Our adventure began as we set sail from the pristine waters of the British Virgin Islands, aboard two beautiful yachts, Lyra and Stand By One. The Caribbean chain stretched before us like a sparkling necklace of islands, promising a voyage full of breathtaking scenery and maritime challenges.

The weather was nothing short of perfect—clear skies, steady trade winds, and not a hint of storms or lightning to interrupt our journey. These ideal conditions allowed us to sail nearly the entire route, with Lyra maintaining an impressive average speed of 7 to 10 knots. The gentle but consistent winds gave us that magical feeling every sailor knows—that sense of harmony with the sea.

Meals were simple yet satisfying: sandwiches became our go-to, as no one wanted to spend time cooking while soaking in the endless ocean views and savoring the fresh sea breeze.

A Night Stop in Dominica

Midway through our voyage, we stopped in Dominica for the night. Arriving under the cloak of darkness presented a unique challenge. The anchorage was deep and surrounded by ghostly, unlit ships—silent sentinels resting in the bay. It took teamwork, careful navigation, and the beam of a flashlight to safely maneuver and settle in for the night. The eerie but peaceful atmosphere made the experience unforgettable.

The next day, we were treated to a quick island tour of Dominica—a Caribbean gem known as the “Nature Island” for its lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and abundant wildlife. Fun facts about Dominica include:

●      Dominica is home to the world's second-largest boiling lake, a rare natural phenomenon.

●      The island boasts one of the Caribbean’s last remaining intact rainforests, rich with endemic bird species.

●      Dominica has never been colonized by the British or French, which has helped preserve its unique culture and environment.

●      The island is famous for its strong commitment to sustainable eco-tourism, earning it the title of a top destination for nature lovers.

Arrival in Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

Continuing our southward journey, we finally arrived in Saint Vincent and The Grenadines. After clearing customs at Blue Lagoon, we enjoyed a well-deserved meal at a local restaurant, indulging in the island’s vibrant flavors and warm hospitality. The rest of the day was spent relaxing and soaking up the island’s laid-back vibe, a perfect way to end our journey out at sea.

Reflections on the Caribbean Chain and Sailing Experience

The journey from the British Virgin Islands down to Saint Vincent and The Grenadines covers a diverse stretch of the Lesser Antilles, each island offering its own culture, charm, and seascape. This part of the Caribbean is perfect for sailing enthusiasts who relish both the technical challenges of navigating deep anchorages and the joy of open-water sailing with consistent winds.

Our voyage aboard Lyra and Stand By One was a true celebration of the Caribbean’s natural beauty and the spirit of adventure that comes with sailing. We look forward to sharing many more journeys on these magnificent yachts!