Grenadines Island-Hopping with the Tobago Cays
The Tobago Cays are often the day people remember most, but they make even more sense when planned as part of the Southern Grenadines: Union Island, Mayreau, Canouan, Palm Island, Petit St. Vincent, and quiet water in between.
Southern Grenadines
Build the route around distance and sea state.
On a map the islands look close, but the quality of an island-hopping day depends on wind, swell, landing points, customs rules when borders are involved, and how much time you want in the water rather than in transit.
Union Island works well as a base because you can sleep on land, eat locally, arrange a private boat day, and still reach the Tobago Cays quickly when conditions are right. Mayreau is a natural nearby stop, while Canouan and Palm Island can fit different styles of route.
Route Ideas
Useful combinations, not fixed packages.
The most practical land-based plan: stay on Union, choose the best boat day, and keep evenings easy.
A classic Southern Grenadines pairing when timing allows: village views, beach time, turtle water, and reef snorkeling.
Possible for some itineraries, but route comfort and timing should be checked carefully with the operator.
Chartered yachts often connect Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Tobago Cays, Union Island, and nearby southern stops over several days.
Boat Day
Keep the Cays as the highlight, not a rushed stop.
It is tempting to add every island to one day. In practice, the Tobago Cays deserve time: turtles at Baradal, reef snorkeling, a slow swim, a legal-season BBQ, or simply floating in the lagoon without rushing back into the boat.
For most guests, the best route is the one with fewer stops done well. Tell us whether you care most about snorkeling, photos, lunch, quiet beaches, sailing atmosphere, or seeing several islands, and we can help shape the day around that.
Where to Sleep
Land base or yacht base?
Most people visit the Tobago Cays either while sleeping on a chartered sailboat or by staying close by and taking a boat excursion. Union Island is the strong land-based option: only a short boat ride away, with accommodation and local logistics nearby.
Good to Know
Quick answers.
Can Tobago Cays be part of a Grenadines island-hopping trip?
Yes. The Cays work well as a highlight between Union Island, Mayreau, Canouan, Palm Island, and other Southern Grenadines stops.
Is Union Island a good island-hopping base?
Yes. Union Island is practical for accommodation, restaurants, local boat departures, transfers, and flexible Tobago Cays planning.
Can a day trip include Mayreau and Tobago Cays?
Often yes, depending on departure point, weather, timing, group pace, and what your captain considers realistic.
Do island-hopping routes ever need customs checks?
If a route crosses country borders, clearance rules can apply. Confirm details with your captain, charter company, or local operator before travel.