An Update on Islands Impacted by Hurricane Beryl

Written by Chris Doyle

I’ll be updating our Windward Islands content this season and am planning to start with a comprehensive update of the islands affected by Beryl, but wanted to share what I do know so far, based on intel I’ve gathered from folks on the ground. If you gather any first-hand updates to the situations in these islands, feel free to email me at [email protected] with details - it will help me generate leads for when I do make it there in person. I’ll be posting further updates at doyleguides.com/windward-updated-guides/ 

In general, many people are still living in temporary shelters. Permanent, hurricane-resistant infrastructure will take time to build. While the secluded white sand beaches and great snorkeling that have always drawn people to Grenadines haven’t gone anywhere, the people and villages are still very much in recovery. If you do go, don’t expect services and infrastructure to be like it is in other parts of the Caribbean. Arrive fully provisioned, with full water and gas tanks, and donations for the local communities if you can. You can find out what is most in need my contacting one of the aid organizations on our Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts page here - doyleguides.com/beryl/ 

Canouan - recent aerial videos show a handful of boats anchored in Charlestown, and a handful in the marina, which is encouraging. Customs/immigration before Beryl was at an office in town, or at the airport (taxi from town). The marina acted as an agent and could clear boats in/out (for a fee), so that may be your best bet if there isn't anyone at the town or airport offices.

Mayreau - Beryl broke through the beach breakwater in Saltwhistle Bay, but it has since been repaired. No news on the beach bars or vendors.

Mustique - No news, but it's a private island co-op, so is probably well on its way to rejuvenation. 

The Cays - Romeo's beach BBQ is back up and running, not sure about the others. 

Union - Most people are still living in temporary shelters. Customs/immigration moved from the airport into Bougainvillia, but I've heard their hours are unreliable. Chatham Bay has been cleaned up nicely, and apparently one of the yacht agents is back up and running (not sure which one, there were 2, Secki and Vanessa and Sunset Cove) and can clear you in from Chatham (for a fee). It is recommended to make these arrangements in advance. 

Carriacou - Most essential services like grocery stores and pharmacies are back up and running, but have limited products. Last I heard customs/immigration were at the ferry port in Tyrell Bay, but were planning to move back to Carriacou Marine shortly. Wrecked boats in Tyrell Bay have been cleaned up, and Las Iguanas restaurant at Carriacou Marine is open again. Paradise Beach has been cleaned up nicely, and Paradise Beach Club is on its way to reopening. The owner, Ms. Allison, is also a yacht agent and a good contact on the island.