Martinique Cruising Itinerary
A Martinique yacht charter vacation begins upon arrival to the modern La Marina du Marin, which features a wide range of services and amenities. La Marina du Marin has everything you need including a supermarket, bakery, laundromat, post office, tobacco shop, Currency Exchange office, medical center, car rental, tourism office, ferry service to Saint Lucia, seven shops, eight restaurants, and two bar lounges. Once you’ve provisioned your yacht and completed the chart briefing, you’re ready to push off from this premier eco-friendly harbor and start exploring one of the Caribbean’s most desirable cruising destinations.
Grand Anse D’Arlet
One of Martinique’s most beloved beachside towns, Grand Anse d’Arlet offers an array of activities and attractions for travelers of all ages. Pick a spot and kick back on the half-mile strip of golden sand where the protected clear-blue waters provide an idyllic location for swimming. A handful of hotels and restaurants line the coast and there’s a local art gallery about a half-mile into town, but ultimately the beach reigns supreme in Grand Anse’ d’Arlet.
Mooring
Mooring buoys are available for a small daily fee. Anchoring, however, is strictly prohibited in the waters of Grand Anse d’Arlet.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing
Facilities
There is a small marina about 3 miles northeast on Pointe du Bout. Here, you can explore a variety of shops, bars and restaurants within walking distance.
Fort de France
As the largest city in the French Antilles and the centrally-located capital of Martinique, Fort de France can be conveniently accessed from almost anywhere on the island. Filled with rich history and 19th century architecture, Fort de France has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike, including a full-range of shops, dining experiences, and sights to explore. Stroll the iconic vegetable market established in 1901, tour the luminous Saint-Louis Cathedral, visit the grand Fort Saint-Louis, or wander through one of the local museums.
Mooring
Moorings available
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Hiking
Facilities
Saint Pierre
Enjoy a short northbound cruise to St. Pierre, where you can visit the iconic volcano site of the former “Paris of the Caribbean” and learn about its unique history at the affiliated museum. There is also a guided train tour available in St. Pierre, which highlights the significance of this once-named cultural capital of Martinique, prior to the volcanic eruption. And for the animal lovers in your crew, plan a visit to the Saint-Pierre zoo.
Mooring
Moorings available
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Sightseeing
Facilities
Anse du Ceron
Sitting pretty on the northernmost part of west coast Martinique is Anse du Ceron. Sink your toes into one of the island’s most popular beaches, where you can indulge in picture-perfect peace and quiet while sunbathing on the soft sand, swimming, or snorkeling in the serene Caribbean waters. Surrounding the gentle sloping crescent of Anse du Ceron, you can sometimes encounter northern swells large enough for surfing. The adventure-seekers in your group can swim out to Ilet la Perle, or Pearl Island, and jump off the rugged rock formations.
Mooring
Moorings available.
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Snorkeling, Surfing
Facilities
Marina Pointe du Bout
Pointe du Bout is a petite man-made beach that is home to a number of marinas and resorts. There are picnic tables, umbrellas, lounge chairs, concession stands, and public restrooms available on the beach, which is also lined with an assortment of shops and charming restaurants. Just about a mile and a half away, the town of Trois Ilets is the place to be when the sun goes down. Visit Casino Trois-Ilets and challenge yourself with classic games like roulette, stud poker and craps. Designed in the style of New Orleans’ famed French Quarter, the Casino offers everything from live music to dancing, refined cuisine and more. Pointe du Bout is a busy port so make your way to Anse Noire in the evening and drop anchor for the night in this lovely harbor located on the southwest end of Martinique.
Mooring
Moorings available
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Snorkeling
Facilities
Sainte-Anne
A popular access point into the island of Martinique, Sainte-Anne is a bustling community of postcard-worthy beaches and a bounty of things to do during a yacht charter vacation. Cruise to the nearby anchorage and take the dinghy to La Pointe Marin, a breathtaking blue-water beach with dozens of bars, restaurants and shops nearby. Snorkel and swim among the vibrant reefs near the shore, or venture inland and explore the small-town streets lined with painted wooden houses and one-of-a-kind shops.
Mooring
There’s an attractive anchorage just across from Sainte-Anne, six nautical miles from Le Marin. The holding is good. Anchor across from the small town and take the dinghy across to the dock.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing, Hiking
Facilities
Cul-de-Sace du Marin Marina in nearby Marin offers a variety of stores, a bakery, restaurants and car rental service.
Le Marin
Head back to The Moorings base at La Marina du Marin, which is not far from Saint-Anne, so you can enjoy one last leisurely breakfast on board. Depending on your travel plans, you may wish to extend your Martinique vacation by spending some additional time in Le Marin soaking up the local French-Caribbean culture.
Mooring
Moorings available.
