Ajaya affected by Swine Flu ! - 18:26.466N, 64:44.987W
AJAYA'S CRUISE
Phil & Nikki Hoskins
Sun 3 May 2009 23:41
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May 1st 2009
Well sort of !!
Our plans certainly were affected as, having
already visited Sopers to collect the gas and almost died of shock at the $57
filling cost, we had wanted to clear from Jost Van Dyke which gave us a nicer
approach to St Johns. We'd heard the immigration officials were also very
friendly there as well. Well, having left Sopers and sailed across to Jost Van
Dyke - about 4 or 5 miles as the pelican flies we then spent a pleasant night in
Great Harbour ready to hit the immigration office first thing. However, on
entering the office we were immediately met by notices plastered all over
the walls and counters stating that effective from the 1st May due to the swine
fever or flu or whatever, yachts would not be cleared either in or out of Jost
Van Dyke but would have to clear at SOPERS HOLE!!! So, a LeMans style race back
to the dinghy and back to the boat at top speed to hard motorsail back to Sopers
to clear there! The demeanour of the officials at Sopers reflected their
increased workload in clearing extra craft in and out whilst the official at JVD
couldn't have been more friendly, considerate and laid back given that his
rubber stamps would be staying safely locked away in the safe for the
foreseeable future in order to save the good people of Jost Van Dyke the
ghastly perils of Swine flu. Yes it even affects tiny islands scattered around
the Caribbean.. Anyway, onwards into the USVIs.
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