The
Grenadines
- Jan 2009!
January 24- February 1, 2009
This year, we will be going to the beautiful Grenadines. This chain of islands is less developed than the BVIs and also benefits from a slightly stronger trade wind. The sailing should be spectacular!
Preliminary Schedule
This itinerary is likely to change during the trip based on wind and weather conditions. Please do not make any plans at the expected locations in advance. You can make plans when you really arrive. We will be on "Caribbean Time" and go in the direction which the wind blows us. The red line on the map graphic below is not our route but just somewhat close.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Arrive in Canouan and book yourself in overnight at the Tamarind Beach Resort.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Pick up your boat, attend a skipper's briefing, get your provisions and then do a short sail to Mayreau. Anchor in Salt Whistle Bay or the main harbor. Walk to the top of the island and look out over the Grenadine chain. Have a relaxing dinner onboard your boat. Then all sailors are encouraged to gather for the Opening Party at "Robert Righteous and De Youth" which is a colorful bar near the top of Mayreau Island.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sail to Bequia, the jewel of the Caribbean. Anchor in Admiralty Bay. If there is a north swell, anchor far up in the harbor. Otherwise, you can anchor further out. Take your dinghy ashore to the Frangipani dock for a frozen banana daiquiri. You can stroll left along the Belmont Walkway and walk into town. There is an ATM machine plus arts and crafts stalls near the ferry dock. Have dinner onboard and begin to build teamwork. Then head to the Frangi bar for a night cap. If that is closed, head to the north side of the bay at the Devil's Table.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Day of Rest on Bequia. This is a chance to relax, sway in the breeze and acclimate to the sailing lifestyle. There is a dive company along the waterfront which can arrange dive trips. You can take a taxi over to beautiful Friendship Bay for morning or afternoon. There will be a Sunfish competition that afternoon starting at 2 p.m. in Lower Bay to determine the best sailor of the regatta. That evening, we will all gather at 6 p.m. at De Reef bar on Lower Bay for the "Skipper Appreciation Dinner." All skippers will be introduced and then they will introduce their crews. Music and dancing. Late night diving into the water at Lower Bay is permitted.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Sail from Bequia to Mustique and overnight in Britannia Bay. You can sail around Bequia in either direction so each boat can decide how much sailing to do. The Mustique Blues Festival will be underway at Basil's Bar. Make sure to call early on the VHF so you get a reservation for dinner or have dinner on your boat. It's a great experience with excellent blues being performed all evening.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Sail from Mustique to Tabago Cays, one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. Spend the afternoon snorkeling on the reefs or lying on the sand. This is a reef paradise away from civilization. You will see amazing stars at night. Lobsters are available from fisherman in season.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Regatta picture in the morning on Tabago Cay. Then sail from Tabago Cay to Clifton Harbour on Union Island. Everyone is invited to the tiny "Happy Island" built of conch shells for drinks as the sun sets. Then it is on to Lambi's for the regatta dinner. Call them on the VHF to make your reservation (skippers sometimes get to go for free if they bring their crew. Be sure to ask.). Lambi's also has steel drum bands which keep the spirit hot and exciting. A great evening of Caribbean dancing.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Sail home to Canouan.
Return to the base by 12:00 noon. Overnight at the Tamarind Beach Resort.
Sunday - February 1, 2009
Early morning departure from Canouan to San Juan to JFK. (arrive JFK about 4:00pm)