We were up early on Sunday and prepared the boat to exit the lagoon.  This meant moving some fenders to the port side, just in case.  Staff don’t work on Sundays but we had friends who helped us leave the dock.  This dock was challenging because the wind was blowing us onto it.  The day before we asked staff to help move boats back so that we would have some wiggle room getting out and that worked perfectly.  We were a little nervous because the day before a catamaran behind us tried to pull out and wasn’t able to get off of the dock.  Steve was able to keep control of the boat and we didn’t hit anything, which was wonderful. 

Next, we had to get out of the lagoon.  15 minutes prior to the bridge opening, Steve called the bridge pilot to let them know that we were planning to go through the bridge.  Then we headed to the opening and got in line to exit.  Like before, boats were jockeying for position while trying not to hit anyone else.  We were behind a superyacht and its tender.  After waiting for about 10 minutes, the bridge finally opened and we were off.  We put the sails up and headed to Statia.  One other boat was ahead of us and seemed to be heading in the same direction.

The crossing was quite pleasant.  We were able to sail for approximately a third of the crossing and motor-sailed for the rest.  The swells were 2 to 4 feet with an occasional 6-8 footer showing up every once in a while.  The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day.  On the way to Statia, we were able to see St. Martin, St. Barths, Saba, and Statia all at the same time.  Saba looked beautifully clear with the sun shining on it.  It was hard being so close to that island and not returning to it.  I look forward to going back there.