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MAY/JUNE 2008
There is nothing-absolutely nothing-half as much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.
--Water Rat, Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahme
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. Welcome Aboard
2. Romancing in
the Caribbean
3. Gails Gems:
Crewed yacht charters
4. Musings from Melody
and Dennis:
Bareboat Charters
5. Caribbean Events
6. Music Festivals
7. Favorite Dining
Destinations
8. Kids Corner
9. Ask Sailgirl
10. Special Givaway
11. Caribbean Cuisine
12. Upcoming Issue
Download Printable Version
Want to get married in the BVI? See our article, “Weddings and Honeymoons Virgin-Island Style”.
Not sure what island to make your wedding, honeymoon or anniversary destination? Check out the following articles to learn about the various islands: Yachts in the Leeward Islands; Yachts in the Windward Islands.
Are you interested in yachts over 100 located worldwide?
Check out our sister company
Seven Seas
Yacht Charters at: www.sevenseascharters.com.
While you are there,
be sure to sign up for their
New to Fleet monthly update!
Check out our website
for a complete 2008
Caribbean Events Calendar.
Want to hear the sounds of the Caribbean live? Go to caribbeannewspaper.com and click on: Caribbean Radio on the net to select your favorite island.
Check out our KIDS CORNER, where you will find articles written by kids, the Buccaneer Bible (which is a downloadable PDF activities workbook perfect to take on your BVI charter), and other information geared just for kids!
Tow your dinghy safely! If you decide to pull your dinghy behind you from anchorage to anchorage-take everything out of it (oars, engine, swim fins, etc.) before you get under way.
Another dinghy tip! When backing or maneuvering the sailboat in close quarters (ie. catching a mooring buoy), bring the dinghy close alongside the sailboat and have one person watch it so that you do not run over the tow rope.
See our new BLOG at:
caribbean-sailing.blogspot.com
Feel free to comment about Charter Chatter!
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VOLUME 1, NUMBER 3
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WELCOME ABOARD!
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With a house full of women (even the dog is female), it is hard to miss that this time of year is the Wedding Season. If you are looking for the perfect place to celebrate your life together, then this issue of Charter Chatter is full of ideas.
Whether planning a wedding, honeymoon, vow-renewal ceremony, or even an anniversary, there is nothing quite like a Caribbean charter to mark lifes special moments. There are dozens of island venues to choose from as you enjoy a romantic getaway aboard your own private yacht charter. We even have some suggestions on where to eat, as well as fun local happenings.
If you are looking to create a truly memorable experience with that special someone, contact us at www.visailing.com to book that ultimate romantic vacation of your dreams. The magic is waiting for you in the Caribbean.
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Sincerely,
Tom DeMartine
Proprietor, Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd.
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| ROMANCING IN THE CARIBBEAN |
Thoughts of the Caribbean create images of incredible sunsets, palm-fringed sandy beaches, and sparkling turquoise water. Whether celebrating your new love as a couple with a wedding or on a honeymoon, or celebrating a lifelong commitment together with a renewal ceremony or anniversary trip, there is hardly a more romantic notion than being on a tropical island. And, without a doubt, the Caribbean is a wonderfully romantic place to rejoice! The weather is perfect, the scenery is intoxicating, and the beaches are pure perfection. Whether by yourselves or with a select group of family or friends, if you want to avoid the stress of planning a love celebration at home in a predictable place, you can find the perfect, extraordinarily unique setting in the Caribbean islands.
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It is easier than ever. Regulations for getting married have loosened up in the past few years. Now, in many islands, you only have to be a resident for 2-3 days before you can get married. Click the link for some of the current Caribbean island wedding regulations.
Many islands have wedding and event planners that can make all the arrangements at a variety of venues including:
- Beaches- Exquisite white, gold and black sand beaches can be found
throughout the Caribbean and are the most popular spots
for couples to say their, I dos.
- Waterfalls- Waterfalls serve as a wonderful backdrop for your ceremony and
photos. Such locations can be found in St. Lucia, Dominica and
Grenada.
