Caribbean

Learn from us: PredictWind Datahub Review – Insights from 2 Atlantic Crossings!

Von |2024-07-26T16:58:19+02:00Juli 25th, 2024|Kategorien: Equipment, Sailing, Starlink, PredictWind|Tags: , , , , , , |

PredictWind Datahub Review This article is a test review of the PredictWind DataHub, the pros and cons and explains how we used the system in combination with PredictWind the leading weather application (please check out our report on Predictwind) on board of Ambra during our last two Atlantic crossings. As sailors aboard the sailing vessel Ambra, we’ve found the PredictWind and the DataHub to be an invaluable tool for our voyages. This smart device has revolutionized how we access and utilize marine data and communications while at sea. Online connectivity and cost is a very important topic discussed in the sailing community. When you sail in the Baltic Sea or the med and visit a marina every night it might not be a problem for you. You might have European wide roaming on your mobile handset and in most marinas you will be able to find a decent wifi internet connection to check your weather forecast and data. In case you start sailing abroad communication and least cost routing becomes an important and costly topic. In the past we bought a local SIM card in a given country you are visiting and offshore most sailors relied on Iridium Go (in the past SSB) to download news or weather informations. This is very costly and you need to install a firewall to protect the systems from unwanted satellite traffic. We have meet sailors, who lost their entire satellite data subscripton  for a couple of hundert dollars overnight, because a computer downloaded a virus update over the Iridium connection. Now Starlink has become a major game changer for the boating community. Here in the Carribean Sea most of the vessels have Starlink on board. Starlink is a global satellite data service and can be used on and offshore. The data [...]

A peaceful oasis – Harbour Island and Windermere Island

Von |2024-05-08T08:19:16+02:00Mai 8th, 2024|Kategorien: Harbour Island, Eleuthera, Windermere Island, Nautor’s Swan, Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , |

We have explored nearly every cove of Harbour Island and larger Eleuthera , unoccupied when the first British settlers arrived in the 17th century. The Queens Bath (a collection of natural pools) on the latter is quite extraordinary. Private Island, Windermere Windermere Island, which is joined to Eleuthera by a bridge, is where we spent an awesome day on the beach. There are five miles of golden sand, peaceful lagoons and fiery sunsets. Over the decades, Windermere Island has retained its reputation of being home to those looking for privacy. Accessible only by a small guarded bridge that connects it to the mainland, and by invitation only. IT'S WHERE KING CHARLES, HONEYMOONED WITH PRINCESS DIANA - BUT WE HAD WINDERMERE PRIVATE ISLAND BEACH ALL to ourselves . HARBOUR ISLAND—a tiny sliver of land in the easternmost reaches of the Bahamas—is sometimes called the Nantucket of the Caribbean because of its concentration of billionaires, celebrities and colonial-era houses. Cocoa Dont miss Harbour Island, go to Sweet Spot Cafe, for exotic cocktails, such as an island daiquiri, made from coconut rum, mango pineapple and orange juice, or a Coral Heat, with vodka, grapefruit juice, black pepper, lime and sugar. Cocoa Coffee House makes the best cold-brew coffee and Queen Conch the best conch salad. No sailing adventure is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, so don't miss out on the best conch salad at Queen Conch, a true Bahamian delicacy rumored to be an aphrodisiac. Conch heaven The freshly caught conch is removed from its shell, cleaned in saltwater to remove the slop and slime (it gets better, don’t give up reading yet) and then freshwater, sliced up and served with onions, tomatoes, sweet pepper, salt, hot pepper, locally grown sweet oranges and fresh lime. They say it’s an aphrodisiac. Ride [...]

Warderick Wells and Shroud Cay: Shades of turquoise!

Von |2024-04-16T21:05:44+02:00April 16th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

The first significant island in the Exuma Cays Park is Shroud Cay, a curious 3-mile-long isle fringed by coral reefs with a heartland of mangroves and creeks. These areas offer really outstanding exploration by kayak, paddleboard or dinghy (if you're careful) through the mangrove creeks from the Exuma Bank side through to a gorgeous ocean beach on Exuma Sound. Trails from the beach to the top of the hill are clearly identifiable and you can climb to the top and take in a spectacular 360° view. This is a "must-see" if you enjoy pristine, spectacular, natural beauty and tranquility. Side Trip: Boo-Boo Hill Located on Warderick Wells, Boo-Boo Hill is the tallest hill on the cay and offers an amazing panoramic view of the Exumas as well as an unforgettable photo op. Atop Boo-Boo Cay is a lopsided monument created by bits of carved and painted driftwood left by cruisers to commemorate their visits. Legend has it that it's haunted by the unfortunate souls that have gone aground on the reef below. Some say you can hear them singing on moonlit nights (or it could just be the wind howling)...Nevertheless, the tradition is for cruisers to leave an offering atop Boo-Boo Hill to appease King Neptune and be blessed with good winds and smooth seas. Some come with pre-prepared signs or wood and paint, while others scrounge the beach for driftwood, seaweed, shells, coral and other treasures and make their offering on the spot. We haven't heard yet if it makes a difference what kind of offering you make but why not try it? It can't hurt.

