FAQ
Your questions, answered

General

Do I need a sailing certificate to charter a Bareboat Yacht?

You will need to be qualified to skipper a yacht of the size you have chartered in tidal waters. If you are not qualified send through your resume and we can advise you if a Bareboat Charter is possible.

What is the price of food?

Local food is reasonably priced and most is excellent. You will find restaurants of all levels and prices and fun to check menus. Fresh fish can be purchased directly from the fishermen - listen for the conch shell. Prices start around 15XCD / pound.

There are big supermarkets in Kingstown and a good selection of produce in Bequia/Mustique/Union/Petite Martinique. We can send you a provisioning list and stock your fridge for you so all ready on arrival if you do not have a Chef on board.

Where are the ATMs?

ATM's St Vincent - Kingstown/Bequia/Union island/Canouan/St Lucia and Grenada/Carriacou

Can I leave cash on the boat?

It is not wise to carry a lot of cash in the Caribbean as in any country in the world. Store in a safe/hidden place and when you are out do not 'flash the cash' as this does attract the wrong attention

Can we buy provisions around the islands?

Most of the islands have at least one small supermarket and a bakery. We can provision your yacht so all is ready for your arrival with staples/fresh fruits/veg and drinks/wines. Our sister company offers a provisioning service.

If we are making alternative arrangements after our holiday can Sail Grenadines help?

Yes we can help to organise car hire, taxi's to ferry ports etc and have a large number of local contacts for accommodation.

The Yacht

Are charts and pilot books provided?

All necessary charts are provided,a pilot book for the Windward islands. Your captain will also know some great local spots.

Is bed linen and towels provided?

Sheets/Pillow cases/Towels and T towels are provided.

PLEASE do not use sun screen P20 as this damages linens and upholstery.

Reef Friendly suntan lotion is strongly recommended

What size are the towels?

Various - depending on the boat.

Do we bring beach towels?

There are plenty of towels on board

Is there snorkel equipment on board?

We provide masks and snorkels and have a selection of fins.

Can I use my hairdryer or straighteners on board?

Usually yes you can but please ask us about a specific boat to be sure!

Showering on board

All our boats have water-makers

Music Connections

All of the yachts have USB Connections and most have AUX leads that you can connect to any device with a headphone jack.

What about fuel?

When you arrive, the yacht will have already been filled up with fuel. When you return the yacht will be refilled and depending on your charter agreement you may be charged for fuel. If you are on an all inclusive charter fuel is included.

I'd like a paddle board or a kayak onboard, is this possible?

Some boats have these included. Please ask. We have lots of watersports available for rental.

Sailing

Where can I sail to?

Your sailing area depends upon the duration of your holiday. if a week or less we recommend you stay within the Grenadines islands. if longer you could visit St Lucia or Carriacou and Grenada. Sailing south is more comfortable than sailing north

Safety

What happens if I need a doctor?

There are numbers to call - details on board or contact our office/helpline for assistance. We have a large Rib to reach anywhere in the Grenadines within the hour.

Can we drink the water from the yacht tanks?

We have filters on most our boats so yes. Bottled water is available everywhere and advisable to stock up at the beginning of your holiday and store aboard as this is the heavy item to carry. We can add this to your pre charter provisioning

Transfers

Will there be someone at the airport to meet me?

If we have your flight details number and arrival time we can arrange a taxi to meet you and bring you to your yacht. Various taxi types are available.

What happens if our flight arrives late?

We check flight arrivals (providing we have your details of course) It is also helpful to us if you can text or call us to keep us informed. Your taxi will meet you at whatever time you arrive

Is the supermarket open if I arrive late?

Shops open 08:00 to 17:00 usually. We can get whatever you need though after these hours if its very urgent.

Do we have a problem with Mosquitos or biting insects

On the beach - sand flies will start to annoy you when the sun starts to set so best to have repellent handy. Mosquitos and smaller 'no see ums' do appear sometimes at dawn and dusk so always advisable to spray before you go out in the evenings and if you are leaving your yacht to go for dinner - spray your cabins.

Is it best to bring USD or local currency

By all means bring both but local currency XCD is used in all shops/supermarkets and restaurants. the exchange rate is fixed at 2.67 (2.7) XCD to 1 USD