Embarking on our journey from St. Lucia to Antigua, the crew of Hummingbird has experienced an unforgettable first week. From mastering the art of sailing to exploring Caribbean locales, we’ve embraced both challenges and triumphs together. Here’s the crew’s account of week one!
Embarking on Hummingbird in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia, for the start of our sail north to Antigua, we stowed our belongings into compact cubbies, each of us silently contemplating how we’d adapt to life in such close quarters with newfound companions. After a hearty meal and a night of restless anticipation, morning greeted us with a comprehensive briefing and formal introductions. Without delay, we set sail towards Marigot Bay, grappling with unfamiliar lines and knots, collectively embracing the uncertainty of our new maritime reality.
Under the Caribbean sun, we tacked and jibed, experiencing both the exhilaration and challenges of our voyage. As Marigot Bay emerged on the horizon: its lush green hills, palm-fringed sandy strip, and timeless, colorful bars—we felt a profound sense of accomplishment. This picturesque scene would later echo in Portsmouth, Dominica, prompting reflections on the countless hidden paradises the Caribbean might hold.
Our journey wasn’t without its trials. In St-Pierre, Martinique, we wandered quiet streets at 5 p.m., stomachs rumbling, only to discover that local restaurants wouldn’t open until 7. As rain began to fall, some of us settled for supermarket snacks, returning to the boat damp and weary. Yet, the following morning offered fresh air and calm waters: a brief respite before embarking on a six-hour sail to Roseau, Dominica.
The sea tested us with two-meter waves and 22-knot winds. While some succumbed to seasickness and others to sunburn, arriving in Roseau brought immense relief. A rejuvenating swim washed away our fatigue, and our spirits were lifted by complimentary beers at a local bar: a reward for winning a friendly race against Bluejay.
The next day, under the guidance of the legendary Seacat, we toured Dominica, sampling fresh coconut and raw cacao along the way. His energetic storytelling turned even a power station into a marvel. A misty rainforest hike left us drenched but triumphant, culminating in an unforgettable swim through a canyon and a climb up a cascading waterfall. A shorter sail brought us to Portsmouth, where some explored the river with Captain Barbosa, searching for the mythical Calypso but finding only irate crabs and an empty rum bottle.
As we concluded day five with dinner onboard, a palpable sense of camaraderie had developed among us. The initial apprehensions had dissolved, replaced by shared stories and laughter. Our collective spirit was high, and we eagerly anticipated the adventures that Guadeloupe would bring.
Bring on Guadeloupe. 😎
The crew are on week one of The Leewards: Emerald Islands Of The Caribbean.
