Petit St. Vincent: Private-Island Luxury at the Edge of the Grenadines

Petit St. Vincent is one of the most exclusive yacht charter destinations in the southern Grenadines, a privately managed 115-acre island almost completely surrounded by white-sand beaches and clear Caribbean water. Often shortened to PSV, the island lies between Union Island and Petit Martinique and forms the southernmost island of the St. Vincent Grenadines. Unlike the busier yacht hubs farther north, the entire island is occupied by a secluded luxury resort, giving it an exceptionally private and tranquil atmosphere.

The coastline is one of Petit St. Vincent's greatest attractions. Caribbean Beach and West End Beach wrap around the sheltered leeward and northern shores toward Conch Bay, while Atlantic Beach stretches along the windward side behind a shallow protective reef. The interior rises through three gentle hills to Marni Hill, around 275 feet above sea level, where a short hiking trail provides panoramic views across the southern Grenadines.

For yacht charter guests, PSV combines a secluded anchorage with the possibility of enjoying one of the Grenadines' most refined private-island resorts. Visiting yachtsmen are currently welcomed by the resort, although shore access is controlled and an island access fee applies. The resort's current FAQ lists the fee at US$100 plus taxes per person, with day-use arrangements available through reception. Guests should have their captain confirm the latest policy before arrival.

Petit St. Vincent's practical yacht approach is along its western, leeward coastline, where deeper water gives way to a sandy anchoring area close to the island. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority identifies a jetty and anchorage at the southern end of Caribbean Beach, making this the natural arrival area for visiting yachts.

The eastern and southern sides are more exposed to the prevailing trade winds and Atlantic swell, with reefs bordering sections of the coastline. Captains should use current charts and good daylight when navigating close to the island rather than attempting shortcuts around reef-fringed shores. Petit St. Vincent is also close to Petit Martinique and Union Island, so crews should remain aware of inter-island traffic when approaching from either direction.

The main yacht anchorage lies in the lee of Petit St. Vincent on the western side of the island. Local yacht guidance describes it as a quiet anchorage with good holding, while more detailed cruising information reports sand in roughly 10 to 15 meters in the principal western anchoring area. Protection is generally useful in the prevailing easterly trades, although northerly swell can reduce comfort.

Petit St. Vincent does not operate as a conventional marina or yacht-service center. Crews requiring major provisioning, fuel or technical support should plan around nearby Union Island, Petit Martinique or Carriacou. Resort access from the anchorage should be arranged in advance, particularly if guests want to dine, use the beach or spend the day ashore.

Petit St. Vincent Resort has just 22 private villas spread across the hillside, bluff and beachfront, together with two restaurants and bars, a hillside spa and watersports facilities. Its intentionally low-density design has been part of the island's identity since the original resort opened in 1968.

The island is also an excellent base for exploring the waters around the southern Grenadines. The resort operates sailing, diving, fishing and island-hopping excursions, including trips north toward the Tobago Cays. For yacht guests, PSV works especially well as a refined final SVG stop before continuing south toward Petit Martinique, Carriacou and Grenada.