The Pitons

The twin conical peaks of Petit Piton and Gros Piton are among the most noteworthy landmarks in St. Lucia. Seeing the Pitons rise dramatically from the sea is one of the most unforgettable sights in the Caribbean, especially when arriving by yacht.

Rising more than 2,000 feet from the sea, Gros Piton and the smaller Petit Piton have been named a World Heritage Site and are stunning sites when arriving by sea. The two volcanic plugs have challenged hikers to climb the lush slopes that look out over the breathtaking sea. 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 St. Lucia.

The day’s sailing

1 Hr Sailing time
10 Nautical miles

Mooring

Moorings are available at numerous locations. Anchoring is permitted only in certain locations.

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 are not to be missed.
• For those seeking an active vacation, 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.

Spotlight On…

Soufriére

Just north of Petit Piton is the small town of Soufriére, which shares the name of the nearby dormant volcano, the only one in the world where you can drive a car right inside!

Creole buildings with gingerbread trim give the place an Old-World ambience. Enjoy window-shopping and dining out in a variety of shops and restaurants here. You can also dine along the beach, swim among the reef or take in the view from the top of Gros Piton. 

A must-visit spot in Soufriere is the sensational Toraille Waterfall, with one TripAdvisor review saying: “This place is so refreshing, the vegetation and garden set up is beautiful. The falls in itself is a stress relief, the water falling on your body and the swim in the pool of water is so relaxing, one cannot ask for a better atmosphere.”

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, and Internet access are available.

Bequia

Day 3 of your St Lucia sailing itinerary slows the pace and offers a wholesome opportunity to immerse yourself in the quaint local culture of 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.

The day’s sailing

2-3 Hr Sailing time
10 Nautical miles

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 also available.

Things to do

• There are dozens of bars and restaurants, with highlights including 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.

Spotlight On…

Friendship Bay

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.

If you’re looking to relax, unwind and switch off from reality while you soak up the golden sun, Friendship Bay offers a slice of paradise. According to one TripAdvisor review, Friendship Bay is the ultimate place to go if you want peace, quiet and tranquility: “Unspoiled and clean escape from life! Wonderful, peaceful and natural beach with lovely turquoise water. Light surf to flat calm. Great swimming and sun-bathing. No vendors and no one to bother you. Even sea turtles swim at dusk at one end of the bay! Heaven on earth!”

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, showers, laundry facilities, garbage disposal, provisions, propane, Internet access (Wi-Fi too!), and taxicabs are available.

Tobago Cays

Day 5 of your St Lucia to Grenada sailing itinerary is a real highlight. Here, you’ll explore the five deserted isles of the Tobago Cays, which are the jewels of Tobago Cays Marine Park, comprising the surrounding waters as well. Horseshoe Reef almost encircles the four main cays, and beyond its protective embrace is Petit Tabac. As one of the premier snorkeling and diving locations within the Grenadines, and the entire Windward chain, it’s no surprise that Tobago Cays cruising is the main attraction when exploring these waters.

The day’s sailing

1 Hr Sailing time
5 Nautical miles

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.No dinghy docks are available, but you can beach your dinghy to take a swim on one of the cays.

Things to do

• Marvel at the sight of beautiful green sea turtles in their natural habitat as a result of ongoing conservation efforts.
• If you’re a movie fan, sail across to Petit Tabac, one of the iconic filming locations for Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl.
• Enjoy a hike around one of the many trails on Petit Bateau and Petit Rameau, taking in the stunning views of the Tobago Cays.

Spotlight On…

Tobago Cays Marine Park

The waters of the Tobago Cays Marine Park, encompassing Mayreau Island and the five isles comprising Tobago, are known as one of the premier snorkeling and scuba diving locales in the Grenadines. Visibility is excellent (typically 100 to 120 feet) for viewing the sea life of the extensive reefs in the area. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving (diving on your own isn’t permitted).

Completely undeveloped and uninhabited, the park is a place where time seems to have stopped. Take your time observing the sea turtles at the sea turtle-watching area on Baradel, or line up a vendor for a beach barbecue. In the evening, recline for some stargazing as the yacht swings with the warm breeze that is balm for the soul.

Facilities

Local vendors frequently visit the anchorages, offering essentials such as ice, fresh bread, and seafood, but it’s a good idea to stock up ahead of time.

Salt Whistle Bay, Mayreau, Tobago Cays

Salt Whistle Bay, located at the northern tip of Mayreau, is an ideal starting point for reaching the nearby Tobago Cays Marine Park, a playground for anyone who loves snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming. Pleasant anchorage can be found in the bay where no park fees are charged. The bay is set among an arching white-sand beach and is a favored spot for swimming among the balmy trade winds. 

The Tobago Cays are known for their pristine waters with excellent visibility where snorkeling and diving are a popular way to experience the colorful underwater life. Fill your senses with the undisturbed surroundings of land and sea by day and the clear sky filled with stars at night.

Mooring

Salt Whistle Bay does not offer moorings but a dinghy dock is available. The Tobago Cays offer moorings for a fee and cruisers may anchor in one of several locations with the most popular anchorages north and south of Baradel. 

Dinghy dockage: Available in Salt Whistle Bay. No dinghy docks available in the Tobago Cays, but dinghies can be beached to take a swim from one of the cays.

