POGO44 Caribbean 2025 trip: Impressions.

Sailing Adventure in the Caribbean: Exploring the Lesser Antilles on a Pogo 44

This is report about [Exotic sailing] Sailing POGO12.50 in Caribbean sea, so you can read and have picture fr yourself, how it looks like on breathtaking Caribbean sea. And of course JOIN!

This is our second trip on POGO in Caribbean Sea. Here POGO12.50 in Caribbeans 2023 : Impressions. one can read the impressions of our first trip.

Our recent sailing trip through the stunning Caribbean Sea aboard the fast and comfortable Pogo 44 was nothing short of spectacular. Over ten incredible days, we explored the enchanting islands of the Lesser Antilles, blending thrilling sailing with cultural discoveries, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. To give you a taste of our adventure, we've put together a short video capturing the spirit of the trip—perhaps it will inspire you to join us on our next journey!

Our original plan was to sail north, exploring Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Antigua. To maximize our time both on the water and on land, we opted for longer sailing legs between islands. As a result, we bypassed Dominica on the way up and Guadeloupe on the way back. The open-water crossings between islands provided exhilarating sailing at a steady 8–9 knots. However, as we approached the leeward sides of the islands, the wind became more unpredictable, forcing us to adjust our sails frequently—from the powerful spinnaker to the smallest staysail, ensuring smooth and efficient sailing.

One of the highlights of our journey was discovering the breathtaking archipelago of Les Saintes, just south of mainland Guadeloupe. This collection of small islands boasts picture-perfect landscapes, turquoise waters, and a charming French-Caribbean ambiance. We explored the main island, Terre-de-Haut, on electric mopeds, winding through scenic streets and stopping to take in stunning coastal views. With its blend of European charm and laid-back Caribbean vibe, Les Saintes felt like a true hidden gem.

On mainland Guadeloupe, we delved into the island's natural wonders. A four-hour hike through the lush rainforest of the Rivière de Sens area took us deep into the heart of Guadeloupe’s wild beauty. Later, we explored the vibrant underwater world of the Jacques Cousteau National Park, snorkeling among colorful tropical fish and coral reefs in crystal-clear waters—a paradise for marine life lovers.

Upon reaching Antigua, we immersed ourselves in the island’s rich maritime history and lively culture. Our visit to Nelson’s Dockyard, a beautifully preserved 18th-century naval base and UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a fascinating step back in time. Strolling through the historic site, we imagined the British naval officers and sailors who once navigated these waters centuries ago.

We also visited St. John’s, the island’s capital, where we explored the bustling markets, sampled local delicacies, and soaked up the vibrant atmosphere. Unfortunately, we were unable to visit the famous Stingray City due to overbookings, but that only gives us a reason to return!

On our way back, we finally made a stop in Dominica, the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean. We received a warm welcome in Portsmouth, where locals invited us to their weekly beachfront BBQ. Surrounded by delicious food, music, and lively conversations, we felt instantly at home among the islanders.

A highlight of our stay in Dominica was exploring the serene Indian River. Paddling through the tranquil waters, we marveled at the dense mangroves and lush tropical flora. It was easy to see why scenes from *Pirates of the Caribbean* were filmed here—the river exuded a mystical, untouched beauty.

Reflecting on our journey, it’s incredible how much we experienced in just ten days. The ever-changing scenery, the thrill of sailing, the warmth of the people we met, and the awe-inspiring landscapes made this trip an unforgettable adventure. Time seemed to slip away as we immersed ourselves in the Caribbean’s magic.

Whether it was the rush of catching the perfect wind, the serenity of anchoring in a secluded bay, or the joy of discovering a new island, every moment was a treasure. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines exhilarating sailing with cultural immersion and natural beauty, we’d love for you to join us on our next voyage!

First things first - shopping.

