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    • Jun 17, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      2019 Letter from the Bahamas by Greg and Barbara Allard

      Our sincerest thanks to Greg and Barbara Allard for sharing their thoughts and beautiful photography from their Bahamas cruises. These photos and descriptions will have you aching to follow in the Allard’s wake! For more this excellent photography, type Allard in our Homepage search window for letters from previous cruises.

      “We all come from the sea, but we are not all of the sea. Those of us who are, we children of the tides, must return to it again and again, until the day we don’t come back leaving only that which was touched along the way.” 

      —Frosty Hesson, Chasing Mavericks  
       

      Hi Friends –  Some final pictures from Eleuthera, then some from the Exumas, a beautiful group of islands and cays in the central Bahamas.

      The biggest challenge we face is the weather.  We’ve cruised in the Bahamas for a number of years, but during the last three we found that there were more times when the wind was unrelenting, when the seas looked like this – or worse – every day for weeks on end.
       
      As the old-salts say: the boat can take more than you can. We agree. We avoid such seas whenever possible.  However, some times we leave on a calm day after we consult multiple weather sources, but the forecasts turn out to be wrong, and we have to deal with large seas for hours.  Paradise is not perfect.

      Marilyn and Phil operate a small organic farm on Eleuthera.  We bought several of the famous Eleuthera pineapples from them.  You may think you’ve had a good pineapple before tasting one from this island.  Phil showed us how to propagate a pineapple by cutting off its top and planting it. 
       
      Marilyn has a killer smile.

      Elliot, the owner of Tippy’s restaurant on Eleuthera.  He’s also the lead singer in their Saturday night band.  Yes, he is a character.

      Tarpum Bay, on Eleuthera, is a poor settlement, with the look of a place struggling to survive.  Yet the community found the resources to build this new waterside swing and hammock set for their children.  Pride of place. Correct priorities.

      Earlier in this trip we showed you a Ghost crab.  This is his cousin – a Land crab.  Some land crabs can spread their claws sideways and they will be two feet wide.  This variety is a bit smaller, but his beautiful colors make up for any size envy.  I particularly liked the face:  a perpetual frown moulded into his shell.  Sadly, he never gets to smile.

      We visited Charles Strachan in his home.  He is a basket weaver, and uses only the fronds from silver top palms for his work; he says they are the strongest and most durable.  Barbara plans to use the large round mat as a wall hanging.

      Our next leg brought us to the Exumas, a group of islands in the central Bahamas. The Exuma Land and Sea Park is a legally designated sanctuary where fishing, lobstering, collecting shells or removal of any natural item are not permitted.  The Park is twenty two miles long and 8 miles wide, and consists of dozens – if not hundreds – of cays and islands.
       
      When we arrived at Warderick Wells, the island where the park office is located, we were happy to see the new Metal Shark boat, built by the company where our son Chris is CEO.
       
       
      I was fortunate to join the Park Administrator and go out on patrol.  Captain Joseph Ierna Jr., the Administrator, was at the helm, and one of the  Royal Bahamian Defense Force Marines – who are regulars on board – was at the bow.  Joe commented that he liked that the Metal Shark boat gave the impression of “all business” – that it was intimidating in a way, which made his enforcement duties easier.  My response to Joe: “Yes, the boat certainly has a military, aggressive look, but I do think that much of the intimidation was due to the large muscular Marine, Tamal, at the bow, with a sidearm.”
       
       
      Tamal exchanges some paperwork with a sailboat which was anchored in the Park.
       
       
      Yes, maybe even a bit ferocious.
       
       
      Captain Joe Ierna.  He’s brought fresh ideas, sound business sense and a new approach to the Park. 

      The Bahamas are as beautiful underwater as they are above.  The visibility is incredible.  We estimated here that it was over 250’.  When I used to dive in the Northeast, we were happy to have 30’ of visibility. At the top of the photo you can see the underside of the surface of the water.

