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
This anchorage features good holding with sandy bottom and is known for excellent snorkeling. Visitors have reported calm conditions and remoteness, providing a peaceful experience. The area can accommodate only a few boats.
Bequia
Quiet and with good holding in sand spots, this anchorage offers a consistent breeze. Beat the chaos of nearby ferries during the evening and enjoy safe access to local dinghy docks. Some reviews mention water quality and accessibility trade-offs.
Bequia
Anchoring is generally effective with soft sand and sea grass. While gusty winds can create challenges, the area is well-regarded for its beaches and access to restaurants. Visitors also report good snorkeling and a friendly sailing community.
Chatham Bay 4.4
Union
The anchorage offers excellent holding in sandy areas, with depths typically between 5-7 meters. Gusty winds are common, so ample swing space is recommended. Visitors appreciate the friendly locals and service at the beach bars, enhancing their experience.
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.
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.
Canouan
Anchoring is generally good with sandy bottoms, although gusty winds may create challenges. Visitors often recommend using a stern anchor at the dinghy dock, with local assistance available for various needs. Multiple shops and dining options are within walking distance.

Marinas

Canouan
The marina features friendly staff and excellent amenities like pools and restaurants. Visitors reported availability of various electrical voltages and efficient amenities. Despite being costly, the overall experience is enhanced by the well-maintained facilities.

Moorings

Admiralty Bay 4.9
Bequia
Mooring balls are available, and visitors report helpful service for mooring from local individuals. The bay is described as calm, with no swell, and provides a Caribbean vibe. Multiple reviews mention pleasant surroundings, including shops and restaurants.
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.
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.
Tobago Cays
Clear waters and abundant sea life, including turtles and rays, characterize Baradal-Tobago Cays Marine Park. While snorkeling experiences can vary, the mooring conditions are generally positive despite occasional rolly conditions. Expect potential challenges with local boat boys and parking fees.

Boat services

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

Chandlers

Bequia
Jordan and the staff consistently provide friendly and knowledgeable service. The store is well stocked with a variety of marine products, making it easy for visitors to find hard-to-locate parts. The atmosphere is clean and well organized, enhancing the shopping experience.
Bequia
Price discrepancies were noted, with one visitor stating that line costs were three times higher than a competitor. Additionally, concerns were raised about transparency, as nothing was marked. Sentiments about the owner's friendliness were expressed, but experiences varied.

Boat services

Bequia
Timely canvas services are provided. Multiple reviews highlight quick turnaround, with several chaps and repairs completed within 24 hours. Positive interactions with staff, especially noted during urgent requests, contribute to a strong reputation.
Bequia
Servicing for mainsails, headsails, and dinghy repairs is available. Alick is responsive and knowledgeable, with quick turnaround on repairs. Cash payment only is accepted at the shop.
Union
Marine Tech Services provides boat repair services such as installing engine parts and fixing rigging issues. Staff interactions were noted as knowledgeable and friendly. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

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

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.
Bequia
Customs and Immigration services are operational at Bequia. Visitors caution that overtime fees may apply if checking in after 4 PM on weekdays. Staff interactions are frequently noted as friendly, although there have been experiences of sternness regarding compliance.
Place details mention: prearrival requirements, check in steps, required documents, fees or payments, opening hours, cruising permits.
Canouan
Customs and immigration services are available at the airport. Visitors must fill out paperwork without SailClear access. A 20-minute walk from the marina is recommended, while the customs and immigration process is reported as generally efficient.
Place details mention: check in steps, required documents, fees or payments, opening hours, prearrival requirements and cruising permits.
Union
Check-in and clearance are efficiently handled, with a majority of visitors reporting friendly staff interactions. Several reviewers noted the importance of completing Sailclear prior to arrival. Cash payments are required, with no card facilities available.
Place details mention: prearrival requirements, required documents, opening hours, fees or payments and cruising permits.

Yacht clearance agents

Union
Efficient service is provided for yacht clearance. Multiple reviews indicate that paperwork can be dropped off with quick turnaround times, allowing visitors to enjoy other activities while waiting. Fees typically range around 100 EC for the service.
Place details mention: required documents and fees or payments.
Union
Clearing in with JJ and Nia is straightforward, with several visitors noting efficient processing of paperwork. Many enjoyed meals at the beach bar, which did not incur additional charges for clearance services. JJ is available for assistance and can handle customs matters.
Place details mention: required documents.