On the first day, we gathered as a crew, introducing ourselves and sharing our sailing experiences and personal stories. While our skipper took charge of inspecting and taking over the yacht, the rest of the team was tasked with stocking up on provisions for the journey. Conveniently, a local market just 100 meters from the dock in the marina of Le Marin made shopping effortless. Once everything was packed and organized on board, we capped off the day with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant, where we savored delicious meals cooked on hot stone—a perfect start to our adventure.
Before setting of - learn how to steer and how to take a reef

The next day, we started early, ready to get underway. Before setting sail, the crew underwent essential training in yacht handling—learning to steer, hold course, and bring the vessel to a stop. One of the most critical safety procedures, reefing the mainsail, was also practiced to ensure smooth and secure sailing in varying wind conditions. The crew picked up the skills quickly, and after just two hours of training, we confidently set our course out of Le Marin, eager for an exhilarating day at sea.

With the wind in our favor, we aimed to sail all the way to Guadeloupe, embracing the adventure ahead.
First day - first swim

Before long, we realized that a break was in order—a refreshing swim was just what we needed in the heat of the day. With the yacht slicing effortlessly through the water and the breeze filling our sails, the journey was exhilarating and full of excitement. Yet, the allure of a cool dip was too tempting to resist.

By evening, we arrived in St. Pierre, where we anchored for the night. After a relaxing swim in the crystal-clear waters, we indulged in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. As the sun set, painting the sky in shades of gold and crimson, the scene was nothing short of magical—a perfect end to an incredible day at sea.
Fast ride to the Gems of French Caribbean Islands

The next day, we set off early, hoisted the sails, and let the yacht fly! With steady winds pushing us at an exhilarating 8–9 knots, we reached Dominica in just 2.5 hours—an absolutely breathtaking ride. We worked together to trim the sails, catching squalls, maintaining the right heeling, and smoothly riding the waves. It was pure sailing joy!

Once in the lee of Dominica, we thought it would be a good spot for lunch—but we were wrong! There was plenty of wind and no waves, so our Pogo 44 effortlessly kept gliding forward. Before we knew it, we had passed Dominica in just four more hours of stunning sailing. Instead of stopping, we decided to keep going and spend the night in Les Saintes, a true gem of the French Caribbean.
Easy riders of Les Saints

We arrived in Les Saintes after sunset, facing the tricky challenge of finding a mooring buoy or a good anchoring spot in the dark. It wasn’t easy, but after some searching, we finally secured a place for the night.

The next day, we set out to explore the islands on electric scooters. We visited an old fort, found a beautiful snorkeling beach, a great spot for surfers, and wandered through charming small streets filled with cute shops. It was a fantastic day of discovery and fun!\n\nIn the evening, we sailed to Rivière de Sens, as we had an exciting plan for the next morning—a hike through the lush rainforest.
From the hike to the snorkeling in a day

The hike sounded perfect in theory but turned out to be a bit disappointing in reality. It started off well from the marina, leading us through lush greenery, and it ended right back where we began. However, during the four-hour trek, we didn’t come across a single scenic viewpoint or notable landmark—just dense jungle and endless tropical forest. While some might find that fascinating, it wasn’t quite what we had hoped for. The only wildlife we encountered were leaf-carrying ants and a Humboldt crab. Still, it was a nice change of pace from the constant motion of the yacht.

In the afternoon, we moved on to one of Guadeloupe’s true treasures—the Jacques Cousteau National Park. This marine reserve, located near Pigeon Island, was established to protect the region’s incredible biodiversity.
Underwater life

In the afternoon, we moved on to one of Guadeloupe’s true treasures—the Jacques Cousteau National Park, a marine reserve near Pigeon Island dedicated to protecting its incredible underwater biodiversity. We booked a snorkeling experience, and it was absolutely worth it.

We explored three fantastic spots: Pigeon Island, Japanese Garden, and Turtle Beach. Each location had its own charm, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. At Turtle Beach, as the name suggests, everyone had the chance to see a sea turtle up close. At Japanese Garden, we marveled at the colorful coral formations and schools of fish darting around us. But the highlight for me came at Turtle Beach, where I was lucky enough to spot a rare spotted eagle ray gliding gracefully through the water.

The underwater world was teeming with life, making it an unforgettable experience.
Ride to Antigua ... and its dissapointement

In the afternoon, we decided not to waste any time and set sail for our next destination—Antigua. The journey was smooth and fast, but the visibility was so poor that we didn’t see the island until we were just 10 miles away. We arrived at night and decided to wait until morning to complete the clearance process.

