A complete yacht charter guide that has everything you need to know about your next sailing holidays in St. Lucia.
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The best months to sail in St. Lucia are typically between December and May, aligning with the island’s dry season and reliable northeast trade winds. During this period, average wind speeds hover around 15 knots, and rain showers are less frequent—perfect for discovering the renowned Pitons, Marigot Bay, and other scenic anchorages. Although hurricane season lasts from June to November, St. Lucia occasionally experiences tropical downpours and stronger gusts. Therefore, travelers seeking predictable weather and smoother sailing often choose late winter or spring charters.
What are the sailing qualification and license requirements to charter a yacht or catamaran in St. Lucia? In St. Lucia, there is no formal government-imposed licensing requirement for bareboat charters, yet charter companies generally request substantial proof of experience. A recognized credential such as an ICC or ASA 104 helps demonstrate your aptitude, but an in-depth resume of your prior trips, including overnight passages and advanced anchoring skills, can be equally persuasive. St. Lucia’s captivating coastline, featuring the iconic Pitons and lush anchorages, can come with gusty winds and occasional swells. Having a solid grasp of coastal navigation, as well as basic engine troubleshooting, will help you sail with confidence.
With its blend of African, French, and English influences, St. Lucia boasts a vibrant cultural identity. Moor in Rodney Bay to explore Creole-inspired cuisine such as green fig and saltfish, callaloo soup, and cocoa tea—a nod to the island’s history of cocoa production. Weekend jump-up street parties in Gros Islet feature sizzling barbecue, dancing, and live Caribbean music. Visit Soufrière to see the iconic Pitons and learn about local traditions, from fishing techniques passed down generations to rummaking at small distilleries. Each sailing stopover in St. Lucia reveals more of its warm, multifaceted heritage.
Sailors entering St. Lucia typically clear customs and immigration at Rodney Bay, Marigot Bay, or Soufrière, where a cruising permit may be required. The Pitons Management Area restricts anchoring in designated spots to preserve its UNESCO-listed site, offering mooring buoys instead. Retain your boat registration and insurance documents onboard; maritime officials could verify them at any port. By adhering to St. Lucia’s environmental and administrative requirements, you’ll enjoy a relaxed charter among stunning Caribbean backdrops.
St. Lucia is often called the "Jewel of the Windwards"; and for good reason!
Here, you will find exhilarating sailing and breathtaking views, that cannot be found anywhere else in the Caribbean. On a St. Lucia yacht charter you can easily explore many hidden beaches and anchorages, as well as rainforests, waterfalls, and of course, the famous Mt. Gimie. Starting your charter from Rodney Bay and sailing past the twin peaks of the Pitons, you can either head south towards the Grenadines or north towards the leeward islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique.
According to weather and sailing conditions, the best time for a St. Lucia yacht charter is December to May, when the prevailing NE trade winds average 10-25 knots. In the summer, you will mainly find south-easterly winds. During peak season, you can expect temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C and generally warm and dry weather.
Most yacht charters in St. Lucia start from Rodney Bay Marina which is located at the North of the island and about 70 km away from the airport. There are direct and frequent flights to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) from many North American cities like Miami, New York, Atlanda and Philadelphia.
Transfer Time St Lucia Airport to Marina: 1 hour and 20 mins
One thing not to miss on a St. Lucia yacht charter is snorkeling at the coral reefs and diving off Petit Piton. The national currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, however, most places also accept the US dollar as well as credit and debit cards. Please note that the hurricane season in St. Lucia is during summer and autumn (the wettest month is September) and we recommend avoiding this destination during this period.
We recommend St. Lucia to intermediate and advanced sailors, as the crew will need to be able to understand tidal variations and sudden gusts and to also be able to make long passage plans.
Ready to rent a boat in St. Lucia? Request a Tailor-made Quote
Day 1: Rodney Bay Marina – Check-in
Begin your journey at Rodney Bay Marina, one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting hubs. After check-in, relax by the marina, explore Gros Islet’s vibrant food scene, or enjoy a welcome cocktail onboard.
Day 2: Rodney Bay – The Pitons (15 NM)
Sail south along Saint Lucia’s dramatic western coastline to anchor beneath the iconic Pitons. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers spectacular snorkelling, hot springs nearby, and awe-inspiring views from your mooring.
Day 3: The Pitons – Marigot Bay (10 NM)
Cruise north to the serene and stylish Marigot Bay, a natural hurricane hole with lush hillsides and chic waterfront restaurants. Enjoy a peaceful evening moored in calm waters surrounded by rainforest.
Day 4: Marigot Bay – Grande Anse d’Arlet, Martinique (32 NM)
Cross the channel to Martinique and anchor in Grande Anse d’Arlet, a tranquil bay known for its golden beach and sea turtle sightings. The beachside restaurants serve French-Caribbean cuisine with barefoot charm.
