Caribbean Notes

Desmond Nicholson, a member of the family that sailed into Antigua’s English Harbour in 1949 and created a charter business in their wake, died in Antigua in January. Nicholson, a respected amateur archaeologist, was instrumental in the preservation and restoration of the Georgian buildings of Nelson’s Dockyard. Today, the Dockyard is a must-stop for charterers in the Leeward Islands and for anyone interested in naval history.

Recently received
A set of three Caribbean cruising guides (Virgin Islands, Leewards, Windwards) by Stephen J. Pavlidis (Seaworthy Publications; www.seaworthy.com; $26.95 each). Immediately visible pluses in the Virgin Islands volume are the good-size sketch charts and the inclusion of the Spanish Virgins.

Cruise the Web…
…and think of chartering. During a recent tour of charter-company Web sites, I found attractive late-booking specials available from many Caribbean bareboat companies. If you’re able to make a quick getaway, it’s worth your while to cruise online first. Check the listings on sailmagazine.com for contact information.

Horizon Yacht Charters Grenada reports that the LaSource Grenada Sailing Festival was (once again) a great success. The annual event takes place during the last week of January and entertains participants as well as onlookers.

Nautor’s Swan USA has opened a new charter office in Newport, Rhode Island. If you’re interested in chartering a Swan (with crew) in the U.S. or the Caribbean, contact charter manager Carolyn Cox Titus (401-619-0968; www.nautorswan-usa.com; charters@nautorswan-usa.com). —Amy Ullrich

Sail Away Archive
Where to Go Now (March 2006)
Wedding Bells (February 2006)
Charter Cats (January 2006)

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