The Bahamas

[Intermission]

My wife and I are going on a trip to the Bahamas next week and are trying to plan the ultimate vacation. We plan to cruise for a few months in the Eleuthra and Northern Area. I know, I know we've picked the worst time to go. We cruise around 10 knots.We are trying to stay on a budget and plan on anchoring out when possible. We have been given two reccomendations on port of entry West End and Bimini.If you had an ultimate trip where would you go, where would you stay, and whats a must to see and do?ThanksWC

 

[Rick I]

Where are you starting from?

I take it you're crossing the stream from somewhere on the east coast of Fl. Where you check in depends on your route. I prefer to check in in Nassau if leaving from Miami, it's only about 30 hours at my slow speed (5-6 kts). You should be able to do it in less. If you're setting out from further north West End might be an option.

 

[Richard Kollmann]

Bahamas For The First Time

You may be interested in my Bahamas Web Site for First Timers. http://members.tripod.com/capkoolFrom the author of four books on boat refrigeration

 

[Captronb]

Try the Abacos first

It depends on how long you've got and how independent you are. Eleuthera is an "out island" meaning, you're on your own ... there's a good anchorage at Royal Island and marine services at Spanish Wells. The west coast anchorages are mostly for east winds only, too much reef on the eastern side for anchoring overnight. Hatchett Bay offers some protection but holding is poor. Rock Sound is great ... good protection and holding but you may need to move from one side of the bay to the other depending on wind.Powell Point has a marina for fuel but that's all that's there.Just remember that you're on your own out there ... there ain't no sea-tow to come get you when you have trouble.If I was a first timer ... the best place to go would be the Abacos. Leave Lake Worth and sail directly to Great Sale Cay ... anchor in the bay overnight and then sail to Green Turtle. You could spend months in the Sea of Abaco ... great snorkeling, fishing and marine services (mostly in Marsh Harbor). Many cute little settlements to explore, great beaches, few resorts and just a few charter boats.You might want to take a look at our log from last season's cruise at kismetlog.blogspot.com