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11Holiday Bequia
Dear Visitors,
Welcome to our very special island!Bequia was recently described in the press as “the perfect Caribbean Island” and few who have visited would disagree with this assessment! Far from being just another Caribbean island resort, it is instead a big little island with friendly independent-minded people, lush green hills, fertile valleys, stunning views and above all, a unique, magical charm that captivates everyone.
During the high season, don’t miss our annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration, the Bequia Tourism Association’s annual four-day Bequia Mount Gay Music Fest at the end of January and of course the world famous Bequia Easter Regatta.
While you are here, we hope you will visit our Bequia Tourism office, located at the end of the main jetty in Port Elizabeth. This cool haven is the ideal place to get advice and information about Bequia, pick up copies of invaluable free publications such as Holiday Bequia, and “Bequia This Week”, purchase stamps, postcards, water and phone cards as well as souvenir items.
The Bequia Tourism Association is committed to making Bequia even more “perfect” for everyone and we work hard to achieve this goal. Our official website www.bequiatourism.com is constantly updated and is the number one online source of information about the island.
We hope that you enjoy reading this latest edition of Holiday Bequia, and most of all that you enjoy your stay and will come back to Bequia soon!
With best wishes.
Antoinette Cozier-SimmonsChairperson, Bequia Tourism Association
P.O. Box 146 BQ, Bequia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, W.I.Tel: (784) 458 3286 Fax: (784) 458-3964 [email protected]
Open 7 days a week throughout the year
www.bequiatourism.com
Friendship Bay
22
Contents
22
This magazine has been created to give you a glimpse of the welcoming hotels and guesthouses, restaurants, beautiful scenery, numerous activities, rich culture and the special warmth which Bequia has to offer all its visitors. It is presented to you with our compliments.
Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Bequia Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Simple Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Getting Here . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Where to Stay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Dining & Nightlife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Bequia Mount Gay Music Fest . . . . . . 28
Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Sightseeing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Bequia Easter Regatta . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Yacht Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Land & Water Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
With special thanks to the Bequia Tourism Association which has helped make the publication of this edition of Holiday Bequia possible, and to Hermus Ashton (Trembler) and Gideon and Bronte Ollivierre for all the ‘behind the scenes’ hard work in getting the magazine cleared and distributed. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of this publication without written permission is strictly prohibited. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure correct information, neither the Publishers nor the BTA can be held responsible for any errors, omissions or changes. The advertising content is the sole responsibility of the advertiser and the Publishers accept no responsibility for any statements or claims made therein.
Holiday Bequia is published by West Indies Publishing Ltd.,
P.O. Box W883, Woods Centre, St. John’s, Antigua
Tel: (268) 461 0565 or 463 5550Fax: (268) 461 9750
Copyright © 2013 West Indies Publishing Ltd.
Photography by Wilfred DedererCover photo: Admiralty Bay, Bequia
33Holiday Bequia
2013December Nine Mornings FestivalDecember 25* Christmas DayDecember 26* Boxing DayDecember 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display sponsored by the Bequia Community
2014January 1* New Year’s DayJanuary 23 - 26 Bequia Mount Gay Music FestJanuary 24 Mustique Blues Festival in Bequia
March 14* National Heroes Day Rotary Interschool Sport’s Day
April 17 - 21 Bequia Easter Regatta
Calendar of Special Events & Public Holidays 2013/2014
* Denotes Public Holiday
April 18* Good FridayApril 21* Easter Monday
May 1* Labour Day
June 9* Whit Monday Bequia CarnivalJune 27 - July 8 St. Vincent Carnival (Vincy Mas)
July 7* CarnivalJuly 8* CarnivalJuly 12 Bequia Rotary Club Fisherman’s Day Bequia Basketball Tournament
August 1* Emancipation Day
October 27* Independence Day
West Cay
Big Cay
Lower BrightUpper Bright
Belle Point
Adams Bay
LowerBay
Princess MargaretBeach
RockyBay
NorthwestPoint
L’AnseChemin
Spring Bay
Industry Bay
Park Bay
Brute Point
Man Point
BulletCay
Bullet Bay
Bends Bay
Diable Point
Shark Bay
Anse La Coite
Hope Bay
Mount Pleasant Bay
Rocky Bay
Ravine Bay
Saint Hilaire Point
FriendshipBay
PORTELIZABETH
CARIBBEAN SEA
ATLANTIC OCEAN
BequiaBequia
© West Indies Publishing 2013. Map not to scale.
James F. Mitchell Airport
Moon Hole
LA POMPE
FRIENDSHIP
PAGET FARM
LOWER BAY
BELMONT
HOPE
PARADISE
HAMILTON O’CAR
CINNAMONGARDEN
INDUSTRY
SPRING
PARK
LONGUECHEMIN
REFORM
Bequia MaritimeMuseum
Bequia MaritimeMuseum
HamiltonBattery
HamiltonBattery
Mount PleasantMount Pleasant
The Old HeggTurtle Sanctuary
The Old HeggTurtle Sanctuary
SpringPlantation
SpringPlantation
Admiralty BayAdmiralty BayMain Roads
Secondary Roads
Churches
Forts
Points of Interest
Beaches
Gas Stations
Police Stations
Medical Clinic
Hospitals
Airports
Banks
LEGEND
Main Ferry Dock
Main Dinghy Dock
Belmont Walkway
Market Dock
Fuel DockMarket Square
Seventh DayAdventist Church
St. Mary’sAnglicanChurch
Library Clive TannisPlaying Field
Post O�ce, Customs & Immigration
Port ElizabethPort Elizabeth
Public Restrooms
BACK STREET
Dinghy Dock
Bequia Tourism O�ce
Almond Tree
ROAD TO SPRING AND INDUSTRY
ADMIRALTY BAY
Yacht GarbageDisposal
St. Michael’sCatholic Church
DinghyDock
Police Station
FRONT STREET
Pharmacy
4
West Cay
Big Cay
Lower BrightUpper Bright
Belle Point
Adams Bay
LowerBay
Princess MargaretBeach
RockyBay
NorthwestPoint
L’AnseChemin
Spring Bay
Industry Bay
Park Bay
Brute Point
Man Point
BulletCay
Bullet Bay
Bends Bay
Diable Point
Shark Bay
Anse La Coite
Hope Bay
Mount Pleasant Bay
Rocky Bay
Ravine Bay
Saint Hilaire Point
FriendshipBay
PORTELIZABETH
CARIBBEAN SEA
ATLANTIC OCEAN
BequiaBequia
© West Indies Publishing 2013. Map not to scale.
James F. Mitchell Airport
Moon Hole
LA POMPE
FRIENDSHIP
PAGET FARM
LOWER BAY
BELMONT
HOPE
PARADISE
HAMILTON O’CAR
CINNAMONGARDEN
INDUSTRY
SPRING
PARK
LONGUECHEMIN
REFORM
Bequia MaritimeMuseum
Bequia MaritimeMuseum
HamiltonBattery
HamiltonBattery
Mount PleasantMount Pleasant
The Old HeggTurtle Sanctuary
The Old HeggTurtle Sanctuary
SpringPlantation
SpringPlantation
Admiralty BayAdmiralty BayMain Roads
Secondary Roads
Churches
Forts
Points of Interest
Beaches
Gas Stations
Police Stations
Medical Clinic
Hospitals
Airports
Banks
LEGEND
Main Ferry Dock
Main Dinghy Dock
Belmont Walkway
Market Dock
Fuel DockMarket Square
Seventh DayAdventist Church
St. Mary’sAnglicanChurch
Library Clive TannisPlaying Field
Post O�ce, Customs & Immigration
Port ElizabethPort Elizabeth
Public Restrooms
BACK STREET
Dinghy Dock
Bequia Tourism O�ce
Almond Tree
ROAD TO SPRING AND INDUSTRY
ADMIRALTY BAY
Yacht GarbageDisposal
St. Michael’sCatholic Church
DinghyDock
Police Station
FRONT STREET
Pharmacy
5
Young Bequia sailors
66
Simple Facts
Location & Physical FeaturesBequia is situated at approximate latitude 13°17’ north and longitude 61°8’ west, between St. Vincent (to its north), and Mustique (to its south). The total area is seven square miles, and is of very varied topography. Originally a volcanic island, Bequia has fertile plains in Friendship, Spring and Industry which are the sites of former plantations. Excellent beaches are located on both the windward (east and south-east) and leeward (west) sides.
CapitalPort Elizabeth
Population4,851 (2001 Census)
Time ZoneAtlantic Standard
LanguageEnglish is the official and working language. There are several businesses, especially amongst those serving the yacht industry, where French or German are also spoken.
CurrencyBequia uses the Eastern Caribbean dollar, which is exchanged at the rate of US$1 to about EC$2.67 ($2.60 in hotels and stores). Both US and EC dollars are accepted by stores,
restaurants and hotels, as are travellers’ cheques and most major credit cards. Check if credit cards can be used when making reservations for meals or accommodation and enquire at retail establishments before you buy.