Sailing the Exumas: A Seafarer’s Paradise

Von |2024-04-11T16:25:07+02:00April 11th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

With a string of 365 islands stretching over 100 miles, the Exumas offer a myriad of experiences for those seeking the ultimate sailing adventure. Now, let's chart our course and explore the best sailing options in the Exumas. While the entire archipelago beckons with its allure, for those with limited time, here's a curated itinerary to make the most of your trip! With the vastness of the Exumas, it's wise to focus on one region to truly soak in the splendor. Our journey begins by setting sail towards the northern Exumas, with our sights set on the enchanting Staniel Cay. The 10-day Exuma Sailing Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Adventure Day 1: Begin your odyssey by crossing the Yellow Bank to Highbourne Cay. Stop midway for lunch and snorkeling amidst the breathtaking coral heads. As the sun sets, anchor near the pristine beaches of Highbourne Cay, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. Day 2: Sail south to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a sprawling marine sanctuary teeming with underwater wonders. Dive into the adventure by navigating the mangrove river at Shroud Cay, a surreal experience leading to a thrilling water slide. Day 3: Discover the jewel of the Exumas Park, Warderick Wells, where turquoise waters meet untouched beaches. Secure a mooring ball at Emerald Rock and hike to Boo Boo Hill, leaving behind a piece of driftwood as a sailor's tradition. Day 4: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Staniel Cay, indulging in the delights of the Staniel Cay Yacht Club. Swim with the famous pigs at Pig Beach and explore the mystical Thunderball Grotto, a snorkeler's paradise featured in James Bond movies. Day 5: Venture onwards to Lee Stocking Island, a haven for relaxation and exploration. Hike to Perry’s Peak or simply unwind amidst the turquoise waters, [...]

Island Hopping Bliss: Navigating the Bahamas aboard a 48-Foot Monohull Sailboat

Von |2024-04-08T20:36:39+02:00April 8th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

The Islands of The Bahamas spread themselves out over a geographic area more than 500 nm long! The Bahamas are not one continuous cruising ground, and are grouped into several different archipelagos and several larger islands, and each one has a unique flavor of cruising. Each offers its own set of cruising destinations. You can choose to visit a single island chain or visit them all. You can speed your way through the country, moving to a new anchorage every night, or you can slow down to island time and spend months in each place. Between each island chain lies a bluewater passage to be made. Most trips are in the 40 to 60 mm range, within the bounds of a day sail for most boats. But passage planning and waiting for good weather are essential. Your departure and arrival points usually have narrow, high current cuts to navigate. The Exuma Cays Most Instagram pictures of The Bahamas are taken in the Exumas. They are home to gin-clear water, the original and most famous swimming pigs and friendly nurse sharks that like to be stroked. The Exumas stretch from near Nassau until they almost touch Long Island. There are small settlements along the way but what most folks come to see are the unspoiled beaches with dream-like tropical water. Cruising the Exumas requires a good watch on the weather and moving around. The islands offer few protected anchorages. Most of the popular anchorages are exposed to southwest and westerly winds, making them uncomfortable (and possibly unsafe) in some conditions. The deep blue Exuma Sound borders the cays to the east and the shallow and green Great Bahama Bank to the west. You can hop between the two as needed using the many cuts between islands. But be aware: Those cuts [...]

Bahamas: It’s all ours to explore!

Von |2024-04-08T15:37:21+02:00April 8th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Bahamas: It's all ours to explore! Yesterday we arrived in Long Island Bahamas after a trip of more than 230 NM from Provo, Turks and Caicos. We left the Caicos Banks with just 1m under the keel –it was an adrenaline-pumping sail! Caicos Bank Think of the Caicos Bank as a 60-nm wide, circular, reef-fringed atoll. Water depths on the Bank run from around 6 meters/20 feet to 0 MLW. Proven transit routes carry about 2.4 meters/8 feet. Much of the Bank remains unsurveyed. Whatever the skill level, the prudent sailor will ensure that visual navigation is employed when transiting Turks and Caicos. This means daylight travel only and in sunlight and good weather facilitating bottom reading. The navigation aids are not always reliable and shifting sands and submerged rocks and reefs are just some of the hazards. Tide highs and lows are close to Nassau high and low tides. Sailing the azure waters from Turks and Caicos to Long Island, 🏝️Bahamas at 9/10 knots speed, wind 💨 20 knots , 26 hours fueled by delicious chicken, tomato, and greek cheese wraps crafted by our awesome friend Anette. The captain Torsten at the helm, who stayed awake the whole night, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey. Happy to be here! The Bahamas are made up of nearly 700 islands, most of which remain uninhabited. It is sometimes difficult for us to leave beautiful places and set out again and again. But there always remains the expectation of getting to know new and beautiful places. And almost always that is true, especially in the Bahamas. In the afternoon we reached the entrance of Calabash Bay at high tide. Looking out over the sea, it is hard to believe that it is just a narrow channel leading into the bay with sufficient [...]

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 [...]

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