|
Forums39
Topics40,032
Posts324,932
Members26,769
| |
Most Online4,031
Dec 15th, 2024
|
|
|
Posts: 147
Joined: October 2003
|
|
|
1 members (1 invisible),
950
guests, and
37
robots. |
|
Key:
Admin,
Global Mod,
Mod
|
|
#21545
08/01/2013 12:52 PM
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Considering something different than the BVI's well over 30 charters there and a bit tried of the place.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 5,720
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 5,720 |
Our boat is in St. Lucia and we went down there for the first time in November last year. Had a blast. Much longer sailing legs as the sail from St. Lucia to the southern end of St. Vincent took most of the day - I want to say 8 hours?
We had just as much fun, although we didn't dive at all but we're fine with that. We went as far south as the Tobago Cays and then began our trip back.
A one way from St. Lucia to Grenada or vice versa would be a great way to do it. Seems 2 weeks is also a much better way to do it as well, we'll probably do at least 10 days next time if not 2 weeks.
We may head north next time to Martinique as well, possibly further. Lots of options there!
Matt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 928
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 928 |
Have never chartered in the BVI....always land based (20+ times).....The only place I've ever chartered is in the Grenadines....total blast!...Longer distances between islands....less "refined" beach bars, everything is more "rustic"...more "genuine" Caribbean......Don't get me wrong, I love the BVI, but they are starting to piss me off a bit.....will be down sailing with captain rick in October....join us? <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Cheers.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 144
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 144 |
We took our boat from Grenada to St. Lucia. I would say the good snorkeling/diving wasn't quite as easily found on that trip as in Belize or the BVI (the only 2 other places we've sailed so far, not by far the only places we've dove). Had hoped to experience some stronger winds and waves as that is the reputation the area has, but many times we were on flat water with the motors running. It was quite interesting experiences to be checking in and out of all the countries/islands between Grenada and St. Lucia.. interesting for sure! I know we're booked St. Lucia this fall 2 weeks.. and haven't really decided which direction we'll go.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
Yo Dawg,
The Diens are incredible but different than the BVI’s. The people are warmer in attitude but other than the Jump Up on Thurs. nite on Bequia there are few organized party spots.
You’re more exposed while in transit than you are on Drake Lake but I’ sure you’ve been around enough to handle that.
The biggest problem with sailing the SVG’s is you can’t get there from here. Which in a way is good.
Anchor anywhere and the ratio between Charter Boats and Cruisers will be totally inverted to the BVI’s which is fine by me as the Cruising community is made up of great people.
Do it with the right attitude and it will become you’re go to destination.
PM me with any questions
Rick
P.S. IF You need a guide I could be bribed
Last edited by rhans; 08/01/2013 08:11 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 84,383 Likes: 23
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 84,383 Likes: 23 |
Dawg--If you haven't already, take a look in the (regular) trip report archives, for numerous reports from Sunset Sammy.
Carol Hill
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,052 Likes: 1
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,052 Likes: 1 |
Mark... Give it a try. We've done the Grenadines many times and of course you know how long we've spent in the BVI.
Grenadines is a completely different experience to the BVI. Longer, sometimes wilder sails, and a far greater variety in the islands. Bequia is great fun, Mustique an experience, Mayreau and the Tobago Cays wonderful. We really like Grenada as well for a land based part of the trip.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 2,666
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 2,666 |
Union, Cannouan, PSV, Palm Island and the Tobago Cays. Completely different from BVI. Much prefer the Grenadines.