Business/Tourism InformationBequia Tourism Association (BTA)Box 146 BQ, Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 [email protected] www.bequiatourism.com
The BTA is located at the end of the Main Ferry Dock. Opening hours: Nov-June: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6.00pm; Sat 9.00am-2.00pm; Sun and public holidays 9.00am-12.00 noon. July-Oct: Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.30pm; Sat 9.00am-1.00pm; Sun and public holidays 9.00-11.00am. “Bequia This Week”, published by Outhouse Graphics Inc., is available from the BTA office, hotels, bars, and restaurants and also online via the BTA website. Tel: (784) 457 3649 [email protected]
SVG Tourism Authority2nd Floor, NIS Building, Upper Bay St KingstownTel: (784) 452 2100 www.discoversvg.com
ClimateWinter temperatures range between 70°F and 85°F (21°C and 29°C), summer between 75°F and 90°F (24°C and 32°C). Winters are dry, summers showery.
ElectricityElectricity is 220V, 50 cycles AC. 110V appliances may be used with an appropriate transformer.
ClothesCasual, lightweight resort wear is appropriate year round. Bathing suits are considered inap-propriate in the town. Visitors are requested to dress accordingly. Topless swimming and sunbathing causes offence to the people of Bequia and visitors are asked to respect this. Camouflage clothing is illegal.
Crescent Beach
77Holiday Bequia
Customs & ImmigrationLocated in the Revenue Building in Port Elizabeth directly across the road from the Main Ferry Dock. Tel: (784) 458 3769Open: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6.00pm (Overtime (OT) 4.00pm-6.00pm), Sat 8.30am-12noon (OT 3.00pm-6.00pm), Sun and public holidays 9.00am-12noon and 3.00pm-6.00pm (all OT). For yacht clearance refer to Yacht Services page 42.
Police StationPort Elizabeth (behind hospital)Tel: (784) 458 3350VHF Channel 16 “ZedQSBequia”
CoastguardTel: (784) 457 4578VHF Channel 16 “Juliet8Foxtrot”
Revenue OfficeTel: (784) 458 3211Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-12noon and 1.00pm-3.00pm. Foreign exchange accepted in US dollars only and change provided in EC dollars.
Banks & Financial InstitutionsFull banking services are available in Bequia from RBTT and Bank of St. Vincent & the
Grenadines. Both banks have ATM machines which accept Visa and Mastercard. RBTT also takes Plus and Cirrus bank cards.
Bank of St. Vincent & the Grenadines Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 [email protected] www.bosvg.comMon-Thur 8.00am-2.00pm;Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
MoneyGram – Money TransfersBayshore Mall Tel: (784) 458 3062Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:00pm
RBTTPort Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3845 [email protected] www.rbtt.comMon-Thurs 8.00am-2.00pm; Fri 8.00am- 5.00pm
Western Union – Money Transfers Agent: GECCU Upstairs the bookshopPort Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3535
Princess Margaret Beach
88
Simple Facts
Consulates, Embassies & Foreign Government RepresentativesBritish High Commission – BarbadosTel: (246) 430 7800www.ukinbarbados.fco.gov.uk
Canadian High Commission – BarbadosTel: (246) 629 [email protected]
Canadian High Commission – TrinidadTel: (868) 622 [email protected](for visa applications)
France, Honorary Consul – St. VincentFrançois TruchotTel: (784) 457 2136 Emergency tel: (784) 493 3995 [email protected]
German Embassy – Trinidad Tel: (868) 628 1630/1/2 Emergency: (868) 460 9687 [email protected]
Kingdom of the Netherlands, Honorary Consul – St. VincentCamille H. Crichton. Tel: (784) 456 2822 [email protected]
Republic of China (Taiwan) Embassy – St. VincentTel: (784) 456 [email protected]
United States of America Embassy – BarbadosRoutine Queries (246) 227 4193Emergency (246) 227 [email protected]
Venezuelan Embassy – St. VincentTel: (784) 456 1374 [email protected]
ReligionsAnglican, Roman Catholic, Evangelical, Seventh Day Adventist, Jehovah’s Witness, Spiritual Baptist, Pentecostal and others are represented on the island.
DrivingDriving is on the LEFT. Visitors wishing to drive a rented vehicle must obtain a local driving permit, available from the Revenue Office in Port Elizabeth on production of a valid international or national driving licence from their own country, and payment of a fee of EC$65. It is valid for six months.
99Holiday Bequia
Medical FacilitiesEmergency: Tel: 999Bequia Casualty Hospital and Clinic Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3294
Bequia Hospital Doctor’s QuartersAfter hours and private visits Tel: (784) 454 3514
Milton Cato Memorial Hospital Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: (784) 456 1185
Mary Castle Homeopathic PractitionerMt. Pleasant Tel: (784) 528 0052 (cell) [email protected]
Gabriel Glynn Homeopathic Practitioner and Therapist O’Car ReformTel: (784) 457 3462 or 530 8529 (cell)[email protected]
Holistic Physiotherapy Ltd.Andrea BattermannPhysiotherapist and Shiatsu Practitioner Tel: (784) 528 [email protected]
Dr. Gregory Thomas, Chiropractor Port Elizabeth, upstairs Bequia VentureTel: (784) 458 3937 Emergencies: (784) 457 3785
Imperial Pharmacy Port Elizabeth (at entrance to hospital)Tel: (784) 458 3373Mon-Thurs 8:00am-7:00pm; Fri 8:00am-6:00pm; Sat 6:00-8:00pmSun and Public Holidays 9:00am-12:00pm
Veterinary Services (small animals) Unique Animal Care Port Elizabeth behind Port Hole restaurant. Pet supplies and medications. Dr. Colin Boyle, veterinary surgeon, holds clinics once per week on Fridays. Tel: (784) 457 3538
Post OfficeLocated in the Revenue BuildingTel: (784) 458 3211 Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-12noon and 1.00pm-3.00pm. Closed Saturdays but stamps are always available at the BTA office.
CouriersDHL Worldwide Express Agent: ACS Computer Services, upstairs GYE, O’Car Reform Tel: (784) 458 3967
Simple Facts
1010
Couriers continuedFederal Express Agent: Solana’s Boutique, Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3554
TelecommunicationsFull telecommunications service (fixed line, mobile and internet) is provided by LIME (St. Vincent & the Grenadines) Ltd. SIM cards are available. The LIME office in Bequia is on Front Street opposite the vegetable market. Tel: (784) 458 3999
Mobile services are also provided by Digicel (GSM network) with 30 day SIM cards for visitors – available from the Digicel Office at the Bequia Technology Centre. Tel: (784) 532 9574
Karib Cable is now a fixed line provider. Their offices are located in the Anglican Church compound. Tel: (784) 570 3903.
Prepaid phone cards are sold at a number of outlets including the BTA office at the end of the main jetty, in denominations of EC$10 up to EC$200.
.
Internet AccessMost internet access facilities offer additional services including fax, photocopying, scanning, printing and lap top plug-in.
ACS Computer & Wireless Internet ServicesO’Car Reform, upstairs GYE and next door to Coco’s Restaurant. Computer sales and accessories; wireless hot spot.Authorized DHL agent.Tel: (784) 458 3967 [email protected]
Bequia Technology Centre Across the road from the main dinghy dock, between Handy Andy and Pizza Hut.Authorized Digicel agent. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected] www.bequiatech.com
RMS Internet Services Across the road from fish market jetty Tel: (784) 458 3556 [email protected]
Colourful boutique, Port Elizabeth
1111Holiday Bequia
Computer RepairSunny ComputerTradewinds Complex Tel: (784) 529 4284
Health, Beauty & FitnessAqua on Bequia (Gym) BelmontOn main road above Plantation House Tel: (784) 458 3761 www.aquaonbequia.com
Full Body Massage TherapyMarc Erdrich & Ruth Boerger By appointmentTel: (784) 457 5625/430 5763
JSM Beauty SalonUnion Vale above the SDA Secondary SchoolTel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Mr. Bigg’s Barber Shop Port Elizabeth
Shades of Beauty Spa By appointment Tel: (784) 455 9863
Sunny SpaPrincess Margaret BeachTel: (784) 529 [email protected]
Val Whitney – Reflexology Belmont, near Village ApartmentsTel: (784) 458 3883
MarriagesVisitors must be resident in St. Vincent & the Grenadines for one full day before they are enti-tled to apply for a special marriage licence which will permit them to marry during their visit.
