Saint Martin

Starcross Fair Log
Ross Wilson
Sun 3 Apr 2011 20:34
Sunday 3/04/11
Position 18:04.2N  63:05.3W
Intention: to sail overnight Monday to Virgin Gorda in British Virgin Islands, eta Tuesday morning.
 
The anchor was raised in English Harbour Antigua on the morning of Thursday 31st March, after many fond farewells had been exchanged that morning and the previous night.  Whilst it was time to move on, it was also rather sad to leave such a pleasant spot with cheerful and friendly company, well demonstrated by the sing-song and recitals of the Laughing Policeman, Albert at the Zoo and other hardy annuals as we ate at an open-air restaurant in the old dockyard.  We sailed round to Jolly Harbour on the west of the island to complete preparations for the return passages including clean and stow the dinghy, final victualling at a well-stocked (and rather expensive) supermarket, boost of shore power, and equipment checks.  Coincidentally we met up with Julian Berney who was completing maintenance and preparing his yacht Houdalinqua II for their return to UK in May - a pleasant encounter with an ARC colleague.
 
After supper taken at anchor in Jolly Bay, we sailed off into the night under No 1 Genoa on a broad reach in a steady easterly which continued all the way to Saint Martin, securing in Fort Louis Marina in the early afternoon (the fort is on a knoll guarding the harbour and the island's French capital).  The only significant incident was catching a flying fish which managed to fly into the heads through its open window.  Whilst we appreciated the French standard of service, the toilets reminded us that we are in overseas France although the cold shower was greatly appreciated (air temperature 35 Centigrade and sea 27 Centigrade).  We dined ashore in a fine French restaurant, enjoying its excellent cuisine and hospitality.  We plan to visit the Dutch, southern, part of the island this evening to see what it has to offer.