- National Parks- These vary among the islands. Some parks are
historical and even among the worlds heritage places to visit. Some
parks are remnants of the wars fought between the British, French &
Dutch in the 19th century. All make a picturesque backdrop for your
ceremony.
- Botanical Gardens- Each garden is unique and the fauna and flora vary among
the islands. They provide a great photo opportunity for your
ceremony and/or reception.
- Churches- Most religions can be found throughout the Caribbean. Each
religion has its set of requirements for getting married in the
Church.
- Rivers- They are similar to beaches except that the sand is normally black
and they have small river stones. If you are an adventurous couple,
then you should try a river wedding.
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Perhaps the most memorable experience, however, to mark lifes most special moments, is aboard a sailing charter. Having your ceremony on the water with the sea breeze blowing to the sound of your vows-what more could you ask for? Whether aboard a crewed or bareboat catamaran or monohull, sailing off into the sunset together can be more than just a movie clich. If you are comfortable sailing and handling your own boat, a bareboat charter offers you the maximum privacy. Celebrating a wedding? No problem. Ministers and notaries are generally taken out in a chase boat, only staying for the ceremony. If it is a honeymoon or anniversary you are celebrating what better |
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way is there to be romantic that sailing away in paradise on your own private yacht?
If you do not know how to sail or you simply want to be spoiled, a crewed charter is the ideal way to have the island experience in the most carefree manner. You do not need to run the yacht or prepare meals. Many crews specialize in honeymoon or anniversary charters, and love to pamper their guests, while still respecting your privacy. Most crews quarters are separate, which allows you space to be alone with the one you love. Professional crews will find you secluded beaches to walk hand in hand, take you to their favorite snorkel spots, and find the best beach bars. They will prepare gourmet meals or recommend restaurants onshore. They will suggest itineraries, but the days activities are totally up to you. They are there to serve you, and your wishes are their commands. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the islands as you celebrate your love for one another.
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| Regardless of whether you have a crewed or bareboat yacht charter, your time sailing in the Caribbean will be the most romantic experience you will never forget. You can wake up in a different pristine anchorage every day. You can watch spectacular sunrises and sunsets from the comfort of your cockpit. You can spend your days sailing, snorkeling or diving, hiking, horseback riding, exploring onshore, walking hand in hand on the beach, or just snuggling together in a hammock under the palms. You can dance the night away to the rhythm of calypso and reggae, or simply count the endless stars. Whatever you do- the moment will be magic! If you are looking for a unique way to create deep and meaningful |
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| memories of your love for each other, a sailing charter to the Caribbean is your romantic answer! |
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| GAILS GEMS |
Our focus this issue is on weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries charter style! I have several great crewed yachts that offer wonderful discounts for those very special occasions. A Caribbean crewed charter is a great way and place to celebrate and make memories that will last you and your loved one a lifetime!
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This issue, I have three fabulous yachts to share with you. The first is a wonderful yacht called Crystal Clear, a 62' monohull. From her very spacious king cabin with ensuite head/shower to the beautiful well-maintained teak throughout, you will feel like you are on a classic sailing yacht. Your crew, Charly and Caroline, know how to treat you right. Crystal Clear offers an |
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incredible honeymoon package. For a rate of $6,950.00 for 7 nights/8 days, you will be treated to lobster, caviar, French champagne, a private beach picnic, your own personal photo album of your trip, as well as many other delightful things. How can you go wrong? Click to see Crystal Clear's complete honeymoon package.
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| Another great yacht that offers a fabulous honeymoon package is a gorgeous 60' catamaran named Pas De Deux. Pas de deux is French for dance of two or a close relationship between two people, and there is no better way to start your lives together than aboard this beauty! She has a luxurious owner's master cabin with a walk-around bed and full ensuite facilities. Included in your honeymoon charter is a private transfer to the yacht, flowers on arrival, a champagne reception, a romantic sunset dinner at Anegada's most beautiful beach, private picnics on stunning secluded beaches as well as many other personal touches for two.
