The Bequia Express ferry pulled out of St. Vincent at 10:40 a.m. on a sunny October day. She was laden with leisure travelers, business persons and visitors, which included a Canadian film crew on a photo shoot of Bequia. The day promised to be near perfect as the sun glistened on the shimmering blue Caribbean Sea. For the one-hour ride, passengers were engaged in various activities i.e. admiring the captivating view of Port Kingstown and Cane Garden point via binoculars, reading, listening to radio and watching television. The travelers seemed to enjoy the rocking, rolling motion as the ferry plowed through choppy water, which is somewhat expected at this time of the year.
Bequia is endowed with a rich history as its traditional boat building, and festivals like the popular Easter Regatta. It is the largest Grenadine island of 9 square miles with a population of about 5000. Bequia prides itself for its repeat clientele, mostly who return to build homes or rent villas. As we entered the Port Elizabeth harbor, I scanned the coastline for familiar sights and nostalgic spots. Our pleasant welcome climaxed with an enjoyable safari style open-back jeep ride to our destination of Bequia Beach Hotel, where we were greeted by great company along with a tasty lunch.
A relaxing stroll on Friendship Beach afforded views of brightly colored fishing boats docked in the bay and pulled up along the shoreline, with majestic Mustique tranquilly nestled on the horizon. Friendship Bay dappled with shady trees, is known long ago as an indigenous boat building site. Tempting waves splashed playfully on the shore, unfortunately it was insufficient time for a dip as the 4:30 p.m. ferry beckoned.
A quick sojourn was granted on a bench at the tropical beach bar. Our troop cooled down at the end of a lovely day with a refreshing drink of lemonade.
As the ferry departed from Bequia’s harbor, my only wish was that I could over-night or better yet stay forever in Bequia.
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