Captain’s Log: From Small Towns to Open Waters
The Basics
The boat: Calypso, a 2022 FP Astrea 42’
Crew: Captain Trevon (instructor)
ASA Students: Casey, Joe, Julie, and Page
Courses Completed: ASA 101 (Basic KeelBoat), ASA 103 (Basic Coastal Cruising), ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising), ASA 114 (Cruising Catamaran)
Day 1: A Taste of Home
As a Montanan, Trevon was excited to welcome his fellow Treasure State residents Casey, Joe, Julie, and Page aboard the “Calypso” this March. Go Sail Virgin Islands’ sister company, Go Sail Flathead Lake, is located in Montana so it’s not unusual for Montanans to find themselves aboard a Go Sail sailboat in the Virgin Islands— but always exciting none-the-less! The group met for dinner at the Dive Bar, discussed their shared love for Big Sky Country, and made plans for the trip ahead.
Day 2: A Feel for the Water
Up bright and early, the crew set sail for Cruz Bay, St John by mid-morning. With quite a few other boats out on the water, it was the perfect time to practice crossings through traffic lanes. Once out on the open water, the group practiced boat handling drills under power as well. By the afternoon, the crew moored in Maho Bay, enjoyed some snorkeling, and headed to Cruz Bay for dinner.
Day 3: Tasty Treats
Before setting sail for the east end of St. John, the crew treated themselves to a large hearty breakfast of eggs, sausages, fruit, and muffins. A hearty breakfast provided the group with enough energy to motor up wind as far east as Soper’s Hole! They then set sail (full main and Genoa), tacked a few times, laid a line around Ram’s Head, gybed, and headed to Salt Pond Bay. It was a busy day of sailing and by afternoon everyone was ready to snorkel around Lameshur Bay. The crew then ended the night with a meal as delicious as the one they started the day out with— grilled Mahi, salmon, cilantro/lime rice and spinach salad. Julie also shared some delicious chocolates she found in Cruz Bay the day before.
Day 4: Cruising to St. Croix
The day started with chart work to determine a course for St. Croix. By mid morning, the crew set sail for Buck Island. Seas were 5ft with 17kt of wind from the beam and the leeway put the boat on course for the Christiansted. Over the course of the day, speeds averaged 8.5 knots and the crew made great time into the harbor entrance to Christiansted. Casey led the charge in driving the boat through the channel and up to the anchor area. By afternoon, the entire crew settled into St.
Croix— visiting the sights, eating delicious food, and enjoying each other’s company.
Day 5: Relaxing and Unwinding
It’s not uncommon for people to fall in love with the beauty of St. Croix on a Go Sail adventure— and this trip was no exception! The crew determined they would like to spend another day exploring the island, studying for their ASA tests, and sharing stories of growing up in Montana. It was the perfect way to relax and unwind after nearly a week at sea.
Day 6: Wind in your Sails
The breeze continued to be in the crew’s favor as they planned their trip back to St. John. In fact, the crew ended up averaging over 10 knots on the trip back to Cruz Bay, ST John! The waves cascading over the bow lightened everyone’s spirits and the crew was all smiles as they took turns driving back to St. John. The good times only continued as the crew moored, traveled to shore, and watched the sunset from the beach. A perfect ending to a perfect day.
Day 7: Until Next Time
The crew finished up their final ASA tests, Trevon signed their logbooks, and then the time came to disembark. However, this group knew whether in Montana or the Virgin Islands, they’d surely meet again. Until next time!