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TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
Classic
Up to 5km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2025
05 Jul - 11 Jul
Available
12 Jul - 18 Jul
Available

Tour Highlights

  • Voyage like a pirate to locations made famous by the Pirates of the Caribbean films

  • Experience the breathtaking volcanic coastline of St. Vincent, ruled by the peak of La Soufrière

  • Swim with the sea-grass-grazing turtles of Tobago Cays and explore the coral gardens

  • Motor around the islands on our catamaran - discover the rich biodiversity of UNESCO-listed Heritage Sites

This one’s for those of you calling for more swims in tropical climates. What better staging ground is there for a trip than the island country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

St Vincent is a member of the Windward Islands and part of the Lesser Antilles. You’ll find Saint Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south. Combined with the Grenadines this southern island chain consists of 32 islands and cays, scattered in the Caribbean Sea. It has some of the world’s best palm-fringed beaches and softly lapping waters that mirror blue skies above.

The smaller islands of the Grenadines are particularly famous for white-sand beaches and coral gardens. Each island has its own character and many natural treasures to discover. For example, Mustique offers exclusive resorts, which entice musicians and royals, like Jagger, Bowie and Princess Margaret.

We’ll keep you away from the tourist bustle of distant lands, seeking out deserted islets and warm waters that invite swimmers year-round. Hike on mountain trails, plunge into lush rainforests and gawp at volcanic peaks as well, like La Soufrière.

Prepare for spectacular swims and plenty of exploration as we stay on two different islands during the trip. First, we arrive at the main port and capital of Kingstown to begin your adventure on the island of St Vincent. This is your chance to explore the local botanical gardens – a must-see in any guidebook. Later, we travel south through the Grenadines to the far-flung Tobago Cays. This is a swimmer’s paradise replete with clear waters and host to turtles that graze the sea grass and coral reefs.

Who is this trip for?

This trip is designed for swimmers who enjoy a combination of coastal swims and island-hopping and relish the opportunity to explore warm, clear waters. To ensure we explore the best swims, the duration on the boats to reach the swim destination could be as long as 90 minutes.

Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.

The average swim distance is around 3km. The average daily swim distance is around 5km.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.


Are you a Pioneer?

We are excited to share our entirely new Saint Vincent and the Grenadines trip for an action-packed 2025 of adventures. Our first departures will be Pioneer Departures. These are perfect for those who want to get out first to experience the relatively unexplored waters that await us. You will have the opportunity to explore the destination in-depth with an amazing group of swimmers, opening our eyes to the possibilities for future trips.

What's included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
  • Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
  • Six nights' accommodation (two nights in Blue Lagoon, four nights in Bequia Plantation)
  • Transfer between accommodations (swimmers only)
  • All breakfasts
  • All lunches (except on the half day) (swimmers only)
  • Full ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the trip
  • Lunch on the half day
  • Evening meals
  • Drinks and additional activities
  • 3$ per person, per night tourist tax

Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Blue Lagoon Hotel

Finish Point: Bequia Plantation Hotel

Finish Time:* 11:00 on Day 7

Day 1

After your arrival, we meet at the hotel for a safety briefing before catching a short transfer to our acclimatisation swim. We will then return to the hotel for a welcome meeting, group dinner and a chance for the week’s plan to be discussed in more detail.

Day 2

Today we head to the west side of St. Vincent to explore the volcanic coastline. We swim along to Paradise Beach and finish under a rocky outcrop. Then we anchor for lunch and a chance to relax before continuing our journey.

In the afternoon, we swim to Wallilabou, which was used in The Curse of the Black Pearl from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. The iconic ‘pirates be ye warned’ rock juts out from the bay. We then return back to the boat and transfer to our hotel.

Day 3

After breakfast, we return to the west side of St. Vincent and continue along the black-sanded beaches, coral spotting and enjoying the clear, calm waters. After an enjoyable morning swim, we join the boat for lunch and motor back towards the hotel.

Before we reach the hotel we stop for our afternoon swim. This takes us from Indian Bay Beach, past Dove Island and to Fort Duvernette, which sits atop a 190-foot volcanic rock. This is our first crossing of the week and a great swim to finish our adventure on St Vincent, before moving on.

Finally, we motor over to Bequia for check-in and dinner on a new island.

Day 4

Today is a half-day, giving you the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon exploring the new island of Bequia. We start with a coastal swim to Moon Hole, which is a conservation area of protected natural beauty. Inland you’ll find an impressive archway of volcanic rock, as well as the remains of the original Moon Hole house. From here we return to the hotel for you to relax, have lunch or find any extra activities. You can visit the heritage museum or hike to the highest viewpoint on the island.

Day 5

Relaxed and recharged, we take on a busy day as we motor to Tobago Cays, enjoying spectacular views as we travel. We ride the boat past Baliceaux, Mustique and Canouan. This is a full day of tropical swimming, turtle spotting and reef exploration. We take lunch while anchored during the day. Once we are finished, we make the journey back to the hotel.

