Welcome to Sea The Good Life - The Stories behind my 2025 Calendar!
Let’s dive into the details and stories behind each picture, capturing some of my favorite Caribbean moments. From secluded beaches to vibrant island life, each month holds a scene that’s close to my heart. I hope these images and tales bring a touch of island magic to your year. ♡ Don't miss out - grab your calendar here! ♡
January
This picture was taken in Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou. It shows Sandy Island on the horizon. The island is a protected marine park, and the reefs around it are a dream for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Getting there is part of the experience. If you’re not there on your own boat, you can hop on a water taxi from Paradise Beach Club, thanks to the lovely Allison, who runs it. Her place is a must-visit! She serves up amazing food and drinks with the most stunning views of Sandy Island in the background. Allison hosts live music, events, and my personal favorite, a quirky little tradition: “paint your boat name on a wooden sign.” The walls of her restaurant are covered in these hand-painted signs, a collection of memories from sailors who’ve come and gone. It’s always fun to spot a friend’s boat name, even if they’ve long sailed on to new adventures.
After Hurricane Beryl, Allison has been working tirelessly to rebuild Paradise Beach Club, and she’s welcoming back locals, tourists, and cruisers with the same warmth and hospitality as ever.
“In the heart of the Caribbean, resilience and community spirit shine brightest, turning challenges into cherished memories.” – Kristina
February
Right before we were supposed to leave, the boat I was on had a broken headsail furler - so basically, we weren’t going anywhere. For some context, Carriacou to Martinique is about 130 nautical miles. At 6 knots, that’s roughly a 22-hour sail. With New Year’s right around the corner and no other boats heading up, I started to panic a little.
Then someone suggested, “Why not take a private plane over?” (there are no commercial flights between Grenada and Martinique). Great idea… for someone who isn’t terrified of small planes. But there I was, desperate to see my sister, so I booked a Cessna with a private pilot from Union Island, hoping I wouldn’t regret it.
To my surprise, the flight was actually amazing. The pilot was fantastic, and I even managed to enjoy the view of the islands below (while holding onto my seat for dear life). I made it in time for New Year’s Eve, had an unforgettable time with my sister and friends, and spent days exploring the beauty of Martinique.
This calendar picture will always remind me that sometimes you have to face your fears head-on, especially for the people you love.
"Don’t let fear stop you. If you can’t shake off your fear, do it afraid." - Kristina
March
This photo captures the vibrant spirit of Salt Whistle Bay on Mayreau, part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Mayreau, the smallest inhabited island in the Grenadines, is a true Caribbean gem with its colorful rum shacks, turquoise waters, and welcoming locals. It’s everything I dreamed of when I pictured the perfect island escape.
Though Hurricane Beryl left a path of destruction, including Mayreau and other islands of SVG, the island community has been resilient, working hard to restore Mayreau’s charm and welcome visitors back to enjoy this Caribbean pearl.
“Even in the face of nature’s fury, the islands keep shining, inviting us to discover their beauty and strength.” – Kristina
April
This photo was taken on one of my all-time favorite Caribbean islands: Bequia (pronounced Beck-way), part of St. Vincent & the Grenadines! Right in front of the Plantation Hotel, this spot marks the start of the Princess Margaret Trail, a scenic hike that captures Bequia’s beauty perfectly. It’s the kind of place where you’re rewarded with a cold drink at one of the beach restaurants along the way - an ideal way to soak in island life!
Depending on the season, Bequia can be wonderfully quiet or buzzing with energy from both locals and tourists. It’s a great spot for people-watching, and the friendly atmosphere makes everyone happy to be here. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to experience true Caribbean charm.
"Find a place that fills your soul with peace and adventure, and let it remind you how beautiful life can be." - Kristina
May
This photo was taken in Carriacou, where you’ll often see locals out on these traditional wooden sailboats. These types of boats, including open-deck sloops and workboats, are part of the island’s rich boatbuilding heritage. Every year, Carriacou hosts its famous Regatta in late July or early August, one of the longest-running regattas in the Caribbean. The event brings together sailors from across the region and is packed with fun activities, including boat races, street parties, and cultural festivities, making it a must-see for anyone in the area.
Unfortunately, Carriacou was hit hard by Hurricane Beryl in July. The island is steadily working to rebuild and welcomes visitors to support its recovery. I’ll be sailing there soon with supplies and will share updates on the progress in a blog post. If you’re interested in helping but aren’t sure how, feel free to reach out.
"Sometimes the strongest anchors are found in the community we build and the resilience we share." - Kristina
June
I took this breathtaking shot in Dominica - truly one of the most stunning and untouched islands I’ve ever visited. Stepping onto this island feels like traveling back in time; it’s a place so raw and unspoiled by modern development. Known as the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, Dominica is a paradise of lush green rainforests, countless waterfalls, and natural hot springs fed by volcanic activity. It’s the greenest place I’ve seen, with beauty around every corner.
