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£300

ISLAND HOPPING IN THE WEST INDIES

ON ERS P R PE

A luxurious voyage under sail from Antigua to Barbados aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud II with Henry Blofeld 24th January to 7th February 2017

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here is a reason BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS why people Jost Van Dyke continue to visit the St Barts Caribbean, it is because, quite simply nothing else St Kitts compares. From Antigua and Antigua LEEWARD its 300 beaches to the stunning ISLANDS Pitons of St Lucia, rising majestically from the sea, to the captivating charm Iles des Saintes of Isles des Saintes, each island CARIBBEAN Dominica SEA we visit on our island hopping voyage will offer the opportunity to WINDWARD Martinique ISLANDS experience something new and unique, St Lucia and by and large we will head for the smaller less visited places.

Barbados

Having operated voyages in the region for many years aboard Sea Cloud II we know the waters between Antigua and Barbados Grenada provide the perfect sailing conditions for her Tobago and we have therefore planned the itinerary to ensure ample sailing time allowing you to relax on deck in the warmth and enjoy the majesty of the vessel. Bequia

During our island hopping adventure through the Caribbean Sea we will explore some of the most beautiful tropical isles, many still untouched by the hands of mass tourism. There is no doubt that the less commercialised of the islands have enormous charm and great natural beauty. But, beyond the fabulous beaches and pastel painted towns there is more. During the 17th and 18th centuries the West Indies attracted all manner of adventurers, buccaneers, pirates, slave traders and the navies of the major European seafaring nations and this colourful history makes for an intriguing background to our voyage as we are able to hop from island to island and experience the heritage left by the Spanish, French, Dutch and British. This combined with opportunities to snorkel in some of the most enticing waters, beach comb, birdwatch and enjoy the colourful flora makes this area an ideal location for Sea Cloud II.

FOR THE LOVE OF CRICKET Henry Blofeld The West Indies are of course synonymous with cricket and so we are delighted that Henry Blofeld will be joining us onboard for this cruise. ‘Blowers’ is one of the best known and best loved sports journalists of all time. With his trademark bow-tie, his unmistakably fruity tones and his delightfully idiosyncratic observations, both on and off the cricket field, Blowers has become a national institution. During our voyage, in addition to our usual excursions we have also arranged some cricket focused tours which will include the opportunity to meet one of the many legends of West Indies cricketing history.

THE ITINERARY Day 1 London to Antigua. Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival transfer to Sea Cloud II and embark. Moor overnight. Day 2 Antigua. A one-time British colony, Antigua is justly famous for its beaches, said to total more than 300. We have a day here and a morning tour will include Nelson’s Dockyard, beautifully located in English Harbour. See the impressive collection of restored historic buildings which were occupied by the British Navy from 1707 until 1899. In the afternoon either spend time on one of the local beaches or join a cricketing tour of the island including the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Stanford Cricket Ground and the Antigua Cricket Ground (ARG). Keith Fredericks (Freddo), a cricketer who represented Antigua at regional level and Head Groundsman at the ARG will delight in giving a talk and guided tour of the club house and the ground. Finally before returning to the ship there will be a private appearance by one of Antigua’s cricket West Indian Legends! Day 3 St Barts. Tender ashore this morning at St Barthelemy, a gem of an island. Very French in atmosphere it is tiny, only eight square miles, yet is one of the most beautiful in the whole of the Caribbean. Mellow green mountains, coral sand coves and dolls house size capital make this one of the most appealing ports in the area. It is also one of the most sophisticated with excellent French restaurants, ultra-expensive hotels, smart yachts in the harbour and a relaxed atmosphere. Day 4 Jost Van Dyke, BVI. Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the main islands in the British Virgin Islands, is a mountainous volcanic object of beauty with fewer than 300 inhabitants. We will drop anchor this morning in White Bay and after

Sir Garfield Sobers statue, Kensington Oval, Barbados

www.noble-caledonia.co.uk

Admiralty Bay, Bequia

Nelson’s Dockyard, Antiguq

Waterfall, Dominica

a short Zodiac ride land on the beach. Spend the day relaxing and enjoy a beach BBQ prepared by the Sea Cloud II staff. Day 5 St Kitts. We will make a landing this afternoon by tender on the delightful island of St Kitts. This lovely island has it all, restful green fields of sugar cane plantations, rainforests and long stretches of uncrowded beaches. The atmosphere here is wonderfully relaxed and full of old-world charm. Either wander the street of Basseterre including the colonial buildings or on an island tour see the impressive UNESCO fortress at Brimstone Hill, the Romney Gardens and Fairview Great House. Day 6 Iles des Saintes. The eight island Iles des Saintes archipelago dots the waters off the southwest coast of Guadeloupe. This afternoon tender ashore and explore the charming town of Tere-de-Haut at leisure or walk up to Fort

