The Exumas

Been a while, but it still feels like home.

After pulling out of Ft Lauderdale, early, in the dark, we eased away from Port Everglades cut and pointed east toward Great Harbour Cay. We didn't get much help from the Gulf Stream so I pushed the throttle a bit and saw 10+ knots. Our course computer calculated we'd make it in around 6:30PM, but we beat that by about 30 minutes and motored through the rock cut leading to the marina only to find the place empty.
No problem finding a slip.
After tying up and washing a layer of salt off Istaboa, we walked up the stone steps past the still drained pool to Rocky Hills Bar and there enjoyed a pleasant dinner of pan fried fresh Wahoo. It was excellent and as always the company and conversations were too.


The next morning came with a fresh breeze and we could tell it was going to be a bit lumpy out, but we knew the wind was going to get worse before getting better — so we slogged into the rough on the east side of the Berrys and took it on our nose.
After a couple of hours the seas did settle into a moderate chop and we motored past New Providence then made way across White Bank, straight for Highborne Cay. Again, pushing, we made it into the marina around 6:00 and eagerly tied up. We booked 2 nights so the next day was a short but enjoyable respite on the island. We enjoyed it so much we booked another one.

We haven't been to Highbourne in years. The place has become so popular we couldn't get in unless we made reservations well in advance... and we just don't roll that way.

Highbourne is a beautifully manicured little island that still manages to hold on to the barefoot ambience of the Bahamas. The other boaters here are friendly and we made new friends as well as caught up with old ones. Some interesting tales we're told and enjoyed as we sat in the shade of the little gazebos located at the end of each dock. The sunsets, as usual, were quite nice.

Gallant Lady - Anchored off Highbourne Cay.

So today the plan is to run south to Compass Cay and continue indulging our infatuation with the Exumas.
The good news is the winds are a bit puffy which will keep things cool and hold the bugs at bay.
The bad news is the winds are a bit puffy which will make for a messy day.

We'll take the good with the bad. (as if we have a choice)

Cheers,