The Bahamas are a 3rd world country and not like the BVI's, but it has it's own charm. I have sailed all over the Bahamas and like they say, in my opinion, "It is better in the Bahamas". The BVI's are a very nice cruising ground (have been there too) and you cannot get into much trouble. There are lots of restaurants, etc. and seems more civilized in many respects. The Bahamas are more remote and, of course, much higher in latitude than the BVI's, so it is better to sail there later in the winter rather than earlier. I have been in the Abacos when it was nice and hot and spent lots of time in the water getting lobster, conch and spearing fish. But, that is more later March or April, than January or February. The Abacos are also the "whitest" population wise than most of the other parts of the Bahamas, which means nothing, really. Bahamians are nice people and experiences with them are generally quite positive. I have never chartered in the Bahamas (have sailed there from Florida and back many times), but it is my understanding that in the Abacos, out of the Moorings, which is based in Marsh Harbour, you are allowed to go only within the Sea of Abacos, which is to say, you will be inside the reef and out of the Atlantic. That is a good thing when the seas are bad (I have seen them 18 feet on the outside, but nice and protected on the inside). There are a lot of places to sail and anchor (large area) and I have gotten lobsters inside the sea of Abacos, when you normally would think it was all fished out. Treasure Cay has a marina and the beaches on the south side are outstanding. A restaurant there has happy hours on Tuesdays and I think it is called Cocoas. In the Marsh Harbour area, there are lots of places to go find food, are a couple of grocery stores there, Internet Cafes and there is a Cruiser's Net put on by Patty and Barometer Bob who live on John Cash Drive. Each morning they have weather reports, activities at certain places frequented by cruisers, and a VHF forum where you can post questions about where to find things you need (like parts), or other boats, etc. Very cool and helpful - they do a great job. Hope Town is charming and you can work your way south (windy channel) past Tilloo Cay to Linyard Cay and Little Harbour. Little Harbour has Pete's Pub, a great beach bar and restaurant that is a must see. If you draw too much to get into the very protected land harbor, you can anchor at Linyard and and dinghy there. That is as far south as you can go and stay within the area they want you to stay in. The water in the Bahamas is fantastic. Man of War Cay is where the boat building used to take place. It is dry, so no liquor can be bought there (bring your own rum), but it is a beautiful island with nice beaches, etc. Great Guana Cay has a few places where cruisers go find fun too. It will add to your cruising experience.