Cheers and good luck. Fly to BGI to start! LOL
irina
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Yup, the girls want something new. Looking closely at Aggie Cat, an RC 47 that was previously with Bare Cat in BVI's. Barefoot looks like a good operation: http://www.barefootyachts.com/html/welcome.htmThey have some one-way drop off options that are very reasonable. Also looking at an R&C 4200 with DSL yachting but it does not have AC
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
saildoggie said:Yup, the girls want something new. Looking closely at Aggie Cat, an RC 47 that was previously with Bare Cat in BVI's. Barefoot looks like a good operation: http://www.barefootyachts.com/html/welcome.htmThey have some one-way drop off options that are very reasonable. Also looking at an R&C 4200 with DSL yachting but it does not have AC Mark. The entire crew at Barefoot are close personal friends so take this for what it’s worth. This area rocks, but it is what YOU make of it. Willey “T” = no, ….. Happy Island = yes. But you make your own fun. Waiting for a ball at the Indians for some incredible snorkeling = No. ….. Swimming with the Turtles at the Tabago Keys = priceless Mayreu = Nothing like you’ve experienced before. You’re kind of in the what’s left of the Old Caribbean, the wild west. This area has not been westernized to the point of the BVI’s and for the most part the people are incredibly friendly. If you go with a flexible what’s next attitude you’ll have the time of your life.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Thanks Rhans, I am hoping the folks at Barefoot get back to me, 2 emails and a phone message to them and no responses. Can you PM a good email address? They do not respond to the one on their website. So much to learn, what currency, how many places we need to clear in, how to get there...Makes it fun, that and navigating the longer passages, the girls say they are up for it and Sailpuppy wants a lot more helm time!!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Groovin.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 848
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 848 |
We do roundtrip from rdoney Bay St. Lucia usually for 14 days but have also done it in 10. The best trip was a 17 hour overnighter from Soufriere, St. Lucia to Grenada then worked our way back over 12 days. If it were me I would look into a one way either starting in St. Lucia or Grenada. If time is a constraint you could also go from St. Vincent instead of St.Lucia. I've only chartered in the BVI's once, but I think the biggest difference will be the lack of infastructure and facilities. Large supermarkets will only be found on the main islands and topping off water tanks may be a challenge. I know you can top up in Cumberland Bay, St. Vincent and I would imagine also at Union Island, maybe rhans or seth know of a few other spots. As said you pretty much have to make your own fun at most of the islands. Boat boys will apporach you at every anchorage, they have some nice stuff to sell and if you're not interested a simple "no thanks" is usually all it takes. The currency is the EC and is tied to the US dollar 2.67 EC/ US. ATM's are available on the larger islands. Sailing will be a little more intense, we've hit winds up to 50 and it isn't unusual to see them in the 30 knot range. It is a beautiful area and is worth the trouble to get there. The Doyle guide is about the best one for the windwards, mine is pretty well worn. I'll be heading down Dec 18, for the Holiday charter then 10 days between st. Lucia and Martinique, where Dan and Em are going to provision for the Pacific. Jan. 11 we set sail for the San Blas islands, then through the Panama canal and down to the Galapagos Islands till late Feb.
Drink all day at home, your friends worry about you; do it on vacation and they say "what a good time you're having". Save your friends needless worry, travel more!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Thanks for the help, just got an email and quote from Seth at Barefoot Charters, what other Companies are reccomended?
Want a 40-50' cat would like to have Gen and AC, watermaker a plus, No Lagoons please.
Barefoot appears to have an excellent reputation and I know Aggie Cat from the BVI's an older R&C 47 with Gen and AC, a fast sailor too. I like their options of alternate drop off locations, one-way charters, there is a small fee but may be worth it.
I will look into getting a Doyle's Guide right now.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
saildoggie said:
Thanks Rhans, I am hoping the folks at Barefoot get back to me, 2 emails and a phone message to them and no responses.
Can you PM a good email address? They do not respond to the one on their website. Try barebum@vincysurf.comThey may not be onsite because of festival, not sure, but they will get back to you...and/or office staff is not always there on weekends, either.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,052 Likes: 1
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,052 Likes: 1 |
TMM are down on St Vincent Mark. Mainly older boats but I'm sure they'll be good.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
TMM could be an option, they also have a R&C 4700 with gen and AC and also over 10 days for price of 7 during the dates we want, they are a bit more $$ and don't think they offer the return to alternate base option.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Just got a fantastic quote from Barefoot! $2K less than TMM! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Banana.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
Barefoot matched the price that TMM gave me and for a much nicer & bigger boat - they really want your business, and will bend over backwards to get it - really pleased with their willingness to deal, and with their whole operation.
Boats are older, but well cared for, and while they don't always have chase boats, they have places all along the Grenadines if you have any issues with the boat.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
saildoggie said:Just got a fantastic quote from Barefoot! $2K less than TMM! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Banana.gif" alt="" /> Way to go Seth <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
Water St. Vincent, Bequia, Union and Petit Martinique
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,341
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,341 |
we liked Grenadines, left from st vincent, liked Bequia, mayreau, and Tobago Cays. Did not like Union.
