Today our Bahamas adventure has arrived at the same number of days as our ICW cruise lasted. A lot of today was spent listening to, thinking about, and planning for the forecasted weather, which has been changing hourly. We had strong west wind today as expected. Then a front which was supposed to move through this area in the early evening got here but has stalled almost right over us. No rain, but unexpected strong NE wind for the moment (not good for our anchorage) which we are hoping will turn back to NW as was forecast. More high wind tomorrow and Friday. So far, our overall assessment of the weather for this time of year in the Bahamas is mixed. We’ve been very pleased with the temperatures and primarily dry conditions. However, the wind patterns have left a lot to be desired. Days of very strong wind from almost every direction but east, making many of the favored Exuma anchorages untenable. Next time we may chose a different time of year to visit this part of the Bahamas.
Since we still have some fresh fruit and veggies left from Nassau, Tom has been able to put together a breakfast shake the last several mornings. Here’s what it looks like before being whizzed up.
Paula did a thorough cleaning of the cabin this morning. Despite the brisk winds and some chop, tourists in large groups could be seen bouncing on the waves on fast boats through the anchorage on their way to scenic spots in the area. Staniel Cay has become something of a major tourist mecca in the Exumas and these super-fast boats carry tour groups all the way from Nassau fora days trip excursions to Staniel.
It was too breezy and choppy for a comfortable fishing expedition in Poltergeist, so Paula practiced her casting from C Ghost. Again, she drew some piscine attention and a few nibbles, but nothing more. One inquisitive gar made an appearance and posed for the camera.
Tomorrow will be another day waiting out weather and then we hope to move over to the other anchorage on the west side of Big Majors on Friday if the winds finally shift east as forecast. From there we will have a shorter dinghy trip to visit Staniel Cay.
Tonight’s dinner was marinated tuna steaks, mashed potatoes, cold green beans with dressing, and Johnnycake. Once again, Tommy was very happy. On nights like the last few when it will be windy and we want to keep an eye on how the anchor is holding during the night, we both sleep in the cockpit. Just in case you were wondering what our cockpit sleeping arrangement looks like, here it is:
