Marinas in Barbados
The Island of Barbados is the most easterly of the Lesser Antilles and often the first landfall for yachts crossing the Atlantic. The capital is the city of Bridgetown which lies on the southwest corner of the island. The island has a land mass of 431 square km and its highest point is Mount Hillaby at 430 metres. The official language is English.
After a brief claim by Spain and later Portugal Britain claimed Barbados in the name of King James I in 1625 and was a British Colony and Protectorate until 1966 when the island was granted independance. Queen Elizabeth II is the Queen of Barbados and it's head of state.
Barbados is a lush tropical island with rainforests that flow down to the brilliant white beaches that attract thousands of tourists each year. As you would expect there are numerous hotels that vary in standards and all the attractions and nightlife to satisfy both the tourist and the visiting yachts. Other attractions and activities are Golf, Surfing, Museums and Rum.
Marinas can get crowded and lengthy stays expensive so many yachts anchor rather than use the marinas, bum boats ply goods out to yachts but security can be an issue and precautions are necessary. Marinas are usually pretty ok with allowing dinghy's to land but again make sure the tender is secure.
Commucation is good with the island having an international airport, Grantly Adams, and major seaport. The road network is good but can be a little tricky when straying away from the major routes. There are plenty of Car Hire Companies. There are three bus routes that run 7 days a week.
Barbados is divided into eleven parishes:
- Christ Church
- Saint Andrew
- Saint George
- Saint James
- Saint John
- Saint Joseph
- Saint Lucy
- Saint Michael
- Saint Peter
- Saint Philip
- Saint Thomas
St. George and St. Thomas located in the middle of the country are the only two parishes without coastlines.
