Yacht charter in Kingstown

Where do yachts depart from in Kingstown?

Yachts primarily depart from Kingstown Bay, which offers anchorage on the northwest side near the cruise ship terminal, though it can get unruly with west or south winds. Berthing is also arranged at Ottley Hall Marina & Shipyard and Barefoot Yacht Charters Marina, both located in Kingstown and supported by SVG Yacht Services for pre-arrival paperwork. The bay includes a fuel dock for gas and diesel and a customs dock just across the ferry terminal for easy official check-ins.

What islands can I reach on a day trip from Kingstown?

A day trip from Kingstown reaches Bequia, known for its welcoming staff and safe anchorages, or the Tobago Cays Marine Park, which manages approximately 70 moorings for dinghies and yachts. You can also visit Blue Lagoon Marina, a historic British fortification offering wide views from the capital to Bequia and serving as a day-charter departure point. The Grenadines island chain, including Union Island 40 miles south, is accessible for longer excursions.

When is the best sailing season in St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

The sailing season in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is generally favorable year-round, but Kingstown Bay can get unruly when winds pipe up from the west or south, especially in the Caribbean winter months. The Tobago Cays and southern Grenadines offer better protection against wind and swell during these periods, making them ideal winter anchorages. Summer months typically provide calmer conditions for exploring the open Caribbean waters near Kingstown.

What licence or skipper rules apply in St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

Visiting yachts must complete pre-arrival paperwork, which SVG Yacht Services can arrange for berthing in Kingstown, Canouan, or other marinas in SVG. The Harbour Master, pilots, and mooring teams at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority ensure safe berthing and departure, implying standard international skipper credentials are required. No specific local licence is mentioned, but customs check-ins at the Kingstown dock are mandatory for entry.

How do I get to Kingstown for my yacht charter?

The nearest airport is Argyle International Airport on St. Vincent, with a rough transfer time of about 30-45 minutes to Kingstown Bay, depending on traffic. Kingstown is located on the west side of St. Vincent, 40 miles north of Union Island and 112 miles west of Barbados, making it a central hub for Caribbean charters. Ferry and cruise terminals in Kingstown Bay also provide alternative access for travelers arriving from nearby islands.