I have enjoyed your Blog on Antares – I also have an 81 Bristol 40 sloop cruising version: bought in 2002, refitted for 7 1/2 years then sailed for 3 years the Bahamas and Caribbean to Grenada and back to St. Petersburg, Fl. The only thing we didn’t do was rebuild the engine – wasn’t needed: thus no issues for 3 years and wonderful sailing! Recall sailing from T&C island directly to Luperon (marvelous – call ‘Handy Andy’ boat boy {he is 50+yrs} on VHF16 for help in the harbour; you’ll be glad you did). Stop in Samana Bay at the new incredible and in- expensive marina {Bahia de San Lorenzo} across the bay from Los Haitises National Park: the best marina I’ve ever seen. Then straight to PR. Marina in the Lagoon of St. George’s, Grenada is nearly as nice and also very reasonable price for the off-season: hated leaving after 6 months! Good luck with your book and sailing adventure! Don
Many thanks for your e-mail, and all the recommendations. It is great to know that another Bristol 40 was in those waters cruising for three years ! I also haven’t done much with the engine, other than replacing the injection pump. Would love to see some pictures of your boat and cruise if you can share.
Sailing to the Pacific 
I have enjoyed your Blog on Antares – I also have an 81 Bristol 40 sloop cruising version: bought in 2002, refitted for 7 1/2 years then sailed for 3 years the Bahamas and Caribbean to Grenada and back to St. Petersburg, Fl. The only thing we didn’t do was rebuild the engine – wasn’t needed: thus no issues for 3 years and wonderful sailing! Recall sailing from T&C island directly to Luperon (marvelous – call ‘Handy Andy’ boat boy {he is 50+yrs} on VHF16 for help in the harbour; you’ll be glad you did). Stop in Samana Bay at the new incredible and in- expensive marina {Bahia de San Lorenzo} across the bay from Los Haitises National Park: the best marina I’ve ever seen. Then straight to PR. Marina in the Lagoon of St. George’s, Grenada is nearly as nice and also very reasonable price for the off-season: hated leaving after 6 months! Good luck with your book and sailing adventure! Don
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Dear Don,
Many thanks for your e-mail, and all the recommendations. It is great to know that another Bristol 40 was in those waters cruising for three years ! I also haven’t done much with the engine, other than replacing the injection pump. Would love to see some pictures of your boat and cruise if you can share.
Cheers
David
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Dear Don,
Do you remember the name of the Marina in the Lagoon of St. George’s ? There seem to be several. Please let me know.
thanks much
David
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