Welcome to The Spice Island – or rather islands as Grenada is a country made up of the eponymous main island and a variety of six smaller surrounding islands at the southernmost end of the Grenadines. If you’re already starting to imagine hidden coves, sandy bays, translucent waters and beach bars where the beers are frosted and the music is chill then hold that thought because you’re right on the money.
Grenada’s fame and fortune was built upon the world’s craving for nutmeg and plantations still line the volcanic soils on hillsides which rise to over 800 metres. It has a rich colonial history and the mixed French, English and West Indian architecture makes the capital of St. George’s one of the prettiest towns in the Caribbean.
We sail out of True Blue Bay Marina just off the enormous sandy expanse of Grand Anse, rated one of the finest beaches in the world. It’s just a short hop from the main international airport, which is served by direct flights from the UK.
But the real beauty of Grenada is that it opens the door to exploring all of the Grenadines – enough sailing for a fortnight or more. You can easily make lovely island-hopping passages to explore nearby Carriacou, St. Vincent, Mustique, Mayreau and Canouan mostly sailing line-of-sight in 2-3 hour beats. And these lesser known islands give you the chance to experience the real Caribbean lifestyle and culture – super-laid-back and unfussy.
Make the most of your waterborne freedom here and you’ll find it’s a place where every day is different and every night means a new waterfront restaurant or bar where you can kick-back over a rum punch and a plate of seafood to talk about the day. Not to mention what’s in store tomorrow.
Skill-wise: intermediate to experienced sailing in these parts with winds regularly between force 3 and 6. Mostly line of sight sailing but some open water so Day Skipper standard recommended along with competent crew.
Weather-wise: expect totally tropical weather with temperatures steady around 30° and short sharp rain showers. Winter trade winds blow from the Northeast.
