How do I get to Grenada?
Please see our How to Get to Grenada page by clicking here.
Passports and Visa FAQ
All persons traveling should be in possession of a valid passport. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the return date. No visas are required by British passport holders for any of our Caribbean destinations. SPECIAL NOTE TO ALL NON-EU CITIZENS: Please check current entry requirements for your nation of citizenship. Click here to check Grenada’s visa requirements.
What are the current COVID-19 travel entry protocols for Grenada?
From the 4th April 2022, there are no travel restrictions or protocols to enter Grenada.
You need to ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover general sailing activities, course cancellation and COVID-19 related travel issues.
Do I Need Insurance?
Yes. Please check that your personal travel insurance covers you for the sailing holiday/course that you have booked.
Do Hurricanes Effect Grenada?
We operate year round, and to date have never had to cancel a course due to adverse weather. The official Atlantic hurricane season runs between 1 June and 30 November, but the period of highest concern is between mid-August and early October.
However, Grenada is generally classed as below the hurricane belt and offers a safe haven to many live aboard sailors who take shelter from the hurricanes that roll to the north of us. There has been one major hurricane in Grenada in the last sixty years – Hurricane Ivan in 2004.
We (of course!) closely monitor all weather systems throughout the year and advise students with clear communication. We always recommend that students have travel insurance to cover cancellation in the unlikely event that weather conditions interrupt travel plans.
What should I bring with me?
‣ If you are booked on an RYA practical training course then you will be advised to bring two (2) passport photos of a standard size with you (excludes Competent Crew students).
‣ Pack clothing that is multi-purpose and easily washed. Less luggage equals less burden and clutter in you cabin. Soft duffel type luggage eases storage aboard both the yacht and the airplane. Please note that all your luggage will be stowed in your cabin, so hard luggage will be a decidedly uncomfortable addition.
‣ Bluewater Sailing Charters are leisurely and rarely require anything more than casual attire for sailing and shore-based activities.
‣ Non-skid white rubber-soled shoes, no high heels or black soled shoes.
‣ Sun screen products (not spray variety) and insect repellent are a must.
‣ Pack an adequate supply of all prescription medication. If you prone to seasickness, bring the medication that is appropriate for you.
‣ Several bathing suits/board shorts.
‣ Waterproof jacket (these are also supplied on board).
‣ Basic toiletries and towels.
‣ Entertainment – feel free to bring your music on CDs or an mp3 player. Books or magazines are good for those chill out moments. Musical instruments welcome.
‣ An underwater camera for capturing the amazing marine life and scenery.
‣ Personal incidentals.
‣ When the generator runs for 2 hours in the morning, we have 110 AC charging for laptops and cameras. You are welcome to bring a 12V car charger for your phone. USB charging is also best done when the generator is running. There is limited wifi throughout the islands so consider your sailing trip a digital detox!
What is included on RYA Sailing Charters?
‣ Skipper and tuition (as booked).
‣ All bedding is provided.
‣ Please see the Cuisine page for meal options – juices and water are included.
‣ Chao Lay complies with all RYA and MCA safety requirements and equipment – includes lifejackets and harnesses on board.
‣ Waterproof jackets are available if needed.
‣ Snorkelling equipment – mask, snorkels and fins (varied sizes).
‣ Docking/mooring fees and diesel.
‣ Transportation between the airport and the marina is NOT included in your fee unless otherwise specified.
‣ Flights are NOT included, however, we can assist you with any questions or information about flights to Grenada.
‣ Meals/drinks in restaurants ashore and alcohol is NOT included.
‣ Customs fees and marine park fees are NOT included.
‣Towels are NOT included.
What Time & Where Do We Meet?
Our yacht, Chao Lay, is berthed at Port Louis Marina in St. George’s.
You will receive personal instructions on where to meet the yacht when booking. If you are joining us from another island then we will email you with specific details of our collection points.
Start time is 0830hrs on the first day of your booking. On the last day, we are normally back at the dock around 1600hrs. If you need to be back earlier to meet a flight, just let us know in advance.
You are welcome to join the yacht at 1700hrs on the evening prior to your booking start date.
What Is The Average Price of…
US dollars (USD) and Eastern Caribbean dollars (XCD) are accepted on all the islands. There are ATM machines on the following islands: Grenada, Carriacou, Union, Bequia, St. Vincent. Larger shops and restaurants/bars will accept debit/credit card payments. The exchange rate is fixed at 2.7 for USD>XCD, although on island you will receive around 2.67. All change is given in XCD.
‣ A bottle of beer is between XCD 5-8.00
‣ A bottle of house wine is approximately XCD 50.00
‣ A bottle of water is approximately XCD 7.00
‣ A carton of UHT milk is approximately XCD 7.00
‣ A main course meal ranges between XCD 25.00-150.00
‣ A pizza is approximately XCD 50.00