Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, 18 02N,63 03W.

On Tuesday, 17th March, Ian, Christian and myself walked up Mount Scenery and we were rewarded with amazing views from the top whilst Andy did the tour of the island. We regrouped in the harbour and took some refreshment in the local bar before returning to the boat which we had again moved to Fort Bay. To make the drop off and pick up easy, I had decided to put Sea Spray's nose into the small harbour there, and Ian took Andy, Christian and all the rucksacks ashore, came back to the boat and we took her out into the bay to the mooring provided by the island's harbour authority. The pick up was the reverse procedure.

We returned to Sint Maartens yesterday after a refreshing close reach with the main, yankee and mizzen up. We were aiming to make the 15.00 swing bridge opening but we tried taking the anchor up at 14.50 but it had fouled on something. Ian quickly dived into the water, which was only six metres deep and even though he managed to free it, we missed the bridge and so we had to wait until the 17.00 opening.

We then had fun running aground in the bay trying to get to the sail rigger's pontoon but by 17.45 we were safely tied up alongside.

Today, we have done a shed load of work in preparation for our departure on Sunday for Bermuda, and we have had a look around the local cash and carry. Andy was in heaven there!

Belated birthday wishes to Martin (Andy's brother) and congratulations to Louise, who was not only successful in one interview for cabin crew, but was successful in both her recent interviews

Well done!

Mike White

Mob: 07825925838/Sat Phone:+881631528694

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