Setting Sail on Tradition

The moment I stepped onto the tender that would take us to the Tradition, I felt a familiar thrill of adventure. The Caribbean sun was warm on my skin, and the gentle waves lapped against the boat, whispering promises of the day ahead. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours on the water, but there’s something uniquely captivating about setting sail on a vessel steeped in history. Tradition, built in 1978, is the last surviving Caribbean sloop of her kind, and she carries with her tales of sail-trading and rum smuggling.

Deb and Lorrie, our hosts for the day, greeted us with warm smiles and a sense of camaraderie that made us feel instantly at home. As we boarded the Tradition, Mimosas in hand, the excitement was palpable. The crew’s passion for sailing was infectious, and they were more than happy to share their knowledge about the intricate workings of the vessel. Watching the sails unfurl and catching the wind was a sight to behold, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the ocean, a feeling that never fails to invigorate my spirit.

Discovering Prickly Pear Cays

Our destination was the Prickly Pear Cays, a jewel in Anguilla’s Marine Park System. As we approached, the turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches came into view, and I knew we were in for a treat. The snorkeling here is nothing short of spectacular, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. I spent a blissful hour exploring the underwater world, feeling like a kid again as I swam alongside colorful fish and graceful sea turtles.

After snorkeling, we were treated to a sumptuous Caribbean barbecue on the beach. The lobster was the star of the show, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. As we dined, the gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves created a serene backdrop, making it a meal to remember. With a Pina colada in hand, I took a moment to soak in the beauty of the surroundings, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such an authentic slice of Caribbean life.

The Journey Back

As the afternoon sun began to dip towards the horizon, it was time to head back to Sandy Ground. The sail back was exhilarating, with the wind in our sails and the promise of rum punch and homemade chocolate chip cookies waiting for us. The camaraderie among the guests was palpable, and it felt like we were leaving as friends, not just fellow travelers.

Deb and Lorrie’s hospitality was second to none, and their attention to detail made the day truly special. From the refreshing drinks to the delicious snacks, every aspect of the journey was thoughtfully curated. As we docked back at Sandy Ground, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness that the day was over. But I knew that the memories of this adventure would stay with me, fueling my passion for sharing the beauty of island life with all of you.

If you’re ever in Anguilla, I highly recommend setting sail on the Tradition. It’s an experience that captures the essence of the Caribbean, blending adventure, relaxation, and a touch of history. Until next time, keep chasing those waves and seeking out new horizons!