F or the last couple of years we have been arranging
‘Nelson’ trips in the West Indies aboard the incomparable sailing ship Sea Cloud II. What began as a one-off event has now grown into a hardy perennial and we are delighted to announce that in 2007 we shall be returning to the Caribbean, visiting the islands that featured in Nelson’s early career. One of the greatest experts on both Nelson and the period is Dr Colin White, who has agreed to join us again for the 2007 trip.
SEA CLOUD II
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. Built to accommodate 96 passengers in five star luxury, she offers a range of beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and bathrooms in light marble. 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.
ITINERARY IN BRIEF
Day 1 London to Antigua. Fly by scheduled flight. Transfer to Sea Cloud II and embark. Welcome drinks and dinner.
Day 2 Antigua. Nelson arrived in Antigua during the hurricane months in 1784 to shelter his frigate, HMS Boreas, in what is now known as Nelson’s Dockyard. Our morning excursion will include this site. Afternoon at sea.
Day 3 St Kitts. This morning we will call into St Kitts, the 'Secret Caribbean'. Nelson called here on the Boreas and even today it is largely untouched by large tourist developments. Visit the wonderfully photogenic Basseterre Fort and the Sugar Factory and Romney Manor, a 17th century house. Day 4 Nevis. Nevis featured significantly in Nelson’s time in the West Indies. It was here that he met Fanny Nisbet and later married her in the old Montpelier House, on the site where a hotel now stands. This morning there will be an island drive. Afternoon at sea.
Day 5 Iles des Saints. The eight-island Iles des Saintes archipelago dots the waters off the southwest coast of Guadeloupe and was the site of one of the most famous naval battles between the English and the French in 1782. Stroll through the village of Bourg des Saintes and view panoramic vistas from atop Fort Napoleon. Day 6 Martinique. Staying within the French West Indies, we will call into the lovely island of Martinique, birthplace of Napoleon’s beloved Josephine. On an optional tour, travel through banana and pineapple plantations to historic Céron House & Park and visit the distillery. Day 7 Grenada. Morning at sea. St Georges, the island's capital, has one of the most romantic waterfronts in all the West Indies. The island is lush and verdant with spice plantations, tropical forests, secluded coves and nature trails. Day 8 Barbados. Nelson arrived here in 1784 and was given orders to guard the northern group of the islands, Montserrat, Nevis, St Christopher and the Virgin Islands. In 1805 he returned here during his famous chase of the French and Spanish fleets. Enjoy an island drive. Day 9 Dominica. Morning at sea. 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.
Day 10 Montserrat. Ask any Caribbean connoisseur about their favourite places and Montserrat will always be high on the list. Day 11 At sea.
Day 12 Virgin Gorda. The British Virgin Islands are recognised throughout the seafaring world as one of the finest sailing areas. The 36 islands and cays sit in a dazzling turquoise sea surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. We will drop anchor at Virgin Gorda.
Day 13 Jost Van Dyke. Spend the morning cruising through the beautiful island-dotted waters of the British Virgin Islands. Drop anchor at the little visited hideaway island of Jost Van Dyke. Day 14 Anguilla. Spend the morning on Anguilla, the most northerly of the British Leeward Islands. Here you will find some of the most stunning beaches in all the Caribbean. Day 15 Antigua to London. Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Day 16 London. Morning arrival.
Prices per person based on double occupancy range from £3995 for a category F stateroom to £6995 for an owner’s suite. Cabins for sole use from £5395.
Price includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 14 nights aboard Sea Cloud II on full board, wine/beer/soft drinks with lunch and dinner, guest lecturer, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not included: Travel insurance, shore excursions, gratuities.
NB. Ports subject to change.
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