In BIG Company

     Our neighbours in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda have been getting bigger and BIGGER over the last few days. We've watched many huge motor yachts arrive in the sound, breaking out "toys" of various kinds, including dinghies the size of powerboats, water trampolines, large inflatable slides, regular sized sailboats being stored on deck, and even the occasional helicopter. Today two of the biggest sailboats we've ever seen elegantly cruised in to anchor, and as the sun set their lights lit up like strangely shaped Christmas trees. Among the fleet surrounding us are the sailing vessels Sea Cloud and Royal Clipper, and motor yachts Rising Sun and Ronin.

     Needless to say, we feel tiny sitting at anchor next to vessels so lavishly luxurious and monstrous as these. It's hard to imagine that people can actually afford to purchase these kinds of luxuries, let alone afford to run and maintain them. It's a whole different level of cruising that just isn't found back home. Funny enough, looking at a private yacht the size of a cruise ship doesn't leave me feeling envious; instead, when I look out into the dark anchorage and see every single light on, illuminating the towering outlines of a five-story yacht, all I can think about is how much power they must be wasting!

Early Merry Christmas to everyone!

Nicole.