Boat "boys" in the cays were great!! I had only a US $20 bill and he said I will be back with your change. I wondered, but about an hour later, change. bought water in bequia from a water barge. Frangipanni restaurant in bequia was nice. nice people in bequia
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
sailn said:
we liked Grenadines, left from st vincent, liked Bequia, mayreau, and Tobago Cays. Did not like Union.
Boat "boys" in the cays were great!! I had only a US $20 bill and he said I will be back with your change. I wondered, but about an hour later, change. bought water in bequia from a water barge. Frangipanni restaurant in bequia was nice. nice people in bequia Union Island has two sides. Clifton for C&I and minor provisioning. Then there's Chathum for decent snorkeling, great beach BBQ.s and now an actual bar/restaurant. Can't comment on the bar as I've never been there.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
We have loved St. Vincent charters twice. We have also chartered out of St. Lucia a number of times. Our more than 50 charters started with CSY during 1980 on Roatan. In the 80’s BVI chartering was called amateur hour by many. Today many enjoy the credit card captain labeling…. Easy 3 mile protected sailing/motoring between beach bars. 1000 heavily marketed bareboats in a very competitive market.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines are different. Just a few boats that are mostly older and more worn. Starting with check in at Barefoot you are more on your own. The boat may be on a mooring when you get there. Major steps from the cab to the dock and the dingy ride usually in the dark to the sleep aboard. Some of the boats are a long way from home and well worn after years of charter and Caribbean sun. There is a lot more real sailing. Every day is three or more Anegada’s if you move the boat at all? We generally move the boat one day and stay put the next out of St. Vincent. In the BVI we might move the boat twice a day? We loved it and went back!
The only reason we would ever go back to the BVI is the boats are better and nicer and everything is just easier. Some BVI crews may be spoiled? We have not made it to St, Vincent since TMM opened. Our experience is no bareboat operations from Maine to Europe compare with the BVI operations TMM, Voyage, The Moorings and a few others run on Tortola. After two charters of the most costly boats on Barefoot’s menu we shifted to The Moorings on St, Lucia in search of newer boats coupled with better air travel options. If I were booking a trip today I would look at the boats available both places coupled with the air options. I would also try to understand the current condition of the boats available. Not all charter boats of the same model or year are equal once you leave the BVI!
We will go back as soon as we can for the real sailing, adventure, and interesting people. If Willy T’s and The Soggy Dollar is what you are looking for you may want to stick with the BVI. If chase boats and backup boats in the fleet are important to your crew you may want to stay in the BVI. My experience is the sailing is more exhilarating and the shore time is much quieter and sometimes of better quality every inch you get further away from St. Thomas? Those that think Anegada is an adventure may not be ready for this trip.
|
|
|
#21568
08/07/2013 08:27 AM
|
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,341
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,341 |
Anonymous said:
We have loved St. Vincent charters twice. We have also chartered out of St. Lucia a number of times. Our more than 50 charters started with CSY during 1980 on Roatan. In the 80’s BVI chartering was called amateur hour by many. Today many enjoy the credit card captain labeling…. Easy 3 mile protected sailing/motoring between beach bars. 1000 heavily marketed bareboats in a very competitive market.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines are different. Just a few boats that are mostly older and more worn. Starting with check in at Barefoot you are more on your own. The boat may be on a mooring when you get there. Major steps from the cab to the dock and the dingy ride usually in the dark to the sleep aboard. Some of the boats are a long way from home and well worn after years of charter and Caribbean sun. There is a lot more real sailing. Every day is three or more Anegada’s if you move the boat at all? We generally move the boat one day and stay put the next out of St. Vincent. In the BVI we might move the boat twice a day? We loved it and went back!
The only reason we would ever go back to the BVI is the boats are better and nicer and everything is just easier. Some BVI crews may be spoiled? We have not made it to St, Vincent since TMM opened. Our experience is no bareboat operations from Maine to Europe compare with the BVI operations TMM, Voyage, The Moorings and a few others run on Tortola. After two charters of the most costly boats on Barefoot’s menu we shifted to The Moorings on St, Lucia in search of newer boats coupled with better air travel options. If I were booking a trip today I would look at the boats available both places coupled with the air options. I would also try to understand the current condition of the boats available. Not all charter boats of the same model or year are equal once you leave the BVI!
