Cuan Law: Surface Intervals
There is plenty of other activities above the surface when you're not underwater This Web Exclusive article is a supplement to the March 2002 Sport Diver article on the British Virgin Islands, pages 82-84 The Cuan Law live-aboard is the perfect match for divers with non-diving family members. There are plenty of other activities to keep you active above the water and in the water when you're not under the water.Hobie Cats:There are two 14 foot Hobie Cats onboard for your use. Don't worry, the ''rescue team'' will be out in a snap should you need assistance. Crew members will also be happy to do the sailing for you if you prefer to sit back and enjoy the splashing and the sun. Sailing:The British Virgin Islands is one of the worlds finest sailing destinations and Cuan Law was designed specifically for this area. The sails are unfurled whenever the wind is right. You can either sit back and enjoy Cuan Law's quiet power or lend a hand with one of the massive winches. The Captain likes to put the sails up and let Cuan Law glide on the wind at least once a day, or as much as the wind permits which is the majority of the time she is under way. With a steady wind behind her she can cruise at speeds of up to 14 knots. The stability provided by her triple hull design defines the phrase ''smooth sailing''. Sit back on the sunny deck with a cold Piña Colada and you'll never want to go home! Kayaking:There are three Ocean Kayaks carried onboard Cuan Law that you can use anytime. Two are singles and one is a double. They are easy to use, virtually indestructible, and offer a perfect way to explore the area around the anchorages. Sunbathing:If you just don't feel like getting wet the Cuan Law top deck provides plenty of space for some intense sun bathing. Each stateroom comes equipped with a pair of foam pads for sunning on deck. Grab an icy cool tropical drink and put on plenty of sunscreen! Try out the hammocks! Waterskiing:Been a while since you've tried to get up on one ski? Slalom and double skis are ready to challenge those sleeping muscles. Or, you might want to try the kneeboard or scurfer. Beachcombing:There are a number of opportunities to go ashore and the British Virgin Islands have some of the best beaches anywhere in the world. Shore excursions are available almost anytime, with at least one shopping trip. The sandy white beaches of the British Virgin Islands are not to be missed. Beach Barbecue:One of the most pristine beaches and the clearest blue water is reserved for the Cuan Law beach barbecue. The buffet includes a variety of barbecued meat, fish, and veggies as well as delicious snacks. Maria cooks up fresh vegetables and there are plenty of ice cold drinks for everyone. The multi-talented crew keeps guests entertained.Norman Island Caves:Legend has it that pirate's treasure was discovered here around the turn of the century. Now named Treasure Point, the Caves at Norman Island are a great place to snorkel around during your surface interval. The area consists of three water-level caves that penetrate back into the rocky cliffs. Bring along a flashlight so you can see deep into the dark eerie holes and passageways. Outside the caves the steep cliffs drop down underwater as deep as 40' to the sandy bottom and are home to fish, sponges, corals and shrimp. The defensive Sergeant majors will protect their eggs, but will move away long enough to grab snacks from visiting snorkelers. Cooper Island Beach:Cooper Island is another popular drop-off point for sailors and divers alike. The Cooper Island Beach Club is open for snacks and drinks. A small gift shop offers island sarongs, beach towels, postcards, T-shirts and miscellaneous accessories. The Baths:Virgin Gorda is the third largest and second most populated of the British Virgin Islands. The most visited attraction is The Baths, a unique rock formation of huge granite boulders and hidden sea pools. Since granite is a stone not usually found this far south, its presence on the island is quite unusual. The crystal blue waters and many pools filled with tropical fish make this area popular among snorkelers. Many boats anchor nearby during the day. You can also get to the Baths from the land, though it is a bit of a scramble. The Baths are quite an experience and should not be missed even at the risk of giving up an afternoon's diving. Willy T Restaurant:The legendary floating pirate ship bar and restaurant ''William Thornton'' is located at the Bight at Norman Island. The crew will be delighted to dinghy you over for an evening of drinks, dancing and interesting people-watching. For more information about diving and touring the BVI by live-aboard, click on the home page below.