Are you planning to visit the Caribbean for your next vacation but are not sure how to organise your time there? Don’t worry! Take advantage of the Martinique Charter Itinerary and Cruise around the Grenadines with our 9 Day Itinerary. A true Jewel of the Caribbean, this archipelago of islands— between Saint Vincent and the Island of Grenada— offers breath-taking exotic landscapes, incredible seabed, and water at 27°C!
Practical Information:
Sailing in this area doesn’t require a licence, but you’ll need a nautical CV! Hence, if you lack sailing experience, we recommend renting a boat with a skipper.Catamarans reign supreme in Martinique due to their shallow draught, allowing close coastal exploration with high comfort for the crew.
As the Caribbean comprises islands belonging to different countries, you’ll need to complete customs formalities called clearance each time you visit an island. However, this is only necessary if you spend more than one night there. If you anchor for just one night, hoist a yellow flag to signify passing through without setting foot on the island.
Day 1: Arrival on the island of Martinique at the port of Le Marin
You will probably land at Martinique’s Aimé Césaire airport. After which, we suggest heading for the Port of Le Marin, where most of the boats available for charter are moored.
When you come aboard, take your supplies directly to the harbour. You’ll find everything you need for your cruise! When the boat is handed over, whether you’re sailing with or without a skipper, you’ll be given practical advice about the boat.
You can anchor and spend the night at the quayside in Le Marin harbour, and the next morning set off to discover the paradise islands that surround you.
Day 2: Departure from the port of Le Marin towards Saint Lucia
44.1NM, approximately 4 hours at a speed of 10 knots
Leave early to enjoy your first day of sailing. You’ll reach the Island of Saint Lucia in just 4 hours. Your first port of call will be Rodney Bay, a former British colony with a mountainous landscape. Pitons Bay is a must if you want to discover waterfalls, hot springs and volcanoes by the Sea.
Immerse yourself in a variety of exciting marine activities. Dive into vibrant underwater worlds with snorkelling at Anse Cochon or explore the colourful reefs at Pigeon Island National Park. For a unique experience, try scuba diving at Superman’s Flight or the Lesleen M Wreck. Don’t miss the chance to relax at Toraille Waterfall and Sulphur Springs, paddle in the calm waters of Rodney Bay, or embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition for an unforgettable day on the water.
There are various anchorages available around the Island: Anse L’Ivrogne and au Nord de bellevue are the closest ones to Pitons Bay.
Day 3: Departure from Saint Lucia towards Bequia
55.9NM, approximately 5 hours at a speed of 10 knots
To get to Bequia, you’ll spend around 5 hours sailing along the Islands of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent. You’ll come across Flying Fish and, if you are fortunate, you might even glimpse a pod of Whales!
Bequia is the first island in the Grenadines Archipelago. You can anchor opposite the capital, Port Elizabeth, in Admiralty Bay. You’ll have the chance to feast on local specialties, such as delicious grilled fish. For all the history buffs, the island also has a rich maritime history, for you to discover.
Marine activities: You will find pristine beaches perfect for snorkelling and swimming, with stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. Scuba divers can explore the famous Moonhole area, an underwater wonderland with unique rock formations and vibrant marine ecosystems. Enjoy kayaking around the calm bays or charter a boat for a fishing trip to catch some of the Caribbean’s big game fish. Don’t miss the chance to relax at Princess Margaret Beach and experience the local culture and cuisine in Port Elizabeth.
Day 4: Departure from Bequia towards Mayreau
24.3 NM, approximately 3 hours at a speed of 10 knots
After a beautiful day of sailing, you will arrive at Salt Whistle Bay where you should find various anchorages. You will be rewarded by a magnificent white-sand beach , turquoise water and coconut palms just like in the magazines! You can also sail towards the Mayreau hot springs for a rejuvenating dip.The village is a 15-minute walk away and offers a splendid view of your next destination: Tobago Cays. You can find various local vendors in the village to buy the fresh catch that you can cook in your fully equipped kitchen in the catamaran.