We will go back as soon as we can for the real sailing, adventure, and interesting people. If Willy T’s and The Soggy Dollar is what you are looking for you may want to stick with the BVI. If chase boats and backup boats in the fleet are important to your crew you may want to stay in the BVI. My experience is the sailing is more exhilarating and the shore time is much quieter and sometimes of better quality every inch you get further away from St. Thomas? Those that think Anegada is an adventure may not be ready for this trip. when we were last in Grenadines, there was no government rescue service to call and no sea tow services either. we also had mechanical problems, auto pilot broke, and engine drive shaft went missing causing a big leak (bilge pump was inoperative).
Last edited by sailn; 08/07/2013 08:31 AM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 648
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 648 |
After several wonderful sailing trips in the Grenadines my crew made it clear they would never go back if it meant flying LIAT. Those numerous terrible experiences (e.g., passengers physically assaulting flight crew to bring checked baggage onboard, luggage delivered at end of charter, boat parts air shipped flew around a whole day, etc.) more than overcame the great sailing. Regarding Barefoot, beware their "Legends" (or whatever they call their second tier boats) boats and do not believe the "fully refurbished" promo.
To be clear, the sailing is great! Depending on conditions, your first five minutes out of St. Vincent will be more fun than a year's worth of sailing in BVI. As stated earlier, the boats you will see are not the cookie-cutter charters (thanks Moorings!) you will see parked door-handle to door-handle in BVI.
Polaris
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
Agree LIAT is a royal PAIN, but that might be why you don’t see the concentration of charter boats there as “Leave 6:00 am arrive by noon” destination.
Your comments on second, third …. Tier boats is unfair. Older boats are well – Older boats and are chartered at a reduced rate because they’re Older Boats.
On inspection they bring everything that’s obvious up to acceptable levels – But it’s still a seasoned boat and without a crystal ball you have no idea what might fail in the next 10 minutes.
If it doesn’t work when you picked it up then shame on them. If something fails later – well it’s not a 1st tier boat and some inconvenience although regrettable should be tolerable. All depends on how it’s handled.
For what it’s worth I fix old boats for a living
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 340
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 340 |
rhans - to clarify: polaris had a bad experience sailing with Barefoot some time ago. His complaints were entirely justified as the boat was not up to scratch and Barefoot was at fault in this regard. I'm afraid we ain't perfect, but we do try our best and we do try to step up and do the right thing when we haven't got it right....
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 648
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 648 |
Seth is right that I had the bad luck to select a boat which, it turned out, was dropped from their fleet soon thereafter. To be clear, I selected the boat knowing it was in their second tier fleet - I was attracted to the $$$. Barefoot did acknowledge all the problems and settled with a fair financial accomodation. However, it was clear that whatever "refurbishing" done a couple years before had not addressed many of the problems.
Seth, what is the status of the new airport and the possibility of new airlines serving the island?
Polaris
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Seth said:
rhans - to clarify: polaris had a bad experience sailing with Barefoot some time ago. His complaints were entirely justified as the boat was not up to scratch and Barefoot was at fault in this regard. I'm afraid we ain't perfect, but we do try our best and we do try to step up and do the right thing when we haven't got it right.... Great to see you chime in Seth, your email replies have been great and I have a comfort level with Barefoot, Aggie Cat and also everything I am reading here and the Cruising Guide, etc. Looking forward to meeting you in July 2014.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 925 |
Hey Mark, Find Chalkey when you get there. I gave him a Cuban Yo-yo that I made and if he still has it's great for trolling on passage. Check out Chatham on the west side of Union. Anchor up close to the north - east side of the bay and snorkel towards the west. Be prepared for a few gusts from the peaks, they're normally quick and then go away fast.
In the Mayrue area look for a small boat with a pink bottom and you've found Walter. Besides the best bread he can direct you to almost anything you need.
Willey can be a hoot but will probably be in Canada in July.
Do you accept Stow Aways?
