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Grenadines Encyclopedia
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Baradel is an exelent place to encounter turtles when you go snorkling here. At a few metres from the beach where the vendors grill their lobsters you would not expect such an abundance of turtles. The sea grass here provides exelent grazing grounds. We saw mostly hawksbill turtles here. Since they are used to swimmers and boats it is really easy to approach them and take nice pictures.
The depth is only two or three metres, and usually there is no current at this spot. Not many fish here due to the absence of corals.
The color of the water on the windward side of Baradel is a brilliant turquoise as a result of the clear water, white sand bottom, and shallow depths. The effect of the colors can only be fully appreciated from up close, so a pass through by dinghy should be on your list of things to do.
Anchoring at Baradel
You will most likely want to anchor to the lee of Baradel, on its southwest corner. Expect the largest concentration of boats at anchor here. Do not be afraid to get real close to the island, as the bottom slopes away quite quickly, and you find yourself trying to anchor in 25 feet of water.The holding is reasonable, but if you drop the hook in 10 feet of water and let out about 70 feet of chain, the chain itself will hold the boat in 25 knots of wind or more without any difficulty. Be sure to dive on your anchor to be sure it?s aligned properly.
The anchorage north of Baradal is OK if the winds are light, but it is often blowing 15-20 knots there.
You could also anchor to windward of Baradel where there is nothing between you and Africa except the Horseshoe Reef. This places you very close to the snorkeling area, and away from everybody else.
It will not be crowded there; not a bad idea, as the Cays can become quite busy at times. The color of the water is absolutely stunning as a result of the white sandy bottom and shallow depths. Be aware that you are less protected in this location, and you might find it too windy and rough for your liking.
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