One of the most beautiful sights in Grand Cayman is the stunning sunset in the western sky. And each one seems unique as the sun may set behind a few different scattered clouds on the horizon. Could there be a more relaxing and romantic moment than to be on a beautiful sail boat, eating dinner with that special someone, at sunset? Well, as this month’s Passenger Pick of the Month, we wanted to learn more about the story behind Red Sail’s Sunset Dinner Sail, so recently we caught up with Sarah-Jane Harlan.
PP: Sarah, we’ve been hearing a lot about your Dinner Sunset Cruise. Sounds absolutely wonderful!
SJH: It really is! At Red Sail, we have a huge variety of awesome activities to choose from, but I have to say that listening to the wind in the crisp sails, the water lapping against the bow, while dining under a thousand stars makes this dinner sunset sail my most favorite and memorable activity.
PP: We can see why. Tell us about the sailboats you use.
SJH: At Red Sail Sports we have four 65’ luxury catamarans in our fleet and the Dinner Cruise takes place aboard one of these beautiful boats.
PP: Wow! Good size ships. How many folks can the ship comfortably sit?
SJH: The catamaran, Spirit of Calypso, can accommodate up to 70 passengers but for this special evening we limit the number to just 32 passengers to allow for a more intimate experience. Tables and chairs are set up on the catamaran with linens and the sunset and stars are your backdrop for the evening.
PP: Sounds perfect. Where do you set sail from?
SJH: The boat offers convenient access direct from Seven Mile Beach. We board at the Westin and then pick up guests from further down the beach at the Grand Cayman Beach Suites. Passengers are welcome to board at whatever location is most convenient for them and we’re not restricted to serving guests of just these resorts, everyone is welcome!
PP: Convenient! Tell us what we can expect on board.
SJH: After departure we have a quick safety briefing and pause to hoist the sails. Once the sails are up we’re underway for a relaxing cruise along Seven Mile Beach as the sun is setting. Seating is family style which means guests can mix and mingle and get to know each other. After the sun has set, the Captain anchors the boat and the crew sets about serving the meals. When booking your trip you will be asked for your meal choice, so we cater based on guests choices. After dinner, guests can relax on the bow nets of the catamaran and look up at the stars as we head back towards the shore.
PP: So what’s on the menu?
SJH: We have the same menu each evening, with choices of appetizer and entrée. Any dietary restrictions can be accommodated as long as guests let us know 24 hours prior to the sail. The two appetizer choices are: Cream of Tomato soup served with focaccia bread, or a Fish Cake served on a bed of greens. The three entre choices are: Blackened Fish Taco topped with Mango Salsa and Lime Slaw, or Cured and Slow Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs in a Honey Garlic Glaze, or an all-natural Chicken Breast in a Spicy Jerk Marinade. Add to that four sides of Rice n Beans, Mixed Greens, Roasted Root Vegetables and Pasta Salad. Then for dessert, it’s Warm Stick Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce. All of the choices are delicious and are making my mouth water just talking about it!
PP: Now our mouths are watering too! Can you enjoy cocktails on the catamaran?
SJH: There is a full cash bar available on all of our catamarans so passengers can purchase a delicious Cayman cocktail while they watch the sunset – each crew member has their favorite cocktail so it’s always fun to get their recommendations. The bar is fully stocked with beer, wine, spirits and mixers. Guests of the Marriott, Beach Suites, Westin, and Ritz Carlton can charge the bar tab to their room making it even easier.
PP: Many folks travel from all over the world to photograph and experience a Cayman sunset, what advantage is there to witness a Cayman sunset from the water?
SJH: The Cayman sunset is one of the best I have ever seen. To be able to watch the sun slip beyond the horizon on board a luxury catamaran with a cocktail in hand is my idea of heaven! It is so peaceful and serene out on the water with nothing spoiling your view. Don’t forget to look out for the elusive green flash!
PP: How long is the dinner cruise?
SJH: The dinner cruise departs at 5:30pm and returns to shore at 8:45pm.
PP: What should folks wear?
SJH: Smart casual is the typical dress code. I always advise ladies to bring a wrap or a cardigan to cover up after the sun has set as it tends to be a bit breezier out on the water and sensible footwear – you do have to cross the sand to board the boat and generally high heels and boats do not mix well.
PP: Tell us a little more about Red Sail. How long has Red Sail serviced Grand Cayman?
SJH: Red Sail Sports opened in 1987 at the Grand Cayman Beach Suites Hotel on Grand Cayman. We started with two dive boats, some beach toys and about 20 enthusiastic staff members. Since then, we’ve built a reputation as one of the world’s leading resort watersports operators. Our philosophy has remained the same throughout the years: Give the customer the highest quality service possible.
PP: 29 years! Quite a history. And today?
SJH: Today, Red Sail Sports has grown to eight dive boats, four luxurious catamarans, dive shop locations at all major beach resorts on Grand Cayman, and an impressive range of resort retail boutiques.
PP: Impressive! Tell us about the values of your company.
SJH: At Red Sail Sports we value the experience of every guest. We know our guests come to Cayman and make memories that will last a lifetime. And our staff know the important role they play in our guests’ experiences.
PP: What can folks expect from your team when they take any Red Sail excursion?
SJH: At Red Sail Sports, all of our staff are trained to provide service at an exceptional standard. What you will see, and more importantly, what you will feel, will be a fun, friendly experience with a friendly, professional crew.
PP: So there you have it, folks. Don’t miss this Red Sail Sunset Dinner Cruise for the experience of a lifetime!
Red Sail Sports
P.O. Box 31473
Grand Cayman KY1-1206
Local: (345) 623-5965
Toll Free: (877) 506-6368
www.redsailcayman.com