WHERE MOUNTAINS MEET THE OCEAN
‘Take care in Colombia,’ was the general theme of our farewell conversations as we prepared to leave the flat, arid island of Curaçao. There was something unsettling about the string of casual warnings that led up to our departure; stories of political unrest, corruption, and near-constant gales that whistle along the coastline.
The sprawling lagoon of Curaçao’s Spanish Water is full. A growing fleet of cruising yachts have ventured south to seek shelter from the imminent hurricane season. Despite the short sail, few seem interested in passing the season in South America. We’ve met some sailors who have shared stories on the character and richness of Colombia. They spoke of the country like a hidden treasure – passionate and heartfelt accounts that were impossible to ignore: “You can’t miss it. There’s so much to see, it’s like the whole world in one country.”
‘The bay is sheltered, the holding good and the surroundings exceptional’
I’m joined aboard Elixir by two girls from Los Angeles. Hannah has been on the boat since Grenada, but Ximena is new to sailing. Rounding the notorious Cabo de la Vela isn’t the best introduction, but the forecast looks good. Ximena is positive and eager and quickly adjusts to the constant roll of boat life.
BIRTHDAY GREETING
We leave Curaçao at dawn, a stiff current dragging us through the narrow channel between Aruba and Venezuela. At dusk, the
