Hurricane is Heading Towards Us - Sailing the Virgin Islands (🎥 34)

Hurricane Season Sailing in the Virgin Islands

It’s already mid-June, and hurricane season is in full swing with a tropical storm developing in the Atlantic. As sailing enthusiasts setting sail for the Virgin Islands, we’re left with decisions to make. Do we sail south for three days to get out of the storm’s path, skipping many of the islands we wanted to see? Or do we stay where we are and prepare for the worst? Making the Call A tropical storm or something more sinister is developing off the coast of Africa. Now they’re saying there’s a 90% chance it will turn into something. It may go north, it may hit the islands. They don’t know, but they’re predicting sometime on Thursday. It’s not expected to be very strong if it does come here, but it’s not something you really want to play around with. Riding Out the Storm As we spend the morning cleaning up, readying the boat for any potential weather events, a plan starts to form. We’ll stay in St John and wait out the storm. It looks like it’s going further south, and St John seems sheltered enough to provide safety. Plus, there are places to grab supplies, take cover, and even enjoy some island life before the big day. Exploring During the Wait In the days leading up to the storm, we explore what St John has to offer. From checking out shops and restaurants in town to snorkeling around Maho Bay and finding sugar mill ruins along hiking trails, there’s plenty to see before the storm hits. Navigating Through Uncertainty As the storm approaches, we keep a close eye on its trajectory. We had thought about going south to avoid any direct hit but realized it might not be the best option. St John seems to be a safe bet as the storm skirts around the islands, providing us with a little bit of calm amidst the chaos. Conclusion As the storm passes and we find ourselves relatively unscathed, it’s a relief. The uncertainty of hurricane season has led us to make tough choices but also allowed us to experience the beauty of the Virgin Islands. While there are always risks involved in sailing during this time, with careful preparation and smart decisions, even the most unpredictable weather can’t dampen our spirits. Sailing the Virgin Islands during hurricane season requires caution but doesn’t have to be daunting. By being informed, flexible, and willing to adapt your plans, you too can navigate the stormy seas while still experiencing all that these islands have to offer.