Martinique & the Windward Islands

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Welcome to Martinique

Martinique, often referred to as the “flower island,” serves as your starting and finishing point. And it’s not hard to see why the nickname fits. This French Caribbean gem is a melange of vibrant rainforests and postcard-perfect beaches. It’s the ideal spot to cast off the bowlines and set sail, but not before you take in the island’s unique blend of French and West Indian culture. A hot cuppa of local Ti’ Punch anyone? It sets the mood for what promises to be an adventure to remember.

If you’re able to, why not spend a few extra day in Martinique before or after your voyage. Rent a car to explore the north of the island right up to the green rainforest wilderness of Morne Rouge on the Route de la Trace, a route created by the Jesuits. The church square of the Sacre Coeur de Balata offers a stunning view of the mountainous tropical island. After a few minutes’ drive, you will reach the Botanical Garden, which charms its visitors with a stunning variety of tropical flowers and plants. Our tip: Before you set off home, try the island’s speciality: Rum punch – it is said to be the best in the whole Caribbean.

Windward Islands

You’ll be sailing through the Windward Islands, a chain that’s no stranger to any seasoned sailor. Your eyes will be treated to varying shades of turquoise as Eye of the Wind cuts through the Caribbean Sea. Among the jewels of this region is Saint Lucia, home to the awe-inspiring Pitons—volcanic cones that are more than just a nautical landmark; they’re an iconic symbol of the Caribbean’s geologic and scenic diversity. You will get to explore the most beautiful harbours, palm beaches, bays and anchorages around Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Along the Way

This voyage promises an odyssey through some of the most captivating scenery on Earth. Each day brings a new harbour to explore, it could be the rustic charms of Saint Vincent or the luxury that is the Grenadines. But let’s not forget Mother Nature’s own contributions: dolphins skimming the water’s surface, exotic birds wheeling in the sky, and the occasional sea turtle for good measure. The coral reefs, too, are vibrant canvases teeming with life—ideal for an afternoon snorkel. As the sun sets, we’ll find a secluded bay to drop anchor, where the twinkling night sky offers its own kind of spectacle.

The Real Pirates of the Caribbean – Lush rainforests, mountains and waterfalls

There are few things which beat a tropical sunset below the yard-arm whilst at anchor in a timeless setting. A sailing ship as your base gives you access to the unspoilt Caribbean; Fishing villages where the chickens roam the shore, or landing like an early explorer on a remote beach anchorage under a forest covered volcanic peak. 

If you have been dazzled by the natural scenery in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movies then both Guadaloupe and Dominica are much closer to that lush volcanic island paradise than more well known Caribbean tourism locations.  The second movie ‘Dead Mans Chest’ and 3rd Capt Jack Sparrow adventure At ‘World’s End’ were filmed in the rainforests of Dominica, close to Martinique.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

While the UK shivers, you’ll be soaking up tropical climes. Expect northeast trade winds ranging between 15-25 knots, making for a splendid sail. Seas are generally moderate, but it’s always wise to hold onto your hat!

A NOTE ON VOYAGE DESCRIPTIONS

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice. 

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail. Handling cargo adds an extra dimension – building teamwork and communication skills and leaving you with a great sense of achievement.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on the Eye of the Wind

Working Language on Board is German and English

Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind   

Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind

What is Included

• Sailing Instruction
• All meals to include refreshments throughout the day
• Duvet, pillow and sheets
• Hand towels

What is not Included

• Waterproof jackets and trousers
• Alcoholic drinks but there is a bar on board
• Any entry visas required

What to Bring

Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.

• Eye of the Wind does not supply waterproof jackets and salopette type trousers. Please bring your own waterproof clothing.
• A mix of warm and wind proof clothing.
• Lots of thin layers is better than one thick layer in cold destinations.
• In tropical countries - long sleeves and long trousers to protect you from the sun
• Footwear on board needs a good grip and soft soles- the decks are wood or steel.
• Ashore stout, waterproof walking boots are best if you are in remote places.
• Eye of the Wind has electric sockets in all the cabins 240 V 
• Cameras, spare batteries, chargers if you need them
• Binoculars are handy for bird watching etc.
• Suntan lotion, hats, sunglasses
• Dont forget any regular medication, persciption glasses and spare
• Euros for bar bill 
• Passport, travel insurance, tickets etc
•  To get ashore is usually by dinghy so be prepared to get wet feet. Rubber boots or quick drying sandals - depending on the location.
• The ship provides hand towels but please bring a beach towel
• snorkel and mask for caribbean if you like snorkelling (travel tip: swimming goggles pack up smaller than a facemask)
• Bring insect repellant for Caribbean as can get mosquitos ashore in evening (rare at anchor)
• ear plugs can be handy 

Electricity

All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.

There is no internet on board whilst at sea. 

A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.

John, Tortola to Bermuda

Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"

F Coutreau

What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.

Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!

Andrea

Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:

COMPETENT and KIND

And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure

Susan

With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website. 

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