Cheap Marinas for Long-term Docking in the Caribbean
The Caribbean has everything, whether you want to relax on the beach with a rum punch or whizz through the forest on a zip line. Cruisers with a sense of adventure can even move from island to island, getting the best of both worlds – land and sea – right from the ocean. Throughout the Caribbean Sea, you can visit a variety of tropical destinations, view and learn about each unique culture. The Caribbean is made up of twenty-eight countries and more than seven thousand islands.
There is no better spot in the world to go boating than the Caribbean. And, this applies whether you’re looking for historic shipwrecks, snorkeling, or simply sailing the crystal clear sea. But, as a top sailing destination, there are marinas in the Caribbean with high prices. In this article, I will list all cheap marinas for long-term docking in order to help you with your research. Follow me!
General Information about Marinas in the Caribbean
Living in the Caribbean isn’t as inexpensive as most people believe. It won’t be prohibitively expensive, or at least it won’t have to be. A decent marina slip in the Caribbean may cost you around $800 per month. This will provide you with some security, decent amenities, and a convenient location. You can, of course, reduce this amount and obtain a marina slip near where the locals will dock their boats for a lot less money. But, you won’t receive all the other perks and conveniences. And, you will more likely be outside of town which is great, depending on what you’re looking for. To put that into perspective, a year’s worth of slip fees in the Caribbean costs around $9,000.
It’s a lot less than paying rent, and it’s surely a lot less than living on land with all basic amenities. However, note that there are around 145 marinas in the Caribbean Sea and they have somehow different prices from one another. This is because each marina offers different amenities. Also, the price will greatly depend on the season in which you’re sailing as well as the length of your sailboat. For instance, a luxurious marina slip in the Dominican Republic could be rented for a few hundred dollars per month.
You should also think about how you’ll pay your taxes while you’re in the Caribbean. This also depends on how long you will be staying there. You can avoid paying income tax in your host country if you are merely visiting (for a few months) and still living in the US. But, if you intend to live in one country for an extended period of time, make sure you register with the government of that country. It’s best to complete this before you leave, although it may usually be done locally.
So, let’s now move on and check the cheapest marinas in the Caribbean for long-term docking!
British Virgin Islands Marinas
Long-term regulars, transients, mega-yachts, and liveaboards can all be accommodated at marinas on Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Although there are no marinas on Anegada, most of the other islands have approved anchorage spots and moorings. Yacht clubs are active on both Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Water and gasoline stations are available at the marinas. And, several include full boatyards, haul-out facilities, chandleries, and other industry-related enterprises. For reservations, price, entry regulations, customs and immigration offices, arrival processes, marina rules, etc, you should contact the marinas directly.
>>Also Read: Is It Dangerous to Sail Around the World?
Leverick Bay Marina, Virgin Gorda
The Leverick Bay Resort and Marina is a beachfront leisure complex in Virgin Gorda, the British Virgin Islands’ third biggest island. This marina is one of the most picturesque in the West Indies. It is situated on the beaches of a vast blue lagoon known as North Sound. On Virgin Gorda’s northeast shore, on an entrance in the North Sound, is Leverick Bay. The island is around 13 kilometers long, and its name comes from its shape, the one of a reclining woman, or “Fat Virgin.” Pond Bay, Devil’s Bay, Mahoe Bay, and Spring Bay beaches are ideal for a swim or a stroll.
There are 36 berths available at the Marina. Water, electricity, ice, fuel, a pool, and showers are all available. There’s also a grocery store, a bar and restaurants, retail shopping, SNUBA, boat rentals, and lodging. Fuel, freshwater, and ice are all available at this full-service dock, which also has 36 moorings and slips with 110 and 220-volt electricity. Freshwater hot showers and laundry facilities are also provided for your comfort. Marina fees are 2.50 per foot for boats exceeding 70 feet and less than 1.50 for boats under 70 feet.
>>Also Read: Is It Dangerous to Sail in the Caribbean?
