Day One – Setting Sail from Sint Maarten to Grand Case
After spending several wonderful weeks at Kazanu, the clothing-optional property in Oyster Pond on the French side of Saint Martin, Penny and I were eagerly anticipating the next chapter of our Caribbean vacation: a week-long sailing adventure aboard the Manava, a beautiful catamaran operated by Captain Len of SailNude.com.
Our adventure began when Tim Roosens, the owner of Kazanu, kindly drove us to the Port de Plaisance marina, where Manava was waiting for her passengers.
A Warm Welcome Aboard Manava
From the moment we stepped aboard, we knew we were in for a special experience. We were welcomed with glasses of chilled Prosecco, and once all the guests had arrived, everyone gathered to enjoy an inviting selection of cheeses, crackers, cured meats, pickles, olives, and other delicious snacks.
It was a relaxed and enjoyable way to meet our fellow passengers and settle into what would be our floating home for the next seven days.
Captain Len conducted a thorough safety briefing, familiarizing everyone with the vessel, its equipment, and the procedures we would follow during our voyage.
Hospitality was evident right from the beginning. Drinks were plentiful, and Roelz was always happy to prepare and serve whatever passengers requested. We were also encouraged to familiarize ourselves with the beverage supplies so we could help ourselves whenever the crew was occupied with sailing duties.
It was immediately apparent that this would be a relaxed, informal sailing experience where everyone could feel comfortable and at home.
Leaving Simpson Bay Behind
Our first stop after departing the dock was the fuel station. Manava had only recently completed her voyage from Grenada to Sint Maarten, and her fuel tanks needed replenishing before we began our week of island exploration.
With approximately 30 minutes to wait for the Simpson Bay bridge to open, Captain Len took us on a leisurely cruise around Simpson Bay Lagoon. It was an opportunity to enjoy the scenery, watch the activity on the water, and begin adjusting to life aboard.
Once the bridge opened, we passed through into Simpson Bay and headed out into the Caribbean Sea.
Our destination for the first evening was Grand Case, a picturesque seaside village on the French side of Saint Martin, famous for its restaurants, beautiful beach, and spectacular sunsets.
A Spectacular Cruise Along Saint Martin’s Coastline
One of the pleasures of sailing around Saint Martin is seeing its magnificent coastline from an entirely different perspective.
As we made our way westward and then northward around the island, we enjoyed views of several of Saint Martin’s most beautiful beaches.
We watched aircraft approaching Princess Juliana International Airport, a sight that never gets old, particularly when viewed from the water.
Continuing along the coastline, we passed Cupecoy (naturist) Beach, Baie Longue, Plum Bay, Baie Rouge, and Happy Bay. Many of these beaches are familiar to naturists visiting the island, but seeing them from the deck of a catamaran adds an entirely new dimension to their beauty.
We continued past Marigot Harbour before making our way to Grand Case, where Captain Len selected our anchorage for the evening.
An Evening Swim in Grand Case
Once safely anchored, it was time for a swim.
Everyone gathered at the stern of Manava and enjoyed the warm Caribbean water. As daylight faded, the underwater lighting beneath the catamaran transformed the water between the two hulls into a beautifully illuminated swimming area.
If you’ve never experienced swimming behind a catamaran at night with underwater lights illuminating the sea, it’s something quite special.
The gentle movement of the water, the glow beneath the boat, and the peaceful surroundings of Grand Case made for a memorable first evening.
Dinner Aboard – A Wonderful Culinary Experience
After our swim, we were treated to an outstanding dinner that demonstrated sailing aboard Manava is about much more than simply getting from one beautiful destination to another.
Our meal began with a delicious salad featuring a variety of fresh lettuces, pear, and cheese, finished with a balsamic dressing.
The main course was beautifully prepared snapper served over mashed potatoes with a white wine reduction glaze, accompanied by chargrilled asparagus and carrots.
It was the sort of meal you might expect at one of Grand Case’s excellent restaurants, except we were enjoying it aboard our own private floating retreat, anchored just offshore.
With good food, drinks, and pleasant company, the evening unfolded at a leisurely Caribbean pace.
Our Floating Home for the Week
Following dinner, everyone relaxed and enjoyed conversation before retiring for the evening.
The accommodations aboard Manava were another pleasant feature of the experience. Each guest cabin offered a comfortable queen-size bed and its own private bathroom, complete with a shower.
The cabins were surprisingly spacious, providing a welcome level of comfort and privacy for a week at sea.
As we settled in for our first night aboard, gently anchored off Grand Case, it was hard to imagine a better beginning to our sailing adventure.
We had enjoyed a warm welcome, beautiful coastal scenery, a refreshing swim, an excellent dinner, and the company of new sailing companions.
And this was only our first day.
Tomorrow, our adventure continues as we wake up aboard Manava for our first full day in the Caribbean.
Follow along as Penny and I share our seven-day sailing adventure aboard Manava with Captain Len and SailNude.com, exploring the Caribbean from the unique perspective of a small, clothing-optional catamaran.
