Setting Sail with Rêve de Nav

The Caribbean has always been my playground, a place where the ocean’s embrace feels like home. So when I heard about the Les Saintes Sailing Tour with Rêve de Nav, I knew it was time to trade my surfboard for a sailboat. My partner and I arrived in Gourbeyre, eager to embark on this nautical adventure. Our captain, Olivier, greeted us with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm for the sea. His knowledge of sailing was impressive, and he was more than willing to share it with us.

Our journey began with a hearty breakfast of fresh coffee, baguettes, and Olivier’s homemade confiture. As we set sail from Basse Terre, Olivier guided us through the basics of sailing, from the points of sail to life jacket protocols. The thrill of taking the helm in 25-knot winds was exhilarating, a reminder of the ocean’s power and beauty. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we found ourselves at a beachside restaurant, Ti-Bo Doudou, where a Morse code signal from my iPhone brought Olivier to our side in his dinghy. It was a James Bond moment that added a touch of adventure to our evening.

Snorkeling and Island Exploration

Day two was a feast for the senses. We anchored at Illet Cagit in Les Saintes, where the crystal-clear waters beckoned us to dive in. Snorkeling in this underwater paradise was like swimming through a living aquarium, with vibrant marine life darting around us. After a refreshing swim, we enjoyed a leisurely lunch on board, savoring the flavors of the Caribbean.

The afternoon was spent hiking to Fort Josephine, where wild goats roamed freely, adding a touch of whimsy to our adventure. As the sun set, we gathered on the beach for a moonlit barbecue. Olivier’s ingenuity shone through as he crafted candle holders from plastic bottles, creating a cozy ambiance that defied the wind. The night was filled with laughter, stories, and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

Sailing Lessons and Cultural Discoveries

Our final day was a blend of sailing and cultural exploration. We returned to Terre de Haut, where Olivier introduced us to a new bay, reputed to be the second most beautiful in the world. The scenery was breathtaking, a testament to the Caribbean’s natural beauty. Under Olivier’s guidance, I honed my sailing skills, learning to tack and jibe with precision. The steady rhythm of the sea was a soothing backdrop to our lessons.

After a thrilling sail back to Basse Terre, we ventured to La Griveliere coffee museum. The tour was a fascinating glimpse into the world of coffee and vanilla cultivation, with a tasting session that left us craving more. As the day drew to a close, we returned to the boat for an impromptu party with Olivier’s friends, fellow mariners who shared our love for the sea. The night was a celebration of camaraderie, with French cheese and “planteurs” flowing freely.

As we departed the next morning, the early sunrise casting a golden glow over the marina, I felt a pang of longing to stay. The Les Saintes Sailing Tour had been a journey of discovery, a reminder of the ocean’s allure and the joy of shared adventures. Until next time, Guadeloupe, I’ll be dreaming of your azure waters and the call of the sea.