Inner Harbour Marina, Tortola
On the picturesque British Virgin Island of Tortola, the Inner Harbour Marina offers a convenient marina for any sailing voyage. Everything in Road Town is within walking distance of this facility, which is located between Wickham’s Cay I and Wickham’s Cay II. Inner Harbour Marina contains 50 berths and 22 moorings on the water, with a maximum length of 65 feet and a draft of 8 feet. There is 1×30 and 1×50 AMP power available on-site, as well as an abundance of facilities. A casino and bar are available, as well as boat rental and charter services, a fuel dock, pump-out services, and emergency repairs. Overall, it’s a great marina for long-term docking and the prices start from $1,50 per foot.
Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina, Tortola
One of the most gorgeous anchorages in the British Virgin Islands is Soper’s Hole Marina. It’s off the coast of Frenchman’s Cay on the western side of Tortola. The marina’s facilities are home to a variety of businesses that provide activities, dining, shopping, and other amenities. There are 50 dock slips and 26 moorings available. Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina can accommodate vessels up to 180 feet in length. The moorings are only suited for vessels that are smaller than 60 feet in length. The daily rates start at $1.00 per foot.
Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour
The world-famous Baths National Park is located on Virgin Gorda. It is a lovely destination with many gorgeous panoramas and beaches. There are dozens of slips available for monohulls, catamarans, and yachts with a length of up to 140 feet. Every slip is equipped with 30Amp, 50Amp, and/or 100Amp power, as well as water. Monohulls cost $1.30/ft, catamarans are $2.50/ft, alongside and T-heads are $4.50/ft, and vessels over 55′ are $3.00/ft for overnight slips. Keep in mind that for long-term docking you need to book your slip well in advance.
Penn’s Landing Marina, Parham Town
Penn’s Landing Marina is a peaceful marina located in the protected waters of Fat Hog’s Bay on the picturesque island of Tortola. The marina is a Caribbean gem, with 12 berths, a dinghy dock, and 20 moorings all set against a breathtaking backdrop. You will appreciate the internet connectivity as well as the wonderfully clean washrooms and showers. The Riteway Grocery, a Laundromat with drop-off service, ice, propane, and two fuel docks are all easily accessible by dinghy. Long Beach or Josiah’s Bay, both surfer’s paradises, are just a short cab ride away. Mooring monthly fees start from $13.50/ft and long-term docking is available but you should contact the marina before your arrival.
Antigua & Barbuda
The Caribbean Sea virtually hugs Antigua’s shoreline with 95 miles of beautiful coastline. Barbuda, her sister, is surrounded by reefs and has a vast lagoon and a Frigate Bird Sanctuary. The islands are famed for their kind and friendly inhabitants, pink and white sand beaches, crystal blue oceans, and the world’s most enjoyable climate. When the world’s sea levels rose dramatically around 10,000 BC, Barbuda became separated from Antigua by around 28 miles.
Parts of Barbuda have been geologically flooded, resulting in intriguing lagoons. Moreover, the world’s largest breeding and nesting colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds can be found here. Barbuda is home to a diverse range of native habitats that have yet to be threatened by development. The reef-fringed island of Barbuda may be one of the West Indies’ best-kept ecological secrets. Her rough environment, gorgeous beaches (one of which is at least 12 miles long), lagoons, and rich biodiversity make the islands stand out from others.
Note that Barbuda Island has no marina, however, it has several beautiful and secure anchorages.
Nelson’s Dockyard Marina, Antigua
Nelson’s Dockyard Marina is undoubtedly the most beautiful living piece of Caribbean history today. In the 18th century, it served as a base for Admiral Horatio Nelson’s fleet, and it is currently a popular destination for cruisers. The Dockyard’s diverse stores and facilities will ensure that your visit is enjoyable. Nelson’s Dockyard Marina has 30 berths available with bow moorings, as well as all basic amenities, and 24-hour security. Note that Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is a non-profit organization. The money raised goes towards restoration, conservation, and archaeology. Overall, it is a reasonably priced marina suitable for long-term docking.
Jolly Harbour Marina and Boatyard, Antigua
The marina is located on Antigua’s sheltered west coast and is the most convenient port of entry for visitors arriving from St. Martin and the northern islands. The entrance is straightforward, and lit channel markers direct you into the harbor. There are thirteen moorings and 155 slips available on four fully serviced concrete docks. It’s a great spot to leave your boat because it’s secure 24 hours a day. Moreover, there’s the fuel that is duty-free is accessible. A boatyard, long-term storage, and a sailing store are also available.
Budget Marine Chandlery is located on-site and is only a two-minute walk from the pier. There are also various resort amenities on-site, including a huge supermarket, ATMs, numerous restaurants and bars, and a golf course. On the low season, monthly rates start from $0,65 per foot per day, and on the high season $0,85 per foot per day.
Shell Beach Marina, Antigua
On the north side of the island, near the airport, there’s Shell Beach Marina. It’s perfect for motorboats but there are also available slips for sailboats. Note that the pontoons are equipped with lifts. Fuel, water, chandlery, storage for a 25-ton trip hoist, and repairs are all accessible. With convenient access to Antigua’s Atlantic coasts, this peaceful, modest marina located in classic Caribbean surroundings has a lot to offer boaters. Keep in mind that you should contact the marina by phone in order to bock a long-term slip.
Barbados
Barbados is the Lesser Antilles’ easternmost island. It is located in the western North Atlantic, 62 nautical miles east of the Windward Islands and the Caribbean Sea. Barbados is a small coral island located 98 miles east of the West Indies, with a surface area of only 166 square kilometers. In addition to its endless white-sand beaches, Barbados’ extensive shoreline conceals subterranean caves and underground lakes. Not to mention the gorgeous tidal pools and world-class surfing on the island. In addition to these stunning natural events, Barbados has a very rich culture and history. While your boat is docked in one of the gorgeous marinas, consider taking a tour around the historic villages.
Port Ferdinand
The gorgeous Port Ferdinand marina, located on Barbados’ northwestern coast, is an architectural marvel and a location of stunning beauty and elegance. Six Men’s Bay is the entrance to the marina, which is accessible through a lift bridge. The marina has 120 berths available for yachts and provides outstanding support services.
Port Ferdinand is an amazing location, with top on-site amenities like watersport activities, a fitness center, and many shops and restaurants nearby. Long-term docking is available but you should contact the marina well in advance as it tends to get crowdy.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas are only 50 miles from Florida’s east coast and within easy reach of other major US cities. It is basically a 30-square-kilometer archipelago with brilliant pure blue waters. The islands are unquestionably among the world’s most popular sailing destinations. There are normally mild trade breezes of roughly 15 knots in this area. To put it another way, the Bahamas are a simple sailing location that is great for beginners and families. There are numerous quiet spots to be found, and the overall image is one of nature but also human intervention areas. Keep in mind that you can sail to the Bahamas at any time of year, although the best months to go are December through April.
Great Harbour Cay Marina
Great Harbour Cay, which is about 7 miles long and 2.5 miles broad at its widest point, is a small island in the Berry Islands off the coast of Florida, about halfway between Freeport and Nassau. You may either dock your boat in the legendary hurricane hole marina or fly in from South Florida or Nassau. Dockage monthly rates are $20 per foot per month, there’s a gas station, fuel dock, as well as water and electricity at low cost.
Bay Street Marina, Nassau
The new Bay Street Marina is just in the heart of Nassau. It is the Bahamas’ first marina and it is nearby Paradise Island to the east and downtown to the west. The amenities-rich marina is ideal for long-term mooring, with 89 spaces capable of accommodating boats from 30′ to 500′ and a draft of up to 20′. Long-term docking is possible and there will also be a discount on the total cost.
Nassau Yacht Haven
Nassau Yacht Haven, located on the sparkling blue waters of Nassau, Bahamas, is a must-see for anybody cruising the Caribbean. The property is not just historically significant, but it also has a wealth of wonderful amenities both on-site and within walking distance. Several facilities will be available to you during your stay that will make a long-term stay easier. Note that for any long-term dockage rates you should contact the marina before your arrival. This is because, according to the duration of your stay, special rates will apply.