St Louis Cathedral, Martinique

Hummingbird, Tobago

Napoleon and visit the museum focusing on the Battle of the Saintes. This evening enjoy a performance onboard by a local band from the island. Day 7 Dominica. Stepping back in time, the island of Dominica is still the primitive garden that Columbus first sighted in 1493. An area of tropical rainforests, flowers of incredible beauty and animals that exist nowhere else in the world. No doubt in time this lovely place will succumb to the developers and be taken over by hotels, casinos, duty free shopping and all the commercialism of some of its neighbours. But for now it is a place of beauty and solitude. On a morning tour we will explore Cabrits National Park and see the remains of Fort Shirley, an 18th century British garrison. Enjoy time walking in the park amongst hermit crabs and lizards or maybe take a walk up West Cabrit peak which offers marvellous views.

The Pitons, St Lucia

Day 8 Martinique. Martinique is a truly cosmopolitan island and a Department of France. The strong French influence is seen everywhere and without doubt Martinique is one of the most sophisticated islands in the West Indies enjoying a remarkably high standard of living. This morning from our berth enjoy a stroll around Fort de France, a small scale combination of New Orleans and Nice, perhaps sampling some of the delicious Creole food. Day 9 St Lucia. A splendidly rugged island of towering mountains, lush green valleys and acres of banana plantations. We will moor in sight of the island’s best known feature, the twin peaks of the Pitons, which rise dramatically from the sea to more than 2,400 feet. This morning tender ashore to the nearby town of Soufriere where we will visit the bubbling sulphur springs, part of a low lying volcano which erupted thousands of years ago. Our island tour will

St George’s, Grenada

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Jost Van Dyke

also include the splendid botanical gardens, a delight for photographers with walkways surrounded by bright tropical flowers and towering trees. Day 10 Bequia. This delightful Grenadine island is totally unspoilt, a place of pure escapism in a charming old world atmosphere. This afternoon tender ashore and visit the Hegg Turtle Sanctuary followed by time to relax on one of the stunning beaches or enjoy some swimming or snorkelling. Day 11 Grenada. After a relaxing morning at sea, this afternoon moor in the picturesque capital of St George’s and explore this wonderful Windward Island which many regard as the most beautiful in the Caribbean. It is a lush and verdant island with spice plantations, tropical forests, secluded coves, nature trails and select hotels which cling to the hillsides overlooking the ocean. For the cricket fans among us there will be the opportunity to visit the National Cricket Stadium where we will be regaled with stories and history of cricket in the West Indies, before making our way to the Spice basket Cricket Museum where the memorabilia, some dating back to the 1800s, includes books, bats and outfits. Day 12 Tobago. This morning we will anchor off the small fishing village of Charlotteville situated in Man of War Bay and have time to explore the natural wonders of the island of Tobago. An island drive will take us to the Argyle Waterfall for a refreshing swim and a chance to explore the lush surrounding forest. Alternatively enjoy a boat trip over to Little Tobago one of the most important sea bird sanctuaries in the Caribbean. More than 50

species of birds make the island their home, including Audubon’s Shearwater, Brown Boobies, Laughing Gulls, Red-billed Tropicbirds, and a variety of terns. Later on this afternoon we also hope to have the opportunity to learn more about the conservation efforts being made on Tobago for the protection of the sea turtle. Day 13 Barbados. After a relaxing morning at sea we berth in Bridgetown. Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean Islands, with Atlantic surf on the east coast and sparkling Caribbean waters on the west coast. Captain Powell landed here in 1625 and claimed the island for England. Now independent

it continues to embrace its British Empire roots, afternoon tea remains a tradition and cricket is the national sport. To say that cricket in Barbados is a passion would be an understatement. It is said that Bajans eat, drink and sleep cricket so it seems fitting that our cruise should end here. This afternoon choose between an island drive or a cricket tour including the Legends of Barbados Cricket Museum. Day 14 Barbados to London. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London. Day 15 London. Morning arrival.

