Grenada: Sailing and Snorkeling To the Underwater Sculpture

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Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Grenada that combines stunning scenery with unique underwater art, this Sailing and Snorkeling tour to the Underwater Sculpture Park might catch your eye. Offered by Carib Cats Tours, it promises a blend of laid-back sailing, intriguing marine life, and the chance to see the world’s first underwater sculpture park—an experience that sounds both Instagram-worthy and genuinely memorable.

What we love about this trip is its fantasy of floating along the coast with great views of Grenada’s lush shoreline, while also getting a peek beneath the waves at extraordinary sculptures. The open bar adds a touch of Caribbean relaxation, perfect for unwinding after snorkeling. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the lack of shade on the open front deck, which could be uncomfortable on very hot days.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy water-based activities, value scenic vistas, and want a relaxed, social onboard atmosphere. If you’re after a quick, fun escape with some snorkeling and good drinks, this could be just right. However, those seeking a more immersive or longer underwater adventure might want to explore other options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

  • Unique underwater experience: Snorkel at the world’s first underwater sculpture park.
  • Relaxing atmosphere: Sunbathing on nets and enjoying music on board.
  • All-inclusive: Snorkel gear, drinks, and light snacks are provided.
  • Scenic views: Pass along Grenada’s beautiful coastline and bays.
  • Limited shade: The front deck is open, so bring sunscreen.
  • Four-hour duration: Perfect for a half-day escape with ample snorkeling time.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Grand Anse Beach

The adventure begins at Grand Anse, one of Grenada’s most famous beaches. While we haven’t been on this exact tour, it’s easy to imagine the scene: soft sands, gentle waves, and a lively Caribbean vibe. From here, the catamaran gently departs, offering travelers sweeping views of the coastline as you head north.

First Stop: Underwater Sculpture Park

The main attraction of this tour is the underwater sculpture park. Touted as the world’s first, this site features an array of sculptures designed to blend art with marine habitat. A guided snorkeling tour takes you through the sculptures, which should appeal to art lovers and marine life enthusiasts alike.

According to reviews, this stop is a highlight, with some mentioning the sculptures as “a really cool, unique experience” and “a must-see for anyone curious about underwater art.” The fact that snorkel equipment is provided makes it easy to join in, even if you’re not a seasoned swimmer.

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Second Stop: Flamingo Bay

Next, the boat heads over to Flamingo Bay. This spot offers a more autonomous experience: you can explore the coral reefs and marine life at your own pace. It’s an ideal stop for those who love to see colorful fish and vibrant coral formations up close, with some travelers noting the bay’s beautiful marine environment.

Relaxation and Refreshments

Throughout the trip, you’ll find nets to lounge on, perfect for soaking up the sun, plus plenty of seating to relax while enjoying the music played through an onboard stereo system. The open bar stocks rum punch, vodka, sodas, juices, and light snacks, making it easy to stay refreshed and in good spirits.

Amenities and Comfort

The vessel is equipped with two bathrooms (male and female), a ladder for easy water access, and shaded areas at the back. However, the open front deck means you’ll need to bring sunscreen if you want to avoid getting sunburned. The ladders make it straightforward to return to the boat after snorkeling or swimming, and the overall setup encourages a relaxed, social vibe.

Price and Value Analysis

At $74 per person, this tour offers a fairly economical way to experience Grenada’s marine environment and coastal views in a short, four-hour window. The cost includes snorkel equipment, entrance fees to the sculpture park, and all-you-can-drink from the open bar. Given the combination of scenic sailing, unique underwater art, and the convenience of gear and drinks included, travelers are likely to find this a good value—especially those keen on combining relaxed sailing with snorkel stops.

That said, it’s a short tour, so those looking for a deep-dive underwater experience or a longer exploration might find it somewhat limited. Still, for a half-day outing designed for fun and relaxation, it hits the right notes.