Things to do

• Both locations offer pristine locations for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. The Tobago Cays are more popular among divers due to the excellent visibility. 
• Unwind with a cocktail at one of Salt Whistle Bay’s beachfront bars, known for their easygoing charm and stunning views. 
• Rediscover nature at the Tobago Cays where sea turtles can be watched on Baradel or line up a vendor for an enjoyable beach barbecue.
• For more ideas on the best things to do in St. Lucia, ask your experienced crew members for their top local attractions, restaurants and anchorages.

Spotlight On…

Tobago Cays Marine Park

The waters of the Tobago Cays Marine Park, encompassing Mayreau Island and the five isles comprising Tobago, are known as one of the premier snorkeling and scuba diving locales in the Grenadines. Visibility is excellent (typically 100 to 120 feet) for viewing the sea life of the extensive reefs in the area. Contact one of the local dive companies to go scuba diving (diving on your own isn’t permitted).

Completely undeveloped and uninhabited, the park is a place where time seems to have stopped. Take your time observing the sea turtles at the sea turtle-watching area on Baradel and, in the evening, recline for some stargazing as the yacht swings with the warm breeze that is balm for the soul.

Facilities

Entrepreneurial owners of small local boats often ply the anchorages, selling sundry items like ice, bread, and lobsters at the Tobago Cays.

Mustique

Sail to the tiny island of Petit Nevis for lunch and more beach time. Then move on to Mustique, the island of royals, the rich and the famous, where you can stay 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.

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.
• Set your intentions for the day by taking part in some sunrise yoga, with exceptional views.

Spotlight On…

Mustisque’s breathtaking beaches

From secluded coves to snorkeling hotspots, Mustique is renowned for its beautiful beaches. Walk hand-in-hand on the pristine sands of Lagoon Bay, explore underwater wonders and spot vibrant marine life at Britannia Bay, and stop by for a beachfront picnic at Macaroni Bay.

For families, Lagoon Bay offers a fun-filled beach experience, with one TripAdvisor review saying: “This beach is fantastic – especially for those with young families. The water is calm and shallow, and often quite warm. You can swim out to snorkel, and there is natural shade from palm trees. Top place to relax and often feels deserted!”

Facilities

Provisions, garbage disposal, Internet access at the library, and taxicab service are available.

Kearton's Bay, St. Vincent

Spend the penultimate day of your charter exploring the western shores of St. Vincent, then drop anchor for the night in Kearton’s Bay. This anchorage is a secret little hideaway and home to top-rated Rock Side Cafe; a picture-perfect and pleasantly uncrowded backdrop. 

Mooring

Moorings balls available. (Free if you dine Rock Side Café)

Things to do

• Soak up the sun on the black sand of one of the best beaches near St Lucia.
• Try your hand at watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Swim to Shark Hole Cave.

Facilities

Since this is a more populated settlement, you’ll be able to stock up on any necessities like fuel, water, ice, groceries, etc. 

Marigot Bay

Tucked away below the verdant hilltops on the west side of St. Lucia, Marigot Bay is a secluded anchorage for boaters seeking a relaxing, quiet harbor during their journey along the coast. One of the most scenic bays in the Caribbean, the penultimate day of your 7-day St Lucia and Martinique sailing itinerary will be full of beautiful greenery and excellent restaurants.

Charming homes overlook the seas in a colorful collage of white and red-topped roofs. Waterfront restaurants offer an array of French, Creole, and Caribbean cuisine with the added benefit of jaw-dropping sunset views.

The day’s sailing

7 Hr Sailing time
37 Nautical miles

Mooring

Anchor outside the bay for fresh air or sail right inside the bay pick up a mooring buoy from the Marigot bay Marina or head to the docks to spend the night. They can be reached at Vhf 12 or 16. It would be a good idea to call first before picking up any moorings as they will record your vessel into their system which gives you access to the hotel facilities including the pools, bars, and restaurants.

Dinghy dockage: Dinghy docks available.

Things to do

• Take a sightseeing tour of the surrounding land and explore this beautiful mangrove-lined bay, famous as a hurricane harbor. 
• The nearby Marina Village features a variety of unique stores and boutiques perfect for shopping.
• As you enter the harbor Marigot Beach Club and Dive Resort will be located on your left, where you can choose one of their dining options. Whether you stop in for just a drink or for a three-course gourmet dinner, they never disappoint. You can also enjoy delicious food and drink at restaurants such as Chauteau Mygo and JJ’s restaurant. 

Spotlight On…

St Lucia Marine Park

Head to St. Lucia’s marine park for excellent diving and views of the numerous shallow reefs near the shore. If you love scuba diving and snorkeling, you can enjoy incredible snorkeling near the base of the iconic Pitons, at Anse de Pitons. 

This is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in St Lucia, loved by advanced and novice snorkelers alike. According to one TripAdvisor review: “We took a wonderful excursion to snorkel between the Pitons. This trip was amazing and the fish were just beautiful. I would recommend this excursion to everyone traveling to St Lucia. The water was clear and with the sun shining through the water the colors of the fish were beautiful. A must see!”

Learn more about the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean.

Facilities

Fuel, water, ice, provisions, taxicabs, car rentals, ATM, and Internet access are available.