A Caribbean Wedding Spring Tel: (784) 528 7444 [email protected]
Grenadine WeddingsBelmont WalkwayTel: (784) 495 0886/[email protected]
Travellers Palm, Gingerbread Café
Getting Here
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Travel by AirBequia can be reached via Puerto Rico, Barbados, St. Lucia (Hewanorra Airport), Martinique, Grenada and Trinidad. There are scheduled flights to and from these international gateways. Same day connections from Barbados to Bequia’s small modern airport can be made through Mustique Airways, SVG Air or Grenadine Air Alliance
As an alternative to flying directly into Bequia, or if travelling from gateways other than Barbados, visitors may fly into St. Vincent’s E. T. Joshua Airport on LIAT, then take the ferry from St. Vincent to Bequia.
Please note that the airport in Bequia is not open after dark. Check your travel agent, the relevant airlines or ferry companies for current schedules.
Domestic Flights – Mustique Airways/SVG Air (Grenadine Air Alliance) fly between St. Vincent, Canouan, Union and Bequia returning twice daily (early morning/late afternoon).
SVG Air also offers a private jet service throughout the Caribbean.
There is a departure tax of EC$50 (US$19) payable when leaving St. Vincent or any of the Grenadines on international flights.
Regional CarriersGrenadine Air Alliance (GAA)E.T Joshua Airport, St. VincentTel: (784) 456 6793
LIAT E.T Joshua Airport, St. Vincent Tel: (784) 458 4841www.liat.com
Early morning in the harbour
13Holiday Bequia
Mustique AirwaysTel: (784) 458 4380 [email protected] www.mustique.com
SVG AirTel: (784) 457 5124/5777 and 458 [email protected] [email protected]
Vincy Aviation Services Tel: (784) 456 5600 www.vincyaviation.comNOTE: All regional carriers require reconfir-mation of flights 24-48 hours before travel.
FerriesA regular and efficient ferry service operates between Bequia and St. Vincent. Sailing time jetty to jetty is about one hour. Three companies, Admiralty Transport, (784) 458 3348, Bequia Express (784) 457 3539 and Jaden Inc. (784) 451 2192 offer frequent and convenient sailings. An air-conditioned ferry terminal is located at the Kingstown Wharf. If requested in advance, Bequia Express will delay departure Monday to Friday of their last ferry service at 6:00pm to accommodate late flight arrivals.
Island Hopping with The Friendship Rose This traditional sailing schooner offers a regular schedule of cruises to Mustique and the Southern Grenadines. One way tickets can be purchased making island hopping easy. The Friendship Rose offers connections to the following islands: Canouan, Mayreau, Palm, Union and Petit St. Vincent.Tel: (784) 529 8046/455 0969Tel: (784) 457 3888 Harbour OfficeTel: (784) 457 3739 Belmont Officewww.friendshiprose.com
Inter Island FerriesMV BarracudaTel (784) 455 9835Mon & Thurs – sails from Kingstown to Canouan, Mayreau and UnionTues & Fri – sails from Union to Mayreau, Canouan and Kingstown
MV Gem Star Tel: (784) 526 1158Tues & Fri – sails from Kingstown to Mayreau and UnionWed & Sat – sails from Union to Mayreau, Canouan and KingstownThere are no scheduled stops in Bequia. However, by special arrangement, the ‘Gem Star’ will call in to Bequia, if there are passengers. This is an interesting, old fashioned and inexpensive way to see the Grenadines.
MV Jaden SunTel: (784) 451 2192Inter-island, air conditioned, fast ferry servicing the Grenadine islands within the same day.
Be aware that schedules are subject to change and cancellation without notice, due to maintenance and other causes.
PLEASE CHECK THE FERRY COMPANIES FOR FARES and TIMES OF SAILING or call the BTA at (784) 458 3286.
Ferry dock, Port Elizabeth
1414
Getting Here
Passport/VisasAll visitors must have valid passports and proof of return or on-going travel plans, whether by sea or air. Entry is usually granted for 30 days and is renewable at the discretion of the Immigration Department.
Visas are not required for most countries. However, the following countries do require a visa: Lebanon, Syria, Nigeria, Jordan, Iraq, Iran and the Dominican Republic. Port Elizabeth is the port of entry for customs clearance. Customs and Immigration are centrally located in the Revenue Office in Port Elizabeth, along with the Post Office. For opening times see pages 7 and 9.
PortsFor those travelling by yacht the official port of entry is Port Elizabeth.
Duty Free The following items are duty free but must be fully declared: wine or spirits not exceeding one quart in all; tobacco, not over half a pound; cigars, not more than 50, or cigarettes, not more than 200.
Restricted items: drugs, arms, ammunition, spear guns, fresh fruit, vegetables and uncooked meat.
Health RequirementsNo vaccinations are required unless in transit from, or having visited, an infected area within six days of arrival. Drinking tap water is perfectly safe, but bottled, purified and mineral water are also readily available.
Travel AgenciesCigi TravelTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Going Places Travel Bayshore Mall Tel/Fax: (784) 458 3062 [email protected]@going-places.tv
Grenadine EscapeTel: (784) 526 2386www.grenadine-escape.com; [email protected]
Grenadine Island Villas (Local flight agents)Front StreetTel: (784) 529 8046/455 0969Tel: (784) 457 3888 Harbour OfficeTel: (784) 457 3739 Belmont Officewww.grenadinevillas.com
Just BequiaTel: 44(0) 1373 [email protected]
15Holiday Bequia
Lower Bay
1616
Where to Stay
Bequia has every type of accommodation to offer, always well run and well kept, with that
special relaxed atmosphere and personal, friendly service which reflects the spirit of the island and its people. Bequia tends to attract the visitor who prefers the tropical delights and laid back living of the smaller islands, where the beaches are secluded and there are no high-rise hotels to mar the scenic views. Thankfully the island has not attracted any so-called five-star ‘luxury’ commercial hotels; instead, the wonderful, friendly accommodation ranges from stylish four-star and comfortable three star hotels to well-appointed luxury villas and budget guest houses which include breakfast and dinner featuring real home cooking. The larger beach front hotels also have first class restaurants and bars, offering evening entertainment, a full range of water sports, and other sports such as tennis. Please note that a 15% government tax is added to hotel rates plus a 10% service charge. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is always wise to double check when booking.
Bella Vista Spring Bay. Tel: (784) 457 [email protected]://web.295.ca/cabana/
Bequia Beach HotelFriendship Bay. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected], www.bequiabeach.comBequia Beach is a luxurious boutique resort with wonderful beach-front suites. Experience the true Caribbean at this secluded, indepen-dent hotel, on an untouched island claimed to be one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets.
Bequia Beachfront VillasFriendship Bay. Tel: (784) 457 3423 [email protected]
Deja View ApartmentsBelmontTel: (705) 897 6537 (Canada)[email protected] 1 bedroom apartments surrounded by bougainvilleas and mature fruit trees with a great panoramic view of Admiralty Bay. Each comfortable, self-contained apartment includes A/C in the bedrooms, cell phones, cable television, ceiling fans and a spacious veranda/terrace. Close to the beach, dive shops, bars, restaurants and other amenities.
De Reef ApartmentsLower BayTel: (784) 458 3484/494 [email protected] located, this popular, modern ac-commodation is set in beautiful gardens and just two minutes from Lower Bay Beach. Six, self-con-tained, one, two and three bedroom apartments, with living/dining area and fully fitted kitchens, air conditioned rooms with cable television, ceiling fans, hot and cold showers and spacious terraces.
Fairmont Apt.Belmont Tel: (784) 528 8723/458 [email protected]
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Where to Stay
Fauvelle BequiaSpring. Tel: (784) 457 3785 [email protected] www.fauvelle.bequia.vc
Fig Tree Belmont. Tel: (784) 457 3008
Firefly Plantation Hotel BequiaSpring. P.O. Box 125 BQTel: (784) 458-3414 [email protected] www.fireflybequia.com Well managed boutique hotel with beautifully spa-cious and well appointed rooms, large swimming pool, spectacular views, A/C, WiFi and indoor/outdoor showers. The two-bedroom self con-tained Plantation Cottage is ideal for families. Set in a lush 250 year old working plantation; friendly staff; excellent food and attentive service.
Flamingo and Turtle Point VillasPrincess Margaret BeachTel: (246) 420 7650 www.bequiavillas.com
The Frangipani HotelBelmont. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected] spectacular views of Admiralty Bay, the centrally located Frangipani Hotel, Bar and Restaurant offers elegant garden units or charming old-styled rooms in the original family home. Catering to everyone – an experience you will never forget.
Friendship Garden ApartmentsLa Pompe. Tel: (784) 458 3349/530 4737 [email protected] www.friendshipgardenapts.com
1919Holiday Bequia
Gingerbread HotelBelmont. Tel: (784) 458 3800 [email protected]’s Bequia suites were built to evoke the design and style of the colonial days, with covered porches overlooking Admiralty Bay - all with spacious bathrooms and full kitchen facilities. There is one air-conditioned king-sized studio and two comfortable econ-omy apartments. Gingerbread also offers an elegant restaurant, waterfront cafe, barbeque under the trees and dive shop. A short and pleasant walk along the bayside takes you to restaurants, shops and the town of Port Eliza-beth with spectacular beaches close by.
