Posted on behalf of Gijs Klumper:

Barbados is a very laid-back Island.

Security: This does not seem to be an issue in Barbados. No pirogues or boat-boys. Very little poverty. Honest fishermen and friendly people. Enjoy the local culture! I never locked the boat and at anchor never took the dinghy on board at night. Nor did anyone else. Mooring in the center of Bridgetown, a “suspect” vagabond only wanted to assist with the landlines and didn’t ask for anything. Safe haven.

Clearance: I read the noonsite info. and comments. I checked in (easy!) at Port St. Charles and checked out at Bridgetown (difficult).
We simply anchored off, took the dinghy ashore and cleared in at our leisure, no problem. On checking out one must carry cash (US$50) for harbor fees because there is no ATM and credit cards are not accepted.

And lastly, philosophically from me and concerning all the Windward/Leeward Islands. Please, please, please be color blind! White yacht-owners sticking together and off-hand distrusting the local people will NOT make this world a better place. Acting like a (valued) guest is the way to go. You will be invited to reggae/beach parties and have lots of fun. Or else you will be up all night guarding your dinghy which won’t be stolen if you had made local friends in the first place.

This comment was posted by “Delphinius” elsewhere on noonsite on January 28 2016:

We arrived in Barbados at 2 am after an Atlantic crossing. We went straight to Carlisle Bay and dropped anchor (and slept), then later that morning proceeded to the cruise terminal to sign in. It can be tricky to moor for yachts as it is designed for large ships. We found a decent gap by the small building on the far starboard side of the harbor, otherwise, we have heard of people mooring against tugs. The officials did not seem at all concerned that we took 12 hours to check in, and were extremely courteous and friendly.

They didn’t ask to see our boat so I guess, with a decent outboard, you could take your tender around to sign in (I have heard other reports of this but not witnessed anyone doing it). We have found Barbados to be a wonderful place with wonderful friendly locals. We are still here 20 days later!