Grenada
1:34 pm, Nov 14, 2024
temperature icon 29°C
few clouds
Pressure 1008 mb
Wind 12 mph
Sunrise Sunrise: 6:04 am
Sunset Sunset: 5:38 pm

Currency

XCD
The currency in Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). It is used by several countries in the Eastern Caribbean and is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of approximately 2.70 XCD to 1 USD. The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank issues it.

Voltage

220V
Grenada operates on a standard voltage of 230 volts, but some areas may also accommodate 110V outlets, primarily for tourist convenience. However, the predominant voltage is 230V. If you’re bringing devices that operate on 110V, it’s recommended to use a voltage converter or ensure your devices are dual voltage.

Water

Good
In Grenada, the water quality is generally safe for drinking, especially in urban areas where municipal supplies are treated. However, some rural regions may have variable quality. It’s advisable for travelers to drink bottled water, especially if unsure about local sources. Always check with locals for the best recommendations.

Dialing

+1473
To call a phone number in Grenada internationally, use the country dialing code +1473 in place of the initial zero.

Arrival by boat Entry formalities

Boat Clearance

Clearance formalities for entry and exit from the islands of the Caribbean is mandatory for all pleasure boat, for personal or professional use, arriving or departing by sea. The clearance must be pre-filled online at https://www.sailclear.com/ before heading to the customs office. Only the boat captain is allowed to go the customs office with all passports until the clearance has been stamped.

Visa requirements for travel to Grenada:

Embassy of Grenada

Other ressources

Noonsite.com maintains an updated worldwide database of formalities for pleasure crafts. Click here for more details.
Grenada, Sauteurs Bay, by Stefan_und_Bille, CC BY-SA 3.0

Weather & Navigation

The island’s towering mountains create natural wind funnels, especially on the western coast near St. George’s. These funnels compress the wind, increasing speed, and suddenly you’re dealing with gusts that can take you by surprise.

Sailing itineraries in Grenada

A brief maritime history of Grenada

Long before it became known as the “Island of Spice,” the island was home to the Caribs, a fiercely independent indigenous group. Their presence left indelible traces on the island, and even in today’s Grenadian dialect, their spirit lingers. The Caribs weren’t the first inhabitants though — they were preceded by the Arawaks, who arrived around 2000 B.C. These early settlers lived peacefully, fishing and cultivating the fertile land. They left behind mysterious petroglyphs, carvings on stone that still baffle archaeologists.

Four years’ residence in the West Indies – Painting by Bayley 1808-1853

In 1498, during his third voyage to the New World, Christopher Columbus spotted this volcanic island and called it “Concepción,” but the name didn’t stick. Early spanish settlers renamed it “Grenada,” inspired by the Spanish city of Granada. The island’s early days of European colonization weren’t peaceful. The Caribs resisted fiercely, and it wasn’t until the 17th century that the French succeeded in establishing control. A famous tale tells of the Caribs’ last stand at a cliff now called Le Morne des Sauteurs, or “The Hill of Leapers.” The legend says that rather than surrender, the Caribs leapt to their deaths.

The French influence is still palpable in Grenada. You’ll notice it in the names of towns, the local architecture, and even in the lilting rhythm of the Creole language spoken here. For decades, the island was the center of a tug-of-war between the French and the British, both eager to control its lucrative sugar and spice trade. The island’s soil was very fertile, perfect for growing the nutmeg and cacao that would come to define Grenada’s identity. Fun fact: Grenada produces nearly 20% of the world’s nutmeg, earning its title as the “Spice Isle.” This precious spice even graces the national flag, an homage to its importance.

The island’s plantation economy relied heavily on enslaved Africans, whose descendants make up the majority of the population today. The legacy gave rise to the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture that pulses through Grenada’s veins. Every August, Carnival celebrates this resilience with parades, music, and dancing.

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