Spice Island uncovered

Seventy five boats have now finished ARC+ (8 Dec) and participants are enjoying what the beautiful ‘spice island’ of Grenada has to offer. From waterfalls and pristine beaches to chocolate and rum – this island is truly spectacular - and participants are making the most of their time here after their long Atlantic crossing. It’s mixed emotions after finally getting over the finish line and concluding their adventure with the rally, but for now it’s time to catch up with friends on other boats and to enjoy the Caribbean after all those months of preparation and planning.

The ARC+ social programme is also in full swing, with the sunset cruise once again proving a huge success. Skippers and crews were able to fully relax, share stories of their crossing and take in the view as the sun went down. Let the partying and exploring begin.

All the boats are docked at Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina which is close to the colourful St George’s. With its colonial architecture and horseshoe-shaped harbour, a visit to Fort George gives amazing panoramic views of this historic capital. Grenada’s most famous beach is Grand Anse, made up of soft white sand, calm blue water, and with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing and watersports. There is also one of the world’s first underwater sculpture parks here - perfect for snorkeling or diving; situated in Molinere Bay with haunting, beautiful installations. Grenada is also known for its waterfalls, with Annandale Falls, Concord Falls and Seven Sisters Falls offering beautiful hikes and refreshing pools. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

No visit to Grenada would be complete without a tour to a spice plantation as Grenada is home to nutmeg, cocoa, cinnamon, and more. Plus, Grenada has superb tree-to-bar chocolate, with several chocolate factories, including the Grenada Chocolate Company and Belmont Estate offer tastings and demonstrations - very popular stop off with Sheldon’s Royalty Tours. 

Children on the ARC+ rally have particularly loved spotting and feeding the mischievous monkeys in the lush rainforest of Grand Etang National Park, home to large Grand Etang Lake with poplar trails, including Mt. Qua Qua for sweeping views.

Crews are also enjoying experiencing the local food and rum, including visiting rum distilleries, some of which are the oldest operating distilleries in the Caribbean. Grenada’s cuisine is rich, flavourful, and heavily influenced by African, Indian, and indigenous Caribbean traditions. Trying dishes like oil down (the national dish) one of the plentiful nutmeg-flavoured dishes and sweets is a must. Nutmeg and mace appear in ice cream, cakes, syrups and drinks and participants have been lucky enough to taste and purchase all sorts of local delicacies and to purchase arts & crafts during their stay here as the Organic Farmers Market has taken place on several days, as part of the programme, in the Marina Village. The programme continues today and for more information about Grenada, go to: https://www.puregrenada.com/ #PureGrenada