The next day, after about two hours of paperwork, we were officially checked in and moved to the marina. We had high expectations for Antigua, but things didn’t go as planned. We couldn’t find any scooters or rental cars for the day, so we had to rely on taxis, which only took us to three places. This made the experience feel a bit restrictive, and we didn’t get the sense of truly exploring the island.

Still, we made the most of our time and visited some of the best spots Antigua has to offer. First, we explored Nelson’s Dockyard, a beautifully preserved 18th-century British naval base and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its historic buildings and admiring the old shipyards gave us a glimpse into the island’s rich maritime history. Next, we visited St. John’s, the lively capital city, where we wandered through the streets, checked out local markets, and soaked up the Caribbean atmosphere. Finally, we spent some time at one of Antigua’s famous snorkeling beaches, where we enjoyed the clear blue waters and vibrant marine life.

One spot we couldn't visit - the Sting Ray Bay. As there were two cruising ships in the city - spot was for weeks overbooked. Such a shame.

Despite the beautiful locations, the crew didn’t feel like staying another day, so the next morning, we hoisted the sails once again and set off back toward Dominica.
Charme of Portsmouth

We sailed from Antigua to Dominica, and while the journey to Portsmouth was fast, it felt long due to the late start. Custom clearance took longer than expected, so we didn’t reach our destination on the same day. After spending the night off the coast of Guadeloupe, we made the crossing to Dominica early the next morning. As we arrived in Portsmouth, we were warmly greeted by Alexis. The bay welcomed us with a mix of squalls, rain, and bursts of blazing sunshine in between.

Originally, we had planned to stay for just a half-day, but after hearing about the locals' weekly BBQ event, we decided to extend our stay. Before the event, we took the opportunity to explore a bit more. We made our way to Fort Shirley, a historic site perched on the hills of the Cabrits National Park.

Fort Shirley is an impressive 18th-century British military stronghold, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding bay and ocean. The fort's strategic location was vital during the colonial era, guarding the entrance to Prince Rupert Bay. As we wandered through its well-preserved structures, we learned about its fascinating history and its role in defending the island. The site includes various cannons, old barracks, and the commanding officer's quarters, all surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation that adds to the beauty of the location.

After our walk through history, we took some time to explore the town of Portsmouth. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere was noticeable as we strolled through the streets, taking in the colorful local houses and the bustling market. There’s a distinct charm to Portsmouth, with its mix of old Caribbean charm and modern touches.
Heart beats of Portsmouth

Before heading to the BBQ, we decided to visit one of Dominica and Portsmouth's most renowned gems—the famous Indian River. Alexis took us on a guided tour, sharing fascinating stories about the area’s history, wildlife, and local culture. As we cruised along the calm waters of the river, we marveled at the lush, jungle-like scenery that surrounded us on all sides. The towering mangroves along the riverbanks gave way to an impressive variety of flora and fauna.

We spotted a number of wildlife species, including the large land crabs scuttling along the muddy banks, and colorful hummingbirds flitting through the dense canopy. Alexis also told us about the river’s significance in local folklore, and we learned that it was a place of inspiration for the famous calypso musician, The Mighty Sparrow, whose home was tucked away somewhere along the river.

One of the highlights was visiting the charming riverside bar, a small but delightful spot owned by a Frenchman. The bar, nestled by the water, is known for its signature cocktail—“Dynamite”—a potent and refreshing concoction that packs a punch. It was the perfect place to sit back, sip on a drink, and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Later that evening, we returned to Portsmouth for the highly anticipated BBQ party. The event was a vibrant celebration, where locals and visitors alike gathered to enjoy delicious food, drinks, and great company. The lively music and infectious energy filled the air, and before long, everyone was on their feet dancing to the beats. It was a wonderful change of pace from the sailing routine, and we found ourselves surrounded by a warm and welcoming community of new friends.

