St. Vincent in the Grenadines remains a paradise for charter yacht clients, a sentiment echoed by all who’ve sailed its turquoise waters. However, the idyllic image can be tarnished by the realities of air travel. While flying to the Grenadines might be the initial dream, current air transportation options often prove inadequate. Connections can be convoluted, and timely arrivals are far from guaranteed.
How to Get to Grenadines by Air
The best gateway into the Caribbean for access to the Windward islands is Barbados. There are two flights daily on Grenadines Airways to each of the Grenadine’s islands, one midday and one later in the afternoon. This allows connections from the international carriers that arrive from the UK, Canada, and the US, as long as they are not delayed on their way in.
The planes are small, Twin Otters, so be sure to book early, especially during the season. It does not take long to fill 19 seats! For those unfamiliar with the small regional airlines, it is best to work through a local travel agent. These non-IATA airlines are not particularly user friendly when making a booking. They are simply not set up for online bookings.
LIAT still flies all over the Caribbean, so it is possible to fly from Barbados to St. Vincent several times each day. If you are picking up a yacht in St. Vincent, this is a viable option.
Some people arrive at Hewanorra, the international airport on St. Lucia. Unfortunately, there are no scheduled flights from there to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (except during the season, the Mustique Company operates a Twin Otter to Mustique). LIAT flies to St. Vincent from the domestic airport in St. Lucia. Travelers must either drive or take a helicopter from Hewanorra to Castries to make those connections.
From Martinique to the Grenadines – there are no scheduled flights. Airawak offers shared charters in 8 seaters. LIAT flies daily to St. Vincent, but not to the Grenadines.
For the ultimate freedom, consider flying to the Grenadines on a private charter. Mustique Airways, SVGAir and Executive Air all offer charter flights throughout the Caribbean islands. While this option comes with a steeper price tag, it allows travelers the flexibility to arrive at their Grenadine destination exactly when they desire. The convenience and personalized service can certainly be worth the additional expense.
Taking advantage of a travel agent’s local knowledge and experience makes travel planning smoother, whether for crew, guests, or business travelers, to help them get to their destinations as quickly and inexpensively as possible.
But maybe you wish to linger in Barbados, or St. Lucia or Grenada on your way to the Grenadines. Each of these island nations has a plethora of hotels, villas, and activities to satisfy most budgets and tastes. Perhaps you are not rushing to reach your destination but wish to savor the journey.
Either way, enjoy your travels.
FAQ
The simplest route is flying into Barbados first, then connecting with Grenadines Airways or LIAT to reach your final island.
Because small planes fill quickly, especially during peak season (December–April), you should book as early as possible—ideally several months ahead.
Not from Hewanorra International. However, you can transfer to Castries airport for LIAT flights, or during high season, use the Mustique Company’s service to Mustique.
No, there are no direct long-haul flights into the Grenadines. You must connect through regional hubs such as Barbados, St. Lucia, or Grenada.
Yes. Mustique Airways, SVG Air, and Executive Air all provide private charters. These allow you to choose your schedule, avoid delays, and enjoy personalized service.
We highly recommend it. Because regional airlines can be difficult to book online, agents help secure tickets, coordinate connections, and ensure a smoother journey.
For more information, go to our Information Request page or contact CKIM Group at 1321-777-1707 or email: charterassistant@ckimgroup.com