      There is a huge variety of soft and hard coral.  At the upper right is a brain coral.  Lower left are sea rods.  In the center is what we think is a saucer coral.   On our boat we carry some excellent guides to fish, coral and reef creatures, but sometimes especially with coral, identification is difficult.   So for convenience we call the dark green one in the center a vase coral.

      One of the most beautiful fish in the sea – a stunning Queen Angelfish.

      The colors on this Ocean Surgeonfish are more subtle than those of the Queen Angel, but this fish is just beautiful.  

      A purple sea fan with a large parrot fish feeding on the coral.

      A spotted eagle ray, with a wingspan close to eight feet. It’s humbling to swim near something so big.  Under his left wing, look for the tail of a remora fish.  More about that in a future letter.  The ray’s tail is so long it extends outside of the picture, to the right.

      More recent brain coral, growing over some older coral.

      These fish are called Sergeant Majors, because of their chevron-like markings.  This photo may look like it was taken through an aquarium window, but the location is on a reef just north of Cambridge Cay.  The fish closest to the camera was particularly curious.  He thought we had brought food…
       
      The fish in the Park have nothing to fear from man because they are in the sanctuary of the Park. (How do they know if they are in the Park?) In any event, they are relaxed around divers.

      So…Just in case you thought the last photo was from an aquarium, our friend Ellen took this photo of me, surrounded by dozens of Sergeant Majors, as I tried to take the previous picture!  
       
      This reef, aptly enough, is called The Aquarium.
       
       
      Sunset over the Land and Sea Park.
       
      Today on a remote beach we bumped into two longtime Bahamian friends, who are involved in the marine and tourism business. We were all swimming together, and she commented that the water was almost too warm to be refreshing.   We had noticed that this year the water in the Bahamas was warmer much earlier (we could swim in April) and the waters are now warmer than we have ever experienced in June.  They said that this really concerns them as we have just entered the hurricane season, and that it’s too early for the water to be so warm.  Hurricanes view warm water as food.  They thrive on it, and it makes them grow. 
       
      As we consider how long we will remain in the Bahamas, our friends’ comments will have weight on our decision.  It’s a long way home, and our boat does not go faster than a hurricane.
       
      Warmest regards until next time
       
      Greg and Barbara
       
      Copyright 2019 Greg Allard
       
       
       
       

       

       

       
       
       

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    • Jun 16, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Bahamas Chatter: “Abacos Weather?” plus 9 more

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas

      Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.

      Bahamas Chatter: “Abacos Weather?” plus 9 more

      Abacos Weather?

      Posted: 08 Jun 2019 04:43 AM PDT

      I’ll soon be crossing from West Palm to the West End and eventually to the Abacos. It’s close enough, that I’m looking at the weather more closely. First thing I notice is that generally every day over the next 10 days, there is a prediction of rain or “scattered thunderstorms”. Not having been to the Bahamas before I’m wondering if this is just the standard late day 15-30 minute storms that typically roll through FL in the Summer. Or is this really a rainy time in the area.

      I’d love to hear other insights or general knowledge about this so we can plan for it appropriately.

      Thanks so much!

      Bimini Power and light fire

      Posted: 29 May 2019 02:40 PM PDT

      The Bimini power station caught on fire.

      See the article in the Nasssau Guardian. https://thenassauguardian.com/2019/05/29/bimini-power-situation-still-unreliable/

      According to Big Game, they have power, I would call before going over.

      Big Farmers Cay

      Posted: 05 May 2019 04:34 AM PDT

      Big Farmers Sign.jpg

      Since our stop last year here at Big Farmers Cay, four 2’x4′ red with white lettering “NO TRESPASSING” signs have been placed along the west shore of the cay.

      Chub Cay Marina change in policy

      Posted: 30 Apr 2019 07:55 AM PDT

      All cruisers please be aware, Chub Cay Marina no longer allows “transients” from the anchorage to go ashore! This includes the Ship Store and the restaurants!
      It was in listed in this seasons explorer charts on page 62, that cruisers could buy an “Adventure” debut card for $100 and use it in the shop and restaurants. (We would of course be spending more!) Friends who were here a short time ago suggested we come here because they had so much fun at The Nauti Rooster, we were hoping to go.
      They no longer are providing this service as of about a week ago.
      Now they stop all dingy’s a the fuel dock and won’t let you go to the dingy dock.
      (We even had a local friend try to pick us up and take us to dinner and they still wouldn’t let us.)
      So now we are stuck here, low on beer, wine and some basic groceries with no access to the store.