Marine Activities: Mayreau offers a tranquil escape with its secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and paddleboarding. Visit Salt Whistle Bay for a serene kayaking experience or explore the underwater beauty of Mayreau Gardens, a popular dive site
Day 5: Mayreau to Tobago Cays
2 NM, approximately 25 minutes at a speed of 10 knots
Even though it’s a small distance, we suggest you sail towards the Tobago Cays as the archipelago of 5 small islands offers an abundance of marine life activities: you can swim with turtles and snorkel. Discover the coral reef and abundant marine wildlife. This is one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Grenadines. Spend the night in this dreamy spot, anchored behind the barrier reef. You’ll even be able to sample some lobster and fresh fruit offered by the boat-boys who come to meet you.
Marine Activities: Take a guided sailing tour around the cays, stopping at different islands for beachcombing and wildlife spotting. Enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm, turquoise waters, or simply relax on the pristine sandy beaches.
Day 6: Tobago Cays to Union
5 NM, approximately 1 hour at a speed of 10 knots
Nicknamed the Tahiti of the West Indies, Union’s seabed is splendid. The island offers amazing activities such as paddleboarding, kiteboarding and snorkelling. You can also enjoy a hike towards Mount Taboi and discover Chatham Bay. At the end of the day, you can indulge in an evening of local steel band or reggae music! A guaranteed change of scenery awaits.You can anchor at Clifton Bay.
Marine Activities: Union Island is known for its adventurous marine activities, including kitesurfing and windsurfing in the breezy Clifton Harbor. Snorkelers and divers will love exploring the underwater wonders of the Horseshoe Reef and Chatham Bay. Take a boat tour to nearby Palm Island or Mopion Island for a private beach experience. For a unique adventure, try spearfishing or join a fishing charter to catch the abundant local fish species.
Day 7: Union to Saint Vincent
41 NM, approximately 4 hours at a speed of 10 knots
After a full day’s sailing along Canouan Island, we suggest you make your way to the Wallilabou Bay anchorage. Fun fact: Some of the scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed on this Island! That’s enough to make you feel like Jack Sparrow for the day! The Island also offers various other activities for you to enjoy that range from waterfall tours to volcanic attractions and botanical garden walks.
Marine Activities: Saint Vincent offers a variety of marine activities, from snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Indian Bay to scuba diving at the Bat Cave, known for its dramatic underwater cliffs and diverse marine life. Sail along the scenic coastlines, stopping at remote beaches and hidden coves. Kayak through the lush mangroves of the Owia Salt Pond or take a boat tour to the enchanting Falls of Baleine. For a memorable experience, join a whale-watching excursion to spot humpback whales and dolphins.
Day 8: Depart Saint Vincent for Marigot Bay (Saint Lucia)
45.6 NM, approximately 4 hours at a speed of 10 knots
After a night in Saint Vincent, weigh anchor to sail along the beautiful island of Saint Lucia to reach Marigot Bay for a new anchorage. Full of surprising landscapes, mangroves and green hills, this is the ideal place to spend your last night on board.
Marine Activities: Marigot Bay in Saint Lucia is a picturesque spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with its calm, sheltered waters and stunning scenery. Snorkel around the bay to discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Take a sailing tour to explore the nearby Anse La Raye and Soufrière, where you can dive at the famous Anse Chastanet reef. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach, followed by a visit to the local restaurants and bars for some delicious Caribbean cuisine and live music.
Day 9: Saint Lucia – Port du Marin
34 NM, approximately 3 hours at a speed of 10 knots
You have reached your last day of sailing. Head for Martinique and Port du Marin. On arrival, allow time to refuel and check out. We suggest that you give yourself enough time between your arrival to the port and departure to the airport. On the other hand, if you are staying in Martinique for the night, we suggest you make the most of it and visit a Rum Distillery.
The Martinique Charter Itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure through the breath-taking Grenadines archipelago. With its stunning landscapes, rich marine life, and diverse activities, this 9-day itinerary promises an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice, this journey provides ample opportunities to explore the beauty and culture of the Caribbean while creating lasting memories. Embark on this voyage and discover the true essence of paradise amidst the azure waters and golden sands of the Grenadines. Interested in knowing more about other sailing destinations? We suggest you read our blogs on Tropical Coastal Gems and Top Five Winter Sailing Destinations.
