Spellbinder's Web Diary - Thursday 24th January. At anchor off Baradel Island, Tobago Cays, the Grenadines

Thursday 24th January. At anchor off Baradel Island, Tobago Cays, the Grenadines

Spellbinder

Thu 24 Jan 2008 19:57

Sunday night was very squally at Canouan, so much so that the dinghy, which was secured alongside the cockpit overnight, was blown out of the water and landed partially on top of the bimini at about 3 in the morning.That, coupled with the rather negative impression from Charles and Henry's trip ashore, persuaded us to set off after breakfast on Monday, and sail on down to Union Island, rather than spend the day and another night at Canouan. 2 hours and 10 miles had us arriving at Clifton by 1130. The first harbour we have used on the windward side of an island, Clifton is protected by an outlying reef. We anchored inside the protection of the reef, which acts as a natural breakwater, in what proved to be quite a crowded harbour. Ashore after lunch for a wander round the attractive little town, checking out the fruit and veg stalls, visiting the Tobago Cays Marine Park offices, and ultimately a glass or two for sundowners before returning onboard. A wet and windy night, but at least a fairly constant breeze across the reef, unlike the fierce squalls that seem to affect the leeward side of these islands.
Tuesday morning we set off after breakfast to climb Fort Hill, overlooking Clifton. A lovely morning, and extensive views across the Tobago Cays, and down as far as Grenada to the south.The Tobago Cays are a set of small islands protected by an extensive horseshoe coral reef. The shallow waters are various shades of brilliant blue, and the beaches white coral sand, the perfect tropical setting. All perfectly spread out for us to admire, and to plan our visit. Back down to Clifton for shopping, interneting, and eventually lunch in a little French run cafe. Lunch was enlivened by falling into conversation with the crew of another yacht, AdValorem It emerged that the skipper, Martin(Roberts??) was ex Army, Royal Signals, but had initially been awarded a scholarship to Dartmouth, which he passed up in favour of joining the army. So nearly another term mate. Very chatty half hour exchanging news of crossing the Atlantic, and plans for return.
Wednesday morning we popped ashore for final shopping before sailing round Mayreau Island, and making our way through the reefs to the anchorage in the Cays by Baradel island. First attempt the anchor dragged, and we passed by some ribald army advice from AdValorem before a second attempt held us in position. A glint of satisfaction when half way through lunch we looked around to see AdValorem half a mile down wind, busily recovering their anchor! Landed onto Baradel island by dinghy, and enjoyed some snorkelling, without sighting anything too exciting. Later on read up to find the area round Baradel is rich in turtles, and the turtle grass area is marked by buoys. So on Thursday morning worked out a strategy to get us to the right area, and were rewarded with seeing a good number of hawksbill turtles from very close quarters, and also one large ray, as well as numerous smaller fish. Still quite windy today, but forecast to moderate, so we will stay here for Friday, when we will have a go at snorkelling out on the horseshoe reef to see the fish and corals. Not all blue skies and sunshine, we have had heavy rain since lunch time, allowing fresh water showers on the upper deck, but rather putting us off our planned trip to walk on Petit Bateau.