The evening was filled with laughter, storytelling, and dancing under the stars. It was a perfect way to connect with the island’s spirit and experience the local culture. We made so many new and interesting acquaintances, and it felt like we had become part of something special in Portsmouth.

Next time, we’ll definitely plan to be in Portsmouth on a Sunday to fully enjoy the local BBQ event and everything the town has to offer!
Manifique Spi

But, as with every good party, it eventually had to come to an end—by the next morning, we were ready to set sail once again. After a fun and lively evening, we rose early and made preparations to head towards Roseau, the capital of Dominica. With the entire day ahead of us, we didn’t feel the need to rush. We had the luxury of taking our time, soaking in the beauty of the journey.

Along the way, we made a stop at the stunning Castaway Beach, nestled close to Soufrière. The crystal-clear waters and the beach’s serene atmosphere made it an ideal spot for a refreshing snorkel. We swam among vibrant coral reefs, marveling at the colorful fish and the underwater life that thrived in this pristine environment. The shallow waters made it easy to explore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

After our swim, we decided to put up our largest sail, the A0 spinnaker. The enormous sail caught the wind beautifully, and for a brief half hour, we enjoyed the thrill of the breeze as it propelled us forward. It was a fantastic moment, feeling the boat glide effortlessly across the waves. But, as is often the case in these waters, we were soon greeted by an approaching squall. We quickly took the sail down and readied ourselves for the shift in the weather, but that short burst of sailing under the spinnaker was a real pleasure while it lasted.

As we continued towards Roseau, we couldn’t help but reflect on the warmth of the people we met in Portsmouth and the incredible experiences we’d had. But our journey was far from over—Dominica had much more to offer, and we were eager to explore its capital next.
Easy going Roseau

After the whirlwind of events and adventures, we decided to take a more relaxed approach once we arrived in Roseau. The journey had been full of excitement, so we felt it was time to slow down and simply enjoy the vibe of Dominica's capital.

We made our way ashore and began to wander through the streets of Roseau, soaking in the atmosphere of the town. The streets were lively, with locals going about their daily routines and vibrant market stalls brimming with fresh produce and handmade crafts. The scent of spices and fresh fruit filled the air, and the colorful Caribbean buildings with their colonial-style architecture added to the charm of the town. We couldn't resist taking plenty of photos, capturing the beauty of the bustling market, the streets lined with palm trees, and the distant mountains framing the backdrop of the city.

As we strolled, we discussed what we would have for dinner—there were so many tempting options, from local delicacies like "soup joumou" (a traditional pumpkin soup) to freshly caught fish and other Caribbean staples. We decided to take our time and shop for the ingredients we’d need to prepare a meal on board. The local markets offered a wonderful selection of spices, tropical fruits, and vegetables. We even found some artisanal goods to bring back as souvenirs.

After a few hours of exploring, we returned to the boat, where we spent the evening cooking our own dinner. There was something incredibly peaceful about preparing a meal on the boat, with the sunset casting a golden glow over the harbor and the sounds of the city in the distance. We sat down to enjoy our meal and let the day wind down in a relaxed, unhurried way.

Roseau, though bustling, had a laid-back charm that made it easy to unwind and simply be in the moment. It was a perfect contrast to the previous days of sailing, exploring, and meeting new people.

The next morning, however, we knew we had to get back to the sailing routine, as we were set to make the long journey to Le Marin. We left Roseau with a sense of contentment, having enjoyed the beauty of the capital at our own pace, and ready for the next leg of our adventure.
Final pleasure

On our last day, we had a little bit of everything. The passage between Dominica and Martinique started with a fast ride, cruising through 30-knot winds. Once we reached the lee of Martinique, the winds softened, and we smoothly glided along with our Code 0 sail. As we approached the Bay of Fort-de-France, we had a steady 10 knots of speed, and things felt full of emotions again. But then came the final challenge: we had to beat slowly around the Diamond Rock, making little progress as we fought against the wind.

Finally, after a day full of mixed conditions, we dropped anchor just before St. Anne Beach. It was the perfect spot to end our journey, and we jumped into the water for one last refreshing swim, soaking in the beauty of the moment. It was a peaceful way to finish what had been an amazing adventure.