Click the link Pas De Deux to learn more. |
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Finally, I would like to recommend the 54' Jeanneau sloop, Sayang, which means, sweetheart in Malay. Only a couple of years old, she is fun to sail in her generous cockpit and her deck provides easy access to the water. This very modern, air-conditioned yacht has polished wood throughout. Cabins have ensuite heads and showers, and the forward 2 cabins can be merged into a master king stateroom. Her crew, Ratna and Paul know all about romance aboard. They met on a sailing holiday in the Caribbean and have been married for close to 10 years. Sayang will provide you the perfect platform for your tropical honeymoon or anniversary. Click for more information on Sayang.
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These are just a very small example of the numerous yachts in our charter fleet that offer specials for your wedding, honeymoon or anniversary. I have many more yachts that will fit your needs. I look forward to helping you plan your romantic Caribbean journey.
Till next time, Smooth Sailing and Fair Winds!
Gail Hartman, Crewed Yacht Charter Specialist
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| MUSINGS FROM MELODY & DENNIS |
What is so great about a bareboat honeymoon or anniversary charter? Lets count the waves, freedom, relaxation, intimacy and privacy. With just you and the love of your life on board, romance is everywhere! It is on the deck under the star-lit sky, in the cockpit with soft candle light and tasty wine, and on the beach where the Caribbean salt, sea and sand tantalize all your senses. Romance can even be in the dinghy with a little imagination, maybe fishing along the shore with a cooler of Caribs and a picnic lunch.
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A 2-cabin yacht is recommended for a honeymoon or anniversary couple. They range from 31 feet to 46 feet. The Moorings offers a sophisticated and comfortable cruiser- the new Moorings 35.2, built by Beneteau. This yacht incorporates good overall performance with spacious living accommodations. Below deck, the aft cabin offers the largest berth at 68 x 45, while the forward cabin is a v-berthperfect for extra storage (or kids). The raised deck over the salon provides for extra large panoramic views and a well-lit interior. The galley is roomy with ample storage, and the head is quite large including a separate shower stall. Above deck, the large cockpit offers an innovative pivoting steering wheel which rotates ninety degrees-allowing easy access from the helm to the companionway. The Moorings 35.2 is designed for ease of handling and is equipped generously with GPS, autopilot, electric anchor windlass, and a stack-pack system on the mainsail. Click to learn more about the Moorings 35.2.
For a more luxurious yacht, Horizon Yacht Charters offers an exciting new Jeanneau deck salon model: the 42DS. This yacht features an ultra modern hull, providing exceptional speed while under sail or power. The accommodations include a well-appointed owners cabin, complete with a queen-sized island berth measuring 66 x 65, and an extremely large head and shower. This yacht is even spacious enough for guests on board, with a second cabin and head located all the way forward giving you and your guests plenty of privacy and room to move around. The overall feel is comparable to other deck salon models with open and bright interiors, plus plenty of ventilation. Again, this yacht is designed for easy handling with all the lines leading to the cockpit and dual helms granting maximum control. Horizons Jeanneau 42DS has impressive upgraded features such as electric heads, generator and dual-zone air conditioning, chart plotter with radar scanner, Sirius satellite radio, 30 HDTV with cable, dual electric genoa winches, and a cockpit anchor windlass remote. Click for more information on the Horizon 42DS.
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With our expertise and access to the fleets of 16 reputable charter companies, we can find you the perfect yacht for your honeymoon or anniversary. And, with our thorough knowledge of all possible discount and special offers, we are able to find you the best deal! That way you and your loved one can spend more money enjoying dining ashore instead of slaving in the galley. Melody has been happily married since 1999, and every anniversary has been spent on a bareboat charter! To make sure your special time together is personal and memorable, please complete our availability request form at: http://www.viyachts.com/_forms/availability.php for assistance with your charter. We would also love to speak with you directly, so feel free to contact us by phone at 1-800-382-9666 or 941-966-9387.
Till next time, keep your sails full!
Melody Delgado and Dennis Lang,
Bareboat Charter Experts
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Doesnt this sailing charter beat that 50th Wedding Anniversary
Party the kids were planning?
Go to our website at www.visailing.com to book your bareboat or crewed charter.
