Destination comparison
Grenada & the Grenadines vs Spain / Balearic Islands
Two distinct sailing grounds — here's how they compare on conditions, cost, season, and who they suit.
Quick Comparison
| Dimension | Grenada & the Grenadines | Spain / Balearic Islands |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Caribbean | Mediterranean |
| Peak season | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Shoulder | Nov, May | May, Sep, Oct |
| Sailing difficulty | moderate | easy to moderate |
| Recommended level | intermediate | beginner friendly |
| Avg wind (winter / summer) | 20 / 15 kn | 13 / 11 kn |
| Hurricane risk | Aug, Sep, Oct | None |
| Currency | XCD (pegged to USD) | EUR |
| Mid-tier price (7 days) | $10,500 | $9,000 |
| Luxury tier price | $40,000 | $36,000 |
| Detail page | View → | View → |
At a Glance
Stronger trade winds than Northern Caribbean; typically 18-25kt in winter. Tobago Cays is the must-do sail. One-way Grenada to St Lucia possible.
- • 3 base marinas
- • 4 must-visit anchorages
- • 31 boats in our fleet database for this region
Tramontana (N wind) in Mallorca summer. Best value is May and September. Formentera requires ferry hop from Ibiza. Protected north anchorages in Menorca.
- • 3 base marinas
- • 5 must-visit anchorages
- • 27 boats in our fleet database for this region
Sailing Conditions
Grenada & the Grenadines averages 20 knots in winter and 15 knots in summer. Hurricane risk runs Aug, Sep, Oct — outside these months the sailing is generally dependable.
Spain / Balearic Islands averages 13 knots in winter and 11 knots in summer. No hurricane season.
In terms of sailing difficulty, Grenada & the Grenadines is generally rated moderate and Spain / Balearic Islands is easy to moderate. The difference matters: Grenada & the Grenadines asks more of the skipper — confidence at the helm and some experience with coastal navigation helps.
Cost Comparison
For a 7-day charter of a typical 45-ft catamaran (4 cabins, sleeps 8):
- Low season: $4,000
- Mid season: $10,500
- High season: $20,000
- Luxury / crewed peak: $40,000+
- Low season: $3,500
- Mid season: $9,000
- High season: $18,000
- Luxury / crewed peak: $36,000+
Bareboat base rates. Crewed typically adds ~$1,500/day (captain + hostess). Prices exclude fuel, provisioning, mooring fees, gratuity.
Anchorages & Must-Do
- Tobago Cays — Five uninhabited islands; turtle snorkeling
- Petit St Vincent — Quiet luxury island
- Mayreau — Saltwhistle Bay
- Bequia - Friendship Bay — Local charm
- Formentera — Caribbean-of-Med; turquoise water
- Cala Macarelleta, Menorca — Best Menorcan cove
- Es Vedrà, Ibiza — Mythic rock; sunset
- Cala Deià, Mallorca — Tramuntana coast; celeb favorite
- Sa Dragonera Channel — Dramatic scenery
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Spain / Balearic Islands. Charter fleets are abundant, marina staff speak English, checkout sails are standard.
Choose Grenada & the Grenadines. Warmer water year-round (often 75–85°F), palm-fringed anchorages.
Choose Spain / Balearic Islands. Mediterranean culture, history, cuisine, wines.
Timing and Budget: Grenada & the Grenadines vs Spain / Balearic Islands
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Grenada & the Grenadines or Spain / Balearic Islands better for a first-time charter? ▾
Which is cheaper to charter — Grenada & the Grenadines or Spain / Balearic Islands? ▾
When is the best time to visit Grenada & the Grenadines vs Spain / Balearic Islands? ▾
How do sailing conditions compare — Grenada & the Grenadines vs Spain / Balearic Islands? ▾
Which has better flight access — Grenada & the Grenadines or Spain / Balearic Islands? ▾
Which is more beginner-friendly, Grenada & the Grenadines or Spain / Balearic Islands? ▾
Choose Between Grenada & the Grenadines & Spain / Balearic Islands
Tell us your dates and group. We'll recommend the right one — honestly.