Meta Title:
Grenada to Tobago Cays Sailing Route | 9 Days in the Southern Caribbean
Meta Description:
Experience a 9-day sailing journey through the Grenadines: from Grenada to the Tobago Cays — turquoise waters, Caribbean charm, and dream anchorages.
Introduction
This 9-day sailing route takes you deep into the magic of the Southern Caribbean — into the realm of the Grenadines. Turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, swaying palms, and the relaxed rhythm of laissez-faire accompany you on every mile. Here, sailing means pure freedom. With short distances, steady trade winds, and sheltered bays, this route is an unforgettable experience — ideal for anyone who wants to discover the Caribbean at its most beautiful.
At a glance:
- Region: The Grenadines, Southern Caribbean
- Duration: 9 days
- Character: Relaxed cruising with Caribbean flair
- Ideal for: Leisure sailors, beginners & island hoppers
The Region at a Glance
Between Grenada and St. Vincent lie more than 30 islands — the Grenadines. Only a few are inhabited, many are untouched gems of sand, palms, and crystal-clear lagoons. Each island has its own rhythm: vibrant and colorful, or quiet and pristine. Sailors will find perfect conditions here — short passages, safe anchorages, and unforgettable tropical scenery.
Facts & Nautical Notes:
- Area: Grenada & St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Key Islands: Carriacou, Union Island, Mayreau, Tobago Cays, Bequia, Canouan
- Navigation: Line-of-sight, straightforward sailing
- Anchorage depth: 3–6 m, sandy bottoms
- Formalities: Customs clearance required (Grenada ↔ SVG)
Best Time to Sail
The best time for this sailing route is December to May — when the Southern Caribbean is dry, sunny, and shaped by steady trade winds. Temperatures hover around 30°C year-round, and the sea is a pleasant 26–28°C. From July to October, it can be more humid, with a mild hurricane risk that is typically low this far south.
Climate & Sailing Conditions:
- Wind: Northeast trade winds, average 4–6 Bft
- Temperature: Air 28–32°C, Water 26–28°C
- Rainy season: June–October
- Dry season: December–May
- Swell: Moderate, calmer on the leeward sides
The Route with Daily Legs
Day 1 – Grenada (Port Louis Marina, St. George’s) → Tyrell Bay, Carriacou
35 nm – approx. 6–7 hrs
Your first leg takes you along Grenada’s lush west coast, sailing over deep-blue water toward Carriacou. Pelicans glide above, dolphins may follow, and Tyrell Bay welcomes you with colorful beach bars and that unmistakable Caribbean calm – the perfect start to your voyage.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 35 nm – approx. 6–7 hrs
- Highlight: Laid-back atmosphere and vibrant island charm
- Tip: Enjoy a sunset drink at Lazy Turtle Bar
Day 2 – Carriacou → Union Island (Clifton Harbour)
10 nm – approx. 2.5 hrs
A short turquoise passage leads to lively Union Island. In Clifton Harbour, reggae tunes, market stalls, and colorful fishing boats set the tone. It’s also where you complete customs and feel the heartbeat of the Grenadines.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 10 nm – approx. 2.5 hrs
- Highlight: Authentic island life and bustling harbor scene
- Tip: Sunset cocktail on Happy Island
Day 3 – Union Island → Mayreau (Salt Whistle Bay)
6 nm – approx. 1.5 hrs
A gentle sail to one of the Caribbean’s most iconic anchorages. Salt Whistle Bay curves around a strip of sand lined with palms and crystal-clear water – a true postcard view.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 6 nm – approx. 1.5 hrs
- Highlight: Idyllic bay and peaceful overnight stay
- Tip: Arrive early – limited anchorage space
Day 4 – Mayreau → Tobago Cays
3 nm – approx. 1 hr
A dream day under sail toward the Tobago Cays, the heart of the Grenadines. Turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and sea turtles in Baradal Bay make this a true slice of paradise.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 3 nm – approx. 1 hr
- Highlight: Marine park with turtles and reefs
- Tip: Beach BBQ at sunset (park fee applies)
Day 5 – Tobago Cays → Canouan
8 nm – approx. 2 hrs
A calm leg through crystal-clear water. Canouan combines well-kept marinas and good provisioning with the easy charm of island life – perfect for a mid-trip pause.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 8 nm – approx. 2 hrs
- Highlight: Quiet sailing day and good facilities
- Tip: Snorkel at the southern reef of Rameau Bay
Day 6 – Canouan → Bequia (Admiralty Bay)
18 nm – approx. 4–5 hrs
A classic northern leg with steady trade winds. Bequia, the sailing hub of the Grenadines, greets you with a lively harbor, local markets, and plenty of island charm.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 18 nm – approx. 4–5 hrs
- Highlight: Vibrant yachting scene and local flair
- Tip: Dinner at Jack’s Beach Bar
Day 7 – Bequia → Petit St. Vincent (via Canouan optional)
approx. 28 nm – 5–6 hrs
A longer but rewarding sail south with a following breeze. Petit St. Vincent offers peace, privacy, and barefoot luxury – an exclusive finale before turning homeward.