Grand View Cottage La Pompe. Tel: (832) 407 [email protected]
Hibiscus ApartmentsUnion Vale. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Hilltop VillaLower Bay. Tel: (784) 457 3637/[email protected]
Island Inn ApartmentsFriendship Bay. Tel: (784) 458 3706/457 3433 [email protected]
Julie and Isola’s Guest HousePort ElizabethTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Keegan’s Beach Resort Lower Bay. Tel: (784) 458 3530 www.keegans-bequia.com
Kingsville ApartmentsLower BayTel: (784) 458 3932/[email protected] www.kingsvilleapartments.net
Lime House Villas SpringTel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Beach Bar, Bequia Beach Hotel
Where to Stay
2020
Lower Bay Guest HouseLower BayTel: (784) 458 3675
The Old Fort Mt. Pleasant. Tel: (784) 458 3440 [email protected]
Royal View VillaFriendship Bay. Tel: (784) 458 3618 [email protected]
Sea Shells Holiday ApartmentsBelmont. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Spring HouseSpring Estate. Tel: (784) 483 0381
Stardust VillaFriendship Bay. Tel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Sugar Apple InnFriendship Bay Tel: (784) 457 3148 [email protected]
Sugar ReefCresent BeachTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Sunset Cottage, Apartments and VillasLower Bay Tel: (784) 458 3554www.sunset-cottage.com
Tamarind VillaSpringTel: (784) 457 3232www.bequiatamarind.com
Taylor’s ApartmentsLa PompeTel: (784) 458 3458 [email protected]
The Village ApartmentsP.O. Box 49BQ, VC0400, BelmontTel: (784) 458 3883/[email protected] www.villageapartments.bequia.net
Villa AlamandaMount Pleasant. Tel: (784) 458 3404 www.villa-alamanda.com
Villa CasablancaLower Bay. Tel: (784) 458 3404
Along the Belmont Walkway
2121Holiday Bequia
Staying in a villa or private home is one of the best ways to enjoy your stay on Bequia. Homes range from one to five bedrooms and from simple to absolute luxury. A few accommodations are on the waterfront – most others have ocean views. Either way, you are never more than a few minutes from the beach.
Bequia DreamsTel: (784) 528 8592/494 [email protected]
Bequia Real EstatePort ElizabethTel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Grenadine Escape Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 496 0654/526 [email protected]
Grenadine Island Villas Admiralty Bay/Belmont WalkwayTel: (784) 529 8046 cell; (784) 455 0969 cell; (784) 457 3888 Harbour Office; (784) 457 3739 Belmont [email protected]
Beach retreats, classic villas & distinctive houses. Based in the islands, this friendly team offers a full service to help you find and enjoy your perfect island hideaway. With a comprehensive online guide and swift, responsive service, you can relax and enjoy your Grenadine villa experience. Benefit from a team of local chefs, drivers and helpful services such as provisioning, delicious picnics, snorkelling equipment, dives and island adventures arranged by sea, land or air.
Grenadine Yachts, Villas & ResortsTel: (784) 496 0654/526 2386 [email protected] www.grenadine-escape.com
Lime House Villa Rentals Spring. Tel/Fax: (784) 457 [email protected]
Octopus Villa RentalsBelmont. Tel: (784) 432 [email protected]
Old Fort EstatesBox 71, [email protected]
Poolside, Bequia Beach Hotel
Villa Rental Companies / Real Estate Brokers
Dining & Nightlife
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Bequia may be a small island, but you will be pleasantly surprised at the excellent range
of friendly bars, fine restaurants, informal cafés and pizzerias with lively night-time entertainment available to suit your every mood. We invite you to sample the island’s wonderful mixture of lo-cal delicacies, West Indian, international or even more exotic cuisine. Dine on the waterfront in the harbour, by the beach with the sea just a few steps away or high up in the hills overlooking the sea and islands beyond. Seafood is served fresh daily, with local vegetables and produce. Nightlife is mainly centred around the hotels, restaurants and bars, which regularly feature local string and steel bands, country music, reggae, ‘ jump ups’ and barbecue nights. If you prefer quiet romantic dining, with just the stars and the sound of the sea for company, there are some truly memo-rable locations to choose from. The following is a selected list; however, it is always advisable to check opening times and entertainment details beforehand. Most restaurants can also be con-tacted on VHF Channel 68. VAT (15%) is added to meal and drink bills. Most restaurants also add a 10% service charge.
Hotel RestaurantsBagatelle and Blue TropicBequia Beach Hotel, Friendship BayTel: (784) 458 1600/454 8111Known as the two most elegant restaurants on the island, the Blue Tropic, set in a stunning tropical garden, offers delicious gourmet dishes with a Caribbean flare. Bagatelle serves a delightful menu on the beach where you can sink your toes in the sand and gaze at the moonlit ocean.
Firefly Plantation RestaurantSpring, P.O. Box 125 BQTel: (784) 458-3414 Serving fresh homegrown produce with magnificent views of the plantation and sea beyond. Ingredients are picked daily from the plantation and guests are invited to do a tour and pick their own if they want! Friendly service, reasonable prices, excellent wine and cocktail list. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with BBQ nights.
The Frangipani Hotel, Bar and RestaurantBelmont. Tel: (784) 458 3255Offering gourmet cuisine with a Caribbean flavour. To complement this exquisite dining experience, you can choose from a wide variety of fine imported wines. A wonderful place to meet - the Frangi beach bar also boasts the best cocktails on the island. Join us for the Thursday night barbeque and jump up with live steelband music. Reservations recommended.
Gingerbread Hotel, Bar and Restaurant Belmont. Tel: (784) 458 3800, VHF 68 Overlooking beautiful Admiralty Bay, Gingerbread’s restaurant offers elegant dining in a warm tropical setting. Charming gingerbread fretwork, interesting artwork and unique architecture provide the ideal setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu offers gourmet West Indian/International cuisine, imported steaks, fresh seafood and the house specialty, Thai and Indian curries. A fine selection of imported wines available. Reservations recommended.
Waterside dining, Hamilton
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Restaurants & BarsCoco’s Place O’Car Reform (near to Tradewinds Marina)Tel: (784) 458 3463
Colombo’s PlacePort Elizabeth (across the road from Bank of St. Vincent & the Grenadines)Tel: (784) 457 3881
De ReefLower BayTel: (784) 458 3958 VHF 68
Fernando’s Hideaway Lower Bay Tel: (784) 458 3758 (Reservations required)
Fig Tree BelmontTel: (784) 457 3008
The Green BoleyBelmontTel: (784) 458 3247
Harbour CaféPort ElizabethNear to Brooke’s HideawayTel: (784) 458 3272
Jack’s BarPrincess Maragaret BeachTel: (784) 457 3762 VHF 68
Dining al fresco, Frangipani Hotel
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Dining & Nightlife
Julie’s Guest HousePort ElizabethTel: (784) 458 3304
Keegan’s Lower BayTel: (784) 458 3530
L’Auberge des Grenadines Hamilton on the waterfrontTel: (784) 457 3555
Mac’s Pizzeria BelmontTel: (784) 458 3474
Mama’s DeliPort Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3443
Papa’s Bar & Lounge Port ElizabethTel: (784) 457 3443
The PortholePort Elizabeth. Tel: (784) 458 3458
Sailors’ Beach CaféO’ Car Reform. Tel: (784) 458 3708
Sugar Hill BarMount Pleasant. Tel: (784) 458 3773
Sugar ReefCresent Beach. Tel (784) 458 3400
Sunset Bar & RestaurantPort Elizabeth Across from the vegetable marketTel: (784) 458 3133
Sweety BirdPort ElizabethIn the back garden of the Bequia Book ShopTel: (784) 457 3984
Tantie Pearl’s Restaurant Overlooking Admiralty BayTel: (784) 457 3160
The Whaleboner Bar and Restaurant BelmontTel: (784) 458 3233
Ice Cream Parlours/Cake ShopsMaranne’s Ice Cream Belmont Tel: (784) 458 3041
Bequia in full bloom
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Local produce for sale
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Top quality acts with broad-based appeal for all musical tastes, consistently excellent organisation and presentation and outstanding support from sponsors have all led to Bequia’s unique musical event proudly reaching its eleventh anniversary this year.
Built around the hugely popular annual “one-night-only” Bequia performance of Basil Charles’ Mustique Blues Festival showcasing Dana Gillespie and her London Blues Band with stellar guest artistes, the Bequia Tourism Association’s Bequia Music Fest has been earning rave reviews over the last ten years.
