Holiday Bequia 2016 Edition

Land & Watersports
The sea has historically played a major part in
Bequia’s life and, today, equally appeals to the
visitor. The beckoning crystal clear waters delight
the senses and offer an abundance of treasures
particularly those just waiting to be discovered in
the magical undersea world.
Bequia is off the better known Caribbean
dive site paths and consequently the reefs are
less disturbed and the marine life richer in
variety. Part of the leeward side of the island
is a designated marine park. Spear fishing,
anchoring, traps and nets are prohibited.
Both experienced divers and those who have
never donned tank, mask and fins before
have the opportunity to explore a superb,
seven mile reef which fringes the island,
where the Atlantic butts up to the Caribbean.
This is very strictly protected and under no
circumstances can even dead coral be taken.
There are excellent dive sites around Bequia
and the nearby islands, all easily accessible
within 15 minutes by boat. For those who
have never dived before, Bequia is the ideal
destination to take a resort diving course.
There is a large variety of marine life to excite
beginners in their
shallow dives, or simply to enjoy some of the
best snorkelling in the Caribbean. There are
some great drift dives with tunnels, caverns,
walls, overhangs and hollows, all resplendent
with varied coral formations, teeming with
reef fish as well as lobsters, shrimp, crabs,
moray eels, barracudas, angelfish, jacks,
seahorses, groupers and the odd nurse shark.
Terrific wreck dives and night diving are also
available. Dive courses leading to certification
are available.
Snorkelling trips are especially good
along the coast to Northwest Point and
in the protected windward side waters of
Friendship Bay. Snorkelling is also safe off any
beach where swimming is enjoyed.
Sports fishing is a popular pastime
providing both excellent sport and a delicious
meal! Spanish mackerel, barracuda, marlin,
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mahi mahi, tuna, bonito, and kingfish are
just some of the fish available. Hand lining
and trolling are the only methods of fishing
permitted to visitors and catches are
restricted to only enough for your personal
use. No fishing is allowed in protected areas,
particularly the northeast coast and Devil’s
Table. Spearfishing is strictly forbidden to
non-residents throughout St. Vincent & the
Grenadines.
Sailing and sailing skills form a great part of
most Bequians’ lifestyles. From an early age,
they learn to man the double-enders, both
for pleasure and for earning a livelihood –
skills passed on from father to son and now
via the BYATS (Bequia Youth and the Sea)
Programme sponsored by the Rotary Club
of Bequia. Holidaymakers can charter boats
for their sailing pleasure, with or without a
skipper.
You are, of course, welcome to use your
sail-boards and to take full advantage of our
glorious waters and ideal winds.
Jetskis and other powered ‘recreational’
vehicles are strictly forbidden.
If you would rather stay dry, Bequia also
offers tennis at various facilities.
Bequia is the perfect island to explore on
foot. Starting from any hotel or guest house, a
leisurely walk of a few hours will bring rewards
of beautiful scenery, wonderful flora and fauna,
opportunities to meet friendly Bequians, and
the chance to discover some of the island’s
interesting little watering holes for local snacks
and thirst-quenching drinks. There are many
old trails and footpaths throughout the island.
Please check with the BTA who will be happy
to assist in recommending a guide.