Home away from Home 5th May

06.05.2011

Having left Guadelope after a couple of false starts and with everything crossed that the repair Fred had done to the torque limitor, propshaft, cutless bearing and heaven knows what else – we had a terrific sail down to Dominica. At times the winds were up to 29 knots so we were creaming along in quite a big swell. Felt a bit like a washing machine at times but it was just great to be on the move again.

We did however have to put the engine into gear to get into Portsmouth bay as the wind died a couple of miles out. A quick overnight stop for some sleep and we were of again at first light. We had hoped to get to St Lucia but it was not to be. The wind died for several hours so we were motoring (but hey it worked) and then when the wind came up again it was on the nose and we were beating into it for the next 3 hours. Ended up in one of our favourite bays in Martinique (Anse d’Arlet). Up with the dawn and away to try and catch the wind to take us on to St Lucia. Glad to say it did. We had yet another great sail most of the way over the channel.

We were both quite excited at the prospect of being back in Rodney Bay and thrilled when we spotted Voyaguer who had just completed their World ARC. Both looking great from the experience. Also met up with buddies who crossed to Trini with us so it has really felt a bit like a homecoming.

There have been lots of changes to the marina area since we were here last year. New bars/cafes along the quay and a whole new shower and toilet block. (no hot water but at least there is water!). The 20th St Llucia Jazz Festival is on this week so there is a bit of a buzz about the place. It is also May weekend and the place is full of Guadelopians who have hightailed it over to take in some of the jazz or visit with familiy here. We hope to go out and anchor in the bay tonight and listen to the concert which is happening over on Pigeon Island. It was that or try and make Friday night ‘jump up’ at Gros Islet. However the rain might put the kybosh on those plans. It has just been so wet for the last 3 – 4 weeks everyone is now getting fed up with it. Hope you are all enjoying the sun in ‘Bonnie Scotland’