Culture shock
Even though we delayed our departure from St. Martin in the hope that we would have suitable wind for sailing, it was not to be. Yesterday’s breeze was pretty much as it was forecasted to be but unless we wanted to take 20 hours to make the crossing to Virgin Gorda, we knew we’d have to run the engines. That is what they’re there for after all and I’m happy to say that they did their job well. We departed Grand Case, SXM at 5:05 AM and were anchor down at Leverick Bay, Virgin Gorda at 2:25 PM, just under 9.5 hours later.
I’m glad those squalls are downwind of us.
I have to admit that it was a bit of a culture shock arriving here in the BVI. We were kind of under the impression that it was still off season for chartering but from the number of boats here, that’s hard to believe. While relaxing on the bow watching the boats anchoring around us, Rebecca and I discussed this a bit and realized that we’ve never actually been here during peak season. When we passed through a few months ago, the bays were all empty and even when we spent time here several years ago, it was more towards the end of the season. With this many people around, we’ll have even more opportunities to make friends while we’re here. Fun stuff, eh?
With squalls come rainbows!
I have noted that our boat is decidedly lacking in flags. Yes, flags. Most of the boats here have at least half a dozen, if not more, flying from various points on their boats. That and Christmas lights, we’re missing those too.
What’s on tap for today? Check in to the country at Customs and Immigration, stow some gear, do some cleaning and maybe even install some fancy cockpit lights. 🙂
Are you going to put the “Where” feature back at the top of this blog, linked to your AIS reference on the AIS site, so that we can see where you are again.
I, for one, would be glad if you did please.
🙂
Mike
Doing so is pretty low on my priority list. When I made a poll about the value of the spot transmitter it was pretty universally agreed that no one cared one way or the other if we kept it up.
That’s a pity, at least for me.
It might be more relevant for your customers however so that their families can see where their loved ones are enjoying themselves.
Mike
It should be noted that this blog is only indirectly related to the charter business.
If you want to search the AIS, you could try here:
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/
I haven’t had great success with it. Your milage may vary.
I bookmarked the following link for “light stalking purposes 🙂
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/default.aspx?oldmmsi=378112056&zoom=10&olddate=lastknown#
Never mind… It says “Vessel is out of range”
And I don’t know what that means. Out of range of what?
Hey Guys, I know you are not fans of marinas but if you are a member of TTOL (Traveltalkonline) Nick at Leverick Bay Marina will give you a slip for the same price as a mooring, your guests might like it. Don’t miss Happy Hour at Saba Rock!
Thanks for that tip, Kathy. We do not frequent TTOL but know others who do.
More detail always appreciated…so wind out of the east at less than 10 knots trnslates to downwind ship speed of 3 or 4 knots so you used both engines to achieve 8 knots and ended up burning x gallons of diesel?
Wonderful questions for which I do not have the answers.
The yellow trim on the sails really looks nice in those shots.
Thanks, Sal, I think so too.