Anchorage· St Kitts· Leeward Islands
Sandy Bay Reef Anchorage (North Coast)
17° 24.5′ N · 62° 48.1′ W
A reef-enclosed bay on St Kitts' north coast near Dieppe Bay - one visitor called it one of the top ten anchorages in the Caribbean - with complete protection once you are inside.
Practical
Local-knowledge entrance: a big reef protects the bay, and the entrance runs close to shore. In April 2017 a boat entered on a 20 kn easterly in fair light and never saw less than 8 ft; the inside edge of the reef is visible unless you look into the sun. Two rocks guard the entrance and break in a north swell of 8 ft or more (locals say 12 ft over them). Do not attempt from the south with any sea running. Bottom is mostly grass - use a plough-type anchor and take time to set. Easy dinghy landing on the beach; buses to Basseterre run constantly (look for vans with H plates). Only attempt with good light and settled seas.
Best for
Storm-proof shelter for experienced reef pilots
Season
Settled weather only; never in a north swell