And then there were three
Stream
Darrell Jackson and Sarah Barnes
Sun 22 Dec 2013 16:01
We sailed rapidly back to Jolly Harbour marina under full Genoa, stopping briefly in Rendezvous Bay in Five Islands Harbour for a swim in turquoise waters and a last lunch together. Jolly Harbour Marina has bad memories for me when I was here 6 years ago and we managed to upset the Customs and Immigration officer who lectured us for some considerable time like naughty children on the importance of following correct procedure and with dire threats of expulsion form Antigua if we did not behave ourselves. I suppose we got away lightly as 2 skippers have recently been fined EC$5000 for upsetting the officials here by crew leaving their yachts before clearing customs.
We managed a farewell meal together at a Greek restaurant (one of only 2 open in the marina), but the service was poor and we had a long wait for our food. Much of the food on the limited menu was "not on tonight" and our conversation was drowned out by very loud music from the nearby bar. This music continued until the early hours and was only just outmatched by the carols being sung by the crew of Stream in retaliation.
The following morning was clean up time (Sarah was arriving that afternoon!) and then a last drink together before the taxi to the airport. Sarah's plane spent a long time circling the airfield but managed to land just in time for the passengers on board to be greeted by an almighty rain shower for their 200m walk to the terminal buildings. At least it was warm rain!
Husband and wife reunited, it was time to bid a fond farewell to our two crew mates Pete and Quent who had helped make this journey so memorable and enjoyable. We will no doubt talk about our exploits for many years to come. Thank you both for your help and companionship and we wish you a safe journey home.
Sarah thanks everyone who sent her off safely and kept her sane for the last few months and she will keep in touch as she adjusts to life with new responsibilities. First we must get her some clothes more suitable for the climate here!
Today is sunny with some cloud and the winds are still strong, but we are leaving Jolly Harbour and returning to English Harbour for a couple of days and we may even manage another session at Shirley Heights!
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