The event, held over four days at the end of January, is well established as a major fixture on the season’s calendar, with a loyal following of regular visitors and Bequia residents attendees who are delighted by the informal, up-close-and-personal atmosphere and the range of really top quality music. Yachtsman put it on their itineraries, visitors book their holidays to catch it and residents of Bequia and St. Vincent can’t wait for January to come around.
The main venue for Bequia Music Fest is at ‘De Reef’ right on the beach at Lower Bay, with performances on Friday and Saturday night and all afternoon on Sunday.
11TH ANNIVERSARY
BEQUIA MOUNT GAYMUSIC FEST
JANUARY 23 – 26, 2014
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Other venues showcase artistes on a more intimate scale throughout the weekend including opening night with a steel pan orchestra at the Frangipani on Thursday and a Saturday afternoon “Blues and Jazz Jam and Lime” by the beach at Bequia Beach Hotel in Friendship Bay.
Last year, the Caribbean’s legendary “Spice and Company”, plus the award-winning young group Nexcyx from Barbados drew huge crowds to Saturday night’s six-hour show, keeping the audience on their feet till after 2am.
You can be sure that Bequia’s 11th anniversary Music Fest in January 2014 will be another winning formula, with old and new friends coming together to create a very special weekend of great music, great performances and great vibes!
For more information visit www.bequiatourism.com/bequiamusicfest or email [email protected]
Front Street fashion
Souvenirs galore
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Shopping
Bequia’s primary shopping area is in and around the island’s capital, Port Elizabeth,
where flowers bloom in planters and roadside gardens and small brightly painted stores abound along the waterfront. This delightful heart of the island offers every facility with a simple, intimate charm and traditional hospitality for which Bequia is famous.
Just about everything in Port Elizabeth is located on its one central, shoreside, main street reaching the fishing village of Hamilton in the north, and, just on from the town’s centre, along the Belmont Walkway which borders the south shore of Admiralty Bay.
Shops, boutiques, a pharmacy, grocery stores, covered markets selling fresh fruit, vegetables and freshly caught fish, souvenir stalls, restaurants, cafés and bars, banks, the Post Office, Customs and Immigration, the Police Station (off Back Street) and the BTA office – are all within easy walking distance.
Across the road from the almond tree, The Bequia Book Shop, besides a good selection of paperback and hardcover books, has postcards, courtesy flags, nautical charts, Bequia Ordnance Survey maps and art work. A cool place to browse and find that special something. Behind that is the charming Sweety Bird, which offers fresh, local juices and simple lunches.
The pretty light blue painted wooden building across from the dingy dock, SAIL RELAX EXPLORE , carries a full range of snorkel kits, masks, fins, body vests, underwater cameras, body boards and booties. The store stocks a lovely range of handmade natural canvas items including hammocks, big beach bags and traditional island maps.
Island Things can be found in the grounds of St. Mary’s Anglican Church. This quaint and picturesque boutique sells all things Caribbean including books, souvenirs and beautifully hand-painted fabric.
With colourful streamers billowing from their windows, the breezy one-stop boutique Local Color can easily be found up some brightly painted outside stairs. This popular, inviting store offers delightful informal clothing including top quality t-shir ts, caps and sandals, swimwear, beach accessories, sundresses and casual wear, great gifts and souvenirs, postcards and art work.
Fay’s stall, Princess Margaret Beach
From Local Color, continue on your leisurely stroll along the star t of the Belmont Walkway – a delightful, partly shaded water’s edge path which winds alongside the bay, linking shops, restaurants, hotels and bars. Just past the Frangipani you will find Whaleboner Bar which has a boutique attached, Gingerbread Cafe, Vintages which is a new wine shop in the Gingerbread building and Maranne’s Ice Cream Parlour. A little fur ther on are the gaily painted premises of Dive Bequia and then you come to the Fig Tree Boutique & Gift Shop which offers a selection of local handicraft and other interesting items..
Returning to the town centre, the BTA office, located at the end of the main ferry jetty is the place to buy water, phone cards, stamps, Bequia Sailing Club souvenirs and postcards. You can also pick up your extra copies of Holiday Bequia, as well as the invaluable weekly guide to what’s on in Bequia – Bequia This Week .
Opposite the BTA is the Bayshore Mall – a small shopping centre which contains some dozen shops including Going Places Travel, RBTT Bank , an ice-cream parlour, stationery store, delicatessen, and two boutiques. Further north, past the Revenue Office and Post Office, is the covered fish and vegetable market on the water’s edge, with its own dinghy dock. There are also a number of small t-shir t, casual wear and gift
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boutiques here, plus a bakery outlet with delicious fresh bread and baked goods and a small bar. An ancient almond tree provides welcome shade inside the market courtyard. Opposite the market is the Island Style boutique that carries bali-style furniture and gifts. Upstairs is Sunset Bar and Restaurant and to the back is the Bequia Food Store and Lulley’s Tackle Shop.
On the side street between the gas station and the vegetable market is Oasis Art Gallery showcasing a collection of locally made work including Kingsley ‘Prop’ King model boats that sail and paintings by artist and curator L.D Lucy. Fine Things which sells colourful home accessories is on Back Street diagonally across from Doris Fresh Food.
As an age-old seafaring island, Bequia caters exceptionally well for visiting yachts. There are a number of first-rate shipwrights, carpenters, repair specialists, sail lofts and general marine and fishing supply shops in and around Port Elizabeth, and a varied selection of grocery stores and delicatessens which cater for both the simple necessities and the most refined gourmet tastes. Deliveries to your yacht or to your rental villa can easily be arranged.
The building of model boats is a Bequia speciality – even H.M. Queen Elizabeth II has an example in her collection. You can see both the intricate workmanship in progress, and the fabulous models of schooners, brightly-coloured yachts, traditional ‘double enders’ and Bequia whaleboats. Walk past the vegetable market to find first Mauvin’s Model Boat Shop (ask to see the workshop outside, under the breadfruit tree), and then a little fur ther along the road, Sargeant Brothers Model Boats, with its busy workshop right on the premises. Take your time to look, choose, and then to look again. The quality and detail is quite magnificent and the finished models true works of ar t.
Upstairs Grenadine Yacht & Equipment (GYE) can be found wireless services and a wide variety of computer accessories at ACS Computer Services, who are also the DHL agents.
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Sightseeing
Port ElizabethPick up an island map from the BTA Office at the end of the main jetty and set out to discover the delights of Bequia.
Wander along the quaint waterfront at Port Elizabeth with its bars, cafés and fascinating shops spread out along the coastal main street. Watch a fabulous sunset from a beachside bar or café.
Just a few minutes stroll from the centre is the lovely St. Mary’s Anglican Church built of local limestone and imported ballast bricks. The church was erected in 1829 on the site of an earlier structure which was destroyed by a hurricane in 1798, and houses intriguing memorial tablets recording the lives of some of Bequia’s earliest settlers.
Continuing on, you will find the meandering waterfront Belmont Walkway, which has recently been restored through the fund raising efforts of the group, Action Bequia. The next fund raising goal is to extend the walkway into a coastal trail to Princess Margaret Beach, An interesting and cool stroll along this edge of Admiralty Bay will reward you with more unusual shops, dive shops, bars, cafés and excellent restaurants.
In the opposite direction, taking the main road north out of Port Elizabeth past the Revenue Office and Post Office, covered t-shirt market, vegetable market and small shops, you will come to Bequia’s two Model Boat-Builders’ Workshops (See also Shopping on page 31). Watch these craftsmen continuing
a centuries-old tradition, and prepare to be captivated by their intricate, skillfully crafted and highly colourful replicas of existing boats and traditional double-ended whalers. They will happily make a model of your own boat on commission and ship it to you.
A few yards before the Hairoun Beer Depot, one block in from the main road, is the Bequia Maritime Museum. Opened by Lawson Sargeant of Sargeant Bros. Model Boats, and son of one of the great Bequia boat-building families, it details the peak period of ship-building in Bequia with old photos, boat-building families’ memorabilia, and replicas of some of the great schooners built on the island.
Continuing along this road, on Admiralty Bay’s north shore and through the village of Hamilton, you will come to the site of the 18th century Hamilton Battery, located high above Admiralty Bay, which guarded the harbour from attack. From this elevated lookout point there are wonderful views of the harbour and across the bay. Enjoy the nature trail around the point and spot native birds and reptiles.
If you would rather not walk or hike in such tropical climes, you can always rent a bicycle, motor bike or jeep, or arrange a taxi tour with one of the open back vans under the Almond Tree and explore the island at your leisure. There is much more than just the beautiful scenery to discover. Ask at the BTA office for more information including fares.
Dinghy dock, Admiralty Bay
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Arts & CraftsBequia has always been rightly famous for its boat-building (both large and very small) but the island is today also rich in many other creative skills. Small stalls scattered along the waterfront in the harbour offer an amazing variety of local talent from paintings, needlecraft, crochet, macramé, carvings, black coral jewellery, papier-mâché and scrimshaw, to culinary items – homemade preserves, sweets and cakes. Throughout the island there are studios and galleries to visit and artists to meet. (Some studios can be visited by appointment only, so check with BTA office for details).
