Setting Sail on Tradition

The Caribbean has always been my playground, a place where the ocean’s whispers guide my adventures. When I heard about the Traditional Sailing Adventure to Anguilla’s Prickly Pear Cays, I knew it was a journey I had to embark on. The allure of sailing on a vintage sloop, with its storied past of trading and rum smuggling, was irresistible. As I arrived at Sandy Ground, the informal charm of Anguilla was palpable. I stood by the pier, a touch of anticipation in the air, waiting for the little boat to whisk me away to Tradition.

The moment my feet touched the deck, I was greeted with warm smiles and a refreshing Mimosa. The crew, Deb and Laurie, felt like old friends, their hospitality setting the tone for the day. As we set sail, the gentle sway of the boat and the promise of adventure ahead filled me with excitement. The captain shared tales of Tradition’s past, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the ocean, much like my days of surfing the Caribbean waves.

Exploring Prickly Pear Cays

The journey to Prickly Pear Cays was nothing short of magical. The wind in my hair, the sun kissing my skin, and the sight of flying fish dancing alongside the boat made for a perfect morning. As we approached the cays, the turquoise waters beckoned, promising a snorkeling experience like no other. With masks and fins provided by the crew, I dove into the clear waters, greeted by a vibrant underwater world teeming with life.

The reef was alive with colorful fish of all shapes and sizes, and though I didn’t spot the resident turtle, the experience was exhilarating. After snorkeling, I swam to the beach, where a delicious Caribbean barbecue awaited. The lobster, a special request, was a culinary delight, perfectly complementing the laid-back island vibe. As I sipped on a Pina colada from the tiki beach bar, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for moments like these, where time seemed to stand still.

The Journey Back

As the afternoon sun began its descent, it was time to bid farewell to Prickly Pear Cays. The sail back to Sandy Ground was an adventure in itself, with the wind picking up and the boat cutting through the waves with grace. The crew kept us refreshed with rum punch and homemade chocolate chip cookies, a sweet end to a perfect day.

Back on land, I reflected on the day’s adventure. The combination of sailing on a vintage sloop, exploring the vibrant marine life, and indulging in Caribbean flavors made for an unforgettable experience. It’s days like these that remind me why I chose this life, where the ocean is both my muse and my playground. If you’re ever in Anguilla, the Traditional Sailing Adventure is a must-do, a journey that captures the essence of the Caribbean in all its glory.