Sailing Trips to St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Carribean Sailing Trips Featuring St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Nestled between the islands of Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Grenada in the Southern Caribbean, you’ll find a tropical paradise comprised of a the main island of St. Vincent, and a chain of smaller islands known as The Grenadines. Long coveted as a charter destination, sailing trips to St. Vincent and The Grenadines feature beautiful, sailing yacht-filled harbors, private islands, and volcanic features that give rise to white sand beaches and beautiful coral reefs, yet it is one of the least “touristy” destinations in the Caribbean. That is why it’s one of Island Hoppers Sailing Vacations absolute favorite trips in our portfolio. If you are looking for a tropical paradise off the beaten bath, you should join us on one of our sailing trips to St. Vincent and The Grenadines.
“I have absolutely no desire to fit in…but I have a Desire to be in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”
What to Know about Sailing to St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Encompassing thirty-two different islands and cays, St. Vincent and the chain of the Grenadines spread across just thirty-three square miles. However, only nine of these islands are inhabited and open to the public. The islands achieved full independence on October 27, 1979. The largest island, St. Vincent is home to the nations capital, Kingstown. Sailing trips to St. Vincent and The Grenadines often take you from the “big island” across to Bequila, which is the largest island in the Grenadine chain. Some other interested facts about the island nation include:
- Kingstown is also known as “The City of Arches” due to around 400 stone architectural arches dotted around the capital.
- Originally named Youloumainby in honor of the “spirit of rainbows” by the native Caribs, it was later renamed St. Vincent by Christopher Columbus in honor of St. Vincent of Saragossa, whose feast day coincided with his landing.
- Home of an active Volcano, La Soufriere, on the main island that has reupted five times since the 18th Century, most recently being April of 2021.
- Mustique Island is a favorite destination of the rich and famous, with Mick Jagger, Bryan Adams, and Tommy Hilfiger all having residences there.
- Home to the oldest Botanical Gardens in the Western Hemisphere, which was commissioned in 1765. Started by Scottish soldier and botanist Robert Melvill established it with his own funding on just six acres of land.
Islands of St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Bequia
Bequia is a treasured stop on Island Hoppers Crewed Sailing Charters, beloved by yachtspeople for its rare blend of unspoiled beauty and vibrant island life. Well connected to St. Vincent and the wider Grenadines by air and ferry, it’s easy to explore while keeping your yacht securely anchored. A true island of sailors, Bequia’s boatbuilding traditions continue along its palm-fringed beaches, now combining heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation. Seafaring runs deep here, from global cargo captains to local fishermen navigating open waters.
The island also maintains a small, traditional whaling practice under international regulation, reflecting centuries-old skills. Yachting shapes daily life, with excellent marine services, welcoming restaurants, and unique handicrafts. Proudly multicultural, Bequians celebrate diverse roots and a strong maritime identity. Highlights include the lively harbor of Admiralty Bay, scenic Friendship Bay, and tranquil Petit Nevis.
Click Map for larger view. Courtesy of Doyle Guides.
Canouan
As one of the premier destinations offered by Island Hoppers Sailing Charters in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Canouan blends natural beauty with refined luxury. This charming island is known for its spectacular white-sand beaches, scenic walking trails, and breathtaking views, including the windward lagoon protected by an outer reef. The heart of Canouan surrounds the main anchorage, where a once-sleepy village has grown into a welcoming, prosperous community offering friendly service and support to visiting yachts.
The island’s northern section is home to the exclusive Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, developed by the Canouan Resort Development Company, offering an intimate luxury experience. To the southeast, the impressive Sandy Lane Yacht Club features a world-class marina, upscale dining, and boutique shopping. With a modern international airport and its picture-perfect thatched terminal, Canouan delivers an unforgettable blend of Caribbean authenticity and elegance.
Click Map for larger view. Courtesy of Doyle Guides.
Mayreau
As one of the highlights of Island Hoppers Sailing Charters in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Mayreau offers an authentic, laid-back Caribbean escape. This small, locally inhabited island is fringed with pristine beaches and crowned by a hilltop village with sweeping views in every direction. With just one village, Mayreau has a rich history, once entirely owned by the Eustace family before land was made available to residents.
At the summit, a picturesque Roman Catholic church—partially damaged during Hurricane Beryl—stands across from a newer church built by the Eustace family. Though the storm impacted much of the island, including Salt Whistle Bay’s beloved beach bars, rebuilding efforts are well underway.
Yachts are central to the local economy, and visitors are warmly welcomed. Enjoy scenic walks from Saline Bay to Salt Whistle Bay, explore windward beaches, and dive the protected waters of the Tobago Cays Marine Park with certified local operators.
Click Map for larger view. Courtesy of Doyle Guides.
Union Island
As a signature stop with Island Hoppers Sailing Charters in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Union Island captivates sailors with its dramatic mountain peaks rising sharply from the sea. Approaching Clifton Harbor is unforgettable, as a vibrant reef shelters the anchorage and reveals dazzling turquoise and emerald hues beneath your hull. Anchor near the reef to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, alive with marine color—while keeping an eye out for passing kitesurfers.
The main town of Clifton was significantly impacted when Hurricane Beryl made landfall in July 2024. As the southernmost island in the Grenadines, recovery has taken time, yet the spirit of Union remains strong. Yachts services and several restaurants have reopened, provisioning is reliable, and local markets are active. Ashore, scenic roads and rugged trails offer some of the best hiking and biking in the Grenadines, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views at every turn.
Click Map for larger view. Courtesy of Doyle Guides.
Tobago Cays
A highlight of Island Hoppers Sailing Charters in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Tobago Cays are a spectacular chain of uninhabited islands sheltered by Horseshoe Reef. The scene is pure Caribbean magic—white-sand beaches melting into crystal-clear water streaked with gold, turquoise, green, and deep blue. Days are ideal for snorkeling and swimming, while cloudless nights reveal brilliant, star-filled skies. Even distant squalls can be strikingly beautiful as they sweep across the horizon.
The anchorage can be exposed to strong winds, so careful navigation is essential. The preferred approach lies between Mayreau and Baleine Rocks, staying south of One Fathom Bank and following day markers. Anchorages are available near Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, and Baradel, while Petit Tabac is strictly no-anchor. Moorings exist near turtle areas and are recommended due to strong currents.
Click Map for larger view. Courtesy of Doyle Guides.
One of the Best Sailing Spots in the Carribean
There are many reasons that Island Hoppers Sailing Vacations chooses to include St. Vincent and The Grenadines in our favorite lists of Caribbean sailing vacations, but one of the biggest is that it is one of the best kept secrets across the entire region. While it features gorgeous white and black sand beaches, crystal blue waters with abundant marine life and stunning diving opportunities, and chic private islands with resorts, its relatively hard to around without the help of a good ship and crew who knows the best places to go. Many of our repeat sailors have taken this trip in addition to the other Caribbean sailing destinations we visit, becoming experts in their own rights.