      Heads up if you need anything or want to go to the restaurant, you can’t anymore!

      You can still get a slip at the marina for $4.25 a foot.

      New Fuel and Dockage Survey

      Posted: 24 Apr 2019 04:53 AM PDT

      A new fuel and Dockage Survey has been posted on https://www.explorercharts.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=53  Most fuel prices were up since last month and many dockage rates as well. A number of marinas could not be contacted and some were too busy to give any information. The prices shown in red are old and should not be trusted.

      The date of last months survey was in error. It was posted on March 6, 2019; not 2018. We will attempt to contact the marinas with old prices and if we cannot, they will be removed from the list. Collecting the information for the survey is as frustrating as herding cats.

      Exuma Yacht Club fuel

      Posted: 23 Apr 2019 03:27 PM PDT

      Update… Exuma Yacht Club has had diesel for a couple of weeks now. $4.78 a gallon. I took a few samples in a glass jar along the way, looks clean. But the pump is VERY slow. About 5GPM… fueling now… not sure if I ll have the patience to pump the 1000 gallons I wanted.

      They said they ll have has in a few weeks

      Rev’d Lawrence Adderley

      Posted: 14 Apr 2019 12:10 PM PDT

      Continual shoaling at Bimini Harbour Entrance

      Posted: 10 Apr 2019 07:51 AM PDT

      The sand bar that extends south from North Bimini Entrance Point continues to move south, encroaching on the dredged channel east of the Bimini Waypoint shown on Explorer Chart BIM 3. That problem is made worse by the lack of any effort by the Bahamas Government to move and maintain the buoys previously placed at the channel entrance. The deepest water into Bimini Sands Marina or the North Bimini Harbour is currently along a straight line from the Bimini Waypoint to the jettied entrance of the Bimini Sands Marina. The minimum SLW depth along this line is currently 2.4 meters. Just inside the jetties the depth drops to 1.5 meters for a very short distance then deepens to 3 meters at the marina basin. The straight line course between the waypoint and the jetties passes close and on the wrong side of a red buoy which was previously the second buoy on the channel entrance. The first buoy along this approach was moved by a hurricane over a year and a half ago and now rests on the Entrance Point shoal in very shallow water. This buoy should be avoided.

      For vessels headed to North Bimini Harbour, a turn to the north should be made along longitude 79° 18.2′. A green buoy marking the area of this turn has been last seen on the beach near the Bimini Sands jetties. There may be several buoys marking the channel between the Entrance Point shoal and South Bimini. Depths along this part of the channel range between 2.3 and 4.5 meters.

      Mariners should be alert for moved or missing aids to navigation and expect shifting sand and the possibility of future shoaling. Government maintenance of aids to navigation has been casual in the past. We have been unable to find any local contacts that can advise of changes in the existence of buoys and their accurate positions in the Bimini Channel.

      Old Bahama Bay Marina Status

      Posted: 19 Mar 2019 08:11 AM PDT

      We just spoke with the Dockmaster at Old Bahama Bay, West End, Grand Bahama.
      Here is their current status:
      The marina is 95% closed. That means there are 6-7 slips available in the marina. They are also making available room for 4-5 boats in the canal along a concrete dock tied to cleats.
      They take NO reservations.
      Call no sooner than 2-3 days ahead for availability.

      Dockmaster: 242-602-5172.

      Monty Lewis

      Exuma Yacht Club

      Posted: 16 Mar 2019 03:42 AM PDT

      Exuma Yacht Club is open under somewhat new management. Dockage is $2 a foot limited power but water available

      Still no fuel although they say it should be another month…

      New restaurant upstairs replacing Blu. Very disappointing experience

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    • Jun 9, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      An Invitation from Royal Marsh Harbor Yacht Club, Abaco, Northern Bahamas

      Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club

      Now that many of you are in southern waters and maybe headed for the Bahamas, don’t miss this opportunity to link with the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!

