March in the Caribbean, Martinique and the Grenadines

Martinique to the Grenadines, the Windward Islands, make up the Antilles archipelago.  Islands, atolls, and reefs form this arc from North to South.  Consistent trade winds make for ideal sailing in the Windward isles, with short trips between islands, and more time to explore

MARTINIQUE is the furthest north of the Windward Islands.  Black sand beaches and mountains predominate north Martinique, including the volcano Mt. Pelee.  In south Martinique there are numerous white sand beaches.  SAINT LUCIA is 25 nautical miles south of Martinique.  The predominant mountain features are two twin Pitons that steeply rise 700m from the sea and are surrounded by tropical rainforest, and white sand beaches.  SAINT VINCENT and THE GRENADINES are south of St. Lucia.  St. Vincent has lush green mountains and white sand beaches.  The Grenadines consist of 32 islands and cays, which are primarily bird sanctuaries.  The Grenadines are ideal for snorkelling and have numerous pristine fine white sand beaches that are only reachable by boat.  GRENADA is south of the Grenadines and consist of three sister islands.  Each boosting spectacular mountains, tropical forest, and golden sand beaches with clear waters.

Price for 2 weeks:
Athena 38   € 1150,00 per person   (in double cabin)
Belize 43    € 1300,00 per person   (in double cabin)

The price includes : Skipper and hostess, sheets, dailing cleaning, snorkelling gear, dingy and outboard motor.

The price does not include: Flight, food and drink, gas, water.

Program with departure March 3rd and return March 17th, 2007

The 2nd or the 3rd: Flight into Martinique, Fort de France
The 3rd: Depart by catamaran from Le Marin at 17:00
The 16th: Return to Le Marin, Martinique in the afternoon
The 17th: Disembark at 09:00

CURRENCY
In Martinique the currency is the Euro.  The best money exchange you will find is at Change Caraibes in Fort de France.  Several tourist stores offer up to 20% discount when you pay with Traveller’s checks.  In the other islands the currency is the “Easter Caribbean Dollar” (EC), which has a fixed value corresponding to the American dollar.  The banks offer a better currency exchange than stores and taxi.

TIPPING
In restaurants where the tip is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is adequate.  If the tip is included in the bill a small extra is appreciated but not essential.

TRANSPORTATION
There are taxis, local taxis (more economical), busses and car rental agencies.  Always ask the price in EC dollars before taking a taxi!

DOCUMENTS AND CUSTOMS
If you are a European Union citizen only an identity card is necessary in Martinique.  However, a passport is needed for the other islands.   The Windward islands are separated into four separate zones: Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (up to Petit St. Vincent), and Grenanda (including Carriacou and Petit Martinique).  It is necessary to pass through customs upon entering and leaving each island zone.

MOSQUITOES AND OTHER ANNOYANCES

The Mosquitoes are normally not a problem onboard.  However, sometimes mosquitoes can be a problem in the anchorages near shore or in windward lagoons on the larger islands.  During the rainy season (July to November) the beaches at night can be infested with Mosquitoes.  Another annoyance is the tree amncinella (Hippomane Mancinella) that is found abundantly near the beach.  This tree produces toxic yellow-green fruit.  Also touching the leaves can result in a rash and fever.  It is best to stay away from this tree.

THEFT
Dinghies and dinghy outboard motors are sometimes stolen during the night.  It is best to use a lock from the moment of departure to prevent theft

FISH
The season for lobsters is generally from the first of October to the end of April.  It is prohibited to buy lobster outside of this season less than 23 centimeters.  Throughout the year it is prohibited to buy lobsters that have eggs.