St. Vincent Carnival (Vincy Mas)
July 02nd to July 09th, 2025.
St Vincent Carnival is an enormous celebration of music, dance, and artistic expression. Referred to as “Vincy Mas,” this carnival extravaganza encompasses a diverse range of events, including the “Miss SVG” Competition, the Parade of the Bands, the Calypso Monarch competition, the King and Queen of Carnival Competition, and a multitude of private fetes.
Tour outline
- Day 1: Arrival St. Vincent – Meet And Greet
- Day 2: Land And Sea Tour – Fete #1: Pumpin
- Day 3: Fete #2: Crush – Fete #3 Happy Mess Colour Fete
- Day 4: Fete #4: Flair – Fete #5: Soca Monarch
- Day 5: Fete #6: Wett Republic
- Day 6: J’ouvert – Tee Shirt Mas
- Day 7: Carnival Street Parade Day 2 (Full Costume)
- Day 8: Departure
What’s included
- Accommodation in double rooms
- Arrival and departure airport transfers
- All activities mentioned on the itinerary inclusive of entrance fees
- Fete (party) tickets
- Group transportation to and from all the activities on the itinerary
- Backline carnival costume
- Costume pickup
- Costume photography
- Experienced Soca Islands Host with you throughout the trip
- Max 20 travellers per group
- One farewell group lunch or dinner
Soca Islanders must provide proof that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their trip. Remember, international flights aren’t included and prices are based on sharing a double room with two beds. If you’d prefer a private double (for couples), single room, or private transportation for you and your group, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.
St. Vincent Carnival group itinerary
DAY 1: JULY 02
Arrive in St. Vincent – Meet and Greet
- Arrive in St. Vincent and transfer to your chosen accommodation
- Meet your fellow Soca Islanders and get to know your fellow travellers who will be partying with you for the next seven days
DAY 2: JULY 03
Land and Sea Tour – Pumpin Fete
- In the daytime, we embark on a picturesque boat journey through the turquoise waters encircling St. Vincent Cays, making stops along the way for lunch and exploration at the Tobago Cay Marine Park
- Attend the first event on your itinerary – Pumpin – a drinks inclusive event
DAY 3: JULY 04
Crush – Happy Mess Colour Fete
- The morning is yours to enjoy as you please
- In the afternoon, we’ll venture out to St Vincent’s Sexiest Party – Skinny Flabulous and Problem Child’s Crush
- Later in the evening, prepare for an abundance of powder, paint, and an endless cascade of joyful chaos at the third event on your itinerary Happymess
DAY 4: JULY 05
Flair – Soca Monarch
- Our first stop today is Flair – an all-inclusive brunch experience
- Later we head to the finals of the island’s Soca Monarch competition. Here, the top Soca artists in St. Vincent will compete for the ultimate prize and, of course, the well-deserved bragging rights
DAY 5: JULY 06
Wett Republic
- Today, we’re heading to an epic beach party. Ladies, bring out your resort wear, as we join the Republic. Prepare for a day filled with sun, sand, and fantastic vibes as we make lasting memories on the beach
DAY 6: JULY 07
J’ouvert – Tee Shirt Mas
- We’re kicking off our morning bright and early today to join the J’ouvert celebrations
- Later in the afternoon, we’re hitting the streets of Kingstown for day one of the Carnival Street parade with our tee-shirt mas crew
DAY 7: JULY 08
Carnival Tuesday (full costume)
- We parade through the streets of Kingstown, the vibrant capital city of St. Vincent, showcasing our costumes
- Today marks the end of the two-day festivities
DAY 8: JULY 09
St. Vincent Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you might have a few hours for some last-minute shopping or a refreshing dip in the sea
- Take a moment to bid farewell to this beautiful island and to your new friends
St. Vincent Carnival payment plan
Final Payment due on or before April 30, 2025
Soca Islands provides you with the most flexible payment plan making it super easy and affordable to book your St. Vincent Carnival experience by providing two payment plan options.
- Option One: 15% deposit is due upon booking, followed by 35% of the total cost due 30 days after booking. The remaining 50% due 60 days before your trip.
- Option Two: 25% deposit is due upon booking, followed by regular monthly payments. The total cost must be paid in full 60 days before your trip.
For bookings made between 90 and 60 days before the start date of the experience, 50% of the total cost of the experience must be paid upon booking.
Bookings made between 60 days and 30 days before the start date of the experience, 100% of the total cost of the experience must be paid upon booking.
Accommodations
Here’s a glimpse of the hotels we selected for this adventure.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Diamond
Offering a lounge area with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a sun terrace with a swimming pool, Holiday Inn Express and Suites Diamond is less than 3 km from the airport. With rooms designed for major comfort, including plush duvets and a choice of pillows, grabbing some z’s in a sparkling, clean room will be one of the highlights of your stay.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? (Plus airport code)
You can to fly into and out of the Argyle International Airport (SVD).
Will the itinerary change?
Please keep in mind that our itinerary, activities, and hotels might change. These adjustments could happen with little notice due to factors like availability, weather conditions, seasonal shifts, or other circumstances beyond our control. Rest assured, we always aim to minimise any impact on your experience. Occasionally, we may tweak the itinerary to try out fresh ideas and keep the adventure exciting.
What time do I need to arrive (in time for the welcome event)?
