The majority of the anchorages on the
French coast of the island are on the
leeward coast and quite well sheltered.
The downside is that the wind can
rapidly change direction and there are
occasional small, but awkward surges

Northwest coast

Baie de Marigot

The approaches to the large bay are clear and there is a sector light for a night approach.
Caution There’s a large mooring buoy in the NW of the bay that isn’t currently lit.
The usual anchorage is in the SE of the bay in 3m. A swell from the N can sometimes make it rolly.
Caution The S part of the bay near Sandy Ground (the entry channel to the lagoon) has shoal patches with less than 2m over them.

Sandy Ground bridge

The channel leading from the sea to the lagoon is closed by a lifting bridge. Opening is several times a day depending on the season. The access channel to the bridge is in theory dredged to 2·5m but drift sand can reduce the depth.

Port la Royale

Given its small size and awkward access via a shal low c han ne l, the marina harbours only small and medium sized craft and a few catamarans on its 80
berths.
Ashore The capitainerie (marina office) (VHF 16) is on the end of the S dock and deals wi th formalities as well as providing showers, phones and weather
forecasts. Right in the heart of town the marina is surrounded by restaurants and shops, so it’s full of life, though such an urban setting may soon pall for lovers of the wide open spaces.

Anse Marcel (Port Lonvilliers)

Given its small size and awkward access via a shal low c han ne l, the marina harbours only small and medium sized craft and a few catamarans on its 80 berths.
Ashore The capitainerie (marina office) (VHF 16) is on the end of the S dock and deals wi th fo r m a lit i es as well as providing showers, phones and weather forecasts. Right in the heart of town the marina is surrounded by restaurants and shops, so it’s full of life, though such an urban setting may soon pall for lovers of the wide open spaces. the islet known locally as Rocher de l’Anse Marcel because a coral bank connects it to the main island shore.
Anse Marcel is well sheltered except in northerly swells. Anchor close to the beach, well clear of the bathing zone marked by yellow buoys. The shore is
wholly taken up by hotel cottages which don’t add a lot to the bay’s natural appeal.

For more details on these moorings