Montserrat
Montserrat (UK Territory)
The "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean" features a dramatic volcanic landscape, lush rainforests, and fascinating tours of the exclusion zone.
About Montserrat
Montserrat earns its "Emerald Isle" nickname twice over — Irish settlers brought their culture to the island in the 17th century, and the lush volcanic landscape is a brilliant, tropical green year-round.
The island was transformed in 1995 when the Soufrière Hills volcano erupted, burying the capital Plymouth under metres of ash and pyroclastic flow. Today, the exclusion zone around the volcano is open for guided tours — a surreal walk through the buried city, where church steeples poke through hardened ash and the clock on the cathedral tower is frozen in time.
Outside the exclusion zone, Montserrat is thriving. The new capital Little Bay is developing rapidly, the rainforest trails are spectacular, and the island has attracted a community of recording artists drawn by AIR Studios (founded by George Martin, originally built for The Beatles).
Must-See Attractions
MVO Exclusion Zone Tour
A guided jeep tour into the volcanic exclusion zone past the buried capital Plymouth.
Runaway Ghaut
Lush rainforest gorge with a cool river — local legend says those who drink from it will return to Montserrat.
AIR Studios
George Martin's iconic recording studio — tours available by appointment.
Sailing Route from Antigua
Course
250° magnetic from St. John's Harbour
Waypoints
- 1Clear Five Islands
- 2Steer to leave Redonda 2nm to N
- 3Approach Little Bay from north
Hazards & Notes
- • Redonda — uninhabited island, give wide berth
- • Montserrat exclusion zone extends 3nm S of the volcano
Timing Tip
Tidal streams minimal — passage can be made at any state of tide
Anchorages & Marinas
Little Bay
20–40 ftModerate — new harbour under development
Check in at the port authority. Good dinghy landing.
Old Road Bay
25–50 ftGood in NE – E winds
Rolling in swells from NW. Best overnight anchorage. Sunset views of the volcano.
Marinas
- Little Bay (government dock)
- Old Road Bay anchorage
Insider Tips
Book the exclusion zone tour in advance — guides have limited availability
Bring cash — ATMs are limited and card acceptance is sporadic
The hike to Lawyer's Mountain gives extraordinary views of the volcano
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with week-long festivities — a unique Irish-Caribbean mashup