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Stage 2  US Virgin Islands - St Kitts to St Croix: 8-9 Jun 09

Oh Look!  We match!

Despite earlier misgivings, St Croix turned out to be rather nice.  It has all the mod cons, the customs staff were helpful and the harbour not too congested.  On top of all that WJ3 had a bit of a play with a friendly pod of dolphins on the way in.  How nice!

Due to a little (more) engine trouble, the Motleys arrived in style – under sail – to drop anchor.  On-lookers must have thought we were either sailing purists or smart SOB’s.  Christiansted has a reputation as a difficult harbour and reef to negotiate at the best of times – only under good light and never at night, says the Pilot Guide.  Well, go the Aussies!  Yesssssss!

All the mod cons in the Virgins

We took advantage of nearby St Croix Marina to re-water, re-fuel and then hit the boat shop for a few essentials.  The Cap’n must have had shopping withdrawals…..  The GS feigned a continuing fever to avoid doing the grocery shopping and clothes washing – both of which the Cap’n managed to accomplish after a quick reconnoiter of Gallows Bay. 

We planned another day to take advantage of St Croix’s many dive sites and do a little historical walking tour of the lovely old town of Christiansted.  Now, what do they say about plans….yep, written in quick sand…..

From: Basseterre, St Kitts Lat/Long: 17 17N  62 43W  Date/Time: 8/6/09: 1100

To: Christiansted, St Croix  Lat/Long: 17 45N  64 41W  Date/Time: 9/6/09: 1315

Time Taken: 125nm (26hrs)  Distance (this year): 583nm (127.5hrs)

Distance Total (since 2008): 1432nm  (295.5hrs)   Fastest Speed: Not noted**

Weather: Winds ESE 10-12kts; 4-6ft waves; E swell;

(**A little rolly & had engine trouble)