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
Comments from Cruisers (2)
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