Holy Moly! Have you discovered The Grenadines yet? I have sailed south from the Virgin Islands several times over the past 35 years, and even have my earring as proof of being inducted into the “shellback” community*. One of top spots on my list for amazing sailing grounds is The Grenadines. If you have missed them here is information that may cause you to set sail soon…

For starters…The Grenadines was the location for much of the filming of Pirates Of The Caribbean. Just close your eyes and imagine actually being there on your own sailing adventure. I promise you it is unforgettable. The Grenadines include the islands of St. Vincent, Mustique, Bequia, Canouan, Palm Island, and Union Island. The fact is there are over 50 islands to discover. Exploring these islands is the stuff of a sailor’s dream – turquoise lagoons, palm fringed beaches, and unforgettable anchorages with just you as the only “guest”.

The diving is over the top!!! All of the abundant reef-life that you find at 80 feet in most of the Caribbean flourishes in about 25 feet of water. The temperature throughout the year averages 78 degrees – a bit cooler than the Virgin Islands. I would agree with a comment I heard at a bar in Indian Bay, “St. Vincent and The Grenadines are Mother Nature’s gift to the Caribbean.” By the way, the night life at Indian Bay and Villa is outstanding. There is a fun bar and music scene going on most every night.

During my sail around St. Vincent I discovered Buccament Bay – a five-star resort that is being developed by Harlequin Property – a British resort development company. As I wandered around the construction site I asked if there was someone I could speak with about the project. I met Geetan Jessen and a friendship and business relationship began to unfold. I had never heard of his company – which is not surprising since they had never heard of me, either. What I learned is they are one of the key players in resort developments in the Caribbean. Besides St. Vincent, they have five-star resorts in Barbados and Dominican Republic. I look forward to checking them out during other sailing adventures in the future.

Let me know if you have found some hidden spots in The Grenadines that you are willing to share. I am always looking for more to add to my wish list.

*Shellback: The ceremony of “crossing the line” is an initiation which commemorates a sailor’s first crossing of the equator. Originally the tradition was created as a test for seasoned sailors to ensure their new shipmates were capable of handling long rough times at sea. Sailors who have already crossed the equator are nicknamed (Trusty) Shellbacks; those who have not are nicknamed (Slimy) Pollywogs.