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Located in the south of the Caribbean is a string of 32 islands and cays that make up St Vincent and the Grenadines. With only 9 of the islands inhabited, this cruising area has become an increasingly popular destination for superyachts. As a lesser-visited area of the much loved hot spot, it allows yachts to get away from the busier destinations for a taste of the ‘True Caribbean.’
Scenery
The dramatic volcanic peaks, lush green landscape, pristine beaches and lack of major tourist development enable the islands to keep their naturally idyllic atmosphere. The national wildlife reserves, marine parks, inhabited and private island status offers the islands protection from intrusive developments ensuring that its natural beauty is kept intact. With towering waterfalls, panoramic views, impressive peaks, tropical vistas and a vast array of bird and marine life there is plenty to suit every charter.
Activities
From land-based to under the water, the islands offer a wide range of things to do. In St Vincent, you can take on the Soufriere volcano summit and crater at 4000 ft above sea level or try to spot the St Vincent Parrot on the Vermont Nature Trail. If you’re a keen hiker check out the idyllic beaches and bays in Mayreau and explore the mountain ridges of Union or take an easy stroll around Princess Margaret Bay in Bequia.
Under the water, you’ll find some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in the Caribbean. Make sure you visit the famous ‘bat dive’ in St Vincent or speak to the scuba operator, Dive Bequia to see which of the many dives they recommend in the area. The Tobago Cays Marine Park is also a must do dive site, with expansive coral reef systems and plenty of marine life that won’t disappoint. For more of an adrenaline rush, try your hand at kiteboarding in Salt Whistle Bay at Mayreau.
Facilities
With the recently opened 120 berth Glossy Bay Marina on Canouan, the bar has been raised for future investment within this area of the Caribbean. This luxury new marina boasts a beach club, pool and a restaurant with the opportunity for further restaurant and bar development. There are tonnes of great places to eat across the islands such as Firefly on Bequia and Cotton House on Mustique, beach clubs galore and the regular local fish fry on Petit St Vincent. The long-established and reliable yacht agent, Erika’s is also another great reason to cruise the area, based on Union they offer a variety of services from concierge and provisioning to travel arrangements.
Geography
This island chain offers the perfect set up for an island hopping charter, with short cruising distances between the islands and plenty of bays and anchorages to choose from. With lots of ground to explore and islands at your disposal, a week-long charter will only just scratch the surface of what is on offer here.
Exclusivity
With only 9 of the islands inhabited, St Vincent and the Grenadines offer a much more exclusive and private experience for superyachts. The appeal of the islands quieter, authentic and more rustic charm have made them long favoured spot drawing in royalty and celebrities looking to get away from the busier cruising grounds. The sense of exclusivity can be found throughout the islands; from the privately owned Young island to the well-known celebrity hangout of Mustique and the swanky resorts on Palm Island and Petit St Vincent. From taking a helicopter tour over the islands, gourmet dining at the Cotton Club to a luxury superyacht beach set up on the idyllic sandbar of Mopion island, there are plenty of experiences to be had here.
Featured image credit: Caribbean Chronicle
