Where should I start a Windward Islands yacht charter?
Martinique is an important charter centre, with a wide selection of bareboat monohulls and catamarans based at Le Marin. Its excellent marina and provisioning facilities make it a convenient starting point for sailing around Martinique or continuing south towards St Lucia.
Rodney Bay on St Lucia is another established departure base. It provides access to the island's beautiful western coastline and can be a useful starting point for exploring the wider Windward Islands.
However, the choice of base should be guided by the intended itinerary. Sailors wishing to concentrate on Martinique and St Lucia will generally find either location suitable, subject to yacht availability and cruising permissions.
For those whose main priority is the Tobago Cays and southern Grenadines, a departure from Grenada may reduce the time spent on longer passages.
At Sail Connections we compare departure points as well as yachts, helping charterers select the most practical combination for their holiday.
Related FAQs
Why choose Martinique, St Lucia and the Grenadines for a yacht charter?
The Windward Islands offer a rewarding mix of French Caribbean culture, dramatic volcanic scenery and beautiful island anchorages. They are particularly attractive to sailors who enjoy open-water passages and varied cruising experiences.
What is the best time to sail in the Windward Islands?
December through May is generally the preferred sailing season in Martinique, St Lucia and the Grenadines. Established trade winds and relatively dry weather provide good conditions, although some passages can be quite demanding.
What are the sailing conditions like between Martinique and the Grenadines?
The Windward Islands offer excellent trade-wind sailing, often with winds of 15–25 knots. The channels between major islands are exposed, with stronger gusts, ocean swell and occasional demanding conditions for bareboat crews.
How long should I allow to sail from Martinique to the Grenadines?
Allow at least 10–14 days for a meaningful cruise from Martinique into the Grenadines, with longer preferable. A one-week charter is better spent exploring Martinique, St Lucia or a more limited cruising area.
What are the main attractions of sailing around St Lucia?
St Lucia offers spectacular coastal scenery, particularly around the Pitons, together with attractive anchorages at Rodney Bay, Marigot Bay and Soufrière. Its mountainous interior also provides excellent opportunities for exploring ashore.
Which islands in the Grenadines are best to visit by yacht?
Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, the Tobago Cays and Union Island are among the principal Grenadines sailing destinations. Each offers a different combination of beaches, anchorages, local culture and natural attractions.
What makes the Tobago Cays special for yacht charters?
The Tobago Cays are a highlight of Grenadines sailing, with five small islands, protected coral reefs and brilliant turquoise water. The marine park offers outstanding snorkelling, including opportunities to observe sea turtles.
Is a one-way charter from Martinique to Grenada possible?
One-way charters from Martinique towards Grenada may be available with selected operators. They offer an appealing way to explore the Windward Islands while generally sailing with the prevailing trade winds rather than retracing the route north.
Are the Windward Islands suitable for less experienced sailors?
Experienced sailors will particularly enjoy the Windward Islands, where open-water passages and fresh trade winds are common. Less experienced crews can explore the region comfortably with a professional skipper or on a fully crewed yacht.
What customs and immigration requirements apply when sailing between the Windward Islands?
Sailing between Martinique, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenada involves crossing international borders. Yachts must complete the applicable customs and immigration procedures, usually at designated ports, with requirements varying between countries.