Saint Lucia

Why go there?

Explore the majestic Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, which rise dramatically from the sea, offering incredible hiking opportunities and panoramic views. Discover the serene beauty of Marigot Bay, a picturesque hurricane hole often described as one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean. Venture inland to the Sulphur Springs, the Caribbean's only drive-in volcano, where you can bathe in mineral-rich mud pools. Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of marine reserves like Anse Chastanet and Anse Cochon, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Don't miss the vibrant local culture; annual events include the renowned Saint Lucia Jazz Festival (May), the energetic Saint Lucia Carnival (June and July), and Creole Heritage Month (October), celebrating the island's unique heritage with music, dance, and traditional cuisine.

How to get there?

The main international airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), located in the south, handling most long-haul flights.

Scheduled flights arrive from

• Major cities in North America (e.g., New York, Miami, Toronto) and Europe (e.g., London).
• Main international airlines serving Saint Lucia include American Airlines, British Airways, JetBlue Airways, Air Canada, WestJet, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU), near the capital Castries in the north, serves regional Caribbean flights.

Approaching by yacht

Sailing to Saint Lucia from another island in the Windward Islands is highly recommended, especially from Martinique due to the short distance, or as part of a longer itinerary that includes the Grenadines if you have more than 7 days. A 7-day charter within Saint Lucia itself provides ample time to explore its diverse attractions without feeling rushed.

• From Marina du Marin, Martinique to Rodney Bay Marina, Saint Lucia: Distance: Approximately 25-30 nautical miles. Sailing Time: 4-6 hours.
• From Clifton Harbour Marina, Union Island, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines to Rodney Bay Marina, Saint Lucia: Distance: Approximately 80-90 nautical miles. Sailing Time: 13-18 hours.
• From Port Louis, Grenada to Rodney Bay Marina, Saint Lucia: Distance: Approximately 110-120 nautical miles. Sailing Time: 18-24 hours

Marina facilities:

Saint Lucia boasts excellent marina facilities, primarily in the north:

• Rodney Bay Marina: Located at the northern tip, this is Saint Lucia's premier marina and a major hub for yachting. It offers 253 slip berths and 32 fixed mega yacht docks, accommodating vessels up to 285 feet (86.8m) with a maximum draft of 13 feet (4m). Services include high-speed on-berth fueling, water, ice, provisioning, customs and immigration as an official port of entry, a 4.5-acre boatyard for comprehensive maintenance, taxi, car rentals, ATM, and internet access.
• Marigot Bay Marina: Nestled in the picturesque Marigot Bay, often called a "hurricane hole" due to its protected location. It has 42 berths and 20 mooring buoys, accommodating yachts up to 280 feet (85m) in length and up to 20 feet (6m) draft. Facilities include fuel, electricity (110v/220v), potable water, complimentary WiFi and cable TV, shower facilities, laundry, and on-site customs and immigration clearance. Guests also have access to the amenities of the Marigot Bay Resort, including pools, restaurants, and a spa.

What food to expect?

Saint Lucian cuisine is a delicious blend of Creole, French, and West African influences, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, local produce, and vibrant spices. The national dish is Green Figs and Saltfish, made with unripe bananas ("figs") and salted cod, typically stewed with herbs and spices. Other must-try dishes include hearty Bouyon (a thick soup with various meats and ground provisions), Smoked Herring and Breadfruit and Lambi (conch stew or pan-fried). You'll also find Callaloo Soup, Pepperpot stew, and various fried plantain dishes.

Restaurants, particularly in popular areas like Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay, are generally accessible from the sea, either directly via dinghy or a short taxi ride from marina docks. The quality ranges from casual beachside eateries offering authentic local flavors to upscale dining experiences.

Provisioning advice

For main provisioning, the largest supermarkets are primarily found in the Rodney Bay area and in Castries. Here you can find a wide range of imported goods, fresh produce, meats, and beverages. Local markets, particularly the Castries Market, are excellent for fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, often offering more local and seasonal items. In less developed areas or smaller villages, provisioning options will be more limited, typically consisting of small convenience stores with basic supplies. It's advisable to complete your main provisioning in the larger hubs before venturing to more remote anchorages.

The cost of living for groceries in Saint Lucia can be 2-3 times higher than in the U.S. for imported goods, as many food items are imported. While local produce offers better value, overall provisioning can be more expensive compared to some other Windward Islands like Martinique, where the cost of living for groceries and wine is generally lower.

Language and currency

• Main Language: English is the official language. Saint Lucian Creole French (Kwéyòl) is also widely spoken by locals.
• Widely Accepted Currency: The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and marinas.

Visa requirements

Saint Lucia has its own visa policies as an independent Commonwealth realm.

• US Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business. A valid passport is sufficient.
• Canada Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business. A valid passport is sufficient.
• UK Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business. A valid passport is required.
• France and EU Passport Holders: French citizens generally do not require a visa. For other EU passport holders, it is generally visa-free for short stays (typically up to 4-6 weeks), but it is advisable to check specific country requirements as nationals from some EU countries (e.g., Slovakia, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, Estonia) may require a visa.

For stays exceeding the visa-free period or for purposes other than tourism/business (e.g., work, study), specific visas may be required, and it's advisable to consult the nearest Saint Lucian embassy or consulate.