The Northern End of the Leewards

I couldn't help but feel a certain sadness as I watched Almost There pick up anchor and motor by Taia, both crews waving and sharing the promise to meet up somewhere down island. The truth is, we'll probably see Almost There in a few days, somewhere between St. Barts and Nevis. Why, then, was I a little sad? After all, we still enjoy the convenience of 21st century communications, even while cruising.

Almost There's departure this morning marks the end of an incredible 4 weeks at anchor in Marigot Bay, St-Martin. For most of that 4 weeks, Taia was sandwiched between Almost There and Skylark. The kids from all 3 boats jumped overboard and swam when they wanted to visit their friends. The grown ups helped each other with boat projects and provisioning. There were dinners, drinks, sleep-overs, restaurants, knee boarding, Carnival, and enough time shared to get to know each other quite well.

Our time in St-Martin, for this year at least, has come to an end. Almost There left this morning, Taia and Skylark are leaving tomorrow. It's been a happy time. There'll be more.

A view of Marigot Bay from Fort Louis. Simpson Bay lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean to the south west are visible in the background.

Carnival in Philipsburg was a wonderful experience. I had every reason to sport a big wide smile.

Maho Beach is at one end of the airport's runway. Standing on the beach, you feel like you'll be able to touch the undercarriage of the landing planes.

Nope, it's not yoga. These were taken while I was installing the water maker.

The kids from Skylark and Taia in Fort Louis.

Robert, from Almost There, helping Matias get on the knee board.

Left to right: Shena (Almost There), Natalia (Taia), Louise (Skylark).

Dock in Grand Case.