Petit Martinique is a small island at the far southeastern corner of the Grenadine chain, less than a mile from Petit St. Vincent.  Like Carriacou, it is a sleepy sort of place, inhabited by a small population of fisherman, seafarers, and boat builders.  It is not promoted by the yacht charter companies and often overlooked because it is really out of the way and not extensively developed.  Because it belongs to Grenada, the added inconvenience of Customs eliminates the possibility of a quick visit.  If you have plenty of time and are really intent on visiting an out-of-the-way place that few others have ventured to, then the added inconvenience might be worth the bother.

Getting There

To legally visit from The Grenadines, you must first clear out of St. Vincent Customs on Union Island, then sail over to Hillsborough on Carriacou to clear in to Grenada, then sail around back to Petit Martinique.  To return, you must perform the reverse operation.  I have heard that many simply ignore regulations.

You could alternatively skip across the half-mile channel from Petit St. Vincent in a dinghy for a quick look.

Marine Heritage

This island will remind you more of Carriacou than any of the Grenadine islands belonging to St. Vincent.  Generations of seafarers reside here, so evidence of this heritage is everywhere.  There are often fishing or other types of sailing vessels under construction on the beach.

The mariners of Petit Martinique have a solid reputation in the design and racing of sailboats.  Sailors from Petit Martinique are often the winners in regional regattas. Their racing boat designs are feared in this part of the world.  I have been told that their designs have been developed to such a point that these boats are as competitive as high-tech computer-designed boats built of exotic composites.  Looking at the sleek shape of these boats, that statement could be accurate. 

Palm Beach Restaurant and Bar

The Palm Beach has a good reputation for serving a great meal.  If you are anchored in PSV and want an inexpensive night out, call them on VHF 16 and they will come and get you by boat.  Do not attempt the crossing yourself at night in an overloaded dinghy.  Customs formalities - well, who’s to say you were ever there...

They often send a Boat Vendor during the day to the PSV anchorage to distribute flyers and arrange bookings.  From a reclined position on the foredeck of your boat, you can book reservations, order dinner, and arrange transportation.  Try doing that at home!