42 Februar y 2015
practical: families
First work, then play!
Having conquered the Atlantic, most exhausted
cruisers will try to fit in at least one, if not several
seasons in the sunny, intoxicating Caribbean as
befitting reward for the long journey.
One of the best cruising grounds in the world,
its allure is easy to understand.
Short distances of only 25 to 30 miles between
the islands allow island hopping without haste.
Plus, the relatively constant trade winds of 15 to
25 knots from easterly directions allow cracking
sails during the season from October to May.
Atlantic circuit cruisers with limited time
will likely sail south to visit the islands, then
up to Grenada before they venture north
toward home.
World adventurers should at least try to make it to
Antigua before heading to Panama and the Pacific.Southbound St Lucia to Grenada:
The Windward Islands are at the southern end of
the Caribbean chain of islands.
The British called them Windward because you
had to beat to get to them from some of their other
colonies. Modern cruisers going south will likely
be beam reaching all the way in the north easterly
or easterly trade winds and be mostly sheltered
from the Atlantic swells behind the islands.Rodney Bay Marina in St Lucia is the ideal
starting point for exploring the Caribbean after
the long ocean passage or a lengthy flight.
T he non-bureaucratic attitude of harbour
officials help with a quick and easy check in.
An elaborate breakfast with a protein smoothie
in the always busy Café Ole, is a good starting
point. Followed by great gelato next door. Any
age will appreciate the good pizza at restaurant
Elena on the fairy lit promenade at night.
The IGY marina’s facilities have developed
greatly in the last few years due to the popularity
of the ARC Rally that finishes in Rodney Bay
each December with now over 200 boats.
Without much effort sailors can reprovision
here, get money, have laundry done and replace
breakages from its excellent chandleries.Caribbeaning
The Caribbean is a destination for all fun
in the sun seekers, Karen Erikson details
the places to visit for the whole family.with the kids