Tag Archive: diving

Sailing Vacations – Virgin Gorda

August 6, 2011

The diving/sailing vacation for the Bayou boys continues as they plan for  a great sail to Virgin Gorda – fun, food, exploring. 

Our floating hotel has indeed become home to us.  The aroma of coffee gently nudges us awake.  That first cup sitting on the deck, looking at the blue ocean meeting the blue sky .  Gentle waves bounce off the hull, the  soft music of the wind, all is quiet  with the exception of a  splash as the sea gulls fish for their breakfast.  I feel so removed from the hectic world of school, finals, job interviews, phones, computers.  We are not connected but yet are connected to nature.   This sailing/diving vacation has intensified the bond that Jimmy, Andre and I have shared throughout our youth.  These memories will last forever.

Today we sail to Virgin Gorda.   Captain Terry is getting the boat ready for our journey.   Checking all of the lines, the engine and the instruments.   I take the helm while Jason releases the mooring ball.  Andre is pulling up the mainsail and then we release the ginny.  Winds are in our favor and we are moving out at 8 plus knots!!!  No engine, just the full sails as we cut through the 3-4 foot waves..  Some rollers from  a storm in the North Atlantic have moved in and  a spray of ocean water wakes us up.   Yipee!!!  We are pirates of old fighting the master ocean.

Our destination is Leverick Bay,  a full service resort  and home of the famous  beach big roast and the Mucko Jumbies.   As we enter the anchorage, Andre hooks the mooring ball and we are set.  A short dingy ride to the beach,  a cool beverage at the tiki bar and then a picturesque cab ride to the world famous Baths.   The Baths  consist of huge boulders that are stacked like building blocks creating a cave .  Sunlight shines through the openings and we wade through large pools of water.  The Baths are phenomenal and we have our camera in action.   The legend is that these gigantic boulders are the result of a meteor shower, probably when the dinosaurs were hanging out.

This evening we are going to party,  first we pull up to the tiki bar at Leverick Bay and  meet some of the local salts as well as boaters from all over the world.  Some are live aboards that just sail the islands,  having sold all of their worldly possessions and just enjoying the vagabond life.    We introduce ourselves to a group of ladies that are on a “girls trip” and now the party is getting geared up.

The music starts up and Michael The Pirate is starting his entertainment.  Michael Beams lives on a wicked looking sail boat and sings rowdy pirate songs.   He sings and tells tales of the pirates that sailed Drake Channel long ago.

Dusk is approaching, the smell of barbeque is wafting down.  Huge table are set up loaded with a huge array of food  including a roasted pig.   Great food, the band is playing, drinks are flowing and everyone is ready to dance and to party.

Expectation is in the air and as I look up I see a very tall person in bright colors coming around the pool.  A drum roll, It is the Mucko Jumbies.    Natives dresses in colorful costumes on huge stilts come down and dance with the guests.  A conga line is formed   and we dance between the stilts.  Jimmy looks over at me and asks:  Is it Mardi Gras?   We dance until the wee hours with our new best friends from the “girls trip” and then reluctantly bid good night and dingy back to our boat.

Captain Terry has schedule a rendezvous dive to the Dogs for tomorrow.   I can hardly go to sleep thinking of the all of the things that we will see tomorrow.

Check out:www sailwithterry.com for [pictures of the Mucko Jumbies and the Baths.  Captain Terry will help you plan your perfect vacation.   Diving, Sailing, Girls Trip, Honeymoon, Family reunions.   Email: sailwithterry@gmail.com   or  941 266 0296

 

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Sailing Vacation – Dogs, Indians, Monkey

Jan 27, 2011

Who are these guys and what do they have in common with my sailing vacation?

A recent  sail boat charter to the British Virgin Islands was a warm respite from the frigid, icy, and snowy weather in Georgia.

An easy flight to San Juan Puerto Rico, a scenic ride on a commuter plane to Tortola, and it was time to shuck the gloves, hat, and boots.   Shorts, flip flops and a tropical drink in my hand.  This transition was easy.

Sailing in the Caribbean visiting a different island each day.  So many beaches, so many fun places to party, so little time.

The water was turquoise blue,  so clear that you could see the sandy bottom along with turtles and numerous colorful exotic fish.  Mild winds, calm ocean, sunny skies… perfect time to snorkel.

The BVI is world renowned for its numerous dive locations including the famous wreck of the Rhone and multiple cave sites.

For those of us that love to just jump off the back of the boat with a snorkel and mask, you cannot find a location that is more “snorkel friendly” .  There is usually a turtle swimming by, tons of angel fish, parrot fish, grouper…

There are so many great walls, caves, and reefs you could snorkel every day and still not see everything.

