Two Weeks Before the Mast

The Star Clipper pictured off St. Kitts, with all sails up, was the tall ship home of Janet and Ralph for two weeks in February. Sailing to virtually all the Leeward and Treasure Islands in the Caribbean, the ship, the second largest tall ship in the world, was an absolute joy to experience.

The Clipper handled well in both strong and weak winds, offering two small swimming pools, plenty of sun (and shade) deck space for relaxation, reading, and just enjoying the vistas of the islands and sea.

The food was suberb. Gourmet meals featured three to four appetizers, multiple entrees, sorbet breaks to "cleanse the palate", desserts that were decadently fantastic, and the finest wines. A piano bar provided music that "old folks" could appreciate.

Everytime the sails were raised the choral music from "1492" filled the air.

On shore we enjoyed snorkelling, island tours, just simple beach time, and, of course, shopping.

In short, it was a great vacation (once you got used to sleeping while the ship sailed under sail - a great feeling!).