In addition, Nassau Yacht Haven is home to the Bahamas’ oldest Dive Shop, which is staffed by experienced and certified divers. The Poop Deck, one of the country’s most famous and oldest eateries, is located on pet-friendly premises. While the name may be a little amusing, the food here is serious!
Hawk’s Nest Marina, Cat Island
The 28-slip marina provides numerous amenities that sailors expect. On the southern edge of Cat Island, just around the bend, is the entrance to the totally protected Hawks Nest marina. When approached, the opening is buoyed and plainly visible. Slip rates start from $1.50 per foot per day but for long-term docking, you should contact the marina by phone before your arrival.
Highbourne Cay, Exuma
The marina basin and beautiful beaches of Highbourne Cay are the island’s most visible and well-known natural attractions. They helped place Highbourne Cay on the map more than half a century ago, and they’ve played a big role in return visitors throughout the years. There are long-term dockage rates available for stays of one month or more. For more information, you should contact the marina office directly.
Guadeloupe and Martinique
Guadeloupe is a picturesque French archipelago located between Dominica and Antigua in the Lesser Antilles. It is made up of five islands: Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, and La Desirade, which are connected by beautiful waterways and an efficient ferry network.
Stunning beaches are bordered by tropical jungles, and massive volcanoes share the skyline with towering churches. The store-lined streets and restaurant-filled back lanes of Fort-de-France are crowded with tourists and inhabitants, but the noises of bird tweets and hikers are muffled a few miles north. Martinique, in a nutshell. If you want to relax on the beach one day and get your adrenaline pounding the next, this island has it all – and does it well.
Marina Rivière-Sens Gourbeyre, Guadeloupe
Marina de Rivière Sens Sud Ancrage is in the Rivière-Sens village. The village is part of the Gourbeyre area in the south of Basse-Terre Island. The marina, which is located at the base of the Soufriere volcano, provides convenient access to Basse-Terre’s nightlife. The National Park lies in the south, while there are many beautiful beaches in the north, such as Grand Anse and Anse Tillet. It has the Lesser Antilles’ largest rainforest and is known for its biological variety. Note that long-term docking is available but you should contact the marina by phone before your arrival.
Marina Bas-du-Fort, Guadeloupe
Marina Bas-du-Fort is located in a unique environment in Pointe-à-Pitre at the middle of the butterfly island, welcoming and pleasant, protected from the winds and waves. And, the arrival of the legendary transatlantic solo race La Route du Rhum. It is close to the beaches as well as the most stunning tourist attractions, such as the National Park’s distinctive Volcano La Soufriere and its three incredible Chutes du Carbet waterfalls. The marina rates are fairly priced year-round but prior contact for long-term docking is a must as it tends to be crowdy.
Marina Somatras Pointe du Bout, Martinique
The marina is located in one of the most beautiful bays in the world: Fort-de-France Bay, Martinique. It is located in the heart of the most beautiful hotel complex on the island, the Pointe du Bout, on the edge of turquoise water, the one you will only find in the Caribbean. The marina can accommodate about 100 boats up to 19 meters long, 6 meters wide, and 3 meters draft. In case of bad weather, the Marina de la Pointe du Bout is renowned for offering excellent shelter. Long-term docking is possible with prior notice and there’s a discount on monthly costs.
La Marina du Marin, Martinique
If you’re cruising in the Caribbean, don’t miss La Marina du Marin in Martinique’s south. Its top-notch infrastructure includes 830 berths and 100 anchorages, as well as a pontoon that can handle yachts up to 60 meters in length. The gorgeous Bay of Marin is one of the region’s best-protected and hurricane-safe bays. The island is known for its safety, with a low crime rate, and you can rest certain that the marina will provide secure access to the pontoons, as well as CCTV security and the presence of staff. Marina du Marin provides a technical base, as well as restaurants, shopping, and recreational activities. A team is available to position your boat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Long-term docking is available with monthly fees starting from $11 per foot.
