Whether you’re an expert yacht man or a complete novice, Footloose Yacht Charters offer the ultimate Caribbean cruise.

The Grenadines have an almost mystical allure and a time lessness and beauty that we describe as somewhere between heaven and earth…. But a little closer to heaven”. Footloose has operated from the Lagoon and the Carenage, Grenada since 1984 and is one of the oldest yacht charter companies in the region.

The British Virgin Island have traditionally been the primary Caribbean yachting destination, but they are rapidly being eclipsed by the Grenadines. In the BVI, sailing is less adventurous and the anchorages considerably more crowded. Large resorts and fast food may appeal to some, but increasingly visitors are seeking off the beaten track destinations with pristine beaches, secluded anchorages, great diving and friendly inhabitants – all characteristics of Grenada and the Grenadines.

As one of our guests recently said: “Heck, if I’d wanted fast food I would have stayed in the States”.

Inter-island sailing distances are short – usually between one and five hours – and the predictable weather patterns and constant trade winds make sailing a breeze. On a five to ten day cruise, one can visit all of the Grenadines – including Mopion, near Petit St. Vincent, the ultimate desert island – 20 yards of fine white sand, a tiny thatched shelter (with a bottle opener fixed to the main support), and surrounded by crystal clear water.
Although the islands lie close together, each has a charm of its own.

The Islands

Bequia is an Island steeped in nautical history. Wooden schooners are still built on its beaches; And the picturesque anchorage at Admiralty Bay is highly popular with long distance yachtsmen. During the famous Easter Regatta, people come from all over the world to watch or participate in local fishing boat and yacht races.

Near to Bequia lies Mustique, whose miles of white beaches, stately villas and are of casual elegance set it apart from its neighbours. Here you can gallop on thorough bred horses, or simply lounge in hammocks under gently swaying palms.
Just south of Mustique is Canouan, once a laid back island, with a sleepy, old world charm. Now home to the famous Carenage Bay Beach and Golf Club, that boats an 18 hole golf course, casino, health spa and world – class casino.

Immediately south is Mayreau, a tiny island with two great anchorages. Saltwhistle Bay is the caribbean beach dream come true, with a crescent, shaped harbour and crystal clear waters: while at Saline Bay, divers can explore the wreck of a First World War gun boat. To many, Mayreau is like a time warp – It has just one 200 yard stretch of paved road, no electricity, no high rises and no mass tourism.

Less than a hour’s sail from Mayreau lie the Tobago Cays the jewels of the Grenadines – and to most guests the high spot of their sailing charter. These uninhabited islets and coves, a Marine National Park, are protected by some of the most spectaculars coral reefs in the world. When anchored here, only Horse Shoe Reef - one of the longest barrier reefs in the western hemispheres – separates your yacht from the Africa coastline 2,500 miles away. The sensation of seclusion is surreal, yet exhilarating.

Half an hour form the Tobago Cays – the private resort of Palm Island, with its beachfront stone cottages, open air dining and beautiful white beaches. Just a hop from the Tobago Cays or Mayreau, it is a favourite lunch time stop.

On Union’s west coast at Chatham Bay there’s another beautiful, deserted anchorage where Pelicans and Frigate birds abound and turtle sightings are frequent. Jump in for a swim here and you’re likely to see schools of rays; and after your swim – well, you’d be hard pressed to find a better spot for a beach barbecue as the sun goes down.

An hour’s sail from Union Island lies Petit St. Vincent. A 113 acre resort set on rolling hills and surrounded by white sandy beaches. The island is beautifully landscaped and there’s a great restaurant on top of the hill with panoramic views over to Petit Martinique and Carriacou. Terrific for sundowners!

Petit Martinique is just a short dinghy ride away. It’s really like stepping back in time. Small gingerbread houses are dotted about and men still build traditional wooden boats on the beach. For the more energetic, a walk to the top of the hill will reward you with spectacular views of the Grenadines from all angles. Worth the visit of only to see an island not given to tourism.

Due south is the island of Carriacou. Together with Petit Martinique they produce some of the best sailors in the region. Not surprisingly, Carriacou too, still builds the traditional wooden trading schooners. There are an abundance of deserted white sandy coves and great diving and snorkeling. A short bus ride takes you around the island with breath taking views in all directions.

Lastly set sail for Grenada, Lush and verdant, ancient historical sites, hot springs, spice factories, stunning beaches, great food – the perfect end to the perfect cruise.

The writer Adam Nicholson perhaps best summed up this spectacular cruising area:

“The dozens of tiny islands that make up the Grenadines sprinkled across 90 miles of the Southern Caribbean, are one of the worlds great cruising grounds. There is rarely more than a morning sail between islands and most have protected anchorages on the western or leeward side.

They provide their own pattern for a journey – morning departures, midday anchorages and an evening laze. Yachts have been coming here for decades and it’s not at all surprising!”