If you want to see artists at work, stop by and visit Claude Victorine at her atelier in Lower Bay where her hand-painted silks, pareos, cushion-covers and wall hangings are on display. Also in Lower Bay on the road near the beach, you can see sculpted whales and other hand carvings from local woods at the Arts & Crafts Café. In Port Elizabeth, take a turn onto the little street after the gas station for a visit to Oasis Art Gallery. Agnetta Nanton shows her beautiful and highly
individual batik designs in her garden boutique, and Pinkie Vaughan-Richards’ mixed media crafts are on display and for sale at Island Style. On your way to Spring, you must make a stop at the Whaleboner Silkscreen Factory and Boutique.
Other Points of InterestFor something completely different, and fascinating for all the family, take the time to visit The Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary (www.turtles.bequia.net) located in the rugged, northeastern part of the island, and reached by continuing on the road north to Park Bay. The drive is scenic and will take you past Industry Bay and over the hillside into Park Bay where Bequian Orton G. ‘Brother’ King has spent most of each day since August 1995 tending his beloved and endangered Hawksbill turtles. A retired professional skin diving fisherman, Brother King is a committed, informed and very entertaining individual. His greatest pleasure is to give you a fully guided tour and explain his mission to others. Responsible for having increased the seriously dwindling turtle population in Bequia, his project is purely a selfless, dedicated passion and with no financial reward. You will be made to feel a very welcome visitor to this worthy and educational sanctuary. There is an entry fee of EC$10 or US$5 which goes towards the upkeep and running costs of the sanctuary. Any donations over and above this amount are welcomed. Imagine the amount of fish required to feed 200 hungry growing turtles!
Bequia has a long history as a whaling nation and the Whaling Museum in La Pompe is worth a visit.
The extraordinary, privately-owned complex of stone dwellings known as Moonhole is located on the western tip of the island. Built in the 1950s by American Tom Johnston, the complex is an internationally famous architectural landmark. The Moonhole rock arch and compound are not open to the public and may only be viewed from the sea. Please reduce speed and do not anchor off Moonhole to avoid damaging the fragile marine environment.
Homemade Bequia jams for sale!
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Best BeachesBequia is blessed by an encirclement of glorious stretches of sandy beaches, some secluded and all clean and uncrowded. Bathe in the clear, safe waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sailing, diving and other water sports.
Princess Margaret Beach is a lovely ribbon of golden sand, just down from Port Elizabeth. The beach was formerly known as Tony Gibbons Beach; until Princess Margaret enjoyed a dip there in 1958. Now featuring Jack’s Bar, with its private jetty, it can be reached either by water taxi, or by a very steep road/track descending from the main road.
There is a cliff pathway linking Princess Margaret beach to the popular, expansive Lower Bay. Fringed by fishing boats and nets, its casual atmosphere is further enhanced by a number of very good, and reasonably priced bars and restaurants – including the world-famous De Reef with its popular Sunday afternoon music jam and Keegan’s with its delicious, reasonably-priced home cooking and Saturday night barbecue – making Lower
Bay a favourite location both during the day and in the evening. Mango’s is the newest addition to Lower Bay. A relaxed liming spot for the who’s who of Bequia featuring the best hamburgers in town, lobsters in season and much more. A great place to hang out on the beach. There is wonderfully safe swimming and snorkelling, with a natural reef paddling pool for youngsters.
Friendship Bay, only a short ride from town on the south side of the island, offers a long, wide sweep of beach and excellent conditions for diving, sailing and snorkelling. Also on Friendship Bay is the Bequia Beach Hotel’s main restaurant, Blue Tropic, and the Bagatelle Restaurant & Bar on the beach.
Between the bays of Friendship and Spring is Hope Bay, with its remote beach. Here the rather shallow waters and the long lines of breakers from the Atlantic Ocean make the spot ideal for first-rate body surfing and windsurfing. However, the strong undertow cautions that this is for the more experienced surfers only. With no hotels or bars in the vicinity, take a friend, something to drink and maybe a picnic. Look for signposts or ask for directions.
Lower Bay
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Along the main road out of the harbour is the romantic and secluded shallow beach at Spring Bay, behind which are acres of tall palm trees and a working plantation which form part of Firefly Plantation Hotel Bequia. There are guided tours of the plantation and an historic sugar mill with 30 acres of lush orchards producing a variety of wonderful, exotic crops. Sample the fruit and vegetables in season and learn about their uses.
Just north of Spring is the inaptly named Industry Bay. But fear not, there is no heavy industry here or anywhere else on the island. It’s a glorious palm-fringed beach, wonderful for snorkelling, and with surf particularly suitable for surfing beginners. A word of caution – there can be a quite strong undercurrent at times. Lastly, a short road walk from Industry Bay over the headland will bring you to Park, with its palm shaded, isolated beach, home to the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary. Not so great for swimming, but a wonderful point from which to explore on foot the undeveloped northern reaches of the island.
Taxi FaresTaxi rides are inexpensive and as all the drivers are justifiably proud of their island, they will take you to the most interesting, scenic and unusual places, all in a leisurely three-hour ride, or tailored to suit your own time requirements. Most vehicles are radio operated on VHF 68 and will do airport and ferry pick-ups and drop-offs.
A recommended list of the local taxi fares is available from the BTA office. Visitors are advised to agree the fare in advance as well as determining whether the charge is in EC or US dollars.
Car HireB&G (Gideon’s) Jeep & Moke Rental Tel/Fax: (784) 458 3760 [email protected]
Challenger Taxi & RentalsTel: (784) 458 3811/455 [email protected]
DeBest Taxi ServiceTel: (784) 458 3349/530 [email protected]
KMG Rental ServiceTel (784) 532 4821/454 [email protected]
Parnell’s Moke RentalTel: (784) 457 3066
Phil’s Car Rental Tel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Sunrise RentalsTel: (784) 457 3086/593 3631
Motor Scooter RentalsRichard ProvidenceTel: (784) 526 7087
Palms at Park Bay
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Yacht Charters and Off-island Day ToursThe vessels in our listing offer a variety of day trips, private charters and excursions.
In the course of a Bequia holiday, it is well worth exploring the surrounding Grenadine islands, and not surprisingly, sailing is the most popular choice of most visitors. With regular trade winds, limitless visibility and the Caribbean Sea’s tidal movements, the Grenadines offer some of the best blue water sailing to be found anywhere in the world. So, for something luxurious, cruising at your own pace, sightseeing around the shores of Bequia and to other nearby islands, don’t miss the wide range of fully-crewed yachts available for day, overnight or term charters. There are a number of notable yacht charter operations on Bequia and on nearby St. Vincent. Whether for one day or more, these all-inclusive trips to the fabulous Grenadines on first class boats are all available at very reasonable rates. Their skippers are mostly local seafarers, with a wealth of sailing and chartering experience and an intimate knowledge and love of the region. A private charter offers just that – privacy, plus superb cooking, relaxation and the opportunity to take whichever route you choose.
The large mother-island of St. Vincent is only nine miles north of Bequia, with more than enough to keep any day-visitor busy. St. Vincent can be reached via charter flight from Bequia, but most visitors prefer to take the inexpensive hour-long ferry trip from Port Elizabeth to Kingstown. Choose to sit up on deck and take in the sea air and scenery (and maybe see a school of dolphins) or travel inside in comfortable air-conditioned saloons.
There is much to see and do in St. Vincent, and some of the best of it is so remote that it’s worth spending an overnight if time is available. For example, the spectacular La Soufrière Volcano, slumbering but still steaming (the last major eruption was in 1979) requires a four-wheel drive vehicle and then a demanding but rewarding three hour hike to the rim. Magnificent unspoilt nature trails are a hiker’s and naturalist’s paradise, and Dark View and Baleine Falls are not to be missed.
A must visit, especially on Saturday mornings, is the vibrant and colourful fruit and vegetable market in downtown Kingstown.
St. Vincent’s Botanical Gardens are one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. They were founded in 1765, originally for the production of herbs, spices and plants for medicinal purposes. The 20 acres of indigenous and imported tropical trees, shrubs, fruits and flowers are part of the National Trust and run by the Forestry Commission. Among the sights is a 230-year old baobab tree, planted when the garden was opened as well as a third generation breadfruit tree, a sucker from the original plant brought by Captain William Bligh (of “Bounty” fame) in 1793.
Just a few minutes away via air charter, or after a leisurely two hour sail, is the island of Mustique. Whichever way you choose to get there, it’s a fascinating day trip to this privately owned island, famous as a hideaway for British Royals and international celebrities. Stop for a drink and/or lunch at one of Mustique’s famous bars or restaurants.
