Since posting the last Rare Air episode, Beth and I have faced-off with two hurricanes. We met Ernesto on the coast of St. John on August 14th, then experienced Hurricane Helene in Boone on September 27th. Having come through unscathed, naturally, we are feeling very lucky. The damage to St. John was considerable, but our friends’ and neighbors’ recovery from the unimaginable devastation in our North Carolina homeland is only beginning.
I’ve had this post scheduled for a very long time. Despite being caught up in deciphering priorities as we carry on, I am still compelled to continue this mission.
For the record, starting with episode 47 and running all the way through 60, I am featuring footage captured during our 2019 trip to what locals call The Rock. On that trip, we lucked into the oceanside accommodation that set the all-time standard for us. Clicking around here, you will hear me go on and on about The Limetree Cove Beach House, which is now a private residence.
Our 2019 trip mapped out in the legend below vastly expanded our knowledge of St. John’s East End. We are known for sticking with things we like, which explains why, on this trip, we re-booked with Captain Karl and his Virgin Magic Charters. Episode 57’s footage is from our return to Coral Bay. Here’s my review of the excursion as it appears on TripAdvisor.
We first met Captain Karl in July of 2017, and had a wonderful afternoon aboard the Mahiya, and experiencing the waters around Le Duc Cay. The devastation that followed is well known, and this year, we finally were able to return to St. John. Once again, our time aboard the Mahiya was a main highlight. Our afternoon trip was customized to accommodate us, and this time around, the crew included two very special deck hands. Captain Karl offers unique experiences; to us, they represent the best of St. John. If you have a chance to spend time onboard the Mahiya, don’t miss it!
Thanks for your interest, as always. Please return soon for more Rare Air.
Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands, July, 2019
Rare Air Episode 47, Part 1: Third Time’s the Charm
Rare Air Episode 48, Part 2: Ancient Eruption
Rare Air Episode 49, Part 3: Omniscience, Part One
Rare Air Episode 50, Part 4: Omniscience, Part Two
Rare Air Episode 51, Part 5: Heaven on Earth
Rare Air Episode 52, Part 6: Return Trip to Waterlemon
Rare Air Episode 53, Part 7: Underwater at Waterlemon Cay
Rare Air Episode 54, Part 8: Fish life on the cay
Rare Air Episode 55, Part 9: Snorkeling Hansen Bay
Rare Air Episode 56, Part 10: School of bar jacks
Rare Air Episode 57, Part 11: Sunset over Bordeaux Mountain
