Greetings from the Caribbean

Having been sailing around the Caribbean for the last 5 weeks, the ‘Oosterschelde’ is feeling rather at home in these waters. The trade winds have been delivering consistent, reliable, and favourable sailing conditions for us to hop between the islands under full sail. On this current voyage, we have broken the pattern and are sailing north from the Windward Islands to the Leeward Islands.

The shorter passages between the islands have created a hands-on sail-handling routine, with the full rig continually being set and furled each day. This has provided a great training opportunity for everyone on board.

There have been a few new islands for the ship on this voyage. Montserrat, which until now we had only glimpsed on the horizon against the setting sun, provided a powerful insight into the force of nature and the community’s recovery and resilience following the volcanic destruction.

In St Kitts and Nevis, peaceful anchorages and quiet evenings beneath Nevis Peak gave a sense of peace. St Barthélemy was an interesting contrast to the Caribbean we know, with the crystal-clear waters revealing a healthy turtle population, always a welcome sight during our dinghy rides ashore.

Today we are sailing gloriously towards Saint Martin, bringing this memorable voyage to a close. One final special evening on board awaits us in Marigot.

Greetings from the Caribbean.