Grenada
Grenada, with its unspoiled scenery, offers unique experiences to adventurers, beachgoers, and of course sailors. It is a small volcanic island republic in the eastern Caribbean. Its location is around 160 kilometers north of Venezuela. Grenada is surrounded by a ridge of mountains that runs north to south, with steep valleys in between. There are also extensive swaths of tropical rainforests. Consider swimming in the turquoise waters of Grand Anse Beach and trek through the waterfalls of Seven Sisters.
Dockside or haulout/storage facilities are available at the Grenada Yacht Club, Spice Island Marine, Grenada Marine, and Clarkes Court Bay. Note that dockside costs around $7-8 per foot per month, and you can get a better deal if you negotiate a long-term rent. In most regions, electricity is metered and pricey. Another alternative is to rent a mooring ball in one of Grenada’s southern harbors and employ someone to keep an eye on the boat. This is considerably less expensive, plus there are Grenadians that provide moorings/watch services that take excellent care of boats.
Clarke’s Court Marina
Clarkes Court Bay Boatyard and Marina, formerly known as Clarkes Court Bay Marina, is conveniently located in Woburn Bay, next to Hog Island, on Grenada’s south coast. This world-class marina is on ten acres of land, surrounded by mangroves and reefs that act as a hurricane barrier and provide protection from severe winds and waves. L’Anse aux Epines Beach and Grooms Beach are both close to the marina. St. George’s, the island’s capital, is only 8 kilometers away and offers a range of shopping and dining alternatives. Don’t omit to relax on Grande Anse Beach, a 3.2-kilometer stretch of white sand, or visit the neighboring Annandale Falls and Concord Waterfalls. Note that long-term docking is available with fees starting from $1 per foot.
Grenada Yacht Club
Grenada Yacht Club is nestled on a beautiful lagoon surrounded by lush green hills south of Grenada’s capital, St. George’s. Grenada is known as the “Gateway to the Grenadines”. This is because of its broad sandy beaches and exotic jungles with spectacular waterfalls. Grand Anse Beach to the south and Annandale Falls to the west are also close to St. George. In addition, Union Island is a famous port of entry to the Grenadines and Mayreau is the Grenadines’ smallest inhabited island. Also, Tobago Cays is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque places. These are just a few of the popular cruising spots in the area. Long-term docking is always available but you should contact the marina in order to get personalized information according to the LOA and duration of your stay.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a sanctuary for sailors, with some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful scenery. This series of 36 verdant volcanic islands continues south into Grenada, with the abundance of white-sand beaches and palm-lined harbors where sailboats bob beside each other. There are several private islands here, many of which have expensive resorts. Dive sites abound, and coral reefs line several of the beaches, providing excellent snorkeling just a short distance from shore. Discerning island lovers flock to these tranquil islands for a taste of the classic Caribbean landscape away from the hordes of cruise ships that clog up the bigger ports.
Bequia Marina
The Trade Winds Yacht Club in Hamilton, near the top of Admiralty Bay, houses Bequia Marina, which has ten spots available for short or long-term dockage. At the dock, there is a three-phase electrical service as well as metered water, ice, and fuel bunkering. Recommended provisioning outlets are conveniently placed nearby, and the marina offers laundry, as well as a restaurant, bar, and grill, as well as hotel rooms and a day spa. Consider calling beforehand to confirm any clearance procedures that may be required. Any boat seeking a dockage option in the Grenadines will find their rates to be very reasonable. Lastly, note that the marina has security at night.
Sandy Lane Yacht Club, Canouan Island
Sandy Lane Yacht Club is a well-developed marina establishment in Canouan. The marina is located on the island’s southwest shore, next to the Canouan Jetport. Sandy Lane Yacht Club features 120 spaces and 29 berths to accommodate vessels up to 100 meters in length. Long-term docking is possible and monthly fees start from $1,50 per foot per night.
The Bottom Line
So, we have come to the end of this article. I know that the list is long (and it could keep going), but these marinas offer quality services, reasonable rates, and long-term docking. I wish that this article will be helpful to your research and upcoming voyages. Wish you all safe & pleasant sailing!