Things to do
Dining, Shopping, Swimming, Sunbathing
Facilities
Martinique to Rodney Bay
From Martinique head south to another jewel of the Windward Islands, the island of St. Lucia. Situated on the north side of St. Lucia, Rodney Bay offers easy access to restaurants, shops and island attractions. The full-service marina is surrounded by protected waters and brings visitors into a scenic area of the island with nearby beaches, such as Reduit Beach. Explore the scenic Pigeon Island National Park surrounded by pristine waters or spend the evening at one of the many restaurants and bars for a sundowner and an unforgettable island sunset.
Mooring
Berths for sailboats and superyachts up to 280 feet with drafts of up to 15 feet.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.
Things to do
Rodney Bay is one of St. Lucia’s most favored areas for yachters seeking full marina amenities amongst a beautiful setting. Explore the bay with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and accommodations as well as its close location to some of the area’s quieter spots. Relax, swim or try a watersport at Reduit Beach and stroll along the national park just north of your anchorage to experience some of the island’s best natural features.
Facilities
Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.
Soufriere
After chart briefing and orientation, clear customs out of St. Lucia and depart for an easy, long reach along the coast to Soufriere, a picturesque town that shares its name with a nearby dormant volcano (the only one in the world where it’s possible to drive a car inside!). Creole buildings with gingerbread trim and balconies overlooking the lanes and streets create an Old World ambience. Enjoy window shopping and dining out. Both scenic and accommodating to boaters, the waters around the Pitons are part of the Soufriére Marine Management Area and a highlight of yachting in the Pitons. The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton (elevation 2,460 ft.) and Gros Piton (elevation 2,619 ft.) are magic to the eyes of cruisers heading south, marking a picturesque entry into the charm of the Eastern Caribbean.
Mooring
Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations. A boat boy can help at Hummingbird Beach (to tie your stern to a palm tree while you anchor), or pick up a mooring ball between the majestic Pitons.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are plentiful.
Things to do
There are many restaurants along the shore and in town. The most elegant is the Hummingbird Restaurant at Hummingbird Resort. Sulfur Springs, the volcanically heated waters of Diamond Baths and its surrounding tropical gardens, guided hiking tours in the rain forest near Morne Fond St. Jacques (stop by the Soufriére Marine Management office in town for more information), Maho waterfalls, and the Jalousie Plantation (part of Sunswept Resorts) are among the attractions in and around Soufriére.
Facilities
Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.
St. Vincent
Set sail early to reach Petit Bayhaut, in St. Vincent, for lunch and snorkeling. Pick up a mooring ball at Young Island Cut for the night. Yachting in Young Island Cut waters brings you to the southern end of St. Vincent, which has a variety of good harbors, including the one at Young Island Cut. Easy to enter from the west, you’re ideally situated to enjoy a nice view of Young Island to the south and the pleasure of going ashore to sample the cuisine at the restaurants lining the St. Vincent shore and to barhop to your heart’s content into the wee hours of the night. The harbor of Blue Lagoon, also popular among charterers, is within walking distance.
Mooring
Moorings are available and highly recommended. Swift currents flow through the cut and make anchoring a challenge. You can anchor in the northern or western parts of the cut, but you’ll need to rig a bow and stern anchor to keep you from swinging into other boats when the tide changes.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is plentiful.
Things to do
A stroll west to adjacent Indian Bay Beach brings you to a fine example of one of St. Vincent’s elegant and traditional hotels, the Grand View Beach Hotel, with exquisite views from its hilltop perch. On the beach is the Grand View Grill, a casual restaurant and bar run by a local artist, who has a little art gallery on the premises. In the hotel itself is Wilkie’s, which bills itself as having “the best fine dining on St. Vincent.” The hotel’s squash and tennis courts, as well as the gym, are open to cruisers. Scuba dive tour businesses abound. For scuba aficionados, this is reason enough to visit Young Island Cut and the surrounding area. Snorkeling is superb in Petit Bayhut, and is easily accessible by dinghy along the coast of Buccament Bay.
Facilities
Provisions, garbage disposal, laundry services, propane, car rentals, taxicabs, guided tours, and Internet access (Wi-Fi too) are available.
Bequia
A short sail will take you to anchor in Admiralty Bay, Bequia’s main harbor on the island’s west side and the location of the only settlement, Port Elizabeth. When cruising in Admiralty Bay you’ll see at the head of the harbor little hotels, a variety of shops, boutiques, food markets, a bookstore, as well as a number of bars and restaurants, many with a nautical theme in keeping with the fishing and boatbuilding tradition that’s alive and well on the island. Artisans build small and large vessels from wood using traditional methods. On Bequia’s south side you can find the gorgeous Friendship Bay with its lovely white sand beach and anchorage that’s well protected from swells.
