Making the most of Union Island
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Union Island is part of the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It lies about 200 km West South West of Barbados and is within view of the islands of Carriacou and the mainland of Grenada, which lie directly south. Ships will anchor here and use tenders to bring you ashore.
Union Island, the southernmost island of the Grenadines, is nicknamed the ‘Tahiti of the West Indies’ due to its volcanic silhouette. Among the many restaurants and bars, Happy Island, a man-made island featuring a bar, sits in the middle of Clifton harbor and is a must-see. Mount Taboi, which at 999 feet above sea level, is the highest peak on Union Island. A key feature of the Union Island region is the Tobago Cays National Marine Park. The Tobago Cays are a group of small uninhabited islands surrounded by reefs, where snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming with sea turtles are all favorite pastimes.
Clifton and Ashton are the two principal towns. The island is home to just under 3,000 residents. The official language is English.
Getting around
The cost of using small water taxis is regulated ed by the Water Taxi Association prices are in a range from XCD55 to XCD1400.
Nearby places
A key feature of the Union Island region is the Tobago Cays National Marine Park. The Tobago Cays are a group of small uninhabited islands surrounded by reefs– snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming with sea turtles are all favorite pastimes of visitors. Entry to the park (for visitors) costs EC$10/person/day – park fees can be paid in Clifton at the Customs Offices, the Tobago Cays Marine Park office at the waterfront or in the park itself from park rangers.
Money
Union Island uses the local Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$).