Caribbean

Nassau: Colonial Splendor, Caribbean Charms, and Cruise Ship Chaos

Von |2024-03-28T12:01:39+01:00März 28th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Three days in Nassau: admidst its bustling cruise ship industry, we discovered some charming colonial attractions. As Torsten battled the wind alone on , we bid farewell to Anette and Mark, welcoming Laurence and Jaci into our island adventure. In two days in Nassau, you can visit historical sites like Fort Charlotte and Queen's Staircase, explore colonial architecture in downtown, experience local culture at the Straw Market, and unwind at Junkanoo Beach. Discovering Nassau's colonial charm : historic sites, vibrant culture, and a lot of cruise ship tourists crowding the streets, often leading to long lines at popular attractions and a more commercialized atmosphere in some areas. Bye, Bye Nassau! After a stunning sail, we arrived at Highborne Cay in the Exumas under the cloak of nightfall. Thank you @ Margaritaville Beach Resort for having us!

Sailing & Surf Paradise: Exploring the Southern Charms of Puerto Rico

Von |2024-02-20T13:23:55+01:00Februar 18th, 2024|Kategorien: Atlantic Crossing, Boatlife, Nautor’s Swan, Puerto Rico, Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

Embarking on a nautical journey in the south of Puerto Rico unveils a world where the waves become your dance partners! Rincon's Serenade of Surf and Sun: Rincon, known for its mesmerizing waves, attracts sailors seeking the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. As a sailing enthusiast, navigating through the crystalline waters surrounding Rincon feels like choreography with the ocean's rhythmic dance. The vibrant surf culture adds a unique charm to this coastal gem, making it an ideal destination for those craving a connection with both nature and the thrill of the sea. Don’t miss the LIGHTHOUSE | Surrounding the Faro de Punta Higuero (Rincón's lighthouse), Parque Pasivo El Faro has small kiosks at the water's edge. If you're lucky, you may spot a whale in the distance. Exploring Ponce – Carnival, History, and Beyond: Ponce has a yesteryear charm and an increasingly cosmopolitan vibe! Dive into the vibrant chaos of the Ponce Carnival, a lively celebration that unfolds with colorful parades, music, and a jubilant atmosphere. Ponce's vejigante masks are made of lapermâché and are most prominent during the February carnival. Many have tican and Native American elements. Sailing into Ponce provides a unique perspective, allowing you to witness the festivities from the tranquil waters, creating a memorable contrast to the lively streets. Ponce Yacht and Fishing Club: For sailors seeking a haven off the coast, the Ponce Yacht and Fishing Club is a maritime sanctuary. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this club offers not just a dock for your vessel but a community where fellow sailors share tales of the sea. Enjoy the camaraderie, facilities, and perhaps even participate in local regattas for an added dash of competitive spirit. From food trucks to farm-to-table restaurants to simple roadside stands, the southwest has great dining and snacking options. Sample [...]

Sailing Serenity: Exploring the Unspoiled Beauty of Isla de Vieques

Von |2024-02-13T15:13:20+01:00Februar 13th, 2024|Kategorien: Puerto Rico, Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

Looking for a place to play Robinson Crusoe? Well, here you can wander along almost any stretch of sand and rarely see another soul. As you sail along the pristine coastline, the allure of secluded beaches and untouched landscapes welcomes you to a world of tranquility. For decades, Vieques grappled with a tumultuous history, marked by a clash between islanders and distant federal authorities. Two-thirds of the island's expanse, predominantly on the eastern end, served as a U.S. Navy bombing range, while the western tip functioned as an ammunition dump. The aftermath of a tragic bombing incident in April 1999 sparked widespread protests, eventually leading to the military's departure on May 1, 2003. Paradoxically, the military presence inadvertently shielded Vieques from rampant resort development. Today, the former naval grounds have transformed into the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The woodsy western end boasts cycling trails, offering a scenic ride around Monte Pirata, the island's highest peak. Year by year, more of the eastern region opens up, granting access to breathtaking beaches that gently slope into the calm embrace of turquoise waters. One of the refuge's highlights is Puerto Mosquito, a bay shaped like a flask inhabited by bioluminescent microorganisms. Kayakers can revel in the enchanting spectacle of glowing waters at night, creating a mesmerizing experience amidst nature's wonders. Sailing the turquoise waters around Vieques, Puerto Rico, with a light breeze, savoring lobster delights, and celebrating 35 years of cherished friendship with Angela Barzen 💋 As you sail around Vieques, the endless palms lining the shore stand testament to the island's pristine allure. The absence of resort developers, coupled with the protection afforded by the wildlife refuge, ensures an untouched paradise for those seeking solace on the high seas. In the embrace of Isla de Vieques, the echoes of a tumultuous past [...]

