March 27

Today we take a relaxed morning on the beach of Stocking Island and stroll through the northern part of the island, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding bays and the countless sailboats that regularly gather here.

In the early afternoon we move the boat and anchor at the sailors' meeting point a bit further south, then go ashore. The bar Chat'n'Chill on the beach with its volleyball court is a major hangout and party zone for the sailing crowd, nearly all from the US. There's simple food and good entertainment until 6 PM. We spend the afternoon with a few cold drinks, playing volleyball, and feeding stingrays. The rays are always at the beach here, waiting for the shell scraps from the preparation of traditional conch salad, which are often tossed to them by visitors.

In the sheltered bay of Stocking Island, many sailors leave their boats until their next sailing trip.

Shortly after Chat'n'Chill closes, we head back to the Shangri La, where sundowners aren't far behind... the evening naturally evolves into a fantastic party, which at midnight — with champagne — turns into an unforgettable birthday celebration for my wife Dany. Dani and Bernd had secretly and perfectly prepared everything that afternoon, and it was a complete success. Thank you!!! That was truly brilliant.