We certainly lucked out on our sail south from Carriacou to Grenada. We were underway before 7 am on April 3rd and had all sails up in moderate winds (12 – 15 knots mostly east). Our first course was set to travel south to the west side of Grenada, all the way to the south west corner. With the wind strength and direction, we decided to travel on the east side of the island (better wind because the island wouldn’t block it but bigger waves). It was the best decision. We had a fantastic sail most of the way down – there was a brief period where the wind just disappeared but it picked up again. We were around the south east corner and heading for our anchorage just after noon. This trip was about 40nm so it was a fairly big day of sailing.
The south west end of Grenada has many bays for anchoring but everyone knows about these protected bays so they can be crowded. We had 3 possible anchorages in mind – Hog Bay, Mount Hartman Bay (aka Secret Harbour) or Prickly Bay. We started into Hog Bay (sails were down now) and realized quickly that it was way too crowded, so we continued to the next bay – Mount Hartman. This bay was also very crowded but there were several empty mooring balls. After a failed anchoring attempt, we decided to pick up a mooring ball. It was a very good idea!! We were settled in our spot by about 3 pm and had a very quiet night and a restful (do nothing) Saturday April 4th.
Today Sunday April 5th (Easter Sunday) we went to shore. This bay has a small (expensive) marina / resort called Secret Harbour Marina and that’s where we tied up our dinghy. We walked along the road, up and over to the next bay west – Prickly Bay. This bay is the main spot for cruisers on the south side of Grenada. It was very busy with loads of boats on mooring balls and anchored. Customs and immigration are also located at this spot (at the marina) so we’ll be back here to clear out of Grenada. More importantly, our friend Matt (Next Chapter) has his boat in the bay!! We met Matt and his son last year in DR and traveled with them for awhile. We’re hoping to meet up with Matt in the next few days (he has just returned to his boat) and get caught up on his season. While we were over at Prickly Bay Marina, we had lunch at the restaurant! We walked back to the boat after lunch and had lots of time to get ready for a family video chat. It was great to see almost all of the Popiel clan who were together at Mark’s brother John’s house for a lovely Easter lunch. It was great to see everyone and although we had a major downpour on our end, it looked nice in Toronto!
Looking ahead – our season is coming to an end!! We’ll be crossing to Trinidad overnight April 9 – 10. We’re at a marina from April 14 – 20. The boat is hauled out April 20 and we fly to Toronto April 25!!! Crazy
Crimson Kathryn and her crew 