Miramar Sailing hosted a day out aboard ‘Hawnalea’, the latest addition to their fleet. This 47ft Classic Ketch is Miramar’s new Day Sailing yacht, and will build further on their already successful Day Sailing business. ‘Hawnalea’, with skipper Captain Kevin, will continue to offer the broad range of Miramar Sailing Day Charter options to the company’s guests.

Captain Kevin has been an Antiguan skipper for well over 15 years and has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the island and its waters. He is the perfect host to represent Miramar’s customer service ethos. After only 2 months of service, his excellent customer reviews have retained Miramar Sailing at the Number 1 spot on ‘tripadvisor.com’ for Tours in Antigua & Barbuda.

The team set out for their day trip under a slightly grey Caribbean sky, but Captain Kevin and First Mate Tyler soon brightened up their day. After going through the all important safety review in a very relaxed yet informative manner, we settled into our trip. Cool drinks were offered, with the alcoholic choices going only to those who would not be snorkelling later.

As we cruised along the West Coast of Antigua, Captain Kevin pointed out places of interest. Although there was not much wind, ‘Hawnalea’ sailed beautifully and provided a very smooth ride.

Sailing expertly through narrow channels, we entered Cades Reef. Captain Kevin pointed out a sunken yacht that, although completely submerged, could be seen very clearly below us. ‘Hawnalea’ was moored up at the North end of the reef and those wishing to snorkel were given their fins and masks. First Mate Tyler entered the water, closely followed by the snorkelers, and gave them a tour of the reef. He pointed out fish and brain coral, explaining what they were and expertly guided us through the coral heads. He diligently made sure the party stayed together and that everyone was enjoying the experience, this was very reassuring for those who were not so confident in deep water.

With appetites growing we set off for a much needed lunch. We moored off Turner’s Beach, and those already wet from snorkelling swam ashore, whilst others in the party chose to dinghy to the beach. It felt very glamorous arriving on our own private yacht and walking straight to our dining table which was already laid up for our party. Plates of delicious local food appeared immediately at our table and were soon polished off. Captain Kevin’s homemade rum punch was the perfect complement to a delicious meal.

We then had the option of more swimming or sunbathing before returning to the boat. It is very tiring when you are ‘busy doing nothing’, and once everyone had thoroughly relaxed we headed back to ‘Hawnalea’ and Jolly Harbour.
After nearly 5 hours at sea enjoying the ‘Hawnalea’ experience it was time to say goodbye to Captain Kevin and Tyler. What a truly memorable and first class experience.

Article and photos compliments of Miramar Sailing.