PRICES PER PERSON

Based on double occupancy

SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Cat

Cabin Description

Deck

Brochure Price

Special Offer Price

E

Deluxe double

Cabin

£7295

£6995

D

Deluxe double

Cabin

£7795

C

Deluxe double

Promenade

£8295

B

Junior Suite

Promenade

£8495

A

Luxury Owner’s Suite

Lido

£9595

F

Stateroom for sole use

Cabin

SOLD OUT

E

Deluxe double for sole use

Cabin

£9295

£7495 £7995 £8195 £9295

SOLD OUT £8995

Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 13 nights aboard Sea Cloud II on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, Tour leader, guest speaker, shore excursions, all gratuities, transfers, port taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance. Ship to Shore: Please note for this itinerary Zodiacs, tenders or local boats will be used to transport passengers ashore in all ports apart from Antigua, Martinique, Grenada and Barbados. NB. Ports subject to change and weather conditions. All special offers are subject to availability.

+44 (0)20-7752 0000

SEA CLOUD II

For this voyage under sail we have chartered the magnificent Sea Cloud II. Launched in 2001, she is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,150 square feet of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels.

Your Cabin/Suite Built to accommodate 96 passengers in five star luxury, Sea Cloud II offers a range of beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. Spread over three decks are 29 deluxe outside cabins with showers, 16 junior suites with bathtubs, and two owner suites with bathtubs and showers. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and aesthetically pleasing. The two owner suites feature a king size canopy bed and all other cabins feature queen size beds (with separate mattresses, excluding category F staterooms which feature upper and lower single beds). Cabin sizes range from 16m2 to 27m2 (category F measure 12m2). The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble. All cabins have a television with DVD player, minibar, dressing table, wardrobe and a safe. A welcome bottle of champagne and a fruit basket which is replenished daily are provided to enjoy whilst in your cabin.

Your Space No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambience in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness centre, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud II cruise. The Lounge is located mid-ship on the Lido Deck offering comfortable seating areas. The vessel’s magnificent Steinway can be found here and will be played for your enjoyment by an accomplished pianist. In addition enjoy interesting lectures and presentations, or perhaps a drink from the bar. There is also a library onboard where you can relax, write postcards, play a board game, find a film to watch in your cabin, send emails from the laptop or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail whilst watching the sailors manoeuver the sails high above, rekindling memories of a bygone age. Your Dining The cuisine aboard the Sea Cloud II is of an exceptionally high standard, and has been accepted by the international Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Enjoy international dishes complemented by local specialities selected fresh from the market by the onboard chef. Dinner is served à la carte and is a four course affair with a vegetarian option always available. All cruises aboard the Sea Cloud II are full board with carefully selected wines and beers served to complement your lunch and dinner. All soft drinks, coffee and tea whilst onboard are also included. Life Onboard Whilst there are many large sailing ships offering passages around the world there are few if any that can compare in terms of luxury to Sea Cloud II. Despite the luxurious setting, casual clothing is appropriate and the atmosphere onboard is friendly and generally informal. Service is personal, and the crew of 65 quickly acquaint themselves with passengers and the

Category C cabin

Lounge

Lido deck

Category A cabin

Category B cabin

On deck

Restaurant SUN DECK

officers on the bridge are also available to answer questions; manoeuvres permitting. After all, Sea Cloud II is not only a cruise ship, but a private yacht as well. LIDO DECK LIBRARY

LOUNGE 402

BAR

For your Comfort, Safety & Security Sea Cloud II combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The hospital is located on the Cabin Deck and is staffed by a ship’s doctor. In consideration of all passengers, smoking is not permitted onboard with the exception of designated areas on open decks.

401

PROMENADE DECK DINING ROOM

318 316 314

312 310 308 306 304 302

SHOP

319 317 315

311 309 307 305 303

301

RECEPTION

CABIN DECK

CATEGORY E

CATEGORY D

CATEGORY F

205

CATEGORY C

204

209

207

CATEGORY A CATEGORY B

206

208

211

210

225

215

227

212

224

229

217

226

231

214

228

223 221 219

216

230

GYM

H

222 220 218

Dining on deck

2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0)20 7752 0000 | [email protected] | www.noble-caledonia.co.uk All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Iles des Saintes

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