Our long anticipated sailing vacation with the kids didn't turn out quite the way we expected but we did learn a lot which should help with possible future trips. The most important lessons for me were that we'll attach ourselves to moorings in the future (dragging in the middle of the night is not fun) and we'll eat out more. No more cooking for me. I've always found it challenging to created delicious meals in such a small place but the bloom is off the rose on that one.
It also didn't help that three, perhaps four of us, contracted a bug off the plane. Heather was laid low on our first night out on the boat and we had to return to Roadtown 24 hours later to rehydrate her at Peebles Hospital. So on the third day of our vacation, we "began" our trip again. That night was my turn to get sick and that laid me low for the following day. Patrick was next and the bug kept him from attending the world famous New Year's party at Foxy's he had so looked forward to. Couple that with two to three days of rain, winds, and swells and our trip was less than ideal.
Once the decision was made to seek more sheltered harbors (with moorings!) was made, the sun came out and we ended the trip with two calm, sunny, stress-free days for some nice sailing and beautiful snorkeling. At least we ended on an up note. Here are some pics.
Our first night in the BVI, we traveled to the top of Tortola to Sky World for a drink, the beautiful sunset, view of all the islands, and sushi.
Heather with Peter Island behind her.
The two captains
The kids
Kathy and John
Beautiful sunset
Sky World is not like it used to be 20 years ago when many tourists traveled the winding, steep road to get up there. It is smaller now, and run by a man who you sense could care less you are there. You have to like sushi for that's what they serve. It is good and you can sit Benihana style and watch it being made in front of you. My recommendation? Go up, have a drink, watch the sunset, then head back down the mountain for your meal.
Sunrise at Maria's where we spent the night before boarding our sailboat.
And we're off on a 42' Beneteau chartered out of BVI Yacht Charters.
Dad's happy
So is our dingy captain.
The first night we anchored in White Bay on Peter, a nice bay with good snorkeing but it was raining.
Kelly and Marc's boat behind us?
First meal
Fast forward two days when we leave Roadtown a second time after Heather feels a little better.
Happy again.
Captain Pat
Chef Pat and bloodies after the Bathes
One of our sunny days (on our way to Marina Key).
Very happy dad
Always time for a Stave puzzle!
Marina Key and Pat's birthday dinner.
Chrissy, Kathy and Julie enjoyed the triple Pain Killer.
The next day we anchored in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke. We immediately headed to the Sandcastle where Gail and Sana recognized John (from our visit last year), gave him big hugs and a martini! Yes, we love the Sandcastle!
On the beach and feeling better.
New Year's Eve and the girls keep the "hat" tradition!
One looks better in this gear IN the water.
Reading on the boat - the favorite book passed around was Sarah's Key.
We caught up with sunny weather on Norman Island and decided to anchor in the Bight for two nights. Finally, restful nights of good sleep.
Sunset
Blue-water swims
Sailing to Money Bay and the most beautiful snorkeling I've ever seen.
Happy mom
Happy couple
Last sunrise
So we're back home in the cold weather, dreaming of the beautiful blue waters. The BVI will pull us back again...it remains to be seen in what manner.
Things to remember (or not): Allen, pleasantly rude; "Is that a real horse?";"That's Brad Pitt's house."; Brossy Britches and Captain Curmudgeon; Kelly Ripa and Marc Consuelo;the bug; Ivan and Ken; Marichino Bay; Captain Ron; Gertrude's hamburgers; Pain Killers; Money Bay; fan garden; Peebles Hospital; Island time; Peter Island villas; Heathers' hut; Sarah's Key; rdie to Sky World; Catch Phrase; "Heather...that's a category!";pepper in water magic trick.
Check out heathermccurdy.com for some more photos.