Postion 18 04N, 63 03 W, Simpson Bay, Saint Martins (Dutch side).

We arrived here yesterday morning at seven o'clock and tried getting a berth in Philipsburg but we were told they were full due to the Heineken Regatta. We then decided to go to Simpson Bay which is a large lagoon with several marinas in it. Needless to say, all the marinas are full and so we had to anchor in the bay, which is very sheltered and at the foot of the main airport runway. We have seen some spectacular take offs and landings and luckily there are no flights at night. The only problem with Simpson Bay is it's depth. We ran aground eight times we think but managed to free ourselves each time.

Ian and Chris (our new crew member) are racing in the Heineken Regatta until Sunday allowing Andy and myself to have a leisurely few days.

Significantly though, Andy, Ian and myself have studied the weather prediction charts for the North Atlantic for March, April and May and we have collectively decided that we will make the return journey in May with and ETA at Pwllheli on the 30th May. Fair weather sailors I'm afraid!

Mike White

Mob: 07825925838/Sat Phone:+881631528694

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