Caribbean Cruising aboard Twister

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Grenada

Grenada, discovered by Columbus in 1498, is a lush paradise. Tropical rainforests drape its landscapes, with meandering streams that lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Grenada is renowned for its nutmeg, a fragrant spice that finds its way into local cocktails (well worth a try!). The island’s underwater world is equally captivating, with vibrant tropical fish and intriguing shipwrecks, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers. We’d advise staying a day or two to explore the island if your travel plans allow.

Stepping aboard Twister, you’ll be greeted by the friendly professional crew and have time on your first evening to settle in, get to know your fellow sailors over dinner, and receive a safety briefing from the Captain. The next morning it’s time to set sail!

Along the Way

The captain knows the area well, so expect some beautiful out-of-the-way anchorages and idyllic bays. On these trips, passengers are also allowed to contribute ideas, so if there are places in the area that you definitely want to visit, let the crew know and, if possible, they will be added to the itinerary! This trip is taken at a “cruise” pace, meaning fewer miles per day and more time to explore ashore, swim and snorkel.

First stop are the Tobago Cays and Grenadines: an improbably beautiful collection of 100 inhabited and uninhabited islets. This is one of the best sailing areas in the world, and you’ll have extensive time to explore.

Twister will likely also call in at Tobago. This former pirate’s nest was also called the hidden island because it remained hidden from the rest of the (Western) world for so long. Although this island is a paradise for nature lovers, tourism here is less developed than in other Caribbean islands. On the north side are beautiful palm beaches and bays where you are the only ship to anchor. To the south lies one of the most beautiful diving and snorkeling spots in all of the Caribbean: the Buccoo Reef.

Before continuing on to Trinidad, you might take a look at the uninhabited islets on the east side of Tobago.

Arriving in Trinidad

After another evening on board, the crew will drop you off in Port of Spain in Trinidad. This bustling capital city might be a bit of a culture shock after your time on board, but it’s a fascinating place and well worth exploring if you have a day or two before your onward travel plans.

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.

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 adventure aboard Twister

What is Included:

• All meals and soft drinks aboard
• All safety equipment, including lifejackets and harnesses.
• Your bunk, bedding and a towel

What is Not Included:

• Travel to and from your voyage
• Personal travel insurance (see our advice on Travel Insurance)
• Alcohol- drinks are available to purchase on board- consumption is always at the discretion of the Skipper, and is never permitted whilst the ship is underway.
• Waterproofs - sets are available to hire: make sure to discuss this with the ship's team before you arrive.

What to Bring

YOUR PASSPORT! Along with any other required travel documentation. Please read the joining instructions you receive from the Ship carefully to ensure you have everything you need.

• Please, no valuable jewellery or other valuables, unless you have got specific travel insurance to cover it.
• Waterproofs - see above.
• Hats for sun and cold weather.
• At least two sets of warm clothes - layers e.g. tracksuit bottoms, shirts, fleece jacket, wool jumpers, thick socks, and neck scarf. It can get cold at sea even in mid summer.
• Swim suit and suntan lotion.
• Flat shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes. Sailing boots or wellies are also helpful.
• All terrain type Sandals are great for dinghy trips ashore – but you do need shoes which protect your toes for sailing.
• Camera, binoculars, sketchbook, a relaxing read, a musical instrument, pack of cards, magic tricks...
• Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasickness tablets or pressure-point wrist bands (talk to your pharmacist)
• Your own logbook if you'd like to keep track of your sea miles.
• Tech chargers (along with adaptors for European sockets) and waterproof cases for any electronics. A rechargeable battery pack for your phone / camera can be really helpful.

N.B. BOATS HAVE LIMITED STORAGE SPACE SO PLEASE PACK AS LIGHTLY AS POSSIBLE. Don't use a rigid suitcase or a bag with a rigid frame. Soft bags are much easier to fold up and stow.

Voyages on Twister