Swan Magazine

Von |2023-09-16T12:59:45+02:00September 16th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

Life's most touching surprises often arrive when least expected. We're deeply thankful to Nautor's Swan for documenting our dream journey from Tuscany to the Caribbean in their magazine. Owning a Swan is not just about the boat itself; it’s about Unparalleled Service for Swan Owners Owning a Swan is not just about the boat itself; it's about being part of a community that values excellence and adventure. Nautor's Swan provides an unparalleled level of service and support to their boat owners. 1. Customization: Swan owners have the opportunity to customize their yachts to their exact specifications, ensuring that each boat is a unique reflection of its owner's desires. 2. Maintenance and Repairs: Nautor's Swan offers a global network of service centers staffed by highly trained professionals. This ensures that Swan owners receive top-notch maintenance and repair services wherever they may be sailing. 3. Events and Regattas: Nautor's Swan hosts a range of exclusive events and regattas, allowing Swan owners to connect with fellow enthusiasts and put their boats to the test in friendly competition. 4. Resale Value: Swan yachts are renowned for retaining their value over time. The brand's reputation for quality and performance makes Swan boats highly sought after in the pre-owned market. Conclusion Nautor's Swan stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of sailing. Their iconic sailboat designs, commitment to innovation, and unwavering dedication to providing outstanding service to Swan boat owners make them a true leader in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or dreaming of your first voyage, Nautor's Swan offers an experience like no other, where elegance and performance come together on the open seas. being part of a community that values excellence and adventure. Nautor's Swan provides an unparalleled level of service and support to their boat owners.

Catching the Breeze at the
Sint Maarten – Heineken-Regatta

Von |2023-03-16T09:44:13+01:00März 16th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

Es war der Knaller und wir waren dabei ! Die 43. Sint Maarten – Heineken-Regatta ist die größte Regatta in der Karibik und zugleich auch die wahrscheinlich größte Warmwasserregatta der Welt. Ich durfte als Bloggerin im Presse-Team dabei sein und auf dem Presseboot sensationell nah an den schnellen Yachten vorbeifahren und war mitten im Geschehen. Mit Greta von When Sailing auf dem Presseboot Torsten konnte mit dem holländischen Racing Team (Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup) am 3. Regatta-Tag mit segeln und sogar ans Steuer der gigantischen Yacht. Top speed über 20 Knoten, einmal um die Insel in 3 Stunden! Ein echtes Highlight …. Torsten am Steuer der Jajo Greta im Mast der Jajo Wir hatten so viel Spaß mit Greta und Michael von der ForTuna (Insta: When Sailing) und Ina und David von Kon-Tiki ! Wir haben zusammen gekocht, gefeiert und haben viel über das Leben auf einem Segelboot philosophiert. Frauen Power pur: Greta und Ina besegeln die Welt! Top Sushi Dinner, Dankeschön David und Ina WHAT A RIDE 🔥 Serious fun St. Maarten Heineken Regatta! Mit Jelmer und Team bei der Pressekonferenz This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to experience sailing on the VO65 ocean racer Teamjajo skippered by Jelmer van Beek 👌 Great young #OceanRace team of Jelmer and his powerful female team mix. Top speed over 20kts. Thank you for having us, you are fantastic ! Living „The Long Time Sailing Dream“ is a challenge. It's sometimes frustrating, sometimes infuriating. Sailing involves getting outside your comfort zone, taking chances, taking risks. It isn't always fun. It isn't always relaxing. But it is memorable, and very often life-changing. Winning team You make friends when you travel like we do, when you're thrown together with strangers in a strange land. You learn things about other cultures, and about [...]

GUADELOUPE
The French archipelago has a little something for everyone.

Von |2023-02-01T21:42:14+01:00Januar 31st, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , |

The French Butterfly Island is a sailor’s paradise perfect for “la belle la vie”—the beautiful life. Guadeloupe is one of our top picks! Guadeloupe is one of the Eastern Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles islands. It is made up of six inhabited islands. The two main islands of Guadeloupe, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, look like the wings of a butterfly from above. While Guadeloupe is popular among French tourists (I mean, it IS a French island), it’s a little less known to North Americans. What makes the island unique is its overwhelming and undisturbed natural beauty. Unlike many Caribbean islands, it is not plastered with huge capacity resorts. It’s tropical, volcanic, French-style, and off the beaten path! Basse-Terre is mountainous, volcanic, and has lots of places to go hiking and waterfall chasing. This is where you’ll find the Guadeloupe National Park, and protected marine areas that are fantastic for diving, like Reserve Cousteau. Chocolate and coffee are also produced in Basse-Terre. Chute du Carbet The Carbet Waterfalls are a series of three cascading waterfalls on the lower slopes of the volcano, La Soufriere. Bouillante Anchorage : Bouillante, Basse-Terre, in front of the natural thermal springs heated by volcanic activity !!! The temperature can reach 80°, fortunatelly the waves refresh the temperature of the hot spring. You can spot Iguanas on the beach, in the trees, on the rocks, in the gardens…. Grande-Terre – which despite its name (meaning 'big land') is far smaller than Basse-Terre. Its south coast, with reef-protected waters and golden-sand beaches, is the country's main resort area. By comparison, the eastern side of the island is barely touched by tourism: it's largely open to the Atlantic's waves, and instead of beaches has crashing surf off much of its rocky coastline. It is popular with surfers, however, who converge on the [...]

Nach oben