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| CARIBBEAN EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS FOR MAY/JUNE 2008 |
SENIOR OECS SQUASH CHAMPIONSHIP-St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Entire month of May
LABOUR DAY-Grenada: May 1
The first of May is celebrated with parades and parties organized in honor of Grenadas workers.
RUGBY TOURNAMENT St. Vincent
MAROON FESTIVAL- Union Island (Grenadines): May 1-4
An annual festival held three days before or after the full moon. It marks the start of the planting season. Activities include the Big Drum Festival, Nation Dance Festival and tradition folk songs.
ST. LUCIA 17th ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL- St. Lucia: May 2-11
This is the islands most prestigious and successful event bringing together jazz, soul and world rhythms from some of the greatest artists in the music industry. Attracts music lovers from all over the world.
CANOUAN REGATTA- Canouan (Grenadines): May 8-12
A festival of boat races, sports and games, calypso competitions, street jump-ups and a beauty pageant.
16th ANNUAL GOSPEL FEST- Barbados: May 17-25
World class productions featuring top local, regional and international gospel talent. Includes dance, drama, music and fun.
BVI MUSIC FESTIVAL- Tortola: May 23-25
Held in Cane Garden Bay where the sound of music meets the sounds of nature. Enjoy world renowned artists as this beach front venue.
FOXYS WOODEN BOAT REGATTA- Jost Van Dyke, BVI: May 25-27
Anyone with a wooden boat or a 30 year old fiberglass boat is eligible to participate in this annual race. While crews are racing, fans party to nonstop music, food and fun.
ST. KITTS MUSIC FESTIVAL- St. Kitts: June 1-July 31
This is one of the Caribbeans most popular musical events. Every weekend (beginning Thursday nights) during the festival, listen to international musicians alongside a great line-up of new and emerging local bands and performers.
ROMANTIC RHYTHMS FESTIVAL Antigua: June 12-15
Two main concerts and a variety of special events are planned with performers from around the Caribbean and South America. Music will include calypso, soca, steel drum, zouk and reggae.
VINCY MAS- St. Vincent and the Grenadines: June 27-July 8
This is the 31st Anniversary of the post Lent Carnival. Includes elaborate costumes, jump-ups, music competitions and a beauty pageant.
FISHERMANS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Grenada: June 29
Commemorates the feast day of St. Peter and Paul. Known locally as Fishermans Birthday Celebration, the event begins with church services and the blessing of the fishing boats and nets, followed by boat races, fishing displays and late evening parties.
HIGHLAND SPRING HIHO- BVI: June 29-July 6
Sponsored by the HIHO clothing company, this is a week of windsurfing competitions throughout the BVI. Racer courses cover 150 miles. Competitors travel to different sites aboard catamarans. This is a colorful event.
DENNERY FISH FESTIVAL St. Lucia: June 29
Dennery holds a fish bonanza on the last Sunday of June every year. All the fish the Atlantic has to offer is laid out for sale and locals feverishly compete in sailing, swimming, and rowing events, and much more.
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Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta |
Vincy Mas Costume |
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| CARIBBEAN MUSIC FESTIVALS |
The people of the Caribbean are extremely innovative when it comes to music, and they will tune up almost anything to make a rhythm. Whether it is reggae, calypso, salsa, zouk or soca, there is a different sound for almost every island. Underneath it all, you will hear the reverberation of African drums. Regardless of the type it is lively, fast and full of joy. Caribbean music can be about social commentary or protest, but it is mostly about dancing.
Although you can always find a place for a spontaneous Jump-Up, a number of organized music festivals have been created to attract visitors to the islands. Music festivals are all over the Caribbean. Designed for broad appeal, they include everything from Jazz and Blues Festivals to Reggae Festivals, and even an opera season in Barbados.
Attending a music festival is a not to be missed activity if you are visiting the islands. In fact, they are so fabulous; it is even worth scheduling your charter vacation around these events. Not only can you enjoy the music often by world class performers but you also have the opportunity to be in the company of local islanders and engage with them in a unique way with the common passion for music.
