Charting the Leeward Passage

St Thomas USVI to Sint Maarten

Mar 7th to March 16th 2025 / Duration 9 Days

450 Nautical Miles

PN062025

$3,750

Bunks Available: 2

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Passage summary

<h2>Experience the Magic of a Caribbean Voyage</h2>

<p>

We will hoist the anchor in the wonderful island of <strong>St. Martin</strong> — a great starting point for a Caribbean voyage. The steady <strong>easterly trade winds</strong> will provide the perfect sail angle to carry us both <strong>south</strong> and back <strong>north</strong>, making for an efficient and comfortable passage. One of the unique advantages of this trip is that the start and finish point are the same, allowing for a true round-trip experience.

</p>

<h2>Libra's Familiar Waters</h2>

<p>

Libra is very familiar with the waters between St. Martin and Guadeloupe. The stretch of roughly <strong>160 nautical miles</strong> to Guadeloupe is all open water, with the beautiful backdrop of neighboring islands along the way. In the Caribbean, you can often see the next island from the one you're on — and you’ll definitely experience that on this route. Volcanic islands rising from the sea will be our view before the sky fills with stars as we prepare for an unforgettable night sail.

</p>

<h2>Heading North to St. Martin</h2>

<p>

After enjoying the beauty of Guadeloupe, we’ll hoist the sails once more and head north toward <strong>St. Martin</strong>. This leg will involve <strong>overnight sailing</strong>, providing the perfect chance to deepen your understanding of offshore techniques and gain confidence handling a yacht at night.

</p>

<h2>Hands-On Learning and Adventure</h2>

<p>

While onboard, you’ll be involved in every aspect of the journey:

</p>

<ul>

<li><strong>Navigation</strong></li>

<li><strong>Weather analysis</strong></li>

<li><strong>Cruiser lifestyle topics</strong></li>

<li><strong>Anchor handling</strong></li>

</ul>

<p>

Captain Ryan will tailor the experience to every crew member's skill level, ensuring that both beginners and experienced sailors feel comfortable and engaged. Libra provides the perfect environment to learn and grow as a sailor while surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean.

</p>

<h2>Join Us for an Unforgettable Adventure</h2>

<p>

Escape the cold and join Sail Libra for this incredible Caribbean passage! Whether you're looking to build your offshore sailing experience, enjoy the thrill of a night sail, or simply explore some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean — this trip has it all. Spaces are limited, so don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable adventure!

</p>

<p><strong>Sailing Weather Overview: St. Thomas to Guadeloupe to St. Martin</strong></p>

<p>Sailing from <strong>St. Thomas</strong> to <strong>Guadeloupe</strong> and then north to <strong>St. Martin</strong> offers a rewarding mix of open‐water offshore sailing and island‐hopping through the <strong>Leeward Islands</strong>. The consistent <strong>northeast trade winds</strong>, warm temperatures, and generally moderate sea conditions make this passage comfortable and enjoyable. Here's an overview of the typical weather conditions:</p>

<h2>Wind Conditions</h2>

<ul>

<li>The Caribbean trade winds blow consistently from the <strong>east to northeast (ENE)</strong> at speeds of <strong>15 to 25 knots</strong> (28–46 km/h).</li>

<li>Gusts can reach <strong>30–35 knots</strong> when passing through acceleration zones between islands or near high terrain.</li>

<li>Wind strength is most consistent from <strong>December to May</strong>.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Sea Conditions</h2>

<ul>

<li>In open waters, expect wave heights of <strong>4 to 7 feet</strong> (1.2 to 2.1 meters).</li>

<li>Near the windward sides, swells can reach <strong>6 to 9 feet</strong> (1.8 to 2.7 meters) during stronger weather.</li>

<li>On the leeward sides, seas are more protected, generally between <strong>2 to 4 feet</strong> (0.6 to 1.2 meters).</li>

<li>Swells typically come from the <strong>east-northeast</strong>, aligning with the trade winds.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Temperature and Climate</h2>

<ul>

<li><strong>Air Temperature:</strong> Daytime highs of <strong>82–86°F</strong> (28–30°C) with nighttime lows of <strong>72–75°F</strong> (22–24°C).</li>

<li><strong>Water Temperature:</strong> Consistently warm at around <strong>80–82°F</strong> (27–28°C), perfect for swimming and snorkeling.</li>

<li><strong>Humidity:</strong> Moderate to high, but the steady trade winds keep conditions comfortable.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Rain and Weather Patterns</h2>

<ul>

<li><strong>Dry Season (December to May):</strong> Minimal rainfall with brief, passing showers (10–15 minutes) and infrequent squalls with gusts up to <strong>30–35 knots</strong>.</li>

<li><strong>Wet Season (June to November):</strong> Increased humidity with more frequent rain and squalls; a higher risk of tropical storms and hurricanes (especially August to October).</li>

</ul>

<h2>Sailing Strategy</h2>

<ul>

<li>Outbound from St. Thomas to Guadeloupe, sailing is typically on a <strong>beam reach</strong> or <strong>broad reach</strong>.</li>

<li>The leg from Guadeloupe to St. Martin may require <strong>close-hauled</strong> or <strong>close-reaching</strong> techniques due to more upwind conditions.</li>

<li>Be aware of localized variations—departures from St. Thomas, calm approaches near anchorages in Guadeloupe, and sheltered areas in St. Martin can affect sail handling.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Route Planning</h2>

<ul>

<li>For the leg from St. Thomas to Guadeloupe, expect a passage time of <strong>2–3 days</strong> under consistent trade winds and moderate seas.</li>

<li>For the leg from Guadeloupe to St. Martin, more upwind sailing is likely, with an estimated passage time of <strong>1.5–2 days</strong>.</li>

<li>Monitor weather updates closely and adjust your course as needed during tropical disturbances.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Summary</h2>

<ul>

<li><strong>Wind:</strong> Steady ENE trade winds at 15–25 knots with gusts up to 30–35 knots.</li>

<li><strong>Seas:</strong> Moderate conditions with wave heights of 4–7 feet in open waters; calmer on leeward sides.</li>

<li><strong>Temperature:</strong> Warm and consistent air and water temperatures year-round.</li>

<li><strong>Rain:</strong> Light and brief during the dry season; wetter conditions during the wet season.</li>

<li><strong>Sailing:</strong> Outbound passages are smooth on a beam or broad reach, while the return leg may require more upwind techniques.</li>

</ul>

All our sailing trips are subject to weather conditions, which may affect our route and the expected departure and arrival dates. Plan to fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas. We look forward to welcoming you on board on March 29th. Please arrange your departure from the vessel on April 6th in St. Martin. The nearest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). If you'd like to extend your stay and explore more of St. Thomas or St. Martin, we're happy to share our favorite accommodation tips and must-see spots — just get in touch!

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