Mooring
Moorings are available. Anchoring space is plentiful, and the holding is generally good in the more popular locations. In other parts of the bay, holding is less desirable, and northerly swells can make for an uncomfortable night. In addition to Admiralty Bay, there’s a snug and picturesque anchorage at Friendship Bay, well worth a visit.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy dockage is available.
Things to do
There are literally dozens of bars and restaurants, too many to list. However, a few options include the Frangipani Hotel for a romantic dinner featuring Caribbean fare, Auberge des Grenadines for sumptuous lobster and other seafood, and the Tradewinds Yacht Club restaurant, Devil’s Table, which has good food for all budgets and a charming island ambience. For charterers seeking a bit of pampering, get a massage at Jack’s Spa & Beauty Salon, or play a game of tennis at one of several courts. Hiking is popular on Bequia, along the beaches and on the trails in the hills of Mount Pleasant. Visit the Bequia Maritime Museum, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, or the home of one of Bequia’s most famous harpooners, Athneal Ollivierre, where there’s a small whaling museum. Bequia is both beautiful and filled with attractions. Consider seeing all of the sights with a jeep, scooter or bike rental from Handy Andy. It’s a very fun island to drive around.
Facilities
Fuel, water, ice, showers, laundry facilities, garbage disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (Wi-Fi too!), and taxicabs are available.
Mustique
Sail to the tiny island of Petit Nevis for lunch and more beach time. On to Mustique, the island of royals, the rich and the famous, you can overnight in Britannia Bay. A spine of hills 400 to 600 feet in elevation runs down the midsection of Mustique, providing sweeping views of the sea that make an ideal setting for the palatial estates, about 90 in all, dotting the lush, green slopes extending to the edges of pristine white-sand beaches. Celebrities, business magnates, and royalty have made the island a cherished retreat. Mustique yachting ushers you into this exclusive world.
Mooring
Moorings are available in Britannia Bay. Anchoring is prohibited without permission from the Mustique Company, which supervises local waters.
Dinghy dockage: A dinghy dock is available.
Things to do
Hike the trails and quiet roads of the island, or take a tour via taxicab or rented mountain bike or motorbike. Enjoy a swim at the beautiful beach at Macaroni Bay. Horseback riding is also an option. Or snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal clear waters.
Facilities
Provisions, garbage disposal, Internet access at the library, and taxicab service are available.
Tobago Cays
The five deserted isles of the Tobago Cays are the jewels of Tobago Cays Marine Park, which comprises the surrounding waters as well. Horseshoe Reef nearly encircles the four main cays, and beyond its protective embrace is Petit Tabac. One of the premier snorkeling and diving locales within the Grenadines, and the entire Windward chain, for that matter, it’s no surprise that Tobago Cays cruising is a highlight of exploring these waters.
Mooring
Moorings are available for a fee; plans for adding some have been in the works. Charterers may anchor in one of several locations. The anchorages north and south of Baradel are popular.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy docks are available, but you can beach your dinghy to take a swim on one of the cays.
Things to do
Snorkel, swim, sunbathe, and relax in unspoiled beauty. Observe the sea turtles at the sea turtle-watching area on Baradel. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving (diving on your own isn’t permitted). Line up a vendor for a beach barbecue (beach barbecues are regulated to protect the park).
Facilities
Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and lobsters.
Chatham Bay
After a nice sail from the Tobago Cays enjoy the afternoon and evening at Chatham Bay, tucked in the embrace of the island behind a prominent headland. This anchorage is located in a pristine valley with no development on the hillsides. Along the beach, there are a few beach bars and consider stopping by Sekki’s Sunset Beach Bar, featured on the Travel Channel’s No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. A beach extends along much of the shore, an ideal site to relax, swim, or snorkel along the reef located on both sides of the bay.
Mooring
No moorings are available. The best anchorage is in the northeast portion of the bay. Holding is good.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available. Beach the dinghy just about anywhere.
Things to do
The snorkeling off rocky Rapid Point is excellent.
Facilities
No facilities for yachts are available.
Petit Martinique
Sail over to Petit Martinique, Grenada’s northern most island. It’s a great place to come ashore to replenish water, alcohol, ice and more. Many of the residents here live by boatbuilding, and Petit Martinique is famous for its plywood speedboats. For great snorkeling and exploring, Fota and Petite Dominique are within range of a seaworthy dinghy. Be sure to stop at Mopion for lunch on your way! Mopion is surrounded by amazing reefs to dive, and is known as the world’s smallest island with a structure.
Mooring
When anchoring in Petit Martinique, be aware that the holding is in soft mud and not always easy. Keep then engine slowly in forward, assuring time for the anchor to sink into the mud before putting any strain on it.
Dinghy dockage: You may tie your dinghy up to the government dock, or the wooden gas dock.