      Are you planning to cruise to the Bahamas?  Come spend some time in the Abacos with the Royal March Harbour Yacht Club.  It’s an easy 60 mile crossing to Little Bahama Bank and then hundreds of miles of cruising amid protected islands and harbours with lots to explore.

      Here are just some of the benefits of joining Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club. 

      Affordable initiation fee and annual dues

      Discounts at marinas throughout the Bahamas

      Discounts at restaurants and stores, particularly in the Marsh Harbour area

      Friendly boating community with fun activities

      The best deal in the Bahamas!

      For more information and to become a member, go to www.rmhyc.com.

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    • May 20, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      FOCUS ON Makers Air – Destinations Made

      Welcome to the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, your own paradise in the middle of the beautiful Exumas.

      Cruisers Net is honored to be able to work with this five-star, customer-focused, family owned and operated organization. Watermakers Air and Staniel Cay Yacht Club have been synonymous to so many over the past years.  Success is the driving element to its expanded service to the Bahamas and to its re-branding as Makers Air. Take a look at what you may do to add to your Bahamas experience. Can you say…” Wow !!”
      Staniel Cay Yacht Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!
       

       

      There’s Something New in the Blue Skies Over the Bahamas

      Watermakers Air has Re-Branded to

      Makers Air

      Still Providing an Unparalleled Travel Experience with A New Look

      The story behind this story is filled with the passion of an enterprising gentleman, Joe Hocher, the developer of what we all know as the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Exumas, Bahamas, and Watermakers, Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, a manufacturing company dedicated to the design, manufacture, and service of reverse osmosis desalination equipment. In the earlier years, Mr. Hocher flew around the islands in his Piper Cherokee Six, installing and servicing his desalination equipment; he affectionately became known as “Watermakers Air”.

      Then, in 2002, Watermakers Air was officially launched in response to demand for reliable air service to the Out Islands of the Bahamas, operating as a Part 135-Charter for the specific purpose of flying passengers and freight.

      For the past seventeen years Watermakers Air has been the preferred air service to the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Growing from its initial operations servicing mostly Staniel Cay, Exumas, Makers Air is today’s premier air service to many of the Out Islands of the Bahamas.

      Now you can make your island dreams come true…

      Makers Air enhances your experience of travel by bringing back what it means to fly – the excitement of the great escape, togetherness with family or friends, and helping you relax as yesterday’s concerns fade into the inviting, crystal blue waters of the Bahamas.

      The Makers Air “difference” runs deep. What resulted from Joe Hocher’s passion became a family-owned, strategically grown, premiere boutique airline, that believes in the value of the passenger’s experience and safety. Makers Air understands that the destination is not your only adventure – it’s also the exciting journey to get you there.

      See these beautifully scattered cays from a “Makers” point of view

      Sparkling blue waters dotted with small cays … So much to see, do, and enjoy.

      And the flight over and back becomes so much of the total experience… and memory.

      Today, Makers Air, a certificated On-Demand / Commuter Air Carrier, has taken its brand promise to the next level by creating a tailored passenger experience that is focused on customer service and connecting passengers to paradise. The company has grown to a family of 30+ employees with dedicated Scheduled Service, Charter, and Freight Departments, with a fleet of 4 Cessna Grand Caravans.

      Makers Air proudly carries an Argus Gold Rating on its fleet of Cessna Grand Caravans. With various seating configurations, including an Oasis Executive Interior, they will make your travel as memorable as your destination.

       

      Makers Air is based out of a private hangar at Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport, convenient to all South Florida international airports. They offer a spacious, comfortable lobby with TV & WiFi, including the private, upscale Makers Club departure lounge for charter customers. You will enjoy complimentary snacks & beverages while also enjoying the lack of long security and baggage lines!

      Reservations and freight offices are open 7 days a week and Makers Air is also pet-friendly!

