Monday March 03
We left our mooring at 9:00AM and were entering the harbour leading into the Road Town Marina an hour later. "Moorings Base, Moorings Base, Moorings Base this is sailing vessel Ansotica requesting docking assistance". Ansotica, put your fenders on the port side and the dinghy on the bow starboard side. Eric did what we were told as I was at the helm. Boaters are leaving the harbour on day one of their charter and although I have had some amazing boating over the last few weeks, part of me wishes to be any one of them. I guess, I am not ready to be a land dweller. When we entered the marina a dingy pulled up and a Moorings driver jumped on board and backed Ansotica into its slip like he had done it 1000 times before. It is amazing watching these guys maneuver large boats, strategically placing them within inches of each other.
We discarded the reefer contents and packed the remaining dry goods and liquids. Some we may consume ashore but the majority we will give to some of the staff we had become well acquainted with while on land here at the marina (Louis, Arthur, Neil, Amanda). We were a bit over provisioned, still with some quality goods.
A porter came and took all our belongings to our hotel rooms. We were exhausted and looking forward to showers and beds that didn't move.
After naps and a few email updates we sat on our side by side balconies watching boats and people come and go as we sipped red wines while snacking on crackers, cheese, hummus, and dark chocolate.
People watching:
As our balconies overlook docks 'A' and 'B' one cannot help but watch people come and go to and from their chartered boats. For example, a couple just passed by: He pulling 2 large wheeled suitcases and carrying a big knapsack while she carries her purse. She later walks by, still carrying her purse. Later a 'Moorings' person is on their boat doing the usual pre-departure briefing. He is taking in as much information as possible while she hardly pays any attention. I am sure, in her mind, she is saying, does he expect me to pee in that and where do I plug in the hair dryer? As they leave the dock she is not on the bow or the stern watching for clearance, she is sitting in the cockpit with a diet coke. Ok, perhaps I added the diet coke part but it sets the scene. Thank god she was not on our boat.
Another couple go by. He pulling a large cart full of luggage, groceries, and gear, she carrying the exceess of 2 bags. They are laughing and enjoying the excitement of getting on a sailboat for a week in the Caribbean. They would be welcome on our boat.
Nutmeg:
We went to Charlie's for a couple of cocktails. "2 Piña Coladas please". Rum, coconut, pineapple juice, topped with nutmeg. Not just a garnish, nutmeg plays an integral role in the flavor of tropical cocktails. It was front and center atop of the many Painkillers and Rum Punches we enjoyed. As I prepare to leave these islands, I will take with me my new appreciation for nutmeg.
