DEC 7 -14 / 2008 – R. party( broker ref on request)

....The trip was really great, despite the fact that we had 48 hours of rain for the first two days. Vincent and crew kept our spirits up.  He and the girls were really friendly, easy to be with. Good sense of humor.  We had some great sails with lots of wind between islands.  Many, many rainbows.  The anchorages Vincent took us to were interesting and fun.  We danced in Grand Anse in the rain . . . it was the most fun I have had dancing in a long time . . . and I love to dance.  It was the first time I really heard Creole music and loved it!!!  Vincent did a good job keeping our group entertained, since not all of them are sailors.   We all really enjoyed the sophistication of the French islands.  Had never been to Martinique or the Saints before and would definitely go back. Need to learn some basic French, though.

The boat was the best we have ever sailed. Spacious and comfortable accommodations.  Very clean, beautifully decorated and well maintained.  The crew did a good job of keeping everything in good working order and comfortable for the guests.  It sailed beautifully and was very stable. Easy to steer in big wind and swells.  The ride from Martinique to Dominica was rather rough -- raining and lots of wind. But the boat handled it well. The rest of the sails between islands were lovely.  Vincent is an excellent sailor.  He kept those sails perfectly trimmed at all times, so when we took the helm, we felt like expert sailors.

The food was generous, creatively prepared and well presented.  The captain and girls put out every effort to satisfy our requests for special things like lobster, lambi, and fresh caught fish.  The drinks as well were creative, and generous.  I'd give them a 9.5 on the food and drink. It takes really special people to meet complete strangers and be with them in close quarters for a week, while making them feel at ease and happy. Vincent, Sonya, and Fabian are these people.  Vincent is not only the captain, but sort of a tour operator as well.  He arranged a driver and tour of the Clement rum distillery for us on Martinique.  It was a good way to get a look at the island for an afternoon.  .

I would love to sail this boat and crew again sometime in the near future and do a longer sailing itinerary.  The boat and crew are right for it.  We had a really great time!!

Thanks again for suggesting this boat.  It was better than expected and I would recommend it and Vincent to anyone!!

Valerie R.