Sailing in the Grenadines is a unique experience. For those wishing to explore the jewels of the Caribbean Sea at their own pace, it’s the ideal adventure. Located between Saint Lucia and Grenada, this tropical archipelago comprises dozens of islands and islets accessible only by boat, set against a backdrop of white sand beaches, coral reefs and colorful villages.
In the Grenadines, every port of call is an opportunity for discovery: a swim at the foot of the Tobago Cays, a snorkeling session in the turquoise lagoons, a hike through the lush forest of Saint-Vincent, or dinner in a typical beachside restaurant.
In this part of the Caribbean, the sailing itinerary can extend over a week, two weeks or more, depending on your wishes. Sailors enjoy a warm climate all year round, particularly pleasant in December, January and February. With steady winds, calm seas and constant sunshine, winter is the ideal season for a cruise in the region.
Thinking of visiting the Grenadines by sail? Here are 10 not-to-be-missed ports of call for successful sailing in this corner of paradise.
In the south of Martinique, the bay of Le Marin is the preferred departure point for many cruises to the Grenadines. Its marina, one of the largest in the Caribbean, offers everything you need to organize your stay: catamaran rental, provisioning, weather advice, fuel, fresh water, customs… This is the starting point for most itineraries to Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and beyond.
Protected from the swell and well sheltered, the bay provides a safe anchorage for the night, before setting sail. On land, services are plentiful and the village is lively but not overly so. The stopover is also an opportunity to pick up a nautical chart of the area, check access to foreign ports and prepare departure formalities. More than just a technical stopover, Le Marin is already a first immersion in the Caribbean atmosphere.
Leaving Martinique on a tour of the Grenadines, Saint Lucia is often the first island you visit. The main island is volcanic, with twin peaks rising steeply out of the sea south of Soufrière. Two anchorages lend themselves perfectly to a stopover: Rodney Bay to the north, wide and convenient, and Marigot Bay, more intimate and lined with coconut palms.
This stopover is an opportunity to discover a lively Creole culture: local markets, music, artisanal rum factories, small restaurants on stilts… For diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, the seabed around the peaks is also home to a dense marine life.
In the heart of the Grenadines, the island of Bequia is a must-visit on any cruising itinerary. Located south of Saint Vincent, it embodies the spirit of the small Caribbean islands: the atmosphere is relaxed, the village is lively, anchorages are comfortable, and the palm-fringed beaches are straight out of a postcard. The large Admiralty Bay welcomes boaters in a sheltered setting, where one can anchor or pick up a mooring buoy in complete safety.
From the port of Port Elizabeth, shops, the local market, and excellent Creole restaurants are all within easy reach. The stopover is also a cultural one: Bequia has a strong maritime identity, rooted in shipbuilding and the traditional practice of whaling. Just a short distance away, the unusual site of Moonhole — where houses are built directly into volcanic rock — is well worth a visit.
Swimming, snorkeling, and seaside walks are among the simple pleasures of this main island of the archipelago.
Every cruise through the Grenadines should include a stop at Mayreau. Did you know it’s one of the smallest inhabited islands in the archipelago?
Accessible only by boat, it often charms visitors with its simplicity and beauty. Two anchorages are particularly popular: Saline Bay, ideal for a quiet night and easy access to the village, and Salt Whistle Bay — often considered one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Caribbean.
Salt Whistle Bay forms a perfect crescent, nestled between a turquoise lagoon and a white sand beach — once again fringed with palm trees. Only a narrow strip of land separates the trade wind-exposed sea from the calm inner bay. Since the anchorage area is quite small, it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot — fast catamarans are given priority!
The stopover is peaceful and welcoming, offering the full experience of anchoring off a tropical island — right in front of the beach. On land, a short walk up to the village church rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the Tobago Cays.
This is one of the most famous spots — and one of the most spectacular anchorages in the Grenadines.
The Tobago Cays archipelago is made up of five uninhabited islets surrounded by a reef. The shallow lagoon within is remarkably clear, forming an exceptional marine reserve and a biodiversity sanctuary that’s an absolute must-see when sailing.
Anchoring takes place between Petit Rameau and Petit Bateau, in turquoise waters sheltered from Atlantic swells. Once the boat is peacefully anchored, cruisers can swim in a natural aquarium, enjoy incredible snorkeling sessions with green turtles, or simply relax on the white sand beaches.