Whether it’s hiking to the Boiling Lake, exploring Trafalgar Falls, or soaking in the hot springs at Wotten Waven, Dominica offers an experience like no other. If you love nature, this is a place that speaks to the soul.
"Let nature remind you that the best things in life are wild, free, and timeless." - Kristina
July
This photo captures the peaceful beauty of Grand Anse Beach in Grenada. Sitting beneath the sea grape tree (Coccoloba uvifera), I feel grounded in the present, the only moment where life truly exists. The present isn’t just a fleeting second; it’s a space to appreciate, to fully see and feel.
We often obsess over the past or focus on an imagined future. While it’s fine to connect with memories or plan for what’s ahead, real life only happens here and now. Each step toward our dreams begins in the present. Here, with the waves and gentle breeze, I’m reminded to embrace the beauty of what’s right here, right now.
"In the stillness of now, we discover the fullness of life itself." - Kristina
August
This photo was taken at Silversands Beach House on the leeward side of Grenada, in the southwest near the airport (thankfully, with minimal air traffic to keep things peaceful). The place feels almost futuristic, with sleek villas blending into the tropical landscape. Right next door is the Monkey Bar, where art meets sustainability. Creatives have used everything from old bottles to beach-found trash, turning them into beautiful, thought-provoking art pieces. The combination of natural beauty and human creativity makes this spot truly special.
“Art is born where creativity meets purpose, just as beauty emerges when nature and heart align." - Kristina
September
This photo was taken at Magazine Beach in Grenada, right in front of the Aquarium restaurant, a spot I’d highly recommend! They serve amazing seafood and steak, have beautiful cocktails, and even a small wine cellar.
I spent the day here with fellow female sailors/captains, making it a true ladies’ day at the beach. There’s something so inspiring about connecting with other women in this lifestyle. Everyone has their own unique journey and stories, and it’s a reminder of the strength and bravery it takes to live this way. Being part of this group of strong, adventurous women makes me proud, and I hope to inspire more women to join us out on the water.
"Strong women don’t wait for the tide to change; they set sail and create their own waves." - Kristina
October
This stunning sunset photo was taken on my birthday this October, and it's probably my most favorite picture! I had just returned to Grenada after extended travels for family and business. Being back felt like a breath of fresh air, and spending the day at Silversands in Grand Anse made it extra special.
Did you know you can get a day pass at most resorts in the Caribbean? At Silversands, this includes access to the facilities, like the infinity pool, along with lunch and unlimited select drinks. (Stay tuned for a detailed blog post on resorts I’ve visited soon!)
I enjoyed every moment by the infinity pool and spa, surrounded by loved ones - a beautiful way to feel welcomed back to Grenada in one of its most stunning locations.
“In every return, there’s a reminder of what makes our hearts feel at home.” – Kristina
November
I took this photo on Sandy Island in Carriacou, which is truly a special place! When I look at the photo, I instantly get thrown back there, and it brings me back the feeling of peace and connection with nature. The ocean breeze, the salt on my skin, the warmth of the sun, and the gentle rhythm of the waves all come rushing back. Every island in the Caribbean has its unique charm, and finding hidden gems like this to slow down, breathe, and embrace the moment is what it’s all about for me.
“The shore shifts with each tide, a reminder to savor the beauty of the moment before it changes.” – Kristina
December
This photo was taken at Whisper Cove Marina (now called The Cove) in Grenada, one of my all-time favorite places. My boat, Sirocco, is on a mooring ball nearby, and I’ve spent four hurricane seasons here in Woburn Bay.
Whisper Cove may be small, offering just the basics, but it’s become like a second home to me and my closest friends. We even call it our “living room.” I have so many great memories from our time here, the staff became friends, and spending time here, whether working quietly on my laptop by day or enjoying a lively evening out, was always something special.
Since the ownership change, The Cove hasn’t fully reopened yet, with shorter hours and closed weekends. But the food is still fantastic (always go for the daily special on the blackboard - you won’t be disappointed!). This place will always have a piece of my heart, even though it’s changing. It’s a reminder that nothing stays the same. Instead of trying to hold on, keep the memories close and stay open to new ones on the horizon.
"Some places leave a mark on your soul, reminding you that even as things change, their spirit stays with you." - Kristina
As I look back on each of these places and moments, I’m reminded of the beauty, resilience, and unforgettable memories that the Caribbean has brought into my life. I hope these photos and stories bring a bit of that same magic into your home, a gentle reminder to embrace the present, follow your dreams, and cherish each sunset.
If you’d like to keep a piece of this journey with you all year long, my 2025 calendar, Sea the Good Life, is available now. Get your calendar here to bring the Caribbean spirit into your daily life. Here’s to many more adventures and the beautiful places waiting just beyond the horizon.
Salty Kisses,
Sailorgirl Kristina