Other Life on the Island
Alternative Lifestyle!
A potter in the dinghy showed up some different aspects to life here. Only a short distance from the town, there are mangroves, with small channels through them. The birds like it, as do countless small crabs that climb the roots, and take the wrong path back at times. Far from the bay, we came into a small pool where local fishermen had small boats and boathouses.
But the sad part of the border between mangrove and sea are the number of boats that have been abandoned, lying half-submerged or even overtaken by the trees. Even some afloat look destined for a similar fate. An alternative lifestyle choice is indicated by rusty chains, barnacled ropes, and decks that look like a bag-ladies nirvana. As we passed one, a Ben Gunn- like character emerged, with wild white hair, beard and a ragged pair of shorts.
It made us wonder if some of the old lost boats might not still have their owners aboard…….
Freebooter 
I read this morning of the death of a Roger Pratt on his boat in St Lucia- is he part of your group; are you still there/ safe?
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Hi Andrew
Very sad, we heard last night. The name does not ring any bells, and I do not think he was on our rally.
There are rare incidences in the Caribbean of violent robberies, but normally restricted to a few places. The police and local communities tend to jump on them fast for fear of damage to the economy. However in remote places one reflects untold wealth to individuals who have almost nothing and do not want to work for it.
There are a few ground rules, do not anchor in isolated places, stay close to other boats, lift out dinghies at night, etc.
We were back in St Lucia for a few days, but are now again in Martinique, safe and well, thanks.
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Thanks for your response. Continue to follow your travels with interest. What are your plans- where do you go next?
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We are just getting some engine queries addressed in Marin, and then plan to head up towards Dominica around the end of next week.
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