A Guide To Sailing In And Around Grenada

With tropical rainforests, white-sand beaches, and protected anchorages south of the hurricane belt, it’s easy to see why Grenada is a gem of the Caribbean sailing scene. Drop anchor and explore the delights of the Spice Isle – from secret waterfalls and turtle spotting to visiting a chocolate museum.

Soak up Grenada’s sights on a day-trip yacht charter. Or, spend longer discovering the Ocean Atlas by joining us on a Sailing Trip in the Bahamas or British Virgin Islands.

What to see and do

Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of this coastline. Little blue herons peek out from between the vibrant red prop roots of mangroves, while sea turtles pop their heads above the shallow turquoise water for a look around. Conservation Kayak gives unforgettable guided kayak tours that also teach about mangrove conservation and ecology; they are based out of a 120-year-old Swedish lighthouse ship at Le Phare Bleu Marina.

If you’re more interested in being under the water, Grenada is a great place to snorkel. The Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park (a world first) is a must-visit. The island is also a prime location to learn to scuba dive – head to Grand Anse for your pick of the best dive schools.

With lush hillsides, sulphur-rich hot springs, and towering waterfalls, Grenada’s interior is best seen on foot. Hop in a taxi and hike 45-minutes to the Seven Sisters waterfalls; it weaves through nutmeg and cocoa trees, finishing at a series of cascading falls and cool, tropical pools.

Best mooring locations

Port Louis Marina in the capital of St George’s is a large, full-service marina with 277 berths for yachts up to 90m (300ft). Lounge poolside, browse the marina shops, or mingle with the superyacht crew and guests at one of the two marina restaurants. For dock space, call on VHF: 14, or by phone at +1-473-435-7432.

Port Louis Marina in the lagoon at St George’s harbour

Moorings are available just outside the bay, but if you’re looking for a more secluded spot, it’s worth the short sail north to the Molinière-Beauséjour Marine Protected Area. Pick up a mooring in Dragon Bay or Flamingo Bay for excellent snorkelling right off the back of the boat.

Where to eat and drink

You can’t visit Grenada without stopping by the House of Chocolate in St George’s. It’s a museum, cafe and boutique all in one. Learn about cocoa production while sipping a hot chocolate or nibbling on a mouth-watering brownie.

For a luxurious fine dining experience, try Rhodes Restaurant at the Calabash Hotel in Prickly Bay. This award-winning spot is open for dinner only – try the buttered mahi-mahi with passionfruit vinaigrette. Note: dress smart – no flips flops allowed.

The award-winning Rhodes Restaurant at the Calabash Hotel

For local flavour, Patrick’s Local Homestyle Restaurant on The Lagoon near Port Louis Marina is the place to go. It’s a tapas-style joint, so get ready to order a lot – the creole fish and curry chicken are particularly good. You’re guaranteed to leave bursting at the seams.

Where to get groceries

Just down the road from Port Louis Marina is the Foodland grocery store. It has a dinghy dock right on The Lagoon and everything you need for full provisioning. For a quick meal, check out the deli counter at the back, which sells good rotis and other ready-made local meals.

For prime cuts of meat, specialty items and international wines, cheeses, and more, check out Le Boucher at the Prickly Bay Marina.

Key annual sailing events

Grenada Sailing Week attracts over 350 sailors from 20 countries every February. With a full schedule of events, races, and parties, you can count on a full week of entertainment across the island. A local favourite is the Workboat Regatta, when small wooden sailboats, traditionally used for fishing, launch and finish right on the sand of Grand Anse beach.

The Workboat Regatta is a local favourite in the Grenadan sailing calendar

Climate and weather

Temperatures in Grenada range from 23C (73F) to 32C (90F), with an average humidity of around 75 percent, peaking in November. Although Grenada is south of the hurricane belt, tropical storms sometimes blow through during the rainy season (June to December). “Christmas winds” in December and January can cool things down, especially in the evenings, but the water temperature stays between 27C (81F) and 29C (84F) year-round.

How to get there

Grenada has one major airport, the Maurice Bishop International Airport, named for the former Prime Minister. It is located on the southwestern tip of the island at Point Saline, a short 10- to 15-minute drive from most major marinas and anchorages. The airport hosts flights from eight major airlines, many of which fly direct from the US, Canada, and Europe.

Maurice Bishop International Airport is the entry point for most visitors to Grenada

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