Last year we went straight into the heart of the Abacos and hustled our way south while dodging what seemed like constant weather fronts. This week, when we say we’ve had stunningly settled weather, we mean VERY settled cruising. So, you might have noticed we haven’t hustled; in fact, we’ve wandered… and that’s what cruising is all about.
For review, here’s a map showing our 140 nautical miles of movement in the Upper Abacos. You might ask, how about those other islands you missed? Well, there are other years coming. Ha!
To that end, Saturday, we had a beautiful six-hour cruise to Allans-Pensacola Cay. The water was so clear we watched the bottom go by for hours!
As soon as we got anchored in the small cove, Todd dove right in. Both crews were able to use the crystal-clear water to verify and adjust depth gauges.
We thought we’d stay a couple of nights and then make a few more stops in the Upper Abacos, but then there was a change in the forecast. Uh-oh. Not a major change but one that suggested more vigorous weather in a couple of days or so. Since farther down the Abacos we have to come out from behind the barrier islands at some point, we decided, why not scoot through there when the weather is good and not wait for the stuff that’s coming. Hence, wanting to get through the Whale Cay Channel before some wind riled it up, we did what you do on a boat, i.e., keep your knees flexed. We dashed over to discuss the change of plans with Terry and Lynn (in the dinghy this time), took in the sunset, and charted a new course for a new spot: Great Guana Cay. Allans-Pensacola goes back on the list for a future visit. (Hope we didn’t miss out on some good sea beans!)
Saturday morning, there was time for a peaceful sunrise with a cup of coffee, and then we weighed anchor for another pretty day of cruising.
And it was! Pretty, that is. Trying to describe the colors in words or capture them in photos is impossible. And the water was even more clear, if that was possible.
As a bonus, we were cruising along Great Abaco most of the day, within reach of WIFI. Susie could catch up on the photos and posts! (Ummm…is that really a “bonus,” gang?)
We had yet another day of beautiful cruising in the Sea of Abaco, then out into the North Atlantic in the Whale Cay Channel, around Whale Cay, and back into the Sea of Abaco. Smooth as good iced tea. Love it when a plan comes together.
Having missed out on exploring Allans-Pensacola Cay, we were anxious to step off the boats to see Great Guana Cay.
Apparently, they will be expecting us again next year.
We opted for dinner at Grabbers, one of two Great Guana hot spots.
Impromptu changes in plan can be fun! 😉
After a short walk, a few bar games, and a good meal, the sun put the final note on our pleasant day.
We’ve been told “Sunday is Funday” at Great Guana Cay, so next up, Nippers!
Our Travels 