With no traffic we reached the marigot marina in 15 minutes and parked water side near the cargo box restaurants
Our Italian friends staying in. Friars bay were prompt and we boarded the 930 am ferry to anguilla
Recommend lining up for boarding early to assure upper level seating. The downstairs seating lacked sufficient air circulation and although not hot , the upstairs seating definitely offered some fresh air. Also the steps are tricky especially for those with bad knees.
Fairly smooth 25 minutes ferry ride to blowing point to clear customs.
After exiting terminal I heard a familiar voice yelling "my cow, my cow" (Michael, Michael) My island "brother " greeting us along with his two children,his wife will meet us later at the beach.
My island friend does high end catering for villas along with a casual island restaurant We met on a ferry many years ago and share the love of the food service business he has also worked as sous chef at Cap Jualca and was voted best island new young chef
He has catered a wonderful meal for my wife and myself when we stayed on anguilla a few years ago. I still remember the menu as his lobster with mango butter was so good and unusual
A short 10 minute ride and we arrive at Ocean Echo beach bar / restaurant on beautiful Meads Bay. Although Shoal Bay gets more publicity, I find Meads just as beautiful with several good places to eat.
On the ends of the beach are the Four Seasons and Moulihanna hotels. Enough said
As expected we almost have the beach and Ocean to ourselves at this time of year as many hotels close this time of year. Twice we have seen Diane Keaton visiting this time of year , once having a nice conversation with her while food shopping . I actually remembered her "traveling companion before realizing he was with Diane who goes by "D"
We spend the morning floating in the ocean as green as listerine. Saint Martin beaches can not compare
While my friends relax under an umbrella, I get to spend time with thier daughter, while thier young son plays with my Italian friends young boy
No language needed for the children to play together
Around noon we hose off and head up for lunch
Service is on island time but no worries as it is great to be seeing our friends. A varied menu offers local lobster, crayfish, some ceole choices along with sandwiches and other main courses.
Apologies no pictures but my wife selected her usual lobster wrap filled with lobster for $28 .
Although they out of conch , my second selection of goat stew was excellent
A not inexpensive lunch but there is no change for beach chairs/ umbrellas, clean bathrooms and inside shower are offered.
A nice afternoon on the beach and we head back for the 430 ferry.
The terminal was packed and we finally boarded the 515 (last ferry) back to Marigot after a long day this time being more comfortable sitting upstairs on the ferry.
We arrive back in Maho for a quick happy hour meal at Roma
Week 34 friends leaving today but week 35 (our week) arriving today. Might be a bit difficult since one arrival just lost his wife 3 weeks ago but hopefully him and his 3 daughters can enjoy a fresh atmosphere
Basic anguilla costs
Ferry $60 round trip (cash only Marigot) Departure taxes per person $7.00 Marigot, $11.00 anguilla
Although we did not need anguilla taxi, estimated $100 for round trip with payment at the end since driver will usually coordinate a pickup time with you.
Lunch probably $100 per couple keeping it simple and a few drinks which are definitely more expensive than st martin especially wine by glass and bottle
Our Italian friends said best day so far after 3 weeks of vacation
A few from RI La Plage. Used to be better but vegetation growth
Thanks for this report. Anguilla was always one of our favorite day trips. Fabulous beaches and very friendly people.
Have to laugh, when I think about it now: when my husband was the bank manager on Anguilla in the late 1960's, you could buy an acre of ocean front property for $800.00! Can't begin to imagine what that would be worth now.
"I always recommend a tour with one of the catamaran companies. Less hassle, nicer views and net cheaper."
We're thinking of going to Anguilla on our upcoming SXM visit and have looked at this option. My only hesitation is that I'm not a strong swimmer and these catamarans expect you to hop into the water and swim to the beach. Not gonna happen.
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