It’s the perfect stopover for indulging in pure relaxation. Local fishermen sometimes even come by to offer fresh lobster…
North of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Union is a small island that’s very popular with boaters. It’s often considered the nerve center of the Southern Grenadines. Its main port, Clifton Harbour, is protected by a coral reef.
On Union, the lagoon glows with vibrant green hues, and the atmosphere is lively with the comings and goings of dinghies, street markets, and seaside bars. Perhaps the most unusual spot is Happy Island — a tiny man-made island built from conch shells, turned into a bar where you can sip a rum punch while watching the sunset.
For a quieter stopover, head to Chatham Bay on the island’s west coast: more wild and better sheltered from the wind, it invites you to relax, explore hillside trails, and spot pelicans. Union is also a practical stop: it’s where you clear customs, exchange currency, and restock provisions.
It’s a vibrant, buzzing island — a sharp contrast to the calm of the previous anchorages — and it embodies the very energy of the Caribbean Sea.
Facing Union, Petit Saint Vincent is a private island of barely 50 hectares. Often referred to as “PSV,” it is synonymous with understated luxury and tranquility.
This Grenadines stopover is neither crowded nor overrun by tourists — it too is accessible only by sailboat or catamaran! Cruisers will find a peaceful anchorage to the south, near long stretches of white sand beaches. While landing is reserved for hotel guests, anchoring is permitted. The waters are clear and perfect for swimming.
Stopping at Petit Saint Vincent is a great choice for travelers seeking peace and relaxation. There’s no port or marina here, but the quiet atmosphere is especially pleasant. And the scenery remains beautifully untouched.
Canouan is another unmissable stop in the Grenadines. This small mountainous island, located in the center of the archipelago, offers two distinct sides: on one hand, a high-end marina with modern facilities — resort, golf course, five-star services — and on the other, a Creole village surrounded by hills and secluded beaches.
The main anchorage is Charlestown Bay: well-sheltered, it promises very pleasant nights. On land, you can hike into the hills and enjoy panoramic views. For sailors, Canouan also has the major advantage of offering opportunities to stock up on water, fuel, and fresh provisions.
Famous for hosting celebrities seeking privacy, Mustique is a private island. It’s another recommended stop when sailing through the Grenadines, especially if you’re looking for a unique cruising experience — with a touch of luxury.
In Mustique, anchoring is strictly regulated: you must reserve a mooring buoy in the main bay, and anchoring is not permitted. The stopover is quite unique — you can’t freely explore the entire island, but there are some stunning beaches to discover. Macaroni Bay and Lagoon Bay, for example, are beautiful and often deserted.
With a local taxi service, you can head to the legendary Basil’s Bar by the water — and maybe even spot a few familiar faces.
Too often overlooked by sailors, Saint Vincent is nonetheless an island full of lush landscapes and interesting anchorages. The west coast offers many typical stopovers, blending nature and tradition.
Near Kingstown, the capital, you’ll find the ports of Young Island and Blue Lagoon — both well-equipped and sheltered. Further north, Wallilabou Bay draws movie fans: several scenes from the famous Pirates of the Caribbean film were shot there. More remote and unspoiled, Cumberland Bay is another favorite anchorage.
On land, hiking through the mountains, discovering waterfalls, and exploring the rainforest easily fill a full day of adventure. The locals are welcoming, and the island’s authentic atmosphere makes it well worth a stop.
A visit to Saint Vincent is a chance to step off the beaten path and discover a different side of the Grenadines.
Choosing a catamaran cruise in the Grenadines gives you access to islands that are unreachable by other means. Under sail, you’ll enjoy a flexible itinerary that can easily adapt to everyone’s desires.
Thanks to its shallow draft, your catamaran can reach the most beautiful white sand beaches and anchor in the best spots. Sleeping in comfort under the stars, right in front of Grenadine beaches, is truly one of the most magical ways to experience the islands.
Snorkeling in the Tobago Cays, hiking the highlands of Saint Vincent, relaxing in Petit Saint Vincent… With a professional crew including a skipper and a hostess, you’ll enjoy every stopover to the fullest — without having to worry about a thing.
Planning to explore the Grenadines under sail and looking to make the most of the experience? Our catamaran, a very comfortable and high-performance ORC57, offers all-inclusive cruises through the Grenadine islands.
This winter, we’re offering 7-day, 10-day, and 14-day sailing itineraries in the Grenadines — the perfect way to discover the region’s most stunning anchorages and destinations.