Arrived in Martinique

Sundowner at Admiralty Bay, Bequia

We said goodbye to Opa and set sail for Bequia. We spent 5 days in Admiralty Bay, Port Elizabeth, Bequia, and reconnected with other cruisers. Many masts were illuminated with Christmas lights, and we were there for the town's light up, which was a gathering of locals and cruisers, as well as the Prime Minister of Grenada. We also decorated our boat and made things feel more like Christmas.

Owen climbed Mount Peggy twice, once with me, then another time with Michelle. The quote of the day came from Owen as they arrived at the impressive table-top summit overlooking Admiralty Bay. “Clear your mind and take in the view”.

Summit of Mount Peggy

View from Mount Peggy looking down on Admiralty Bay

After more than one very nice sundowner, we prepared for a 90-mile sail north to Martinique. We left on Monday midday, had a very nice sail as we passed St. Vincent, and watched a sunset in large but spaced swell. We were all enjoying the feeling of sailing again. Then it got dark, and the wind shifted, taking us close to the wind.

Passing the north end of St. Vincent at sunset

Sunset before crossing to Martinqie

A series of confused seas with intermittent currents, gusting winds and more than one squall reminded us that cruising is sometimes not pleasant. But rather than feeling epic as it did 6 months ago, it just felt uncomfortable. No lowering the main sail and freaking out. We simply sheeted out the main, furled in the headsail and turned the engine on, knowing it would pass. And it did. We arrived at the lovely Saint-Anne in Martinique. After a brief exploration, we once again enjoyed the familiar niceties of a French island. This will be a great place to spend Christmas.