Have a ball
Rick
Last edited by rhans; 08/13/2013 09:09 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Thanks Rick! Will bring two Ocean handlines and lots of lures along. Have not checked into fishing regulations and don't know if I need fishing permits yet. Early in the planning stages! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Groovin.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 283
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 283 |
Chartered from Sunsail in SV (are they still open) and had a fairly positive expereince. We had booked a big mono (the first for most of my crew) but they had a newer moorings 46 (just arrived on a one way from SXM I think but didnt need to get back for a while) and they upgraded for like a few hundred (score! Would not happen in BVI). Seems so much less corporate than Wickhams Cay. Loved the sailing and almost all of the stops. Everyone was super friendly - cab driver went to his girlfriends when he heard us complaining that we could not find limes for our drinks in the supermarket). Note all the horror stories from LIAT but we had a great expereince (just luck of the draw I guess). One notable problem: On last day return from Mustique I very large hatch fell on my arm and cut thru to the boat (looked worse than it was but looked like stuff was hanging out) - I was the only real competent sailor so we lowered the sails to power with my instructions but we had been having trouble with the gear not engaging in forward in one of the engines all trip and they could not fix). We limped back with with my arm closed up using sterri strips but I clearly needed something more permanent. There was virtually nowhere and no one to help other than going to the hospital - which I was very much against as I was headed to Barbados in 5 hours and would wait if I was not going to bleed out. Local doc I would use - not going to wait in SV hospital though. Point is that even basic medical care was impossible to find - not mention limes. Still, I would ABSOLUETLY go back. Found the boat boys helpful and left after. Still found bear bars and decent food in some places, more challenges mean better rewards!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 848
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 848 |
No fishing permits needed in SVG, however visitors are not allowed to take lobster or conch and sea urchins are protected. If you are doing 10 days out of SV you will have plenty of time to see all the best stops. You should try to get to Carriacou, even though it will mean clearing customs. They have installed mooring balls at Sandy Island and the beach at Petit Carenage, in Windward, is one of our favorites.
Drink all day at home, your friends worry about you; do it on vacation and they say "what a good time you're having". Save your friends needless worry, travel more!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 340
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 340 |
saildoggie - thanks!
For fi
shing - note also that use of spear-guns by visitors is prohibited
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942
Traveler
|
|
OP
Traveler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 16,942 |
Talking with a Facebook friend that just returned, he is thinking about joining us same dates on another cat and has a client that may also want a boat, mini flotilla starting July 1? <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Banana.gif" alt="" />
Are you on here Mark?
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
I just registered. Still waiting for my confirmation email. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/toast.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
|
Anonymous
Unregistered
|
FYI, you don't need fishing permits but there are some rules. No fishing unless your moving (sailing or motoring). and so fishing within the borders of the marine parks/reserves such as the Tobag Cays.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 3
Member
|
|
Member
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 3 |
Mark, one thing I forgot to mention, and I only found this out this trip to the Grenadines. Whatever you do go before August 1st. Not that I have anything against the french but that is when the holidays start in France. I've been in Late June early July and my pick of anchorages and mooring balls. This year I went late July and Early August and the bays were packed with French charters. Not only is it busy but they pretty much keep to themselves so if your social ( <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/toast.gif" alt="" />) it's a bit of a bummer. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/cry.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 928
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 928 |
Funny you should mention that. We were there in late July a couple of years ago, and yes there were ALOT of French boats sailing down from Martinique etc...Saltwhistle Bay was chuck full of them when we pulled in. Fortunately, one of the girls on our boat spoke perfect French (as her first language), and another was from Holland, and had a working/passable knowledge of French. As soon as they started a conversation in French, most of the French crews rolled into English quickly with the rest of us. I think they do keep to themselves, and are protective of their language/heritage, but are plenty friendly once they know they have your respect of said language/heritage. I have nothing against the French, they certainly know how to have fun, and are definitely more multi lingual than many N. Americans.....just know that they won't break the ice in English, unless you break the ice in French. Can't wait to get down there in 2 months! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Cheers.gif" alt="" />
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 366
Traveler
|
|
Traveler
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 366 |
We were anchored off of Mayreau and a wonderful boat of frenchmen brought us a huge mahi steak. They were a father and son team that had sailed over from France on their cat and were working their way up the Grenadines. Really nice guys and they approached us. We had a blast. It is a beautiful area. Absolutely nothing like the BVIs. Have fun Mr. Doggie, we certainly did.
Jo
|
|
|
|
|
![[Linked Image]](www.sailbvi.net/images/gb_red_ensign.gif)
