Hey Sailors,

Was hoping to get some inside scoop from people who have sailed around Antigua and Barbuda. My partner and I are chartering a Bavaria 33 from Horizon the end of February.

I've read the cruising guides, looked at the charts, and read every thing I could find on line.

I guess my one specific question is: How easy is it to navigate around all of the reefs? Looks like there are some fantastic anchorages near Great Bird and Rabbit Islands in northeast Antigua, but lots of coral. Same goes for the south coast of Barbuda, between Cocoa Point and Spanish Point. I know about the changes of water color, having the sun behind/above you, and to watch for breaking waves/changes in the surface patterns.

Also hoping to get some general comments and impressions from those who have been there. I'm looking forward to the passage to/from Barbuda, as well as some quiet anchorages and nature. We tend to shy away from the beach bar/social scene and cook/bbq most meals on board.

Thanks,

George