5 Tips for Boating Green in the Caribbean - Sailors for the Sea

5 Tips for Boating Green in the Caribbean

 March 11, 2025  | By: Shelley Brown

The Caribbean is known as a mecca for sailing, attracting boaters and visitors from all over the world for the beautiful, calm waters and steady breezes. When visiting these scenic island nations with tropical beaches and vibrant coral reefs, there are steps we can take to limit our impact on the local environment.  

1. Do Moor to Avoid Anchor Damage

When choosing where to settle in for the night, first look for available mooring buoys. If none are vacant, the buoys are not maintained, or you’re in a remote cove, anchor where you can see the bottom, and avoid seagrass beds and coral heads. You can even have someone grab a snorkel mask and jump overboard to make sure the anchor lands in a secure spot. 

2. Protect Your Skin and the Ocean 

When you go swimming or shower onboard, your sunscreen can wash off into the water. Some SPF products contain chemical additives that can be toxic to the marine environment and have been reported to contribute to coral bleaching and disrupting the development of fish. Before you head out into the sun, check the ingredients in your sunscreen. You want to avoid products that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate and look for ones that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Consider also wearing UV-protective clothing. You won’t have to worry about sunscreen ending up in the ocean and you never need to reapply.   

3. Use Your Head

Sewage discharge from marine heads can cause significant damage to surrounding waters and increase risk to human health. Check that your Y-valve is closed so that sewage discharge is stored in the holding tank. Research to see if your harbor destination has pumpout facilities; if not, only pump waste overboard while in deep water away from beaches and anchorage sites.   

4. Go Reusable 

In remote areas, waste disposal infrastructure can be limited. If you’re provisioning for a trip, try to reduce the amount of waste you’ll have to manage onboard by buying in bulk. For example, instead of purchasing a case of water bottles, buy large jugs and fill your individual reusable water bottles. Don’t forget to pack your reusable bags for carrying goods you purchase while onshore. 

5. Buy Local 

Imported products are a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Purchasing locally grown and made products can lower your carbon footprint by reducing the distance items need to travel. Additionally, buying products from local farmers and businesses supports the local economy and community. 

For additional tips on how to protect our waters while boating, join our Green Boater community today and receive a free, digital copy of our Green Boating Guide.