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SightseeingThere are many smaller islands in the
Grenadines – all with beautiful beaches and stunning turquoise waters. Some, such as Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent , are privately owned resort islands, but day, overnight and weekend visitors are welcome when accommodation is available. Canouan has a luxury resort and golf course; Mayreau has 600 inhabitants in a hilltop village and one of the most beautiful beaches at Salt Whistle Bay, and of course the Tobago Cays are quite unforgettable. Union Island is well worth a visit too!
They can all be reached via sailing charters, ferries or, in some cases, air charters. Enquire at your hotel or at the BTA office for more details.
Day/Overnight Charter Boats Balance Me Tel: (784) 458 3086/495 [email protected]
Bluescape Sailing & Scuba Diving AdventuresTel: (784) 528 [email protected] the Windward Islands aboard Imagination, a fast, comfortable 46-foot catamaran run by British couple. Try a day trip or stay for a week or longer, maybe catch dinner, snorkel with turtles or scuba dive with stingrays. All-inclusive, Halfboard or boat only options available. Find us on Facebook at Bluescape Sailing and Scuba Diving Adventures.
The Friendship RoseTel: (784) 529 8046/455 0969 CellTel: (784) 457 3888 Harbour OfficeTel: (784) 457 3739 Belmont Officewww.friendshiprose.com 100ft traditional sailing schooner offering a regular schedule of cruises to the Tobago Cays, Mustique and the lush coast of St. Vincent.
Island Hopper Port ElizabethTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
KiwiBequiaTel: (784) 457 3077/526 2386/528 [email protected]
Michael ToursTel: (784) 455 [email protected]
Myrick Port ElizabethTel: (784) 496 [email protected]
Nicola IV 44’ C&C sailing yachtNicki & Cristina Hazell, Paget FarmTel: (784) 457 3986/495 4229/454 [email protected] www.bequia.net‘Wind in the sail, sail in the wind’. Day trips, overnight and long-term chartering around the Grenadine islands. We also rent lasers, Dyer and Tempest International boats.
Octopus Yacht ChartersBelmont Tel: (784) 432 [email protected] hop aboard your own privately-crewed yacht from one idyllic island to the next. An elegant sailing yacht, combining exceptional cruising and sailing performance with comfortable living areas. Available for day and overnight charters.
OspreyPort Elizabeth. Tel: (784) 458 3304/455 3004 [email protected]
Quest Ventures SVG Ltd.Port Elizabeth. Tel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Sail Relax ExplorePort ElizabethTel: (784) 495 0886/9 or 457 [email protected] charters, land tours, day cruises … from unique local boats to crewed luxury yachts and the global services of the Moorings. Also exceptional one day experiences available from our friendly Bequia base with private flights and rendezvous dive arrangements throughout the Grenadines. Agents for SVG Air, Mustique Airways and Grenadine Air Alliance.
Trade Winds Cruise Club Fleet of catamarans. Tel: (784) 457 [email protected]
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Admiralty Bay anchorage
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BEQUIA EASTER REGATTAAPRIL 17–21, 2014
Over the last 32 years of dedicated direction by the all-volunteer Bequia Sailing Club, the Bequia Easter Regatta has evolved from a small, local sailing get-together into the biggest sporting and tourism event in the country. And with the vital support of its many sponsors including Heineken, First Citizens Bank and Mount Gay Rum, the regatta has continued to grow; last year, the Sailing Club celebrated a record-breaking entry of 54 yachts and 29 local “double-enders”, once again affirming Bequia’s status as the largest yacht regatta in the southern Caribbean.
Bequia’s four-day Easter Regatta is in fact renowned the world over for its unique blend of thrilling local boat racing, exciting and well-run yacht racing and the warm, small-island hospitality that is Bequia’s trademark. The magic of seeing 80 or more boats of all types and sizes compete on the waters around the tiny 7-square-mile island is truly unforgettable.
On the yacht side, the Bequia Easter Regatta’s CSA-accredited series of races continue to draw sailors from near and far to take part in this hugely popular event. Yachts are divided into Racing Class, two Cruising Classes (including one for live-aboards and regular cruisers), and two One-Design Classes. The biggest draw in recent years has been Bequia’s J/24 One-Design Class whose six-race series in Bequia also decides the annual J/24 Southern Caribbean Championship.
The regatta’s eagerly anticipated local boat races draw ever greater crowds of followers each year. The design of the traditional Bequia double-ender or “two-bow” boat is based on
that of the 26-foot New England whaleboats which regularly visited the Grenadine waters during the first half of the 19th century. Today’s double-ender boats are now built purely to race, but within the fleet there is one notable exception. The 140-year old Iron Duke - cornerstone of “Old Bill” Wallace’s legendary Bequia whaling fleet in the late 19th century - is now much-rebuilt but still deeply treasured by the whole island and she survives to proudly compete in the regatta to this day.
Lay Day Sunday is when most yachtsmen take the chance to relax and enjoy the start of Sunday’s local boat races and the ever-popular Sandcastle Competition, or just chill out with the landlubbers on one of Bequia’s many beautiful beaches. A fearless few however choose to compete in Easter Sunday’s “Round the Island” single-handed Yacht Race - the ultimate seamanship challenge for the solo sailor and his yacht.
Easter in Bequia marks a major peak in the tourism season. Hotels, villas and apartments are booked far in advance, restaurants and bars prepare to welcome hundreds more visitors, and a variety of shore-based activities are organised. Regatta fever is in the air and just about everyone is infected with the excitement of being in Bequia to celebrate tradition and excellence in sailing on the island’s biggest weekend of the year.
For more information contact:The Bequia Sailing Club
Email: [email protected]/easterregatta
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Yacht Services
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Bequia, with its tradition of love for the sea and internationally famous seafaring skills,
welcomes our boating visitors. We hope that you are able to fulfil all your needs and enjoy your stay with us. Most Bequia marine service provid-ers monitor VHF ch. 68, and some ch. 16 as well.
Customs and ImmigrationTel: (784) 458 3769Located in the Revenue Office directly across the road from the main Ferry Wharf. Normal office hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-4:00pm (closed 12 noon-1:00pm); Sat 8.30am-12:00 noon.
As with all Caribbean islands, clearance outside these office hours is possible, but will incur overtime charges for both Customs and Immigration. Yachts are therefore advised to try to clear in and out within normal office hours to avoid overtime charges. If you enter Port Elizabeth during working hours (i.e. including overtime hours), you must proceed to Customs & Immigration immediately. Clearing out can be done up to 24 hours prior to departure. Current Overtime hours and charges (per boat): Mon-Fri: 4:00-6:00pm / Sat 12:00-6:00pm Customs EC$45.80 + Cruise Tax EC$35 total EC$80.80 Sun and holidays: 9:00am-12:00 noon; 3:00-6:00pm: Customs EC$63 + Cruise Tax EC$35, total EC$98.
Cruise Tax and Charter Licence:Bareboats – Provided your bareboat charter company has paid the annual licence fee for the boat, only the cruise tax of EC$35 per person per month will be charged. Cruise tax does not apply to children under 12 or Vincentian nationals.Crewed Charter Boats – Licence of EC$5 per ft. per month or EC$30 per ft. per year, plus cruise tax of EC$35 per passenger per month. Cruise tax does not apply to children under 12 years, crew or Vincentian nationals. Boat Length Annual Occasional Licence LicenceUp to 30ft EC$600 EC$6031-50ft EC$1000 EC$12551ft and over EC$1400 EC$140 Private Yachts (defined as a yacht whose owner is on board and is sailing for pleasure without fee paying passengers) – no licence fee. Cruise tax of EC$35 per person per month, including skipper. Cruise tax does not apply to children under 12 or Vincentian nationals.
Immigration Overtime charges apply Mon-Fri: 4:00-6:00pm/Sun and public holidays: EC$50.PLEASE NOTE: It is a violation not to clear into St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
Port Authority RepresentativeJohnny Ollivierre Tel: (784) 494 9241/456 1830
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MooringsMoorings in Admiralty Bay offered for rent are not authorized by the Port Authority, and are not inspected or insured. Until such time as the Port Authority regularises this situation, users rent them at their own risk.
Water TaxisBoat boys and water taxis are also un-licenced and their boats un-inspected by the Port Authority, but the following water taxi services have reputations for good seamanship and reliable service. All can be reached on VHF 68.
African PrideDaffodil MarineFat ShagGod is GoodMcCarthy Water Taxi
Solid Waste DisposalAshore, there is only one place to dispose of yacht garbage, located near the fish market jetty next to the vegetable market. These skips are for the exclusive use of yachtsmen. Alternatively, yacht garbage may be delivered ‘at sea’ to Daffodil Marine or other reliable water taxis; a charge per bag applies.
Dumping garbage in unauthorised places is a prosecutable offence.
