"This is an island with over a hundred rum shops and only one gasoline station." Frances Kay,

Carriacou is a Carib word meaning "island surrounded by reefs," Politically it is part of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. It is the largest of the Grenadines at about six miles long by five miles wide.

Carriacou is the only place where I have frequently seen a pelican sitting on a buoy, with a seagull sitting on the pelican's head, both appearing content in the afternoon sun. Somehow this symbolizes the relaxed, easygoing nature of the island. As a Carriacou man said to me: "People does like it here, we move nice wid dem as we does wid each other, no corruptions or hatreds, all is like one."

Carriacou is enchanting, as anyone who takes a taxi ride or hike inland will find. The inhabitants live by farming, fishing and seafaring and must number among the friendliest in the Caribbean. The last few years have seen the emergence of many new restaurants and Carriacou so is good for those wishing to eat out. Just about everywhere in Carriacou is of interest, but Windward should definitely be part of your tour, as should the road running from Windward to the north end of the island. Windward is the traditional center of boat building and it is here you can see the fishing fleet arrive under sail. If you cannot afford a taxi, then take a bus over to Windward and hike. Another destination for a spectacular view is the hospital which sits high on the mountain overlooking Hillsborough harbor.

Cruising features include three excellent anchorages: Hillsborough, the capital, Tyrrel Bay, a large protected bay; and Sandy Island -- everyone's idea of a dream desert island.