The most famous snorkel spots in the BVI are:  The Dogs, The Indians and Monkey Point.  These locations are within easy sailing distance of each other and they each have distinct characteristics.   Beautiful coral abounds with so many tropical fish.  You can swim along with the fish, pass through a short tunnel or even dive down and check out what is lurking under the coral.  All this exciting marine life at your fingertips as you are swimming   in the midst of so much beauty.   Even the inexperienced snorkeler can feel comfortable as you glide through nature’s aquarium.

Visit sailwithterry.com and check out the pictures and video of exciting underwater photography.  Book your sailing vacation with SailwithTerry and visit the Dogs, Monkeys, and Indians.

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Sailing Vacations are All about the Integration of Fun Activities, Partying and Relaxing

Nov 24, 2010

Sailing & Diving Vacation

Sailing & Diving Vacation

The BVI has 50+ beautiful islands and cays very close to each other so you are always in sight of land. The chain of islands shaped like a necklace offers numerous safe harbors and protected anchorages. This sailing paradise offers daily chooses in activities on the water, in the water and under the water.

Diving/Snorkeling – Sailing vacations in the BVI and Caribbean offer many spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations. The BVI is an underwater paradise with over 100 dive/snorkel sites for undersea exploration and offers azure clear waters, abundant sea life, stunning coral gardens, canyons, tunnels, caverns, grottos, and shipwrecks.

In customizing your sailing vacation we can include as much diving and snorkeling as you wish. We can start the day off diving/snorkeling, we can have multiple stops during the day and we always end up at an anchorage where we can do more diving/snorkeling.

Sailing – Oh Yes, On your sailing vacation we will do as much sailing as you want. It was a simple decision to choose to operate SailWithTerry in the BVI as the BVI is a sailor’s paradise. The crystal clear waters, peaceful anchorages, constant trade winds and deserted coves provide the environment for special sailing vacations. Winds generally blow at 10-25 knots, and are sometimes stronger in the winter months Whether you are an accomplished sailor, or a land-lubber with no experience at all Captain Terry will help you to set sail on an sailing adventure you’ll never forget.

On your sailing trip you will enjoy incredible variety – the BVI is a cruising area that is approximately 32 miles long and 15 miles wide. A sailing vacation gives you the freedom to create your own agenda around the 50+ islands and cays that form the beautiful BVI.

Fishing – On your sailing trip Captain Terry will schedule rendezvous fishing trips as part of the customized sailing agenda. The BVI is home to the famous North Drop above Tortola, which claims the highest number of Blue Marlin strikes per day of anywhere in the World. Schools of Wahoo, Dolphin Fish, Tuna, Sailfish, White Marlin and Kingfish hungrily feed around the Islands. Anegada is one of my favorite islands for diving and snorkeling and is known for some of the finest shallow water and deep-sea fishing in the world. For those interested in fly-fishing, Anegada’s waters offer a wide variety of game fish. Fishermen can spend hours in water eight inches to two feet deep casting into schools of silver bonefish.

Hiking Mountains & Walking Deserted Beaches

Sailing Vacations in the BVI are not limited to water activities. While you are on your sailing trip there are many opportunities for walking deserted beaches and great hiking in the BVIs. Some of the National Parks boast rock outcrops and deep gully’s that expose the rich earth of these volcanic islands. If something a bit more relaxed is what you have in mind then there are a number of small deserted islands resembling Botanic Gardens. They offer peaceful walks through tropical vegetation and pathways covered with colorful vines, as well as a miniature forest and beautiful vistas.

Jost Van Dyke, Norman, Virgin Gorda – North Sound are a few of other islands that have a number of unspoiled trails and hills with breathtaking views and mind-blowing panoramas.

Kayaking & Relaxing– Each afternoon we enter a new cove for a peaceful anchorage, but your choice of activities continues. A popular late afternoon activity is to take some snorkeling gear jump in the kayak and go exploring. Another popular choice is to grab a noodle, and a beer then jump off the stern of Mañana Maybe it’s time to relax.

The Party Scene – On yes, as you enjoy your Caribbean sailing trip you have a wide range of famous and infamous beach bars and party boats. A wide variety of entertainment is offered in the majority of these charming party locations. Your challenge if you want to accept it, is to decide which of the many fun and crazy places you will party at, all with the friendly inviting atmosphere you would expect. To name a few Jolly Rogers, Pirates, Willy-T’s, Emiles, Myett’s, Quito’s, Fat Virgin’s Café, Rock Café, Saba Rock, The Pub Beach Bar, Cow Wreck, Flash of Beauty, Big Bamboo and Foxy’s…..this is the tip of the iceberg.

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Sailing and Diving in the BVI

Nov 8, 2010

diving in bvi

diving in bvi

There are great diving opportunities while on a sailing vacation in the BVI. The majority of the 75+ dive sites are not over 75 feet deep and make for relaxing and beautiful diving. While most of the dive sites are not deep or demanding, we can arrange for advanced diver a number of challenging dives. With minimal tide fluctuation the conditions are normally quite calm so that at most the sites we normally don’t have dangerous currents. Since we are just 18º N of the equator the weather is tropical and you are almost certain of beautiful and fun diving. On a sailing vacation you can take a discovery dive if you are not certified diver. This is a great introduction to the world under the sea and a inexpensive way to decide if you want to become a certified diver.