Here is a brief list of some of the Caribbeans music festivals:
January: St. Barts Music Festival, Barbados Jazz Festival
February: Grenadines Blues Festival
April: Carriacous Maroon Music Festival
May: Union Islands Big Drum; BVI Music Festival; St. Lucia Jazz Festival; Barbados Gospel Fest
June: St. Kitts Music Festival; Antigua Romantic Rhythm Festival
July: BVI Summer Calypso Festival
August: Barbados Pic-O-De Crop Calypso Finals
October: Dominicas World Creole Music Festival
November: Guadeloupe Creole Music Festival
December: Martinique International Jazz Festival
To learn more about the music of the Caribbean click to read our "Jammin in the Sunshine" article.
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St. Kitts Music Festival
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| SOME OF OUR FAVORITE DINING DESTINATIONS |
- The Most Romantic: The French Verandah-Mariners Hotel, St. Vincent
- The Most Unique: Sisters Sea Lodge- Prince Rupert Bay, Dominica
- The Freshest Fish With a French Twist: Le Genois-Terre Den Bas, Iles Des Saintes
- The Best Caribbean Buffet: Captain Olivers-Oyster Pond, St. Martin
- The Best Place to People Watch: Ballahoo-Basseterre, St. Kitts
- The Best Kept Secret: Abes By the Sea-Little Harbour, Jost Van Dyke
- The Most Entertaining: The Last Resort-Bellamy Cay, BVI
- The Most Likely to Make You Feel At Home: Golden Era Hotel-Statia
- The Best Gourmet Meal: Fish Pot-Grand Case, St. Martin
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Click the link dining delights to find out why these are our favorites.
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KIDS CORNER
Cool Places To Eat On a BVI Sailing Charter. |
I have had the opportunity to stop and eat at many different places during my last two British Virgin Island sailing charters with my grandparents. Each and every restaurant has a different feel and a wide variety of foods.
One of my favorite places is Sydneys Peace and Love on Jost Van Dyke. I enjoy this restaurant because I get to go behind the bar and make my own drinks. Last time I was there, I made the best virgin Pina Colada---even my brother agreed! Also, when you are eating, you get to look out at the beautiful view of Little Harbour.
Without a doubt, Foxys (also on Jost Van Dyke), has the best scenery. Any time you visit his restaurant, you are welcomed to leave behind any piece of clothing- usually underwear. Then you hang it on the ceiling for everyone to see. The first year, I left behind one of my PopPops boxer shorts. My brother and I decorated it for his birthday. Last time, we gave Grandma a funny lacy thong to leave behind. While you are waiting for your food, you can not only admire all of the hanging undergarments, but you can also kick back and relax in a hammock overlooking Great Harbour.
If you are in the mood for a show, you should go to The Last Resort on Bellamy Cay near Beef Island. Not only do they have great entertainment and food, but you get to dine with a variety of animals. One time, I even got to eat with a donkey. My favorite part of The Last Resort is that when the chef is done cooking, he will come out and sing.
The Willy T is a very unique experience. It is a big boat in the middle of the Bight off Norman Island where you can tie up your dinghy and climb aboard to eat. They grill your food on the back of the boat where you can watch them cook. If you are not into watching the cooks, you can go to the front of the boat where you can see people jump off the top right into the water. (Some people arent even wearing any tops!).
If you are in the mood for great drinks, I would go to Cooper Island. You can sit and eat while watching the beautiful sunset over the ocean. My favorite thing to eat on Cooper Island is the ribs. They are some of the best I have ever had.
Each island and each restaurant in the BVI has a different personality, and no two are the same. It would be very difficult for me to pick my favorite one. There are still many restaurants that I have not yet discovered, and I cant wait to try them. I hope my grandparents feel the same!
--Tori Mackman, age 12
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Kids: To have your story included in Charter Chatter, submit it, along with your name and age to: webmaster@visailing.com.