      Whether you are looking to take a vacation, fly to or from your boat, fly guests in or out, transport crew or parts or supplies, Makers Air is ready to provide you with exemplary service.

      It is an honor to be able to work with such a customer-focused organization as Makers Air and the all the wonderful people of Staniel Cay Yacht Club.

      Ready to kick back and start finding that one particular harbor…?

      then there’s only one way to go … Makers Air

      Take a look…click, enjoy, and start your journey!

      Click here for Video Link to Makers Air

      https://www.makersair.com/

      email: info@makersair.com

      phone: 954.771.0330

      © WinSueEnterprise

       

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    • May 9, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Shared Photo: Sunrise at Spanish Wells by Greg Allard

      Our thanks to Greg Allard for sharing his gift of photography.

      Sunrise at Spanish Wells, in the Bahamas, where commercial fishing boats greatly outnumber cruising boats.

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    • Apr 13, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Old Bahama Bay Marina by Greg Allard

      Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club

      If you are in the Bahamas – Lucky You! – don’t miss the opportunity to link with the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!. Our thanks to Greg Allard for this on-site report and the very latest news from Old Bahama Bay Marina, including the fact that the marina is now fully open.

      Bahamas Update on Old Bahama Bay/West End on Grand Bahama  

      There has been much discussion about the status of the facilities at Old Bahama Bay, especially since it is
      a common place to “make land” for Bahamian bound cruisers, and also a convenient location to clear Customs and 
      Immigration.
       
      I spoke with Jackie Carroll, the general manager for the Old Bahama Bay resort. We know her from our stops there over the years, and have always found her to be competent and customer friendly. She said their recent “troubles” are now over. Ms. Carroll advised that the marina is now fully open: all slips are available for occupancy with full electricity at each slip.  Customs and Immigration (which never shut down) is running as usual. There is fuel available.
       
      Two days ago, after crossing the Florida Straits (Gulf Stream) on our way from Lake Worth Inlet to Port Lucaya, we passed offshore of Old Bahama Bay; there was significant VHF traffic between cruising boats and the dockmaster of the marina, announcing arrivals and requesting slip assignments, all of which confirms that this popular and necessary destination is again available for cruisers.
       
      Here are the contact numbers for Old Bahama Bay, if you need further information.  
       
      888 983 6188
      242 346 6500
      242 350 6516

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    • Feb 13, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Update on Old Bahama Bay Marina, Bahamas

      Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club

      Now that many of you are in southern waters and maybe headed for the Bahamas, don’t miss this opportunity to link with the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!. Our thanks to Jim Lund for sharing this update on Old Bahama Bay Marina.

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    • Feb 7, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Bahamas Chatter: Big Changes in Explorer Electronic Data Availability

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas

      Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.

      Big Changes in Explorer Electronic Data Availability

      February 2019 introduces some changes in the sources of data being used for electronic navigation in the Bahamas. If you have come to rely on the accuracy of the Explorer chart data, this is important information for you. If you are planning a trip to the Bahamas in the near future, you may need to make some changes right now to assure that you go with the best chart data.

      One of the recent developments causing a shift is that Garmin has purchased Navionics. 

      Garmin has announced that its new g3 marine electronics offerings will contain only Navionics data for the Bahamas. With this February 2019 issue, Garmin will no longer make Explorer Bahamas data available to its customers. The g3 will be included in the g3 accessory cards and pre-loaded chart plotters.

      The Explorer data is still available on g2 accessory cards (Garmin) and earlier pre-loaded chart plotters which may be in inventory for a few more weeks. Although the release of the new g3 material has already begun, customers desiring Explorer data still have an opportunity to upgrade their g2 cards.  

      If you haven’t upgraded your Garmin for awhile and don’t have the g2 data, we urge you to call Garmin or visit your marine electronics store to insure that you travel to the Bahamas with the tried and true Explorer chart data. 

      Other avenues for insuring Explorer-only data is to go with C-Map by Navico products and its affiliates SIMRAD, LOWRANCE, and B&G. Also, chart data through MapMedia, MaxSea, Nobeltec, Standard Horizon, RosePoint Coastal Explorer, and Furuno can be trusted to use Explorer vector and raster information. If you are using RayMarine hardware, please inquire of the company as Explorer data is available but not on all units.

