Sail from Suriname to the Spice Isle of Grenada in the Southern Caribbean

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Paramaribo

If possible, take some time in the remarkable city of Paramaribo with its Dutch Colonial architecture before stepping aboard Twister for your voyage. The Peperpot National Park is well worth a visit: an old coffee and cocoa plantation over which nature has been allowed to regain control, offering the potential to see tapirs and puma. 

Along the Way

Nieuw Nickerie, the third-largest city in Suriname, is your first stop, and the final taste of Surinamese culture before venturing into the Caribbean. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local bars or choose to explore the protected natural wonder of Bigi Pan. Bigi Pan is a haven for rare bird species, including the striking scarlet ibis.

The voyage from Nieuw Nickerie to Tobago unfolds over two to three days. Tobago, once a refuge for pirates, was aptly named the “hidden island” for a considerable time. However, its history stretches back 7000 years. The name Tobago itself means “tobacco.” Fans of Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe will appreciate the connection, as this is where the story is set. While tourism is not as rampant here as on some other Caribbean islands, Tobago boasts palm-fringed beaches and secluded bays. The north shore reveals pristine stretches of sand where Twister might be the only visitor. Meanwhile, the south shore offers one of the Caribbean’s finest diving and snorkeling spots—the Buccoo Reef. Before sailing on to Grenada, there’s a stop at Scarborough for clearance, with the possibility of visiting the uninhabited islands east of Tobago.

Arriving in Grenada

The final leg of the voyage takes you to Grenada, a sail of around 10 hours. This island, 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.

Grenada’s underwater world is equally captivating, with vibrant tropical fish and intriguing shipwrecks, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

During this voyage in February and March, you can expect pleasant weather and relatively calm seas. The Caribbean waters are typically gentle during this time of year, offering a comfortable sailing experience. However weather systems can change and you should be prepared for some potentially choppier conditions.

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 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 on request.

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