Help keep Bequia clean and green! Please do NOT dump yacht garbage in sidewalk garbage bins, under the Almond Tree or anywhere else. There is a large skip near the market for this purpose.
Water & FuelBequia Marina Service Centre VHF 68, located at Bequia Marina Dock, north side of Admiralty Bay. Diesel fuel, water, ice.
Daffodil Marine VHF 67 (At sea)
Kingfisher Marine ServiceTel: (784) 532 8006 Located on the north side of the harbour; provides fuel, water and garbage disposal.
Shell Service StationTel: (784) 458 3601, located on the main road in Port Elizabeth between the main ferry wharf and fish market jetty. Fuel only.
Laundry ServiceDaffodil Marine VHF 67, pick up and delivery.
Lighthouse Laundry VHF 68, located on main road at O’car Reform, close to the power station.
Papa Mitchie’s Laundry Service VHF 68, across the road from the dinghy dock. Tel: (784) 458 3722
DockageThe Yacht Club (Tradewinds), at Bequia
Marina Dock VHF 77; Tel: (784) 457 3407
Slipping/Refurbishing & ManagementBequia Marina Service Centre At Bequia Marina Dock, now part of Trade Winds’ operation. Tel: (784) 457 3407
Piper Yacht Service – Donny Lewis Tel: (784) 495 2272
Chandlers & Marine Suppliers Grenadine Yacht & Equipment (GYE)Tel: (784) 458 3347 O’Car Reform on the road to Hamilton, or accessed via The Bequia Marina Boatyard [email protected]
Local boats at Bequia Easter Regatta
Yacht Services
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Lucos General Services Tel: (784) 457 3632South of the Anglican Church on main road.
Lulley’s Tackle ShopPort ElizabethTel: (784) 458 3420 Upstairs and at the back of the ‘Missing Link’ building opposite the vegetable market. [email protected]
Piper Marine Store, on Back Street, downstairs Allick’s Sail LoftTel: (784) 457 3856/495 2272 VHF 68
Wallace & Co., near the Anglican Church at the entrance to Belmont Walkway Tel: (784) 458 3360, [email protected]
Yacht ProvisionersThere are several grocery outlets on Bequia, but the following specialise in yacht provisioning:
Bequia Food StorePort ElizabethTel: (784) 457 3928
CK Greaves SupermarketsTel:(784) 457 1074 Three locations - Kingstown, Arnos Vale and Pembroke. A wide selection of local and imported food available. Free delivery to Grenadines wharf and yachts. Major credit cards accepted. [email protected]
Doris Fresh FoodBack StreetTel: (784) 458 3625 VHF 16/68 [email protected]
Gourmet FoodO’Car ReformTel: (784) 458 3485 VHF 68
Knight’s Trading/Knight’s Supermarket Two locations at Front and Back Street Tel: (784) 458 3218 VHF [email protected] the heart of Port Elizabeth, this supermarket/hardware store caters to every need - both for land and yachting communities. If required, deliveries will be made to the dinghy dock.
Lina’s DelicatessenDownstairs Bayshore MallTel: (784) 458 3181 VHF 68
Bequia Marina
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Mama’s Deli, Located behind Papa’s Bar & Lounge. Tel: (784) 458 3443 Select, across the road from the main dinghy dock, next to De Bistro Tel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Shoreline Mini-Mart Belmont Walkway Tel: (784) 458 3458 VHF [email protected]
Sail Making & RepairAllick’s Sail Loft, across the road from the Dinghy Dock, entrance on Back Street.Tel: (784) 458 3992 (home) Tel: (784) 457 3040 (loft) VHF 68
Bequia Canvas, O’Car, next to GYE Tel: (784) 457 3291 [email protected]
Grenadines Sails & Canvas (North Sails), on main road to Hamilton, opposite GYE, or accessed via the Bequia Marina boatyard. Tel: (784) 457 3507/3527(evenings) VHF 16/68. [email protected]
Engine RepairCaribbean Diesel Repair Inc., in the Anglican churchyard, Port Elizabeth Tel: (784) 458 3114 VHF 68 [email protected]
Kerry’s Marine ServicesPort Elizabeth, behind old primary school, on the road to Spring. Tel: (784) 530 8123/570 7612 VHF 68 ‘KMS’[email protected]
Simpson Engineering Ltd., O’car Reform, behind Bequia Maritime MuseumTel: (784) 457 3962
For further information or assistance, contact BTA at tel: (784) 458 3286
Anchoring right off the beach
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Land & Watersports
The sea has historically played a major part in Bequia’s life and, today, equally appeals to the
visitor. The beckoning crystal clear waters delight the senses and offer an abundance of treasures particularly those just waiting to be discovered in the magical undersea world..
Bequia is off the better known Caribbean dive site paths and consequently the reefs are less disturbed and the marine life richer in variety. Part of the leeward side of the island is a designated marine park. Spear fishing, anchoring, traps and nets are prohibited. Both experienced divers and those who have never donned tank, mask and fins before have the opportunity to explore a superb, seven-mile reef which fringes the island, where the Atlantic butts up to the Caribbean. This is very strictly protected and under no circumstances can even dead coral be taken. There are excellent dive sites around Bequia and the nearby islands, all easily accessible within 15 minutes by boat. For those who have never dived before, Bequia is the ideal destination to take a resort diving course. There is a large variety of marine life to excite beginners in their
shallow dives, or simply to enjoy some of the best snorkelling in the Caribbean. There are some great drift dives with tunnels, caverns, walls, overhangs and hollows, all resplendent with varied coral formations, teeming with reef fish as well as lobsters, shrimp, crabs, moray eels, barracudas, angelfish, jacks, seahorses, groupers and the odd nurse shark. Terrific wreck dives and night diving are also available. Dive courses leading to certification are available.
Snorkelling trips are especially good along the coast to Northwest Point and in the protected windward side waters of Friendship Bay. Snorkelling is also safe off any beach where swimming is enjoyed.
Sports fishing is a popular pastime providing both excellent sport and a delicious meal! Spanish mackerel, barracuda, marlin, mahi mahi, tuna, bonito, and kingfish are just some of the fish available. Hand lining and trolling are the only methods of fishing permitted to visitors and catches are restricted to only enough for your personal use. No fishing is allowed in protected areas, particularly the northeast coast and Devil’s Table. Spear-fishing is strictly forbidden to non-residents throughout St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
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Sailing and sailing skills form a great part of most Bequians’ lifestyles. From an early age, they learn to man the double-enders, both for pleasure and for earning a livelihood – skills passed on from father to son and now via the BYATS (Bequia Youth and the Sea) Programme sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bequia. Holidaymakers can charter boats for their sailing pleasure, with or without a skipper.
You are, of course, welcome to use your sail-boards and to take full advantage of our glorious waters and ideal winds.
Jetskis and other powered ‘recreational’ vehicles are strictly forbidden.
If you would rather stay dry, Bequia also offers tennis at various facilities.
Bequia is the perfect island to explore on foot. Starting from any hotel or guest house, a leisurely walk of a few hours will bring rewards of beautiful scenery, wonderful flora and fauna, opportunities to meet friendly Bequians, and the chance to discover some of the island’s interesting little watering holes for local snacks and thirst-quenching drinks. There are many old trails and footpaths throughout the island. Please check with the BTA who will be happy to assist in recommending a guide.
DivingBequia Dive Adventures Belmont Walkway, Admiralty BayTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Dive Bequia Gingerbread Complex, Admiralty BayTel: (784) 458 [email protected]
Dive the IslandsBelmont Walkway, Admiralty BayTel: (784) 495 0886/9 or 457 [email protected]
KarateKiai II KarateLower BayTel: (784) 493 7244Every Wed 4.30 - 6.30pm & Sat 1.30pm
Land ToursBushman’s Rough & Ready HikingBrent Gooding Tel: (784) 495 2524
HazEco ToursSt. VincentTel: (784) 457 8634 [email protected] www.hazecotours.com
Martine & François Nature Walk/Hiking ToursTel: (784) 457 [email protected]
Michael ToursTel: (784) 458 3782/455 [email protected]/sunrise/sunset_tour
Fisherman’s Day
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Small Craft RentalsDe Reef Bar/RestaurantLower BayTel: (784) 458 3958
Marlin’s Water SportsTel: (784) 526 [email protected]
Sports FishingBalliceaux CharterTel: (784) 496 6147
Michael ToursTel: (784) 458 3782/455 [email protected]/sunrise/sunset_tours
TennisFirefly Hotel Bequia Spring Tel: (784) 458 3414
Frangipani Hotel/GingerbreadBelmont Walkway, Admiralty Bay Tel: (784) 458 3255 (Frangipani)Tel: (784) 458 3800 (Gingerbread)
Lower Bay Sports CentreLower BayTel: (784) 495 [email protected]
Traditional Bequia boats