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| ASK SAILGIRL
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Dear Sailgirl: We are flying into St. Thomas and need to get to Tortola to start our charter. What is the best way to get there? J.M., Boulder, CO
Dear J.M.: When traveling between the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, ferries are a quick and convenient way to go. Check our website at www.visailing,com for the ferry schedules, but know that they are always subject to change. Most itineraries are scheduled at convenient times and most ferries travel several times daily. The line I use is Native |
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Sun. If you are coming from the airport in St. Thomas, you have two options.You can take a short taxi ride to the ferry dock in Charlotte Amalie. The ride on the ferry to Tortola, however, is a lot longer and can be rough as it comes around the point of St. Thomas. I prefer to take a taxi ride over the mountains to Red Hook and pick up the ferry to West End, Tortola. The last ferry run is usually between 4-5pm. It is a pleasant trip and takes somewhere between 20-30 minutes. Last time I was in Red Hook, they were just finishing up building a beautiful new ferry dock and customs house.
Dear Sailgirl: We have just chartered our first sailing vacation for a week this coming summer. What should we bring? D.G., San Francisco, CA
Dear D.G.: You are going to love your week! That being said, nothing can be easier than packing for a sailing vacation in the Caribbean. Unfortunately, most first time sailing vacationers pack too much! With plenty of sun and sea, life on the islands is very casual, and you really need very little. I would suggest you go to our article, Nine Packing Tips For A Caribbean Sailing Vacation. This should give you a good idea of what you will need. Just relax and enjoy!
Dear Sailgirl: What is the best thing to do with our trash while we are cruising on our charter in the BVI? P.F., Raleigh,NC
Dear P.F.: The beauty of the BVI is the pristine condition of the water and beaches surrounding the islands. Imagine what it would look like if every cruiser dumped their trash overboard. Trash storage and disposal is actually relatively simple. First, in terms of storage, any plastic grocery bag can be used to store small amounts of trash. This includes cans, bottles, and assorted food debris since there are no garbage disposals onboard. When full, these small plastic bags can be placed in larger trash bags. These trash bags can be stored inside a storage locker until you are ready to dispose of them. There are two ways to dispose of your trash. One way is to throw the bag in the dinghy and take it ashore with you for disposal in a dumpster. Always ask first, however, before you dump. Many trash bins are designated for cruisers. Another way is that there are often garbage pickups in the various anchorages. An islander will pull up along side your boat and for a couple of dollars, will take your trash ashore for you. Whatever you do, do not dump into the water-especially the plastic bags. Sea turtles sometimes dine on jelly fish. They might confuse the plastic bag for a tasty meal and suffocate.
If you have a question for Sailgirl, submit it to: sailgirl@visailing.com
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| ISSUE SPECIAL GIVE-AWAY
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Be the first five to book your charter before June 1, 2008 and receive a $100.00 gift card to Myetts Garden and Grille located on the beach of romantic Cane Garden Bay, Tortola. Let them know ahead of time about your special celebration and they will decorate your table!
Please ask your Broker upon booking to receive your gift card.
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CARIBBEAN CUISINE
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MOULES FRITES
MUSSELS IN COCONUT SAUCE WITH FRIES
(Guadeloupe)
2 lb. mussels
cup dry white wine
1 Tbsp. oil
1/3 cup heavy cream
2 shallots, finely chopped
1 tsp. sugar
1 clove garlic, crushed
salt and pepper to taste
4 oz. creamed coconut*
(or cup unsweetened flaked)
1 tsp. fresh thyme
hot French Fries
Scrub mussels. Discard any that are damaged, unusually heavy or remain open when tapped sharply. In a large saucepan, heat oil. Add shallots and garlic, and cook gently for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in coconut, and add wine, cream, sugar, seasoning and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Add mussels and cook for 5 minutes or until they open. Discard any that remain closed. Serve in warmed large soup bowls with a plate of hot French fries on the side and a French baguette to sop up the sauce. Serves 4
*Creamed coconut is pure fresh coconut formed into a block and provides a convenient alternative to either fresh or unsweetened flaked coconut. Some Latin and specialty stores have it. If not, substitute flaked, unsweetened coconut.
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www.visailing.com
2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis FL 34275 USA
Phone: (800) 382-9666 • (941) 966-9387
Toll Free Secure Fax: (866) 813-1230 • Secure Fax: (212) 500-0028
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