St. Lucia

Where do the big boats berth?
There are two principal marinas which can actually berth mega-yachts. The Marina at Marigot specifically targets them - both motor and sail. IGY has acquired Rodney Bay Marina and is currently undertaking major upgrading. They expect to accommodate this year's ARC on rebuilt floating docks.

The main commercial and cruise terminal harbour at Castries can also berth the largest.

How about the anchorages?
A popular anchorage is in the area of the Pitons, which is part of a protected marine park, managed by the Soufriere Marine management Association - www.smma.org.lc which has info on applicable rules of engagement.

Is there diving?
The premier dive sites are managed by the SMMA, and local guides are in fact required. Several hotels have dive shops, in addition to dedicated operators. The St. Lucia Tourist Board www.stlucia.org should carry a list of operators.

Is St. Lucia already a megayacht destination?
Rising Sun was about for quite a while last season. Due to construction at Rodney Bay Marina, (www.igy-rodneybay.com) there wasn't much activity last season, but Marigot (www.marigotbay.com) saw more that 180, including the likes of Sherakan, Polar Star, and Endeavour.

What are the attractions?
There is a sheltered bay, Soufriere, which is in the middle of town, with extremely deep water, and a finger pier used by small cruise ships as well. Soufriere is home to a drive-in volcano called Sulphur Springs, and the mineral baths should cure hang-overs at the very least!

Are there any special restrictions?
Captains need to be aware that some nationalities need visas prior to arrival; some can be processed on arrival, and some don't need. I'm trying to clarify the exact situation regarding each category.

What do you recommend for guests and crew?
Most restaurants are located in the north (Castries/Gros Islet area), and for the adventurous there are street fairs on Friday nights at Gros Islet and Anse-la-Raye villages. Safari type open vehicles do off road/off-the-beaten-track type stuff, and there is a rain forest sky ride available. Taxi drivers will do on-demand tours, as will St. Lucia Helicopters, including to neighboring islands - fancy lunch in Martinique? It’s 20 minutes away! Deep Sea fishing by private charter - www.captmikes.com is an option. Golf is
available (18) at Cap Estate Golf Club.

What are the facilities like for repairs?
IGY has a 75-ton 28ft beam travel lift, and IGY can supply details of scope of work available. Island Water World operates a full chandlery at RBM.

What is a typical itinerary?
We are trying to get a picture of the itinerary, but I suspect that there is some traffic to St. Vincent and the  Grenadines. Things may become more organized now that the Southern Caribbean has facilities in St. Lucia and Grenada, which means that the mega-yachts can be relaxed about coming south of Antigua.