---

ST. VINCENT and the GRENADINES

---

One of the major British Windward Islands, sleepy St. Vincent is just beginning to awaken to tourism. Sailors and the yachting set have long known of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and until recently it was a well-kept vacation secret.

Situated about one hundred miles west of Barbados, and nestled between St Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south, the string of islands known collectively as St Vincent and the Grenadines may be physically close together, but vary enormously in character, terrain and appeal.

The overall economy of the St. Vincent & The Grenadines revolves around agriculture, with bananas and coconut palms the major cash crops. Tourism is a growing business (especially on St. Vincent), but on the outer islands, smaller crowds, isolated beaches and quiet days are the norm.

The main centre of activity is St Vincent , the largest and northernmost of the islands. As well as exploring St Vincent's two distinct coastlines - the rugged windward side and the gentle leeward side - and lush, interior hiking trails, don't miss the opportunity to spend time on the tiny isle of Bequia (Bek-way), just a short ferry ride away, a yachters' St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Caribbean Islands Vacation Information, Services and Accommodationshaven that also boasts shimmering beaches and a fascinating seafaring history. The less developed and less populated islands of Canouan, Mayreau and Union are all easily reachable by ferry and offer a taste of the unspoiled Caribbean, while Mustique , an island hideaway of the rich and famous, makes for an affordable day trip of swimming and snorkelling, though don't expect to find a cheap place to stay.

The uninhabited national park of the Tobago Cays , a cluster of islets which form the eastern point of a triangle between Union Island and Mayreau, are surrounded by coral reefs and unbelievably aquamarine waters and make an excellent excursion from nearby islands.

St. Vincent & Bequia offer incredible sheer vertical walls, crevices, and extensive shallow reefs, many virtually unexplored and accessible by boat within 10 minutes from resorts. Diving in the Southern Grenadines and Tobago Cays boasts impressive dense shallow coral gardens and a profusion of fish life.

Water Temp Winter 79F 26C
Summer 82F 28C
Visibility 75 - 100 ft 23 - 30C