Practical info

Territory

The Caribbean is a stunning region of islands in the Caribbean Sea, stretching from the Bahamas and the southern United States down to the northern coast of South America. For British travellers seeking sailing holidays, the most popular destinations include Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Lucia, the Grenadines, and the British Virgin Islands, each offering its own unique charm—from pristine beaches and turquoise waters to vibrant local culture and welcoming communities.

Population

The combined population of these islands is over 4 million, with each destination offering a mix of lively towns and peaceful, secluded spots perfect for anchoring.

Documents and currency

For a sailing holiday in the Caribbean, British citizens require a passport valid for at least six months. No visa is generally needed for short tourist stays in Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Lucia, the Grenadines, or the BVI.
Currency: Barbados, Antigua, Saint Lucia, the Grenadines, and the BVI primarily use Eastern Caribbean dollars or US dollars, with major services often accepting credit cards.

Language

English is spoken throughout these islands, making communication straightforward for UK travellers. In French-speaking territories such as Martinique, basic phrases in French can enhance your experience.

Getting There 

Travellers can reach these sailing hubs via direct flights from London to key airports such as Grantley Adams International (BGI, Barbados), V.C. Bird International (ANU, Antigua), Hewanorra International (UVF, Saint Lucia), and Saint Vincent (SVD). Short transfers bring you to the main marinas and charter bases, allowing for a smooth start to your sailing holiday.

Getting around 

Most airports are conveniently located near the main ports of embarkation. Once aboard your catamaran, the skipper takes care of navigation, guiding you to the most beautiful islands, bays, and hidden beaches—no additional transport is needed.

Cellular network

You can stay connected using your UK mobile provider’s international roaming, but a more cost-effective option is to purchase a local or virtual SIM card with a set amount of data and minutes. This ensures easy access to maps, weather updates, and communication while at sea.