On and in the sea

To born Bequians going to sea is natural - originally just in fishing boats, then in the cargo ships of the region, then as merchant seamen sailing the globe, and more recently as crew on yachts or cruise ships.

A highlight of the year is the
Bequia Easter Regatta which, for almost twenty years, in March or April, has welcomed visiting yachtsmen and island sailors to four days of intensive racing.
www.begos.com/easterregatta

The locally-built fishing boat design has gradually been perfected to become a unique and formidable racing craft. It's a wondrous sight - over 30 sprit-rigged Bequia dinghies under sail, in synch, as they round Western Cay.  Those ashore are not forgotten with activities ranging from dominoes, to greasy pole to music in the park.

The sea offers a wonderful extension of Bequia for visitors.  Swimming and snorkeling is just the start. Scuba diving is excellent in these waters with a variety of sites within 10 minutes in the dive boat - and several small islands and a wreck dive within a half an hour. The 3 dive shops on the island offer hotel packages with a certain number of dives. 

Windsurfing, and small boat sailing works fine in Admiralty Bay. The breeze generally funnels down over the low hill above Port Elizabeth fanning out across the broad expanse of the bay. Friendship or Industry are also reliable windsurfing sites.

Hope Bay is the only windward bay without the protection of reefs and here you can experience conditions for body or board surfing, especially in the months from December through
February.

A quick way to get from one part of Admiralty bay to another, or from your yacht to shore, is to hire a water taxi, an open boat with outboard engine.  Just call them on VHF radio, channel 68 or look by the Frangipani or Whaleboner jetties.

Sailing trips are for everybody.  Take a day sail to Mustique or to the Tobago Cays.  You can choose a broad catamaran like Passion which was built in St. Vincent, or the Bequia-built auxiliary schooner Friendship Rose.

Friendship Rose

For 8 persons or less a private charter might suit you best. Think about spending several days or even a week exploring the phenomenal beauty of the islands south of Bequia. There are many yachts to choose from with varying degrees of comfort and space.

Kathryn B

If you have not had much experience on the sea it is always best to consult someone who knows boats and the area.

Bequia is special as much for the sea around it as for the island itself.  Try to experience both.