      There are also three new apps for phone/tablet that now include Explorer-only raster data.  Check out AquaMap and iNavx.  Links below:

      Aquamap links

      iTunes 

      https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/aqua-map-marine-boating-gps/id919552329?mt=8

      Google Play

      https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gec.MarineApp.WorldViewerLite

      iNavX links

      Itunes

      https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/inavx-marine-navigation/id286616280?mt=8

      Google Play

      https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gpsnavx.iNavX

      Embark (by C-Map) links

      Itunes

      https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/embark-your-nautical-charts-for-boating/id967289980?mt=8&ct=stylum.teamworkpm.net

      Google Play

      https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isea.Embark&utm_source=stylum.teamworkpm.net

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      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      2. Ted Arisaka -  February 7, 2019 - 8:41 am

        Using Aqua Map on my iDevices in The Bahamas right now. The Explorer maps are great.

        Reply to Ted
    • Jan 30, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Bimini Crossing Buddies Sought

      If you are planning a crossing in June or July, please let us hear from you.

      Good afternoon I’m interested in some information regarding any flotillas that you organize for a Bimini crossing from the east coast of Florida. Is that something that you typically do how would I get information regarding any flotillas scheduled for June or July 2019?
      Bill Muehling

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    • Jan 17, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Island Hopping in Eleuthera, Bahamas

      Our thanks to Southern Boating Magazine for allowing Cruisers Net to share this delightful article and video with you. It’s the perfect solution to your winter blahs!

      Island Hopping in Eleuthera
      Southern Boating Magazine

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    • Jan 14, 2019by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Information on New No-Wake Zones in the Bahamas

      No-Wake zones, especially in mooring areas and anchorages, can make a huge difference in a crew’s safety and enjoyment of an area. Please heed the zones!

      Elijah Sands posted in Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park.
      Some information on the new “No wake Zones” in the park,…See More
      Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park Notice:
      The increase of vessel traffic and vessels moored at Cambridge Cay – ECLSP has prompted the BNT to invoke special regulations for vessels transiting Cambridge Cay channel to the West of the Mooring Field.
      Increased usage and transiting boat traffic through this channel has created the need for a “Slow No Wake” zone.
      All vessels are required to reduce their speed between the three (3) “Slow No Wake” buoys in position at the BNT Cambridge Cay Channel. 5 mph (max) speed limits and other safe boating regulations are in place and will be enforced.
      The Wardens of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) have established this permanent “Slow No Wake” zone at the Cambridge Cay Channel and have marked this channel with (3) buoys.
      This new “Slow No Wake” area at Cambridge Cay Channel is effective from January 1st, 2019, and is permanent.
      The BNT wishes to remind boaters that there is a “Slow No Wake” regulation throughout ALL mooring fields located within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Please do abide by these regulations at all times.
      To seek further information about this and all other idle and no wake zones, contact the BNT Administrator via VHF channel 09, or through Bahamas National Trust – Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park Head Quarters at 242-601-7438. #WeareBNT
      Elijah Sands on Facebook

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      Comments from Cruisers (2)

        • Beth Barrie -  January 14, 2019 - 7:26 pm

          Jayne Gorham thanks. I just “liked” Cruiser’s Net”, looks like a good resource.

          Reply to Beth
    • Dec 8, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Report from Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park in the Bahamas

      Our thanks to experienced cruiser and longtime contributor to Cruisers Net, Greg Allard, for this report and link from the Exumas, Bahamas.

      Larry – At the time of our last cruise to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park in the Bahamas, we noticed that maintenance on some of the moorings had been “deferred.” This was a disappointment, since traditionally the moorings in the Park had been excellent and well-maintained.

      This article [link below] from the Bahamian National Trust which oversees the Park, is written by the new Park Warden, Brent Burrows II. For all Bahamian cruisers who consider the Park to be one of the absolute best places in the Bahamas, this is encouraging news about the refurbishment of the mooring systems.

