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General Information |
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When Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada in 1498 the island was already inhabited by the Carib Indians, who had replaced the peaceful Arawaks as on the other islands of the area. Columbus originally called the island Concepcion, but Spanish sailors renamed it after the town of Granada.
In 1650 a French expedition from Martinique landed purchased extensive tracts of land in return for a few beads, knives, and hatchets. However, hostilities broke out as the French attempted to extend their control of the island. They defeated the Caribs, the last of whom leapt to their death off a precipice (named to this day "Le Morne de Sauteurs" or "Leapers' Hil") rather than surrender.
In their attempt to keep the island from falling into British hands the French constructed Fort Royal, which eventually became Fort George when the island was permanently ceded to the British under the Treaty of Versailles in 1783. The British immediately imported large numbers of slaves from Africa and established sugar plantations.
In 1795, however, British control was seriously challenged by Julian Fedon, a black planter inspired by the French Revolution. Under Fedon's leadership, the island's slaves rose up in a violent rebellion.
In 1877 Grenada became a Crown Colony, and in 1967 it became an associate state within the British Commonwealth before gaining independence in 1974. In 1979, an attempt was made to set up a socialist state in Grenada. Four years later, the United States invaded the island. Following this "rescue mission," a general election re-established democratic government and free enterprise.
Despite the island's long history of British rule, the island's French heritage (both colonial and revolutionary) survives in its place names, its buildings, and its strong Catholicism.
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Nautical information |
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- A visa is not required from citizens of the US, Canada, UK, British Commonwealth, most Caribbean countries, most European countries, South Korea, and Japan
- A valid passport and return or onward ticket is required for all visitors. However, proof of citizenship bearing a photograph is acceptable from British, Canadian and US citizens.
- Clearance and navigation permits (at cost) are required from visiting yachts.
- Anchor with the Q flag clearly visible until the clearance formalities have been completed. It is customary for the captain to deal with the clearance procedures on behalf of the crew and passengers. He will have to produce the boat's papers, the last clearance, the passports of all persons on board and a crewlist (5 copies).
- Our tip: Grenada has just introduced a combined Immigration/Customs/Ports Authority Form to ease the clearance procedures. Click for an online version of the form.
- Pets are not allowed without certifiacate and authorisation by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Ports of entry
- St George's, Prickly Bay, Grenville, Secret Harbour and Hillsborough sur Carriacou
- Business hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 to 11:45 and 13:00 to 16:00.
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Practical information |
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Communications
- Maurice Bishop International Airportis 5 minutes away from St George's. Don't forget there is a departure tax of 50 EC$!
- The Osprey Ferry operates a shuttle service to the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
- The best and cheapest Transportation is the public Mini Bus! Our Buses travel around the entire island. It's a lot of fun, because as you drive, you are entertained by typical Caribbean music. On the buses, you will meet some of the friendliest and most helpful people in the entire Caribbean. The bus stops wherever it is needed, except in the city of St. George and its suburbs where there are bus stops.
- The Street taxis provide good service, but it is a good idea to first find out how much they charge for the trip before entering the vehicle.
- There a many car rental agencies. Visitors wishing to drive while in Grenada must obtain a local driving permit from either the traffic department at the Central Police Station on the Carenage. A bona fide driver's license must be presented and a fee of EC $30 paid. Most car rental firms also issue local permits. Please note that driving is on the LEFT.
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