We awoke to a beautiful sunrise at 6:28, with a glorious rainbow and brown boobies diving into the waves to hunt flying fish. Our second officer, Alex, gave an in-depth explanation as the sailors hauled sails, and we were under sail by 9:30; with a 28-knot wind off our starboard quarter, we were making a very fine 8.3 knots. Historian Tom Heffernan gave a talk on “Diamond Rock.” We scheduled engine tours, had a snorkeling briefing, and enjoyed some more presentations; photo instructor Rich Reid discussed iPhone photography, and expedition leader Paula gave a talk on Caribbean geology. Finally, we enjoyed our festive Captain’s Welcome dinner to complete a wonderful first day.
1/22/2025
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Sea Cloud
Iles Des Saintes
Les Saintes, a gem of the French Caribbean, is a paradise where natural beauty and history intertwine. Our morning began at the iconic Fort Napoléon, perched atop a hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago. In the early light, the fort's sturdy stone walls stood in striking contrast to the turquoise waters below, while lush gardens filled with local flora lent vibrant splashes of color. Walking through the fort, echoes of its storied past invited quiet reflection. With the ship in the distance, the allure of the water proved irresistible. The tranquil waves shimmered under a soft morning sun, beckoning snorkelers to explore. Beneath the surface, the underwater world came alive. Scattered showers provided refreshing moments of reprieve from the tropical heat, leaving the air fragrant and cool, enhancing the sensory experience of this idyllic setting. In the afternoon aboard Sea Cloud , we set sail in perfect conditions. The steady trade winds filled the sails as we glided across calm, sparkling waters. The joy of sailing combined with the scenic beauty of the Caribbean made for a day that was nothing short of extraordinary.