      When we visited the Park in May of 2018, we met Mr. Burrows as well as the overall Park Administrator Joe Ierna, Jr. Both of those individuals have brought a great deal of energy and enthusiasm to their positions, and this article reflects that.

      Some cruisers were unhappy when the Park raised its mooring fees, and imposed a charge for anchoring. But the Park has a very limited budget, and the new fees help to improve this extraordinary facility. In my view, the value of what the Park provides far outweighs the cost. If you haven’s cruised there, it is an extraordinary experience.

      Greg Allard
      M/V Meander

      Leading MPAs Worldwide in Providing Safe & Effective Moorings

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      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Terry Byrne -  December 8, 2018 - 11:44 am

        We have been going there for 17 years but will pass by until they stop charging to anchor. We used to be members and donated and the park functioned fine with volunters brfore the current money hungry mgt. took over. The park is a natural wonder, just keep out the poachers. I wonder where all these fees are going?
        Terry

        Reply to Terry
      2. Jose Niles -  December 8, 2018 - 9:08 am

        I’m thinking Santa will be there for a little R&R soon

        Reply to Jose
    • Dec 7, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Winter Weather in The Bahamas

      Come on, admit it…if you are locked in the snow and ice of the midwest and northeast, doesn’t this article make you drool!?! Our thanks to Southern Exposure for this delightful report.

      Winter Weather in The Bahamas
      Southern Exposure

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    • Nov 24, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Bahamas Chatter: New Plymouth Pier

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas

      Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.

      Bahamas Chatter: New Plymouth Pier
      New Plymouth Pier

      Posted: 23 Nov 2018 05:19 AM PST

      The town dock at New Plymouth Settlement at Green Turtle Cay is brand new. Unfortunately, at this time there are no ladders so getting from the dinghy is difficult. There is another dock by Curries Grocery which we used, don’t forget your stern anchor. As usual, the Customs Officer was really friendly and we cleared in with no fuss or bother.

      2 Facebook Likes, 2 Facebook Reactions

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Tom Earnest -  November 30, 2018 - 6:38 pm

        Good info. Thanks for posting

        Reply to Tom
    • Nov 23, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Bahamas Chatter: New fuel and dockage survey November 21, 2018

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas

      Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS’ NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.

      Bahamas Chatter: New fuel and dockage survey November 21, 2018
      New fuel and dockage survey November 21, 2018

      Posted: 21 Nov 2018 03:47 PM PST

      A new survey of dockage and fuel prices has been completed and posted showing most of the marinas offering these services in the Bahamas. Most fuel prices were up with a few exceptions that remained unchanged. A few marinas reduced dockage rates but none lowered fuel prices.

      Please go to our website www.explorercharts.com under Fuel and Dockage Prices to check our latest findings. We will be updating continuously as we get new information.

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    • Nov 19, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Metal Shark in the Bahamas

      Our thanks to good friend and frequent contributor to Cruisers Net, Greg Allard, for sharing this Facebook video.

      Those of you who have cruised in the Bahamas, or are lucky enough to live there, and have enjoyed the extraordinary Exuma Land and Sea Park, will find this interesting. Don’t miss the video.

      -Greg Allard
      M/V Meander

      Click here for Metal Shark in the Bahamas

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    • Nov 14, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      The Big Five Bahamian Sharks

      Here’s food for thought…

      There’s a Shark in the Water
      Actually, there are more than 40 different species of sharks in The Bahamas, but it’s these five that are the largest.

       

       

      The Big Five
      Southern Boating Media Group

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    • Oct 22, 2018by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      The Lowdown on Chartering in 2018

      As cold weather approaches, do you dream of the warm, sunny waters of the Bahamas? Here’s the scoop!

      The Scoop on Chartering The Bahamas from Southern Exposure

      Charter The Bahamas from Southern Exposure

      What boat owners should consider before chartering or sharing vessels
      South Florida Business Journal

      Tips to Get the Best from Your Yacht Charter! Being Flexible on Your Itinerary.
      Coastal Yacht Management

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