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Voyageur - Log day 273 - Marriage in Mayreau



5 April 2011
We had the most wonderful sail across to Mayreau. Our north easterly veered more to the east and Voyageur powered along under reefed main and genoa at nearly 8knots showing us what she is made of. Short lived it may have been, the 4nm passage taking us less than one hour, but what a treat it was after plugging in to all those headwinds of the past week. We had had some concerns about the suitability of Saline Bay on the south west coast to provide enough anchoring space for all the yachts. We need not have worried. At a glance we could see that there was room a plenty for dozens of yachts. The beach was a mile long crescent of pure white sand.....

'Mr. Beautiful' came by in his launch, laden with fruits and vegetables. I did not require anything but offered us an early morning bread delivery. Thank goodness I only ordered one baguette for the charge was 20 ECD! That is the equivalent to 5GBP! It was my own fault, I should have checked the price. Needless to say I will not be ordering another....

Mayreau was the wedding venue chosen by Annette and James on the recommendation of Jutte and Jochen (Chessie) who have been coming here now for twenty four years! If ever there was a place to 'tie the knot' then this was it. No glitzy glamour, just understated simplicity. It was a beautiful location, a beautiful day through and through. All the rally yachts congregated in the bay anchored off a fine white sandy beach. Then we put on all our finery and walked up to the church on the top of a very steep hill. The church had been simply decorated with white ribbons and as we took our seats Oisin, who has been with rally from the very beginning, along with Calistus a local lad, played on their guitars. The bridal party was made up of Jutte and Rosemary as maids of honour in matching dresses, and Bill as best man. Annette had made all the headdresses and shoes. They were exquisite. It was a very moving occasion as Annette and James exchanged their vows, and there were a few tears shed. The priest who had come over especially from Bequia made a very 'down to earth' highly personalized address which many of us oldies could easily identify with. Diane, James' secretary read a passage from the bible. Then Oisin sang a song composed by fellow countryman Van Morrison, the ballad, "Into the Mystic'. It was all so beautiful. After the service champagne was served outside with stunning views over to the neighbouring islands which make up the Tobago cays. We walked halfway back down the hill to Dennis Hideaway for a champagne and canapé reception. Speeches were made and everyone echoed the same regret that Suzana and Paul had not been there to share such a happy event. They have become as much of our family as all the crews. Beverly also sang beautifully for us and Jared gave us an Elvis rendition on the guitar. I never knew there was so much talent among the younger members of the rally! The revelling continued well into the night, with live music and dancing, a barbeque and drinks for all, so generously paid for by Jutte and Jochen. It was a very special day for a special couple, and one which will be remembered along with the very many other highlights of this around the world rally.....

Susan Mackay


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