Sarah and Sébastien left everything behind to make a transatlantic crossing aboard a Sun Légende 41, and now, here they are on the coast of Guadeloupe and its islands.
“Returning to French soil, to Guadeloupe and its islands: Marie Galante, La Désirade and Les Saintes. This archipelago is ideal for cruising, offering varied scenery and anchorages, diverse atmospheres, something for everyone.
Discovering Marie Galante
We began with the southernmost island, Marie Galante. Along the way, all the other travellers had recommended it. Everything was calm, and the anchorage in Saint Louis was well sheltered. The little village seemed asleep on Sunday and very calm during the week. Still accompanied by the crew of Galopin, we set off on a tour of the island, an occasion to visit the rum distilleries... which offered free tastes!
Anse Canot was our last stop. In the evening, tourists leave the beach, so then we could enjoy using the barbecue pits and take cover under the local thatch-covered structures, known as corbets, during thundershowers. This year, it has rained quite a lot for the dry season!
A Beautiful Encounter Full of Emotion
We left this peaceful retreat for the marina of Saint François, on Grande Terre to the north of the Guadeloupe "butterfly." But the strong swell, 25 knots of wind and breaking waves in the inlet made us think twice about the channel. So, it was in the marina of Bas du Fort, in Pointe-À-Pitre, where we made our provisions and topped off our water tanks, a monthly chore. No regrets, though, since on our way, we encountered a much anticipated humpback whale! For days we had kept our eyes open, looking out for whales coming from Caribbean waters to reproduce. She jumped just a hundred metres in front of the boat, and we were headed right for her at 7 knots! But she dove under The Love Boat to avoid us. Our legs were trembling, and we felt real emotion!
Before leaving for the Saintes, we would spend the Easter weekend at anchor off the Ilet du Gosier, pelican territory. On the island, it is a very special feast day, where entire families invade the beach and stay all weekend with tents, hammocks and all the necessary material for cooking the traditional stuffed crab.”