We recommend arriving before 3 pm on Day 1 to make it in time for the welcome event. But don’t worry – no matter when you land, we’ll have an airport transfer ready for you.
What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no scheduled activities on the final day, so feel free to book your departure at your own convenience.
Are airport transfers included?
Yes from Argyle International Airport (SVD) only. If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure or book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer is included. If you choose alternative pre-tour accommodation or arrive by another mode of transport, you’ll need to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Our arrival transfers are private to Soca Islands and are organised in groups based on flight times. Sometimes this means a short wait at the airport until other flights arrive.
Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the cost of this tour. Remember, tipping is entirely at your discretion and based on what you feel comfortable with.
Do I need a visa?
Please Refer to your government’s travel advice or consult your local consulate. Remember, passport and visa requirements can change, so make sure to stay updated.
What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
- Up-to-date medical advice:
- US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
- Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.
- Government travel advice:
- US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
- Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.
- Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.
We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
How much should I budget per day for extras?
Excluding alcohol, we suggest budgeting around USD $40.00 per day for extras.
About St Vincent Carnival
St Vincent Carnival is an enormous celebration of music, dance, and artistic expression. Spanning a period of two months, the people of St. Vincent, affectionately known as Vincies, shed their inhibitions and revel in a unique escape from the everyday stresses of life. Referred to as “Vincy Mas,” this carnival extravaganza encompasses a diverse range of events, including the “Miss SVG” Competition, the Parade of the Bands, the Calypso Monarch competition, the King and Queen of Carnival Competition, and a multitude of private fetes. It’s a sensory delight that captivates the eyes, ears, heart, and soul. This annual summer festival reaches its zenith in the final weeks of June through early July.
Before 1977, Vincy Mas was, in fact, a pre-Lenten carnival. The term “carnival” finds its origins in the Latin words ‘carne vale,’ which signify the removal of meat. The historical roots of this festival can be traced back to the Roman Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat, alcohol, and other worldly pleasures for 40 days leading up to Easter. Carnival, therefore, provided the last opportunity to indulge in these desires before the solemn period of Lent commenced.
In its early days, Vincy Mas was primarily observed by European settlers and comprised mostly of private parties and exclusive balls held within people’s homes. However, as the eighteenth century unfolded, the customs and traditions associated with the festival began to evolve, incorporating elements from African customs rooted in African religions, which had been introduced to the island by freed slaves.
St. Vincent travel information
Capital: Kingstown
Time Zone: GMT -04:00
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, 1.00 USD = 2.72 XCD
Driving: On the left
Electricity: 110V and 220V
St. Vincent is a paradise that appeals to nature enthusiasts, scuba diving aficionados, and avid hikers alike. Whether you prefer the ease of a scenic bus tour or the thrill of conquering the La Soufriere volcano summit, this world-class island destination offers an array of fantastic activities for everyone. Explore lush tropical gardens, embark on bird-watching adventures, catch an exciting cricket match, and, for some added fun, channel your inner pirate straight out of Pirates of The Caribbean. The possibilities for enjoyment are boundless!
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a land blessed with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, dense rainforests, and towering mountains, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Caribbean. Coupled with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and an abundance of outdoor activities, it stands as an ideal holiday destination.
When it comes to navigating St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Taxi: The most convenient mode of transportation is by taxi, readily available on St. Vincent and the larger islands like Bequia, Mustique, and Union Islands. While the government sets taxi rates, taxis typically don’t have meters, so it’s advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before embarking on your journey.
- Car Rental: Rental cars are an option on St. Vincent, but it’s important to note that the roads can be quite challenging to navigate due to their narrowness and occasional potholes. Additionally, driving is on the left side of the road.
- Public Transport: Public transport primarily consists of minibusses and vans. Hailing a bus is similar to flagging down a taxi, and drivers will let you know if their route aligns with your destination. Bus rides are cost-effective, but keep in mind that they can be crowded and slow, as they serve as the primary mode of transportation for locals.
- Ferry: Several ferry companies provide daily services connecting the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Ferry schedules and routes can vary depending on the season, so it’s essential to check with the ferry company for the most up-to-date information before planning your island-hopping adventures.
What to Do and See in St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint Vincent is often described as the quintessential Caribbean destination. This archipelago boasts a total of 32 islands and stands as the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Its landscape is a vibrant tapestry of lush mountains and pristine, crystal-clear beaches.
The options for aquatic adventure are abundant, including activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and the chance to explore untouched coral reefs. If you’re so inclined, you can also set sail on the turquoise waters or embark on a challenging hike up a 4,000-foot volcano. While many visitors come simply to bask in the sun and soak in the sea, those who time their visit with the carnival season are in for a wild and exhilarating experience.
Where to Stay for St Vincent Carnival (Vincy Mas)
St. Vincent boasts a selection of incredibly opulent resorts, with many of them situated on private islands adjacent to the main island. These exquisite retreats include destinations like Petit St. Vincent, Palm Island, and Young Island. Among them, the most exclusive is the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, a favored destination even for royals like Kate and William, attesting to its unparalleled luxury.
For those seeking more budget-friendly yet delightful lodgings, numerous options are available. If you wish to be closer to the carnival action, consider choosing village-style accommodations in the capital of Port Elizabeth. This location provides convenient access to beautiful beaches, charming restaurants, and vibrant bars, all while allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle.