Exploring Grenada and the Spice Islands

January 31, 2014

If you’re looking forward to a beautiful charter in the Grenadines (or haven’t made up your mind yet!) we can give you a good idea of what to expect. Also known as the ‘Islands of Spice’ this beautiful island country is made up of three larger islands- Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique- and a number of smaller, mostly uninhabited islands and islets in the lower half of the Grenadines.

So why the name Spice Islands? Grenada is one of the world’s largest exporters of nutmeg and mace, with large plantations of these fragrant crops.  You’ll also find cocoa, cinnamon, clove, ginger, bay leaf and allspice among others. Tourists to the region can enjoy a visit to places like the Belmont Estate to see how the spices are cultivated and processed, and of course to buy spices, souvenirs and sweets.

Grenada is also home to the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Gallery, which can be explored by divers. There are also about 50 other intriguing dive sites, the most notable of which is the Bianca C; a huge wreck that has been compared to the Titanic.

On land one can visit the capital of St. Georges, one of the prettiest in the Caribbean. Activities range from river rafting to hiking to the Mt. Carmel waterfalls, exploring colourful spice markets or enjoying world-class fine dining. Sailors often plan their trip around one of the islands’ exciting festivals such as the Spicemas Festival, or to participate in one of the country’s acclaimed regattas.

Grenada has eight marinas and makes a great base for exploring Carriacou and Petit Martinique. You can also sail on through the Grenadines to reach the impressive Tobago Cays National Park with its horseshoe reef.

Clearance is required and must be carried out at an official Port of Entry: Grenada Yacht Club, St. George’s, Spice Island Marina, Prickly Bay, Hillsborough or Carriacou. Read more about clearance, exit and documentation requirements here.

Browse our Grenada yacht offers and contact us for more information- the Spice Islands await!

2014-01-31 20:58:02.000