There is an abundance of sea life and coral where ever you are diving. Manta rays, Caribbean nurse sharks,  and spotted eagle rays are not uncommon in the British Virgin Islands, but you will mostly enjoy an incredible number and variety of reef fish. Its not unusual to see huge grouper and snapper, green and spotted morays, turtles and rays, plus lots of tangs, jacks, pompano, spade fish, permits and of course large silver tarpon.

diving

diving

The waters of the British Virgin Islands are protected under the National Parks Trust. It is a top priority for all divers to protect the natural abundance of the reefs. The result is, divers enjoy healthy reefs with an enormous variety of fish. Mooring buoys minimize reef damage and regulations prohibit damaging or removing any plant or animal, keeping the reefs packed with life. Spear fishing is forbidden and the use of gloves discouraged. Visibility is normally in the 40 to 80 feet range, and at times of light wind can be 100 feet, plus. The water temperature stays between 77º and 82º F most of the year.

The combination of a great natural setting, man made regulations and conscience divers makes the BVI a diving paradise. What a vacation great sailing and diving as you go from island to island and reef to reef..

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Sailing and Diving in the BVI

Oct 25, 2010

There are great diving opportunities while on a sailing vacation in the BVI. Most of the 100+ dive sites are not over 75 feet deep and make for easy and beautiful diving. While most of the dive sites are not deep or demanding, we can arrange for advanced divers a number of challenging dives. With minimal tide fluctuation the diving conditions are normally quite calm so we don’t have many dangerous currents. Since we are just 18º N of the equator the weather is tropical and you are almost certain of beautiful and fun diving. On a sailing vacation you can take a discovery dive if you are not certified diver. This is a great introduction to the world under the sea and a inexpensive way to decide if you want to become a certified diver.

sailing and diving

Karen on Discovery Dive

There is an abundance of sea life and coral where ever you are diving. Manta rays, Caribbean reef sharks,  and spotted eagle rays are not uncommon in the British Virgin Islands, but you will mostly enjoy an incredible number and variety of reef fish. Its not unusual to see huge grouper and snapper, green and spotted morays, turtles and rays, plus lots of tangs, jacks, pompano, spade fish, permits and of course large silver tarpon.

The waters of the British Virgin Islands are protected under the National Parks Trust. It is a top priority for all divers to protect the natural abundance of the reefs. The result is, divers enjoy healthy reefs with an enormous variety of fish. Mooring buoys minimize reef damage and regulations prohibit damaging or removing any plant or animal, keeping the reefs packed with life. Spear fishing is forbidden and the use of gloves discouraged. Visibility is normally in the 40 to 80 feet range, and at times of light wind can be 100 feet, plus. The water temperature stays between 77º and 82º F most of the year.

The combination of a great natural setting, man made regulations and conscience divers makes the BVI a diving paradise. What a vacation great sailing and diving as you go from island to island and reef to reef.

diving in BVI Turtle Siting Long Bay
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Discover Shipwrecks on a BVI Sailing Vacation

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a tropical paradise full of beauty and views that are unsurpassed by any in the world. But some of these views don’t lie above you, or even around you. In fact, some of the best sights you can see on a BVI sailing vacation are beneath you! These are the fascinating shipwrecks that lie in these beautiful waters.

During your BVI sailing vacation, ask Captain Terry to take you to the RMS Rone. The Rone is not only a historical and magnificent ship, it is also the setting of many different movies, such as The Deep.

Because it has been underwater since 1867, its body is now the home of an entire ecosystem with tropical fish darting around, along with barnacles, coral, and sponges decorating the awesome frame. The hatch is located in about eighty feet of water, making it a perfect adventure for deep sea divers who want an even closer look at the ship’s interiors. Even swimmers who don’t want to go down too far can check out the propeller, which lies in about twenty feet of water.

After that, ask Captain Terry to whisk you twelve miles off the shore of Virgin Gorda, where the shipwreck of the Chikuzen found its way to the bottom of the ocean floor. These waters are home to aquatic life such as sting rays, eagle rays, snappers, barracudas and nurse sharks. Due to the choppy waters and the sometimes dangerous wildlife in the water, its best to only take a dive to the Chikuzen with a qualified and experienced diver.

Next drop anchor at the harbor located in Anegada Island and take a deep sea diving adventure to explore many shipwrecks such as the Rocus and the Paramatta, which are in the waters just a short distance away. These wrecks date back to 1929 and 1859, respectively, and are just two of many of the ships-turned-ecosystems that you’ll find in your diving adventure.

Just be sure to ask Captain Terry to pack the charter boat with lots of scuba gear before you go–these wrecks require more than snorkeling gear.

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