Chinese Laundry

Sugar Train round St Kitts: 7 Jun 09

Had we known that we were sailing into a washing machine, perhaps we would have stayed “surfing the net” at Pinney’s and had another superb meal (of mahi-mahi) at Double Deuce – the second best meal we’d had in the Caribbean.  Silly Motleys.

Town Centre St Kitts

None of the crew slept well that night.  Not even after downing several “Killer Bee” replicas (rum punch).  WE couldn’t wait to get off poor WJ3 who was jiggidy-ing round like a buckin’ bronco in Basseterre's exposed harbour.  St Kitts offered a round island trip on the only running (restored) sugar cane train in the Caribbean chain.  For many islands, sugar is a thing of the past but useful to shape yet another historical attraction for the thousands that come regularly on cruise liners.  We also wanted to see the highly recommended Brimstone Fortress, which is said to be second only to Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua. 

So, while a very green first mate clutched her stomach (after a tough night on the laundry), off went Cap’n Hale & Hearty in search of information and breakfast.  So, here’s how our visit to St Kits (as obvious tourists) went…. 

Sting 1:  “We don’t do breakfast here in St Kitts”, said the Marina Security Guard.  Well it was 7 (in the morning!). 

Sting 2:  The sugar train only runs on Saturdays - and only when the cruise ships come in.  Forget that – smelt just a little too Disney anyway!  

Sting 3:  “Brimstone Fort, sure!” said the taxi driver.  “Minimum 4 passengers; but I’ll take you both for $200 (that’s US$)”.  Mmmmm!  No thanks – let’s get out of here. 

We eventually did find breakfast at Ballahoo.  GS regained some of her colour over a strong coffee and pancakes.  “Welcome to St Kitts!” said the chatty, friendly man at the table next to us.  You’ll love it here so much, you won’t want to leave.” 

Sting 4:  He turned out to be a real estate salesman!  We were back on board, packed & gone by 11am….

Pack your bags. We are not staying here!

From: Charlestown, Nevis Lat/Long: 17 08N  62 38W  Date/Time: 7/6/09: 1400

To: Basseterre, St Kitts  Lat/Long: 17 17N  62 43W  Date/Time: 7/6/09: 1630
Time Taken: 11nm (2.5hrs)  Distance (this year): 458nm (91.5hrs)
Distance Total (since 2008): 1307nm  (269.5hrs)   Fastest Speed: Not noted**
Weather: Winds ESE 10-12kts; 4-6ft waves; E swell;
(**A doddle really.  Getting our groove back after 2 long legs)