Day 5: Grande Anse d’Arlet – Anse Mitan (8 NM)
Sail along Martinique’s southwest coast to the vibrant anchorage of Anse Mitan. Enjoy easy access to Trois-Îlets, local boutiques, cafes, and optional excursions to the island’s rum distilleries or cultural museums.
Day 6: Anse Mitan – Sainte-Anne (20 NM)
Cruise further south to Sainte-Anne, a popular anchorage fringed with palm-lined beaches and lively French-Caribbean village life. Relax in the calm lagoon or stroll to Les Salines Beach, one of the island’s most stunning stretches of sand.
Day 7: Sainte-Anne – Rodney Bay Marina (22 NM)
Return to Saint Lucia with a smooth downwind sail to Rodney Bay. Spend your final evening celebrating a week of turquoise anchorages, volcanic peaks, and cultural contrasts before check-out the next morning.
Day 1: Rodney Bay – The Pitons (15 NM)
Start your journey with a scenic coastal sail to Soufrière, where you’ll moor beneath the iconic twin Pitons. Enjoy snorkelling at the marine park or visit the nearby hot springs and waterfalls for a rejuvenating start.
Day 2: The Pitons – St. Vincent (42 NM)
Make an early departure for a full sailing day south to St. Vincent. Anchor in Cumberland Bay or Wallilabou and enjoy the lush backdrop featured in scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Day 3: St. Vincent – Bequia (10 NM)
Sail to charming Bequia, the yachting soul of the Grenadines. Anchor in Admiralty Bay and explore Port Elizabeth’s boutique shops, beach bars, and vibrant marine life.
Day 4: Bequia
Spend a full day enjoying Bequia’s relaxed island vibe. Visit the turtle sanctuary, hike Mount Pleasant, or relax on the stunning Princess Margaret Beach.
Day 5: Bequia – Mustique (10 NM)
Cruise over to the private island of Mustique, famed for its understated glamour and celebrity residents. Tour the island by golf cart or indulge in lunch at the world-famous Basil’s Bar.
Day 6: Mustique – Canouan (10 NM)
Head to Canouan, home to upscale resorts, quiet bays, and superb snorkelling. Anchor in Charlestown Bay or relax on the soft sands of Glossy Bay.
Day 7: Canouan – Mayreau (5 NM)
Make a short sail to tranquil Mayreau and drop anchor in Salt Whistle Bay. This palm-fringed beach is perfect for paddleboarding, sunbathing, and romantic beach walks.
Day 8: Mayreau – Tobago Cays (5 NM)
Sail into the heart of the Tobago Cays Marine Park — a dreamlike archipelago of uninhabited islands and coral reefs. Swim with sea turtles, explore the reefs, or enjoy a lobster BBQ on the beach.
Day 9: Explore Tobago Cays
Spend another day in paradise snorkelling the Horseshoe Reef, hiking the islets, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. Enjoy total seclusion or paddle from cay to cay in calm lagoon waters.
Day 10: Tobago Cays – Union Island (5 NM)
Sail to Union Island and anchor off Clifton or Chatham Bay. Explore the island’s unique mix of vibrant culture, kite surfing, and scenic hiking.
Day 11: Union – St. Vincent (35 NM)
Begin your return leg with a longer sail back to St. Vincent. Anchor in Young Island Cut or Blue Lagoon and enjoy one last Caribbean sunset in the Grenadines.
Day 12: St. Vincent – Marigot Bay, St. Lucia (40 NM)
Sail north across the channel to Marigot Bay, St. Lucia — a postcard-perfect anchorage surrounded by lush hillsides. Enjoy a luxurious final night in one of the island’s most iconic settings.
Day 13: Marigot Bay – Rodney Bay (8 NM)
Complete your journey with a short sail back to Rodney Bay Marina. Check out and reflect on nearly two weeks of unforgettable island-hopping through the Windward Islands.
It depends. For example, the most important ones are the type of boat you will choose and whether you require a professional crew on board (e.g. skipper, hostess or cook). So, as you can see, there are many factors that can shape a price for a boat rental.
Check our full guide about yacht charter cost and how you can save much money in your next sailing holidays or request a tailor-made quote from one of our yacht charter consultants!
St. Lucia’s dramatic Piton-framed coastline beckons both bareboat and skippered charters, plus a selection of luxury crewed yachts. Experienced skippers may choose a bareboat charter to explore the coastline from Rodney Bay to Soufrière under sail, discovering hidden waterfalls along the way. If you’d rather unwind ashore, skippered charters offer a knowledgeable captain who knows all the best snorkel reefs and volcanic hot springs to visit. For a completely hands-off sailing holiday, fully crewed yacht charters in St. Lucia combine a private yacht cruise with on-board wellness amenities, gourmet cuisine, and personalized itineraries that showcase the island’s natural wonders in unrivaled comfort.
Similar Caribbean destinations nearby
Sailing holidays in St. Martin
Sailing holidays in Guadeloupe
Sailing holidays in Martinique