Day 6

Today, we stay in the local waters of Bequia and complete our final crossing for the week from Petit Nevis to Isle A Quatre. The latter is an uninhabited island surrounded by a marine reserve. After lunch, we complete our final full swim in Friendship Bay before we return to the hotel for a final group dinner.

Day 7

We have one last morning swim before breakfast to finish the week and say our farewells.

Accommodation

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Blue Lagoon Hotel & Bequia Plantation Hotel

During this trip we stay at both Blue Lagoon Hotel, and Bequia Plantation Hotel. We start our journey on St Vincent in the warm and welcoming Blue Lagoon hotel right on the coastline of St Vincent, embracing the Vincentian hospitality and the view of the marina and passing yachts. Our second property stands proudly on the coconut tree lined beach, sharing its traditional charm amongst style and comfort.

Location Summary

Saint Vincent

Columbus named the island after St. Vincent of Saragossa due to fact he first saw it on St. Vincent’s feast day. Before that it was known by Kalinago natives as ‘Youloumain’. The natives named it in honour of Youlouca, spirit of the rainbows, who was thought to inhabit the island.

During your time here you will discover the coral waters, volcanic peaks and beaches of black sand. The local history traces back to the Carib settlers and European colonisation that began with the arrival of Christopher Columbus.

On the southern coast you’ll find Fort Duvernette, which is only accessible by boat. The fort is seated on a large volcanic outcrop, ideally positioned to defend the town of Calliaqua. 225 steps are carved into the rock, winding upwards like a spiral staircase.

Bequia

The small island of Bequia was named ‘Island of the Clouds’ by its tribal settlers. In an area of protected marine areas, popular for snorkelling, diving and sailing, this island rises from blue-green waters and acts a stepping stone from the larger landmass of St. Vincent. The idyllic beaches are best enjoyed at a slow pace. So, take some time to rest and recover after your swims, sampling the local rum as you sink into the easiness of island life.

Tobago Cays

This small group of uninhabited islands is framed by crystalline waters, sandy beaches and reefs that slope into the deep blue. The sea grass beds are popular with the hawksbill turtles, which is part of the reason this is such a treasured site for eco-tourism.

Be assured the native species of conchs, lobsters and iguanas are all well-protected. Also, keep an eye out for a famous coral reef shaped like a horseshoe!

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distances Swim Distances
Cala Faraglioni - Spiaggia Praia 2½km Spiaggia Graziosa - Cala Rossa 2½km
Chateaubelair – Paradise Beach 3km Pirates of the Caribbean Rock 2km
Di Marasolo 2km Cala Bianca - Punta Pegna 3km
Punta Pegna - Cala Nera 2½km Isola Preveto – Isola Galeotta 3km
Crossing Favignana - Levanzo 3½km Grotta del Genovese - Cala Minnola 2km

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as sea lice, jellyfish, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures. If you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Conditions

While there aren’t any significant planned walks, any walks that we do undertake will take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces and care should be taken in these areas.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
July 27-30°C / 82-84F 24-31°C / 24-88°F
September 29-31°C / 84-87°F 26-31°C / 79-88°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Trip Information

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip varies each day depending on the type of swim but includes one main boat, a large catamaran, and two support vessels to be piloted by a local boat pilot and your SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. There are no additional, specific items required for this location.

Getting There

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don’t currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website. The easiest way to get to St Vincent is to fly to Argyle International Airport (SVD)

Travel to St Vincent and the Grenadines from the US

There are a number of direct flights from New York (JFK), Miami (MIA) and Toronto (YYZ), or you can fly to a neighbouring island such as Barbados and then catch a transfer flight to the island.

Travel via Barbados (Grantley Adams International Airport – BGI)

Direct flights to Barbados are available from cities across the United States of America, including New York (JFK), Charlotte (CLT), Bostone (BOS) and Washington D.C (IAD)

Travel to St Vincent and the Grenadines from the UK

From the UK, it is possible to fly direct to St Vincent, via a stopover in a neighbouring island such as Barbados. Virgin Atlantic also offer a direct flight from London Heathrow with a short touch down in Barbados before continuing to St Vincent.

Accommodation

For this trip, you will stay in two different accommodations. For the first two days, we will be at the Blue Lagoon Spa and Marina. For the rest of the trip we will be staying at the Bequia Plantation Hotel.

For more information about the hotels in St Vincent and The Grenadines, please visit our Blue Lagoon & Bequia Plantation Hotel page on our website.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you want to book additional nights either side of your trip, please contact either of the hotels directly at or .

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches (except on the half day) are included in your trip price (swimmers only). All dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore the menus and experience the local restaurants on the islands.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

The currency in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the East Caribbean Dollar (EC$). The US dollar is accepted in many hotels, restaurants and some shops alongside major credit cards.

You should bring extra money with you to cover items such as meals not already included in your package, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

US citizens must have a valid US passport that is valid on the date of entry. UK and most European citizens do not require a visa to enter St Vincent and the Grenadines for a stay of up to 30 days, but must have a passport that expires at least 6 months after the date you arrive Non-residents of the EU require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the common areas of the hotel.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.


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