Frigate Island, Union
Frigate Island anchorage · Frigate Rock
12°37.32'N 61°25.80'W
Depth
4–15m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
90m
Holding
Fair
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
90m
90m for fair holding on sandy patches between rocks in 4–15m. Large alarm radius accounts for limited shelter and fair holding. Day stop strongly recommended — overnight only in flat settled conditions. Verify anchor in sand, not rock.
About This Anchorage
Frigate Island is a small rocky islet just northwest of Union Island, named for the large colony of magnificent frigatebirds that nest and roost on its rocky slopes. The anchorage is primarily a day stop for sailors wanting to observe the frigatebird colony — these extraordinary birds with their seven-foot wingspans, bright red throat pouches (males), and piratical aerial displays are one of the great Caribbean wildlife spectacles. The anchorage is exposed to the north and west and the holding on rocky seabed is only fair — find a sand patch and verify holding carefully. The snorkelling around the islet's rocky base is very good. Frigate Island is best combined with a visit to Chatham Bay on Union Island's west coast — an excellent half-day circuit from Clifton Harbour.
Protected From
S · SE · E
Exposed To
N · NW · NE · W
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring
- Permit required
- Yes
Restrictions: Cruising permit required for SVG. Seabird nesting area — do not land on the island or disturb the frigatebird colony. Observe from the water only.
Hazards
- !Exposed position — limited shelter; day stop strongly recommended
- !Rocky seabed — find sand patches before anchoring; fair holding only
- !Frigatebird nesting area — do not land on island
Skipper's Tips
- →The magnificent frigatebird colony is extraordinary — watch males inflate their red throat pouches to attract females; bring binoculars
- →Day stop only — anchor here for 1–2 hours of snorkelling and birdwatching, then move to Chatham Bay for the night
- →Snorkelling around the rocky base of the islet reveals excellent fish life in clear water
- →Combine with Chatham Bay for a perfect west coast Union Island circuit
Facilities
No facilities. All services at Clifton Harbour, Union Island (2.5nm E).
Nearest provisions: Clifton Harbour, Union Island (2.5nm E) (2.5nm)
Best Months & Season
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May
December–May as a day stop. Frigatebird colony is active year-round. Not suitable for overnight stays in any wind or swell.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 90m
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