St Lucia is one of those islands that immediately stands out. With steep green mountains, lush rainforest, and the iconic Pitons rising straight from the sea, it’s a landfall that feels dramatic even by Caribbean standards.
For liveaboard cruisers, St Lucia is often seen as a transit stop while traveling up or down the island chain, rather than the final destination. That said, those who linger find a mix of practical anchorages and visually stunning stops along the coastline.
In this guide, we’re sharing 7 of the best anchorages in St Lucia as reviewed by the noforeignland community. It’s an authentic insight into this stunning destination, with feedback based on the real-world experiences of cruisers who’ve dropped the hook here and logged it in the app.
1. Laborie Bay
Starting in the south of Saint Lucia is Laborie Bay, a quiet anchorage on the shores of a fishing village.
The bay is protected by a barrier reef to the south-east, and is sheltered from northern and easterly winds. It’s possible to anchor there, or pick up one of Junior’s Buoys if you’d prefer to be on a mooring.
In town you’ll find basic amenities, including a free water tap on the dinghy dock, nearby fuel station, mini-mart, weekend market, and good local restaurants such as Mama Tilly’s Bar-B-Que & Grill. For many of the noforeignland cruisers who’ve visited before, the greatest beauty of Laborie was the people. They share stories of meeting locals who were friendly and genuine, willing to help and remembering those who chose to return.
2. Petit Trou
For a little more space than what’s on offer at Laborie Bay, set a course one bay south to Petit Trou.
A sandy anchorage with good wind protection, the shoreline is virtually deserted. There’s no amenities or attractions in the immediate area, it’s just a quiet, peaceful place to spend the night. If you need anything, Laborie is just a dinghy ride away.
3. Anse Des Pitons
Without a doubt, the Piton’s are the most iconic landscape in Saint Lucia. The southern peak is Gros Piton while the northern peak is Petit Piton; if you’re lucky enough you can hook a mooring ball at the base of either.
Anchorng isn’t allowed in Anse Des Pitons, but there are two sets of mooring balls with fees paid to the SMMA park rangers; one at the southern end of the bay under Gros Piton, and one at the northern end, close to Petit Piton.
Along the sandy beach are multiple snorkeling spots, as well as resorts with dinghy docks and restaurants. If you feel like hiking the Pitons it’s possible, with many cruisers sharing that they’re challenging yet rewarding climbs. There are entrance fees for the hikes, and an expectation you have a local guide.
4. Soufriere Bay
North of Petit Piton is Sourfriere Bay. Anchoring is not permitted here either, but there are mooring balls dotted up the coastline which are also managed by the SMMA.
At the foot of Peitit Piton, towards the southern end of the bay, are the Malgretoute mooring balls. From here you have the easiest access to the Petit Piton hike and Piton Falls. Further towards town are the Baron Drive mooring balls, which provide easy access to Customs and Immigration, ATM’s, grocery stores, restaurants, and fuel.
The area is a combination of convenience and things to do. Like many anchorages in St Lucia, you can expect to be approached by boat boys, with some cruisers sharing friendly local contacts on the noforeignland map.
5. Marigot Bay
Often considered a hurricane hole, Marigot Bay offers exceptional protection from wind. The only downside, it’s small.
There are a number of different options for securing your boat within the Marigot Bay areas. In the channel leading to the inner harbor there’s a small anchorage on the north, and some mooring balls on the other side. Once you’re inside the harbor there’s no space to anchor, but there are some well-rate mooing balls provided by the marina. You get access to the marina bathrooms and can purchase passes to indulge in the nearby resort.
From here you can take a day trip out to the St Lucia Rum distillery, for a tour and tasting.
6. Bois D’Orange
Quiet, protected, sandy – Bois D’Orange is a tiny anchorage that’s a far cry from nearby Rodney Bay.
While a few boats can fit, it’s one of those places that you’re likely to have all to yourself, with nothing but the water and a small beach to enjoy.
7. Rodney Bay
A hub for the marine industry, Rodney Bay is somewhere almost all cruisers in St Lucia pass through.
The outer bay can be a challenging spot to anchor, with most cruisers recommending the south-east end for better holding. From there you have easy access to the shore via the dinghy dock. Rodney Bay has lots to do, with hiking trails up Mount Pimard, Splash Island Water Park, the historic Fort Rodney, and various shops and restaurants.
Through the channel is the inner bay, with Rodney Bay Marina. There you’ll find many marine services, including a sailmaker, Island Water World, marine technicians, and Customs and Immigration offices. Around the bay are dinghy docks, restaurant, bars and shops, making it a lively place to visit.
Choosing the right anchorage in St Lucia
St Lucia rewards different types of cruisers in different ways.
If you’re looking for a quiet overnight stop with minimal distractions, Laborie Bay, Bois d’Orange and Petit Trou offer calm water, good protection, and a slower pace that makes it easy to reset between passages.
For those drawn to dramatic scenery and memorable swims, the moorings at Anse des Pitons and around Soufrière put you right beneath one of the Caribbean’s most iconic landscapes, with hiking, snorkeling, and shore access all close at hand.
Cruisers seeking shelter and some creature comforts often gravitate towards Marigot Bay, while those needing services, reprovisioning, or marina facilities will inevitably pass through Rodney Bay.
For more ideas on where to anchor in St Lucia, as well as insights into clearance, marine facilities and things to do, be sure to check out the noforeignland sailing guides!
As always, conditions, local practices, and cruiser experiences can change. If you’ve anchored or picked up a mooring in St Lucia, share your insights in the comments or log your experience on the noforeignland map. Your notes help other cruisers make better decision based on real, up-to-date cruising knowledge.
By Telicia Campain
Telicia lives aboard a 2021 Leopard 45 with her crew mates and Aussie Shepherd, Rose. Together they're sailing the world, and sharing their experiences through their Travel Sketch channel on YouTube. Their cruising grounds have so far included the Mediterranean and Caribbean, with the Pacific Islands and South East Asia coming next. Telicia is also editor of the NFL Magazine.
