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Saint-Barthélemy, better known as "Saint-Barth", is a must-see destination for lovers of the sea and luxury. Located in the heart of the Lesser Antilles, this discreet yet enchanting island is a haven of serenity where crystal-clear waters meet charming shores. From traditional sailing boats to the most modern yachts, an eclectic fleet sails to this pearl of the Caribbean every year, attracted by its exceptional anchorages, cosmopolitan atmosphere and prestigious nautical events. Blending unspoilt nature with unrivalled glamour, Saint-Barth is the ideal getaway for yachtsmen from all over the world.
Wind and sea
In winter, Saint-Barthélemy's weather conditions are ideal for yachtsmen. Temperatures remain pleasantly mild, and the long sunny days are accompanied by an essential asset for sailing: the trade winds. Compared to the waters of Europe, where winter winds are unpredictable and temperatures often a deterrent, those of Saint-Barth not only bring a steady breeze but also often clear skies, perfect for unhindered sailing. Yachtsmen can sail around the island in a day, or head for the neighboring islands of Saint-Martin or Anguilla for longer cruises. There are numerous anchorages, both protected and accessible.
If you're planning to sail to the north of the Caribbean, it's important to take ocean currents into account. The Atlantic coast of the West Indies is under the influence of the Caribbean Current, which moves northwest before joining forces with the powerful Gulf Stream north of the Bahamas. This dynamic must be taken into account when planning your itinerary.
Anchorages in Saint-Barthélemy
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Gustavia Bay
Gustavia Bay, with its elegant marina and lively atmosphere, remains the island's true nerve center for visiting sailboats and yachts. Yachtsmen and yachtswomen benefit from top-quality services, while being just a stone's throw from the refined restaurants and luxury boutiques that dot the town's streets. As far as anchorages are concerned, all buoys outside the bay are private, with the exception of those marked with a red dome, which are managed by the harbor master's office. However, there are no restrictions on anchoring in this area, and you can anchor anywhere in the bay, which is more than 4 meters deep right down to the seabed.
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Shell Beach
This pretty anchorage, just opposite Shell Beach, is part of Gustavia harbor. Anchoring is still possible outside the protected area. It's important to note that there is a fee, often quite high, if you haven't left the area by morning. The beach can be lively, and the town is nearby.
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Anse du Colombier
Anse du Colombier is a quiet anchorage where mooring buoys prevent the destruction of sea grass beds for turtles. It's also an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, with a rich and varied seabed. Its peacefulness contrasts pleasantly with the hustle and bustle of Gustavia, attracting yachtsmen in search of peace and quiet.
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Ile Fourchue
Just a few miles from this cove, the completely unspoilt Ile Fourchue offers a spectacular setting, with a deserted island devoid of all construction and crystal-clear waters. Boaters can anchor here, either on buoys or at anchor, and enjoy the isolation of this idyllic spot.
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Anse de Grande Saline
More secluded than the other bays, Anse de Grande Saline is perfect for a peaceful stopover, with its clear waters and golden sand. Saline is ideal for relaxing moments away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
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Anse du Gouverneur
Certainly one of the best anchorages on the island. Boaters will find a deserted paradise-like setting.
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Anse des Cayes
The Anse des Cayes marina is a charming little facility located on the north coast of Saint-Barth. Mostly frequented by local fishermen, it offers limited services for yachts and visiting boats, with a small quay and a few mooring buoys. Unlike the island's larger marinas, it does not offer full services such as refuelling or electricity supply. However, its location in a picturesque bay makes it a quiet, secluded spot, ideal for yachtsmen seeking a peaceful anchorage away from the crowds of the island's busier areas.
A place of culture and refinement
In addition to its natural beauty, Saint-Barthélemy is a cultural and artistic center. Yachtsmen calling at the island can discover an art of living that combines Creole traditions and European influences. The island's architecture, with its typical red-tiled houses, reflects its colonial history. Local culture is also marked by numerous events throughout the year, such as the Saint-Barthélemy Music Festival, which attracts artists from all over the world: in 2025, it will be held from January 10 to 19.
Saint-Barthélemy offers a range of high-quality services for yachtsmen. Its marinas are perfectly equipped to accommodate monohulls, catamarans and yachts of all sizes. The harbor, especially Gustavia, offers refuelling and repair services, as well as top-of-the-range amenities. Visitors can also soak up the lively atmosphere of the quayside, where bars, refined restaurants and designer boutiques follow one another. The island is also renowned for its lively nightlife and magnificent sunsets over the Caribbean Sea, unforgettable moments not to be missed.
An appeal to yachtsmen's sense of responsibility
Saint-Barthélemy's nature reserve, covering 1,200 hectares of marine territory, is an exceptionally rich ecosystem that yachtsmen should not overlook. It protects essential underwater habitats such as seagrass beds and coral reefs, home to endangered species such as the Nassau grouper and the long-nosed seahorse. The island's crystal-clear waters are also home to a variety of fish, invertebrates, sea turtles and mammals such as the humpback whale and bottlenose dolphin.
Mooring areas are often close to these sensitive ecosystems, where a poorly positioned anchor could destroy essential habitats. Seagrass beds and corals are particularly vulnerable, and the impact of human activities on these natural environments must be minimized. It is therefore crucial that sailors respect local anchoring rules and use mooring buoys whenever possible. Several "ecological" moorings have been installed in the Saint-Barthélemy nature reserve, and a sticker has been affixed to each buoy, indicating the maximum weight and length of the boat that can be moored there.
