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.
Our thanks to Steve Russell for sharing his video of the entrance channel into Bimini Sands Marina.
Entrance Channel into Bimini Sands Marina, Bimini, Bahamas
Capt Steve Russell
Full Time Cruising on
Gypsies Palace
2014 50′ Endeavour TrawlerCat
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
Google Play
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isea.Embark&utm_source=stylum.teamworkpm.net
Explorer Charts are “The Standard” IMHO.
Using Aqua Map on my iDevices in The Bahamas right now. The Explorer maps are great.
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
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
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
Beth Barrie
Jayne Gorham thanks. I just “liked†Cruiser’s Netâ€, looks like a good resource.
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
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
I’m thinking Santa will be there for a little R&R soon
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
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.
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.
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
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
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a favorite destination for cruisers in the Exumas. A big thank you to our good friends at Waterway Guide for allowing us to share their excellent report on Staniel Cay with you.
Click here for Preferred Destination: Staniel Cay, Exumas
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
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: Disney may build cruise ship resort on Eleuthera
Disney may build cruise ship resort on Eleuthera
Posted: 20 Oct 2018 05:26 AM PDT
In a decision criticized by locals and environmentalists, the government of the Bahamas has given tentative approval to a plan by Disney Cruise Line to build a cruise port on the southern tip of Eleuthera.
The port would be part of a 746-acre development by the subsidiary of the Walt Disney Co. entertainment empire and would include a pier, shops, marina, restaurants and walkways through nearby forest and around salt ponds.
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: Dog on board for Bahamas
Dog on board for Bahamas
Posted: 08 Oct 2018 02:38 PM PDT
Last year we sent in our form and money for the import license for our dog and NEVER received it, even after several phone calls. They seem to be in total disorder in this department and they say the mail doesn’t even get to them. Anyone have any luck getting their import license? Any suggestions? Thank you, Kathi
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 dock at Lorraine’s Cafe, Black Point, Exuma
New dock at Lorraine’s Cafe, Black Point, Exuma
Posted: 21 Aug 2018 03:23 PM PDT
Our thanks to professional photographer, Colin Ruggiero, for sharing his work in the Bahamas.
The Blue Sanctuary One of the most magical places on the planet!
A short film about the trials and successes of the first marine protected area in the Americas. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park in the Bahamas is one of the most beautiful places on earth and is a model for marine conservation efforts everywhere.
Colin Ruggiero
If you were thinking of heading for waters below the Bahamas this winter, take heed to this warning from the Washington Post and submitted by our friend, Sonny Reeves.
They be pirates’
An old scourge is reappearing in the Caribbean
This article, with LOTS of comments from boaters, is by Natario McKenzie in the Tribune242.
New transport minister targets boating revenue from Miami Tribune
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