Things to do
Petit Martinique is a unique island with local charm. Spot to watch the local boatbuilding culture, enjoy a picnic on the white sands of Mopion and snorkel the neighboring reefs.
Facilities
Matthew’s in Matthew’s Shopping Center is a great place to top off on fuel and select provisioning items, such as water, beer, wine, liquor and more. Adjacent, Matthew’s daughter owns an apparel and jewelry store, and there’s a gift shop too. There are several pleasant restaurants for dining ashore.
Union Island
Complete customs and immigration clearance out of Grenada; then enjoy a nice sail across to Union Island, which is part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Arrive in Clifton Harbour, Union Island to clear into St. Vincent. Clifton is the island’s main town and a bustling small port that’s full of color where you’re welcomed by warm, friendly islanders. The roads and trails offer some of the best hiking and biking in The Grenadines. Be sure to get a drink on Happy Island, an island made entirely from conch shells.
Mooring
Moorings balls are available in Union Island; however, we do not recommend using them.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are available at the Anchorage, where water is also available.
Things to do
Union has neat boutiques with clothing, local original art, hand-made jewelry and gifts. It’s also becoming well known for its entertainment and fun restaurants. Union Island offers superb hiking and biking – great view points include Fort Hill, Ashton, Mt. Campbell and Mt. Taboi. Considering hiring a local guide, who is familiar with the local trails and can show you all of the best view points.
Facilities
Anchorage Yacht Club, Aquarium and Captain Gourmet offer free Wi-Fi. Garbage may be left in the dumpster on the fishing docks. Ice is available at Anchorage Yacht Club, Bougainville, Grand Union, Lambi and many rum shops.
Carriacou
Sailing into Carriacou, stop into the town of Hillsborough. Built on a wonderful beach, the town offers charming seaside dining and just a short walk from the docks, the museum features an eclectic collection of artwork and historical pieces. If you’re seeking a taste of the local culture, be sure to stop into one of the many rum shops or watch the locals build boats by traditionally by eye on the beach. Before heading for Tyrrel Bay stop at Sandy Island for lunch, great snorkeling spot, sunbathing, beach combing and to chill out. Over-night around the corner at Tyrell Bay, and enjoy a drink at the Tipsy Turtle in Tyrell Bay.
Mooring
Tyrrel Bay is deep and well protected, making it an ideal place to hang-out for the evening. Holding is good if you can find clear sand, but rather poor in the weedy areas.
Dinghy dockage: Leave your dinghy at Tyrrel Bay Yacht Haul Out, the yacht Club, the main dock or pull it up on the beach. The Tipsy turtle also has a dinghy dock.
Things to do
Sunbathe and enjoy excellent snorkel conditions around Sandy Island; then swing into Hillsborough for seaside dining, a taste of locally prepared rum and to experience the island’s unique culture. Tyrrel Bay is home to a mangrove swamp, which is protected by the fisheries department and well-worth a visit by dinghy. Coming ashore from Tyrell Bay, there’s plenty of hiking possibilities, including a walk up Chapeau Carre.
Facilities
Hillsborough is Carriacou’s only port of clearance, and the taxi square is located in front of customs. Facing the main dock, the tourist office provides maps and other helpful information. By Tyrell Bay, businesses and restaurants line the waterfront. Oysters, lobster when in season, fruits, jewelry and even calypso music can be purchased from local boat-carried businessmen. Free bay-wide Wi-Fi, funded by local businesses, is based in Tyrrel Bay Yacht Haul Out. If you need to use a computer, check out Shorebase Services, who were planning internet.
Grenada
Sailing south on to Grenada, you will pass the underwater volcano of Kick-Em Jenny; enjoy a nice sail along the coast of Grenada passing Dragon’s Bay, the historic city of St. George’s and the world renowned Grand Anse Beach. Eat lunch on the way and stop in at Customs and Immigration on Prickly Bay, unless you went ashore in Hillsborough, Carriacou to clear customs. Spend your last evening anchored in Prickly Bay, which is known as one of the best anchorages amongst cruisers. Enjoy live steel drum band music from the yacht club’s bar. Consider organizing a land tour into the rain forest and cool off in one of Grenada’s many waterfalls.
Mooring
Anchoring is not permitted within 600 feet of the beach. This area is designated for swimmers, and marked by small buoys.
Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks are available both at Prickly Bay Marina and Spice Island Boatyard (by De Big Fish).
Things to do
Enjoy relaxing, swimming and sunbathing on the palm-fringed beach of Prickly Bay. As a pleasant and more affluent area, you will find a diverse selection of dining options, tennis courts are available the hotels, and a golf club at Golflands. To reach True Blue, dinghy to Spice Island Boatyard and take a brisk walk down the road.
Facilities
Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, and car rentals are available. Internet and computers are available at Boats and Harbors, located at Prickly Bay Marina.
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