Posted by Liz
We made our way yesterday from Falmouth Antigua to Five Islands (3 hours) on the west coast - for a straight shot out and good jump off point, as we head out to St. Barth's. We plan to leave tonight at midnight, under the light of the glorious full moon. It's 75 miles, so it should take us about 12 hours, getting us into Gustavia Harbor around Noon on Tuesday.
Five Islands is absolutely gorgeous - serene and the water is the bluest of blue - turquoise. We're anchored in Hermitage Bay, with the exclusive Hermitage Bay resort on shore. (about 30 villas, very private and quiet).
Today, they provided us a very generous service. We needed to get to shore and get around to Jolly Harbor to check out with customs, and also do some provisioning at the excellent "Epicurean" supermarket. However, the northerly swells, causing a surge onto the beach, made pulling our dinghy ashore a bit "tenuous" (at best) and we were wondering what to do.
Yesterday afternoon, I had seen a large tender depart from the hotel anchorage, and I was wondering if perhaps they might meet us at our boat and take us over to Jolly. I called up and asked, and said of course, we would compensate them for their service - and within 5 minutes, out came a super personable lad named Michael. He not only took us over there (giving us a fun little joyride as well) but he waited while Ed went to customs and I did the shopping. Lovely person - and very generous of the hotel to lend us his services - so we'd like to recommend that if you ever are in need of a romantic get-away, to please contact the Hermitage Hotel. (268)562-5500.
As for our overnight sail tonight...It won't be my first (I sailed back from Bermuda to Boston - five days - after the Marion to Bermuda Race one year), but it WILL be my first night sail where I'm on watch alone.... EEK. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't a bit nervous. But Ed will be down below and if I need him, I know where to find him!
Cheers for now!
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