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 belongs to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It lies about 200 km West South West of Barbados, within sight of Carriacou and mainland Grenada directly to the south. Ships will anchor here and use tenders to carry passengers ashore.
The Grenadines' southernmost island, Union Island, is nicknamed the ‘Tahiti of the West Indies’ for its volcanic outline. Among numerous bars and restaurants, man-made Happy Island and its bar occupy the centre of Clifton harbour and are a must-see. Mount Taboi, at 999 feet above sea level, is Union Island's highest peak. Tobago Cays National Marine Park is a defining regional feature. These small, uninhabited, reef-ringed islands make snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming with sea turtles favourite activities.
Clifton and Ashton are the two main towns. Just under 3,000 people live on the island, where English is the official language.
Getting around
Small water-taxi fares are regulated by the Water Taxi Association and range from XCD55 to XCD1400.
Nearby places
Tobago Cays National Marine Park is a key feature of the Union Island region. The Cays are small uninhabited islands enclosed by reefs, where snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming with sea turtles are favourite visitor pastimes. Park entry costs EC$10/person/day and can be paid in Clifton at the Customs Offices, at the waterfront Tobago Cays Marine Park office or inside the park to rangers.
Money
The local currency on Union Island is Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$).