Intro: Setting sails on the first day of a Sea Cloud voyage is always the main event, and today was no different. Almost all the square sails, jibs, and staysails were set. But there is much more to our voyage through the Windward Islands of the Caribbean Sea than the sailing. There is the colorful culture, the fascinating geopolitical history, and the unique character of each of the individual islands—all of which make this such an exceptional expedition.
One steady constant in Ian’s life has been the ocean. Born by the rocky shores of mid-coast Maine, his family repatriated to far north Queensland in Australia early on in his life where he became a dual-citizen and sparked his passion for exploring n...
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Our adventure in Grenada began with a scenic drive through lush, rolling hills, where spice trees and tropical flowers filled the air with their fragrances. Our first stop was Annandale Falls, a hidden gem nestled within a dense rainforest. A short walk along a shaded trail led us to the cascading waterfall, its crystal-clear waters tumbling into a natural pool. Some guests took a refreshing dip, while others enjoyed watching local divers perform intrepid jumps from the rocky ledges. The vibrant greenery and the sound of rushing water created a peaceful and invigorating atmosphere. Next, we visited a chocolate factory. Grenada’s rich volcanic soil nurtures some of the world’s finest cacao. We learned about the traditional methods of growing, harvesting, and fermenting cacao beans. A tasting session delighted our senses, revealing the deep, complex flavors unique to Grenadian chocolate. We finished the excursion at Frederick Fort, with an incredible view of the bay. It was a day of discovery, indulgence, and appreciation for this Caribbean treasure.
Bequia is one of the largest islands in the Grenadines and part of the country, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. On our way to the island this morning, the captain announced ideal conditions for the willing and able guests to climb out on the bow sprit while underway. We pulled into the blue waters of Admiralty Bay off Port Elizabeth for our island tour in small pickup trucks. In the late afternoon, we all met at Prince Margaret Beach for a snorkel and swim and enjoyed one of Jack’s Beach Bar signature drinks called “Island in the Clouds” as the sun set over this idyllic landscape.
Les Saintes, a jewel of the French Caribbean, offered a day filled with history, natural splendor, and the undeniable pull of the sea. The morning began with a visit to Fort Napoléon, its weathered stone walls standing resolute atop the hill overlooking the vivid blues of the surrounding waters. The fort’s gardens, teeming with native flora, buzzed with life as we wandered through its storied corridors where history seemed to whisper from every corner. By midday, back aboard SV Sea Cloud , the shimmering turquoise water was too inviting to resist. With the sails furled and the ship gently rocking at anchor, we leapt from the side into the warm embrace of the Caribbean. The cool rush of saltwater was exhilarating, a perfect contrast to the tropical heat. Floating beneath the towering masts, we looked up at the billowing sails against a backdrop of brilliant blue sky, a perspective that made the ship feel even more magnificent. By afternoon, we set sail under ideal conditions. The steady trade winds filled the canvas as we carved effortlessly through the glistening sea. With the rhythm of the waves and the vast Caribbean stretching before us, the day ended in a perfect harmony of adventure and tranquility.
