WHY ANTIGUA? WE ASKED A SAILOR, WHO ELSE! Monday 27th November 2017
The gorgeous Jolly Beach and inset Carol and Gordon Cossar
Gordon and his wife Carol are long time homeowners in Jolly Harbour. In his day job Gordon was the Managing Director of an engineering manufacturing business. When he ‘retired’ as many all driven people do, he started a business called Performing Teams Ltd. which focussed on improving the relationships between employees.
The common thread running through his life is that of sailing so we asked Gordon about his choice to own a home in Antigua.
How long have you lived in Antigua?
We bought our house here in Jolly Harbour fifteen years ago. I was still working so only had occasional short visits for the first 4 years. Prior to my retirement we had the house renovated in preparation for our extended visits. We are now into our 10th year of spending our winter in Antigua We typically come out at the end of October until early May.
Why did you choose to live in Antigua?
There are lots of reasons, but these are the top ones for us: Sailing, being on the water, the beaches, calm waters off the West coast, direct frequent flights home (the UK) and great restaurants. Jolly Harbour also had a big influence with its sense of community and shopping with the availability of the goods we want. But the overwhelming reason is sailing. With all the regattas and events that are on offer. All our boating friends who live aboard in the Caribbean all end up here eventually.
Do you sail when you are in the UK?
We sailed in the UK for 25 years but now keep our boat in the Mediterranean.
For someone who isn’t familiar with Antigua, what advice would you give any yachtsman who is interested in making Antigua their winter home?
There is no doubt they will feel at home here and will find an Island full of like-minded people and develop lasting friendships.
They should make the effort to go along to the yacht clubs and get to meet people. Both Antigua Yacht Club and Jolly Harbour Yacht Club.
What is special about Antigua for you?
Diversity, the mix, with the buzz of Falmouth and English Harbour contrasted with the peace, solitude and sheer beauty of our many remote anchorage’s.
Why did you decide to live in Jolly Harbour?
Without doubt the main reason is the community. We have met some of our closest friends here in Jolly Harbour. The sense of community spirit is great, the Jolly Harbour Yacht Club plays a big part organising community events such as treasure hunts, quiz nights, Burns suppers, Christmas parties, barbecues, sailing events for yachts and power boats.
What is your favourite event on the yachting calendar?
It has to be Antigua Sailing Week for the on and off the water excitement, followed by the RORC Caribbean 600 and our own Jolly Harbour Valentines Regatta. Jolly Harbour is in my opinion the best sailing area in Antigua, Jolly Beach and 5 Islands beautiful blue calm waters.
Do you get involved in Saturday Sailing?
Yes I do! Both taking part and organising. Is there another Yacht Club that races every Saturday 52 weeks a year? Certainly not in Antigua.
Name three things a yachtsman or woman can’t miss in Antigua?
There are more than 3 but here goes.
1. Green Island anchorage.
2. English Harbour.
3. Jolly Beach area with the colour of the water.
If this inspires you to make the move, check out our real estate listings.
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