Setting Sail on Tradition

The sun was just beginning to rise over Sandy Ground as I made my way to the dock, the salty breeze already whispering promises of adventure. I had heard tales of the Traditional Sailing Adventure and its legendary hosts, Laurie Gumbs and Deb Vos, and I was eager to experience it for myself. As a former professional surfer, the ocean has always been my playground, and the idea of sailing on a historic Caribbean sloop was too enticing to resist.

As soon as I stepped aboard Tradition, I was greeted with a warm smile and a refreshing Mimosa. Laurie and Deb, our hosts for the day, shared the fascinating history of the sailboat, once a sail-trader and rum smuggler. Their passion for the sea was infectious, and I found myself captivated by their stories of Anguilla and the real pirates of the Caribbean. With the sails raised and the wind in our favor, we set off towards the Prickly Pear Cays, a hidden gem in Anguilla’s Marine Park System.

A Day in Paradise

The journey to Prickly Pear was nothing short of magical. The crystal-clear waters sparkled under the Caribbean sun, and the gentle sway of the boat was a soothing reminder of the ocean’s embrace. As we sailed, Laurie cast a fishing line, and to our delight, we caught a fish that would later become part of our feast.

Upon arrival at Prickly Pear, we were greeted by pristine white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkeling in the warm waters, I was surrounded by a kaleidoscope of marine life, each creature more colorful than the last. It was a surreal experience, one that reminded me of why I fell in love with the ocean in the first place.

Lunch was a lavish affair, with a huge lobster feast prepared for us on the beach. The freshly caught fish was grilled to perfection, adding a delightful twist to our meal. As we dined, the sound of waves lapping against the shore provided the perfect soundtrack to our island escape.

The Journey Home

Reluctantly, we departed Prickly Pear, but the adventure was far from over. The sail back to Sandy Ground was exhilarating, with the wind propelling us forward and the open bar keeping spirits high. Deb’s homemade chocolate chip cookies and fresh watermelon were a sweet treat that perfectly complemented the rum punch.

As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we returned to Sandy Ground. But the day didn’t end there. Laurie and Deb joined us at our condo for a fish fry, turning our catch into a delicious dinner. It was a fitting end to a day filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

The Traditional Sailing Adventure is more than just a sailing trip; it’s a journey into the heart of the Caribbean, a chance to connect with the ocean and its stories. For anyone seeking an authentic island experience, this is a must-do. Until next time, keep riding those waves and chasing the sun!