It's been a number of years since I have done Scilly Cay, a group wants to go there in March. Do you think it best to take a public ferry over there and get a taxi to be dropped off for lunch there. Then have a pre-set time, have our taxi pick us up and maybe come back to Shoal Bay for an hour before we return to SXM. We were initially thinking of chartering a boat for the day, but since the focal point is now Scilly Cay, I think maybe do the ferry instead. There's another boat in Simpson Bay that also does Anguilla runs if I remember correctly. Anyone with their contact info.

Scilly Cay is a tourist trap, no beach and expensive. They are known for their rum punches and lobster lunches. At one time, they had entertainment on Wed and Sunday, I don't think that is the case now.
If I were going from SXM, I would take one of the Party Cats, Lambada, Tango, Scooby Doo, Scooby Too. They go to the out islands - Prickley Pear and Sandy Island. We see them passing and everyone looks to be having a blast.
Happy planning,
Ellen

We did the Scoobie Too, awesome day. The crew, food and experience was the best. We left out of the Grand Case Beach Club and it was perfect. We didn't get any time on Anguilla but the Sandy Cay and where we moored for lunch were great.

Phillygirl,

You might be thinking of GBExpress - they're based on AXA and have a regularly scheduled high speed ferry (comfy speed boat) that runs from Anguilla through the lagoon and into Simpson Bay near the airport. We've used them many times but they do tend to be considerably more expensive than the Marigot ferry.

With regard to Scilly Cay, its been a few years since we've been there but based on our last experience, I agree absolutely with Ellen. It's more of a tourist trap and a relatively costly one at that by the time you factor in the ferry and immigration taxes as well as the r/t taxi and then lunch, and while it's a cute diversion, it really isn't as nice as Shoal Bay East or some of the other locations on the island.

We've also done daytrips to both Prickly Pear and Sandy Ground - both fun but you don't see anything of Anguilla. If that's your objective, I'm thinking the best dollar value Would be the Marigot ferry and a taxi to and from Shoal Bay for the day. Otherwise, I'd stick to PP or Sandy Island and a prepackaged day trip that will allow you a far better price point for a fun day.. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

That is indeed the name of the place I was thinking of -- GB Express. I will re-think going there, we had fond memories from a long time ago, but I think I will keep them as that. We will see what the group thinks.

We enjoy going to Shoal Bay WEST, having lunch at Trattoria Tramonto, and then using their complementary lounge chairs and umbrellas. A very quiet and upscale part of the island, and not touristy at all. We've used GB Express and Andy's Car Rental with success. When staying for a few nights, Serenity Cottages live up to their name.

There are just so many great places in Anguilla, and to me, Scilly Cay is not one of them.
TT is a wonderful quiet place with good food and lovely music every day, Bocelli on the Beach, who could ask for anything more.
Sunshine Shack on Rendezvous Bay has a great beach and terrific food and service.
If you go on a Sunday, there is a myriad of options with great food and music.
If you take a Cat trip, you will see great beaches and have terrific food.
If you go on a day trip, I suggest ferry to AXA, cab to Shoal Bay East to Elodias - tell the driver you want to go to Elodias, set up there, 10.00 per person for chair and umbrella, then do a rum punch beach crawl and decide on your lunch place, there are many.
Have a great trip.
Ellen

Thanks for the tips, all. Ellen -- I am sorry to hear about your husband being unable to travel now. My husband once took me to SXM to heal from a surgery.

Philly Girl, Thank you for your kind thoughts, I hope your trip is magical. We are hoping for the day when we can return.
Best,
Ellen

Hi Ellen,
Last time we were in Anguilla was almost 6 years ago.
we are planning a day trip this April.
I was wondering between the different places on SBE (Elodias, Uncle Ernie's, Maderiman, tropical sunset and Gwen) which one has the best food, the best beach and the best Vibes.
We are party of 8 with 4 kids between 11-14

Thanks
Nick

I wasn't happy with Ernies last March. Not what it used to be if that helps.

Ellen...so very sorry you had to cancel.....I know how much the two of you enjoy your trips to our favorite place.....the best to you & hubby......kate <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/canada.gif" alt="" />

Ellen,

So sorry to hear of your husband's illness and your trip cancellation. I hope all things are resolved quickly and completely and you can reschedule your trip ASAP. I will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Good wishes to you both......

pat
<img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

Nick - they are all on a great stretch of beach. I like Elodias because it is at the end, they have very nice chairs and umbrellas, even a big canopy for a group. If you set up there, you can walk the beach and take your pick of places for lunch. Tropical Sunset gets very good reviews, but I have not tried them, just Elodias. Whatever you do, make sure you tell your driver Elodias, do not let him put you down in the middle which is a maze of umbrellas and people.
Have a great trip,
Ellen

Dear Pat and Kate:
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. It is a disappointment as we were to leave Friday Nov 11 for 3 weeks, I retired in Sept, and this was going to be a big treat!
But, I am just glad it happened here and not while we were traveling, or down there.
Thanks again for thinking of me.
Ellen

Wow, best wishes to your husband, and I hope you are able to travel again soon!! How disappointing!