Our day was spent in perfect sailing conditions along the south and west coast of the island of Martinique as we headed toward our first landing destination on Dominica tomorrow. With a favorable 10-15 knot breeze off our starboard quarter, the sails were set by our daredevil crew as they climbed up the rigging to unfurl the sails. We then made way at a solid 6-7 knots as guests spent time relaxing on deck before a buffet lunch. Presentations by expedition staff and afternoon tea were followed by dropping the sails ahead of Captain’s welcome dinner in the lounge.
Andrew was born in Adelaide, South Australia and (mis)spent his youth surfing and kayaking in the ocean, as is the case for many Aussies! After graduating from medical school, he spent a year working as a surgical resident in Santa Barbara, Californi...
Our adventure in Grenada began with a scenic drive through lush, rolling hills, where spice trees and tropical flowers filled the air with their fragrances. Our first stop was Annandale Falls, a hidden gem nestled within a dense rainforest. A short walk along a shaded trail led us to the cascading waterfall, its crystal-clear waters tumbling into a natural pool. Some guests took a refreshing dip, while others enjoyed watching local divers perform intrepid jumps from the rocky ledges. The vibrant greenery and the sound of rushing water created a peaceful and invigorating atmosphere. Next, we visited a chocolate factory. Grenada’s rich volcanic soil nurtures some of the world’s finest cacao. We learned about the traditional methods of growing, harvesting, and fermenting cacao beans. A tasting session delighted our senses, revealing the deep, complex flavors unique to Grenadian chocolate. We finished the excursion at Frederick Fort, with an incredible view of the bay. It was a day of discovery, indulgence, and appreciation for this Caribbean treasure.
Bequia is one of the largest islands in the Grenadines and part of the country, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. On our way to the island this morning, the captain announced ideal conditions for the willing and able guests to climb out on the bow sprit while underway. We pulled into the blue waters of Admiralty Bay off Port Elizabeth for our island tour in small pickup trucks. In the late afternoon, we all met at Prince Margaret Beach for a snorkel and swim and enjoyed one of Jack’s Beach Bar signature drinks called “Island in the Clouds” as the sun set over this idyllic landscape.
Les Saintes, a jewel of the French Caribbean, offered a day filled with history, natural splendor, and the undeniable pull of the sea. The morning began with a visit to Fort Napoléon, its weathered stone walls standing resolute atop the hill overlooking the vivid blues of the surrounding waters. The fort’s gardens, teeming with native flora, buzzed with life as we wandered through its storied corridors where history seemed to whisper from every corner. By midday, back aboard SV Sea Cloud , the shimmering turquoise water was too inviting to resist. With the sails furled and the ship gently rocking at anchor, we leapt from the side into the warm embrace of the Caribbean. The cool rush of saltwater was exhilarating, a perfect contrast to the tropical heat. Floating beneath the towering masts, we looked up at the billowing sails against a backdrop of brilliant blue sky, a perspective that made the ship feel even more magnificent. By afternoon, we set sail under ideal conditions. The steady trade winds filled the canvas as we carved effortlessly through the glistening sea. With the rhythm of the waves and the vast Caribbean stretching before us, the day ended in a perfect harmony of adventure and tranquility.
