Late Alpha, Charlie, Foxtrot, Sierra: Days 1 & 2 – Arrival & Soldiers Bay

Day 1:

Written by Anna Sutton, Social Media Coordinator

Campers began their journey to Sail Caribbean bright and early, traveling far and wide to join together in Tortola. Students who arrived via the USVI received a warm welcome from Sail Caribbean staff at the St. Thomas airport before loading into taxis and boarding a ferry for an hour-long journey with views of the islands. Students took the 2:30 and 5 pm ferries. After clearing customs, campers reached their final destination at Hodges Creek Marina.

Campers settled into their new vessels and spent time getting to know their crew-mates. After enjoying a hot meal of grilled chicken, veggies, rice, and coleslaw, everyone had the opportunity to shower. Captains and mates lead boat meetings, allowing their crews to get to know each other better before heading to bed.

Day 2:

Written by Anna Sutton, Social Media Coordinator

Campers woke up on onboard their new boats at 7:30 am. The crew prepared a breakfast buffet that included bagels, cereal, yogurt, and fruit before having a meeting with founder Mike Liese. Campers then had the opportunity to meet the dive staff and visit the Sail Caribbean Divers shop. Everyone then returned back to their boats and learned more about their vessels during a prior to first lesson that covered boat vocab, a full tour, and more essential information to prepare for life onboard. Campers then departed the base of Hodges Creek Marina and began their first sail! While underway, campers ate sandwiches for lunch and chatted while they munched on their meal. All boats learned and practiced how to raise the mainsail, unfurl the jib, and pick up a mooring ball. Each boat set course for Soldier Bay on Norman Island. Each boat picked up their first mooring ball then jumped into the crystal clear blue water for the swim test. Campers then enjoyed the rest of the beautiful afternoon onboard and snorkeled a favorite reef! Campers then took their first boat showers, learning another essential part of life on the water. Dinner crews cooked up yummy burritos for dinner and everyone spent the evening continuing to get acquainted with their boat-mates! Crews tucked into bed under the stars to prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Cooper Island!