Yacht charter in the Windward Islands
The Windward Islands stretch from Dominica south through Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to Grenada. Cruising this chain on a crewed yacht involves open-water channel crossings exposed to Atlantic trade winds, contrasted with calm anchorages on the sheltered western coasts. The region suits sailors and guests who enjoy spirited sailing, active water sports, and exploring diverse cultures across independent states and French territory. Distances between anchorages require moderate passages, making the area ideal for charters of one to two weeks.
Best time to charter
The primary charter season runs from December to May. Stronger trade winds, often called the Christmas winds, blow between 15 and 25 knots from December to February. March to May brings consistent breezes and drier conditions with calmer seas. June to November marks the wet season, bringing higher humidity, lighter winds, and tropical storm activity. Peak visitor traffic occurs over the Christmas and New Year period and throughout the late winter months, whereas spring sees fewer visiting yachts.
Anchorages and harbours to know
Tobago Cays
A marine park protected by Horseshoe Reef, providing sheltered anchoring in shallow waters beside uninhabited cays and sea turtle feeding grounds.
Admiralty Bay, Bequia
A deep, natural harbour offering well-protected anchoring, customs clearance facilities, and access to local market stalls along the waterfront.
Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia
A sheltered inlet surrounded by steep forested hillsides, offering inner lagoon moorings and deep-water anchorage options outside.
Anse Couleuvre, Martinique
A remote black-sand bay on northern Martinique providing fair-weather day anchorage beneath coastal rainforest and volcanic cliffs.
Chatham Bay, Union Island
A wide, calm bay backed by dry forest on the western shore of Union Island, sheltered from easterly swells.
Practical tips
- Getting there: St Lucia Hewanorra (UVF), St Vincent Argyle (SVD), Martinique (FDF) and Grenada (GND). Rodney Bay is about 1.5 hours by road from Hewanorra; Grenadines charters often start in St Vincent, Bequia or Canouan, reached by short regional flights.
- Fly to Martinique (FDF), St Lucia Hewanorra (UVF), St Vincent Argyle (SVD), or Grenada (GND). Rodney Bay is about 1.5 hours by road from Hewanorra.
- Grenadines charters often start in St Vincent, Bequia, or Canouan, reached by short regional flights from international hubs.
- Clearing customs and immigration is required when moving between independent island states and French territory; yachts must fly the Q flag until cleared.
- Independent boat operators trade in popular anchorages; agree on services or goods and their associated costs before accepting mooring assistance or fresh provisions.