Most of her destinations the caves on Norman Island, the baths on Virgin Gorda are those of numerous other sailboats cruising the area. The difference is, your ride is nicer than everybody else's. In 1999, she was given a mid-body extension, which means they sliced her in two and added 48 feet to her middle. Captain Jeff allowed me to take the helm for the better part of an afternoon, and on a beam reach in light winds she was breaking seven knots with no trouble at all. For those more interested in the sybaritic side of the trip, meals are served in the dining room, and cocktails everywhere else, including the spacious, covered aft deck or the Jacuzzi, if you like.
Aerobic recreation is facilitated by a small fleet of sea kayaks and plenty of snorkeling equipment.
But of all the pleasures on Arabella, the best is when she drops anchor in some quiet spot, and you dive right off her into turquoise, 85-degree waters. Then you have a cocktail in the Jacuzzi. Cracow stunned us with its beauty and history and friendliness. The town square is the largest in Europe and teems with activity. It is one of the great sights, something to add to one's list of Things to Do before it gets spoiled.