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Carriacou GrenadaCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Carriacou

As cruise ships cannot dock in Carriacou, you will be tendered ashore. The main tender port is Hillsborough, the capital, situated on the western side of the island. Carriacou, known as the "Land of Reefs," is the largest of Grenada's sister islands, spanning 13 square miles. Hillsborough serves as the bustling heart, housing banks, government offices, and the main police station. General business hours are from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Despite its small size, Carriacou offers a wide range of activities, from world-class snorkeling and diving on pristine reefs to exploring historical sites and cultural landmarks. The island is rich in unique traditions passed down from African and European ancestors, including Traditional Weddings, the Big Drum Nation Dance, and Shakespeare Mas. In the village of Windward, you can observe traditional boat building methods, a skill preserved from Scottish settlers, with an annual Carriacou Regatta held in July/August.

Getting Around from the Port

Upon arrival at Hillsborough, the town center is easily accessible. For exploring further afield, local buses are available, with fares generally around EC $2.00 per mile or a flat rate of EC $3.00 per ride. Water taxis offer a convenient way to visit nearby islands like Sandy Island or Petite Martinique, or other chosen destinations.

Attractions and Activities

  • Explore Hillsborough: Wander through the capital, where you'll find banks, government offices, and the main police station. Experience the local atmosphere and perhaps observe daily life.
  • Snorkeling and Diving: Carriacou is renowned as the "Land of Reefs" and offers world-class opportunities for snorkeling and diving on some of the Caribbean's most pristine reefs. Many local operators can facilitate these excursions.
  • Visit Windward Village: Head to the village of Windward to see traditional wooden boats being built using methods passed down by Scottish settlers. This offers a unique glimpse into a living cultural heritage.
  • Day Trip to Sandy Island: Take a water taxi to Sandy Island, a popular spot for relaxation and enjoying the pristine waters.
  • Excursion to Petite Martinique: Arrange a water taxi to Petite Martinique, located about 3 miles (5km) east of northern Carriacou. This small dependency of Grenada spans 486 acres (194 hectares) and is home to about 900 people. It boasts fine beaches on its calmer western side and is known for its strong culture, fishing, and boat-building traditions. Note that Petite Martinique is only reachable by boat.

Dining & Shopping

Hillsborough, as the capital, has various restaurants and bars located "around every bend," offering local food, drinks, and entertainment. Shops typically operate from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Supermarkets and larger shopping centers usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with some even open on Sundays. Craft and souvenir shops are likely to open on Sundays or public holidays, especially when cruise ships are in port.

Weather

Carriacou is the largest of Grenada's Grenadine islands, with a warm tropical climate and temperatures between 75°F and 88°F (24°C to 31°C) year-round. The dry season from January through May is the prime cruise season, delivering sunny skies and calm seas in this quieter island destination. Pack lightweight clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.

Average Temperature (°F)
8278Jan8178Feb8278Mar8379Apr8380May8480Jun8480Jul8581Aug8681Sep8581Oct8481Nov8380Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
1.81Jan0.8Feb1.19Mar1.13Apr1.92May3.83Jun4Jul4.29Aug4.05Sep5.13Oct5.58Nov2.62Dec

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), which is linked to the US Dollar. Banks exchange US$1.00 for EC$2.67 in cash, and US$1.00 for EC$2.68 in travelers cheques. It is recommended to exchange currency at banks for the most favorable rates. Major credit cards are widely accepted by most hotels, car rental companies, and shops, and travelers cheques are accepted almost everywhere. English is the official language, though a French-African patois is also commonly spoken.

Top Attractions

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Sandy Island
A pristine, uninhabited islet renowned for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's a prime spot for snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking, offering vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Anse La Roche Beach
A secluded and picturesque beach accessible by foot or boat, known for its tranquil ambiance and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The clear waters reveal colorful marine life and coral formations.
High North Peak
The highest point on Carriacou, offering rewarding hiking trails through lush vegetation and panoramic views of the island and surrounding Grenadines. It's a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Saline Island
An uninhabited island known for its salt pond and beautiful, secluded beaches. It's a fantastic spot for a quiet day trip, offering excellent snorkeling and a chance to explore untouched nature.
White Island
A small, uninhabited island offering pristine white sand beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It's a popular stop for boat tours exploring the southern Grenadines.
Mabouya Island
Another small, uninhabited islet in the chain of islands south of Carriacou, known for its tranquil beaches and good snorkeling spots. It provides a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Sister Rocks
A renowned dive site consisting of two large rock formations rising from the seabed, teeming with diverse marine life and vibrant corals. It's a must-visit for experienced divers exploring Carriacou's underwater world.
Limlair Beach
A quiet and less frequented beach on the eastern side of Carriacou, offering a peaceful retreat with soft sands and gentle waves. It's ideal for a relaxing day away from crowds.