The Experience: What Past Travelers Say

The reviews mention the stunning views as a standout feature, with comments like “we loved the way the coastline looked from the boat” and “the scenery alone makes this worthwhile.” The snorkel stops at the sculpture park drew praise as “something totally different,” and many appreciated the ease of the provided gear.

However, some travelers noted that the front deck’s lack of shade can be uncomfortable during peak sun hours. One review commented, “the open front was a bit hot, so bring sunscreen,” which is a good tip for any sun-sensitive travelers. The open bar, meanwhile, was a hit for most, with guests enjoying the rum punch and light snacks while relaxing.

Breaking Down the Experience

The Snorkeling at the Underwater Sculpture Park

This is the true highlight for many. The sculptures are designed to be both artistic and marine habitats, creating an interesting visual contrast between art and nature. The guided tour ensures you see the best pieces and understand their significance, although some reviews suggest the sculptures are “not as large or elaborate as expected,” they still offer a unique photo opportunity and conversation starter.

Flamingo Bay Exploration

This stop allows for more independent exploration. The bay’s clear waters and coral reefs are inviting, and the chance to swim freely adds a sense of adventure. You can see various corals and marine life, and some reviewers mention the bay as “really colorful,” making it a rewarding spot for snorkelers.

Onboard Amenities and Atmosphere

The nets are a favorite feature, providing a comfortable spot for sunbathing and socializing. The onboard stereo keeps the energy lively, and the light snacks and drinks help keep spirits high. It’s a casual, social environment—perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting others and relaxing in a scenic setting.

Practical Details

  • Duration: 4 hours, typically in the afternoon, which suits travelers looking for a quick escape.
  • Transport: Departure from Grand Anse Beach, a convenient and well-known location.
  • Group Size: Not specified, but typical catamaran trips tend to be small to medium groups, enhancing the personal feel.
  • Facilities: Two bathrooms, plenty of seating, shade at the back, open deck at the front, and a ladder for water access.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for relaxing water enthusiasts, art lovers, and those who want a taste of Grenada’s coastal beauty without a long commitment. It’s perfect if you’re craving a scenic sail combined with snorkeling in a relaxed setting, complete with drinks and good company. Travelers looking for a more immersive or extended underwater experience might want to consider other options or longer tours.

If you’re sensitive to sun exposure, remember to bring sunscreen and perhaps a hat, as the front deck is exposed. Also, if you prefer a more structured, guided tour or are interested in diving or more hands-on marine activities, this might not tick all your boxes.

The Sum Up

In brief, this Grenada sailing and snorkeling tour offers a lovely balance of scenic cruising, underwater art, and social relaxation. The highlight is undoubtedly the underwater sculpture park, which brings an element of surprise and artistic curiosity to your trip. For just four hours, it provides great value, especially with all snorkel gear, drinks, and snacks included.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy calm water, beautiful views, and light snorkeling without the need for long or strenuous activities. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a fun, social outing that captures the essence of Grenada’s coastal charm.

While the open deck can get hot, the relaxed atmosphere and unique underwater sights make this a memorable half-day. If you’re after a quick, enjoyable taste of Grenada’s waters and underwater art, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is there snorkeling equipment included? Yes, all snorkel gear is provided, making it easy for anyone to join in, even if they don’t bring their own.

What’s the cost of the tour? The tour costs $74 per person, which covers the entrance fees to the sculpture park, snorkel gear, and drinks.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 4 hours, usually in the afternoon, allowing for a leisurely visit with plenty of snorkeling time.

Is there an open bar? Yes, the boat features an open bar stocked with rum punch, rum, vodka, sodas, and juices, plus light snacks.

What amenities are available onboard? There are two bathrooms, shaded and open deck areas, seating, nets for sunbathing, and a stereo system for music.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and family-friendly amenities suggest it could suit children, especially those comfortable with swimming and snorkeling.

Are there any safety concerns? The tour provides snorkeling gear and guides, but always remember to bring sunscreen and stay within your comfort zone in the water.

This sailing and snorkeling trip captures the playful, scenic spirit of Grenada, making it a fine choice for those wanting a quick but memorable coastal adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: