March 16: The Bahamas

Back in the Bahamas…..land of shallow, crystal clear waters, unrelenting sunshine, and deserted islands so low that you have to bump against them before you see them. The fishing & snorkeling are definitely better than in the east Caribbean, though. But I already miss those dramatic volcanic islands covered with tropical forests and peopled with diverse populations that make up the windward isles.

As we work our way north, however, the isles in the Abacos (north of Nassau) have a different topography from that of the Exumas (the isles south of Nassau). The Abacos are a little hillier, and have much more vegetation. Actual trees! The anchorages are sparsely populated and a treat to admire from the deck of Mupepe after a long day of sailing.

Mupepe at anchor off Royal Island

Since Nassau we have been three aboard- our long-time friend Patrick van Nyen from Belgium  joined us there, and will be crewing for the remainder of the trip. It’s definitely more relaxing when the work is divided by 3 rather than by 2.

Patrick is happy at the helm

Today finds us at anchor at Allans Cay. Tomorrow we sail to Grand Cays where we will re-fuel, top off our provisions, and wait for a good weather window to cross the Gulf Stream to Charleston.