appear manageable.
Petie Martinique
Mooring buoys are available, and assistance with tying up is provided. Visitors report peaceful nights with short dinghy rides to the restaurant. The onshore dining experience has been positively highlighted for its food quality and friendly service.

Boat services

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

Boatyards

Carriacou
Service includes haul-out for boats. Staff are noted for being helpful, particularly with arrangements like filling non-local propane bottles. Some reviews emphasize the professionalism of the staff and the reasonable pricing for haul-out services.
Carriacou
The marina has mixed perceptions regarding cleanliness and maintenance. Visitors report an abundance of debris and trash, which detracts from the experience. Staff interactions vary widely, with many noting the professionalism of some but encountering issues with female employees.

Chandlers

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Budget Marine 4.5
Carriacou
A diverse inventory is available at Budget Marine, with many visitors finding competitive prices compared to competitors. Staff demonstrate a high level of helpfulness, often staying past closing hours. Remember to bring boat documentation to avoid incurring taxes.
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Carriacou
Antifouling options are available at significantly lower prices than competitors. The selection is limited, and many professionals source their supplies from this chandler. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Carriacou
The chandlery is noted for having a limited selection and unhelpful staff interactions. Visitors have mentioned a preference for nearby alternatives. Check for updates, as reviews indicate variability in experience.

Boat services

Carriacou
The team provides quick turnaround and friendly service on diverse projects. Reviews highlight the quality of work at reasonable prices. Visitors have expressed satisfaction with interactions and outcomes.

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 Grenada:

Ports of entry offices

Carriacou
Offers: Immigration.
Check-in procedures can be conducted at Hillsborough Immigration Office. Visitors reported that there is an efficient process available, with interactions characterized by humour and friendly staff. A walk to Tyrell Bay can be avoided by checking in here.
Place details mention: opening hours, visitor visa requirements and fees or payments.
Carriacou
Offers: Customs, and immigration.
The check-in process at Carriacou Customs & Immigration can vary significantly. Some visitors report friendly service and straightforward procedures, while others describe unprofessional behavior and hostility from staff. Cash is generally required for payments, and ensuring all paperwork is complete beforehand is advised.
Place details mention: check in steps, opening hours, cruising permits and fees or payments.
Carriacou
Offers: Customs, and port authority.
Customs services are available at Carriacou, with immigration handled at a separate location across the bay. Staff interactions vary; some visitors report friendly service while others experience unhelpfulness. Ensure to bring cash for transactions.
Place details mention: check in steps, fees or payments and required documents.