What to Expect

Spend a night in St. Lucia with time to hike in a rain forest and explore the geothermal activity on the surface of this active volcano. Then, sail to the islands of St. Vincent, Bequia, Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Union Island, and Petit St. Vincent, before returning to St. Lucia. There are daily opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal clear water teeming with tropical fish, to walk along secluded beaches only approachable by boat, to explore some “high islands,” offering the elevation that supports a wide range of flora and fauna, and to discover the colonial history revealed through old forts and churches.

The Stad Amsterdam

The clipper Stad Amsterdam is a replica of the graceful clipper ships that dominated maritime commerce just prior to the introduction of the steam engine. The ship, launched in 2000, sails under the Dutch flag and meets all international and U.S. Coast Guard safety requirements, with the most modern navigation equipment. Yet, she has authentic square rigging, a pointed bow, masts towering 150 feet above the 200-foot long wooden deck, impressive yard arms, and endless quantities of rope. Sailors climb the rigging and pull the ropes as the sails are hoisted and set as in days of yore. Watch or lend a hand as the captain orders the crew to set sail.

The 10 lovely cabins have two lower berths, with fold-out upper berths to accommodate a third or fourth traveler, or fixed bunks in C category. All cabins have a porthole, individually controlled air-conditioning, a telephone (with satellite connection), TV, and a private bathroom with toilet and shower. They are efficiently designed and decorated with wood and brass, giving them a classic feel.

A spacious “Longroom” accommodates everyone for lectures and presentations about the natural history of the Caribbean and the ports of call, using the latest audio-visual technology. The Longroom’s warm-colored woodwork, the extensive use of brass, along with the round staircase with elegant spindles give the spacious bar and small library a feeling reminiscent of a bygone era of sailing.

Superb cuisine and fine wines are served at elegantly set tables, while buffets on deck and even a picnic ashore keep the atmosphere casual and relaxed. There is plenty of open deck space with lounge chairs and a shaded Promenade Bar.

Watch sailors scramble along the yard arms to drop the sails while their mates heave on the ropes to adjust over 20,000 square feet of canvas to catch the wind. This sleek vessel can make 16.5 knots under the power of the wind and 11 knots with her engines. The English-speaking crew is made up of 30 experienced yachtsmen from such countries as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Great Britain.