Setting Sail on Tradition

As the sun began its gentle ascent over the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and gold, my husband and I found ourselves standing at the pier in Sandy Ground, Anguilla. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation, a promise of adventure that only the Caribbean can offer. We were about to embark on a journey aboard the Tradition, a vintage Caribbean sloop that has exchanged its days of sail-trading and rum smuggling for a more leisurely pursuit—hosting guests on an authentic sailing adventure to the Prickly Pear Cays.

The moment we stepped onto the deck, we were greeted with warm smiles and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you’re visiting old friends. Deb and Laurie, our gracious hosts, welcomed us with mimosas and freshly squeezed orange juice, setting the tone for a day of indulgence and relaxation. As the sails were hoisted, we were invited to either lend a hand or simply relax and watch the world go by. We chose the latter, savoring the gentle sway of the boat and the promise of the day ahead.

A Day in Paradise

The journey to Prickly Pear Cays was nothing short of magical. The sea was a brilliant shade of turquoise, and the sun cast a warm glow on the water, creating a shimmering path that seemed to lead us straight to paradise. Along the way, we kept our eyes peeled for turtles, flying fish, and even the occasional dolphin. The crew, ever attentive, ensured we were comfortable and well-fed, offering an array of drinks, muffins, and fruit skewers to keep our energy up.

Upon arrival at Prickly Pear, we were greeted by the sight of pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island was alive with the sounds of nature, from the gentle lapping of waves to the calls of seabirds nesting nearby. We spent the morning snorkeling along the vibrant reef, marveling at the colorful array of fish and the occasional glimpse of a resident turtle. The water was so clear that it felt like swimming in a giant aquarium, each stroke revealing new wonders beneath the surface.

After working up an appetite, we indulged in a delicious Caribbean barbecue on the beach. The lobster, a special request we had made in advance, was cooked to perfection, its sweet, tender meat a testament to the culinary skills of the local restaurant. As we dined, we sipped on refreshing rum punches and enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere of the tiki beach bar.

The Journey Home

As the afternoon sun began its descent, casting long shadows on the sand, it was time to bid farewell to Prickly Pear. We boarded the Tradition once more, our hearts full and our spirits high. The journey back to Sandy Ground was an exhilarating upwind sail, the wind filling the sails and propelling us forward with a sense of freedom and adventure.

The crew kept us refreshed with rum punch, chilled wine, and beer, while satisfying our sweet tooth with homemade chocolate chip cookies and fresh watermelon. As we sailed, we reflected on the day’s experiences, the memories we had created, and the connections we had strengthened. It was a day that reminded us of the beauty of the Caribbean, the joy of exploration, and the power of shared experiences.

As we stepped off the boat and onto the pier, we were filled with gratitude for the day we had spent aboard the Tradition. It was more than just a sailing adventure; it was a journey of connection, a celebration of love and life, and a reminder of the magic that awaits when we open our hearts to new experiences. Until next time, Anguilla, you have captured our hearts once again.