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Map of Anguilla |
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Flag of Anguilla |
Anguilla lies right next to St. Martin and is quite expensive to visit. Many of the yachts based in St. Martin will take their well-heeled passengers to Anguilla and St. Barth's as both islands have specialized in "upscale" tourism. We've sailed past it a number of times but never were quite willing to pony up for the cruising permits to visit it. As an escape from a too long stay in the hustle and bustle of St. Martin ("just taking care of a few more items") we decided to bite the bullet and pony up for Anguilla. We were very pleased indeed. It turns out that you may visit Road Bay at no charge if you are on your own boat and not carrying passengers. Indeed, even land visitors can find some reasonably priced accomodations in Road Bay.
Rumours of the expense are not unfounded. If you wish to visit any of the many marine parks, you must buy a cruising permit ($38US) and pay a charge for the park($15US). These permits expire at midnight on the day you buy them and you will need two days worth if you wish to stay overnight. $53/day is a little outside our budget :-) but we took advantage of the break given cruisers to see the island. It is charming. Kind of sleepy like a Carriacou with many, many rich people. The island is surrounded by lovely beaches (no charge if you visit from the land side) and has pitched itself to "upscale" resorts and villas. In many ways it is similar to the BVI but without the hords of charter boats. There is still a little of the old Caribbean available and the sounds of chickens and goats is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of St. Martin. Don't sail on by.
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