Rum & Ruins Passage

Grenada to St Martin

May 9th to May 16th 2026 / Duration 7 Days

500 Nautical Miles

PN092026

$4,850

Bunks Available: 6

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Passage summary

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This passage offers a mix of offshore sailing and historical exploration. Departing Grenada, the route features a layover in the historic town of St. Pierre, Martinique, known for the catastrophic 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée that destroyed the city. After two days to explore the area, including opportunities to visit the rum distillery, hike the volcanic slopes, and take in local culture, the passage continues with an uninterrupted nonstop offshore sail north to St Martin. The schedule provides both in-depth cultural experience and extended open-water sailing, with hands-on navigation and continuous watch rotations.

Route Overview

Departure: Grenada

Primary Route:

- Grenada – Martinique (St. Pierre) – St Martin

Estimated Distance:

- 450–500 nautical miles, depending on route
  Key Points: Offshore sailing to Martinique, extended layover for local exploration, nonstop offshore passage to St Martin

Passage Breakdown

Grenada to Martinique (St. Pierre)

Crew briefing and vessel prep in Grenada
Offshore passage to Martinique, landfall at St. Pierre
Two days for shore excursions: hike Mount Pelée, tour the local rum distillery, visit the ruins and museum, and explore the town’s market and history
Recommended: The Volcano That Destroyed A City – Cosmos (YouTube, Cosmos) for historical context

Martinique to St Martin

Departure from St. Pierre for an uninterrupted nonstop offshore sail to St Martin
Watch rotation (3 hours on, 6 hours off), active navigation, log keeping, and offshore seamanship
Arrival and trip debrief at marina in St Martin

Training Focus

Offshore passage planning, including weather routing and contingency strategies
Coastal navigation and harbor entry procedures for Martinique
Hands-on night watch routines, fatigue management, and continuous log keeping
Sail handling for open ocean conditions and variable trade winds
Cultural and historical awareness through guided exploration in St. Pierre

Expected Conditions

Winds: E–ESE trades, 15–25 knots typical for May, steady pattern
Seas: 4–8 feet offshore, generally moderate to rough at times
Weather: Mostly sunny, passing showers or brief squalls possible, warm and humid
Hazards: Strong currents near channels, squalls overnight, commercial traffic near island approaches

Why This Passage is Relevant

Combination of extended offshore sailing and immersive shore exploration
Real-world experience with coastal arrivals, harbor routines, and offshore night navigation
Unique opportunity to explore Martinique’s volcanic history and culture
Ideal for sailors building sea miles and technical passage-making skills

Sailing Weather Overview

Early May offers stable trade winds in the Eastern Caribbean. Trade Winds are predominantly E–ESE at 15–25 knots, with 4–8 foot seas offshore. Air temperatures range from 80–86°F (27–30°C), and sea temperatures near 80–82°F (27–28°C). Isolated squalls can occur, primarily at night. Visibility is generally excellent, and weather patterns support reliable open-water sailing.

Getting Around...

This passage begins in Grenada, with boarding and crew check-in at a marina near St. George’s.

Grenada Airport:

Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) — about 15–20 minutes by taxi from the marina.
Direct flights to GND are available from Miami, New York (JFK), Atlanta (seasonal), and major Caribbean hubs.

Disembarkation will take place in St Martin, with arrival at a marina near Simpson Bay.

St Martin Airport:

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) — 10–15 minutes by taxi from the marina.
Direct flights to SXM are available from Miami, New York (JFK), Charlotte, Atlanta, and other major US cities.

A valid passport book is required for all participants. Further information on recommended hotels, local transportation, and customs/entry requirements will be provided after registration in the Libra Crew Forum.

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