Leg Details:
- Distance: approx. 28 nm – 5–6 hrs
- Highlight: Relaxed downwind sailing and secluded destination
- Tip: Stop in Canouan for lunch or refueling
Day 8 – Petit St. Vincent → Sandy Island (off Carriacou)
12 nm – approx. 3 hrs
A short, dreamy sail to a coral-fringed gem. Sandy Island is uninhabited, surrounded by a turquoise lagoon, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply switching off.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 12 nm – approx. 3 hrs
- Highlight: Pristine coral island and clear lagoon
- Tip: Arrive early – limited anchorage space
Day 9 – Sandy Island → Grenada (Port Louis Marina, St. George’s)
35 nm – approx. 6–7 hrs
A smooth return sail along the Grenadines. Stop at Ronde Island for a last swim before heading back to St. George’s – where Calypso music and Caribbean flavors mark the perfect end to your voyage.
Leg Details:
- Distance: 35 nm – approx. 6–7 hrs
- Highlight: Relaxed final sail and festive return to Grenada
- Tip: Check out and enjoy your last evening in the marina
Highlights Along the Way
From the legendary Happy Island Bar to the postcard-perfect Salt Whistle Bay and the breathtaking Tobago Cays Marine Park, this route is filled with Caribbean dreams. Every island tells its own story — a blend of sea, rhythm, and vibrant island life.
Top Highlights:
- Tobago Cays: Snorkel with sea turtles among coral gardens
- Salt Whistle Bay (Mayreau): The essence of Caribbean paradise
- Happy Island Bar: Sundowner in the middle of the sea
- Bequia: Authentic and lively sailor’s haven
- Sandy Island: A deserted sandbank straight from a dream
Practical Tips
This route is ideal for catamarans between 38–45 feet or comfortable cruising monohulls. It’s also well-suited for beginners and families, with short passages, secure anchorages, and easy navigation.
Good to know:
- Customs clearance required between Grenada and St. Vincent & the Grenadines
- Park fee applies in the Tobago Cays Marine Park
- Supplies available in Grenada, Bequia, and Union Island
- Anchor bottoms: sand, 3–6 m depth
- Charter bases: Port Louis Marina, St. George’s, Grenada
Travel Extension
If you have a few extra days after returning to Grenada, it’s well worth extending your journey — this region offers far more than you can experience in nine days.
Grenada itself is a paradise for those who appreciate the good things in life: lush, authentic, and full of tropical charm. Often called the “Spice Island”, the air here is filled with the scent of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cocoa. A visit to one of the island’s historic rum distilleries or artisan chocolate factories is a must, as is a stroll through St. George’s, one of the most picturesque harbor towns in the Caribbean. Between its colonial facades, vibrant markets, and lively waterfront, it’s the perfect place to let your sailing adventure wind down.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore inland. The Grand Etang National Park, with its emerald crater lake, lush rainforest, and colorful birdlife, offers a fascinating contrast to the sea. Scenic waterfalls such as the Annandale Falls and the Seven Sisters Falls invite you to swim and cool off after a jungle hike.
If you prefer to stay among the Grenadines, Bequia is a wonderful choice for an extended stay. This small island is lively yet laid-back — a meeting point for world cruisers and locals alike. Enjoy freshly grilled lobster on the beach, visit local art galleries, or explore the coral reefs of Admiralty Bay on a dive.
Many sailors choose to spend a few extra days on Bequia or Carriacou, soaking up the slow island rhythm — far from any schedule, accompanied only by the sound of steel drums and the gentle wash of the sea.
Recommended extensions:
- St. George’s: Colonial harbor, markets, and local street food
- Grand Etang National Park: Rainforest hiking and waterfalls
- Rum and chocolate tours: Distilleries and spice plantations
- Bequia: Diving, exploring, and lively island atmosphere
- Grand Anse Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean
- Carriacou: Local music, beach bars, and authentic island life
Conclusion – Who This Route Is Perfect For
This is a Caribbean dream come true — perfect for sailors seeking nature, relaxation, and authentic island charm. Whether you’re sailing as a couple, with friends, or as a family, this route combines gentle passages, turquoise waters, and a sense of boundless freedom. Out here, the journey truly is the destination — and it’s pure Caribbean magic.
Best for:
- Leisure cruisers and sea lovers
- Beginners with some sailing experience
- Families with children
- Those who enjoy calm waters and easy navigation
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Keywords: Grenada sailing route, Tobago Cays sailing, Grenadines charter, Caribbean sailing itinerary, St. Vincent sailing, Caribbean catamaran route
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