Days 105-114
We began our visit to the Eleutheras with a stop at a very nice marina on Powell Point. This is a first class resort that is basically deserted at this time of year. Hopefully summer brings more guests or they are in serious financial trouble. It is the picture postcard of a tropical getaway. We filled the water tanks and did the laundry in preparation for our travels north. Jess and I took a walk along the shore adding some different shells to our growing collection. After a short stop in Rock Sound we moved on north searching for a protected harbor to get out of some pretty strong winds. Following some unsuccessful attempts, we finally arrived in Governor's Harbour where we were able to anchor in relatively calm seas. Our timing was great, the churches were having their annual fund raiser consisting of a huge variety of local favorites for lunch. Our problem was figuring out what we wanted to try. Friday nights are also fish fry nights on the beach with live music until 1:00 a.m. The meal was good (don't know why they don't cut the heads off), and the music was fun until about 11:00 when I was more than ready for bed. Roger, Mary, Jess and I rented a car while we were anchored in Hatchet Bay in order to see a little more of the island than our feet could take us to. We had a fantastic time checking out Preacher's Cave, the Glass Window, and many other interesting spots, while spending the day going FAST and KEEPING LEFT! When you only travel at about 7 1/2 mph even 25 is fast. From Hatchet Bay it was on to Meeks Patch for a couple of very nice days on the beach before continuing on to Spanish Wells. We really enjoyed our stop there and probably would have stayed a few more days, but we had a weather window on Friday that allowed us to cross over to the Abacos, so off we go again!
Another nice sunset at the marina in Powell Point. I could also show a picture of the bull sharks, but I have probably already shared enough shark pictures.
Changed my mind. Most of the sharks that came in were friendly nurse sharks, but there were a couple of huge bull sharks also. I sort of feel the same way about sharks that I feel about snakes. They can have their space as long as they stay out of mine.
Not all of the best shells are found along sandy beaches. The beaches in the Bahamas are beautiful, but the rocky shorelines are some of the harshest terrain we have seen anywhere.
The entrance into Hatchet Bay is quite imposing. Ta Ta makes her way through the narrow channel as we line up to make our passage through. Inside the bay opens up nicely to provide great shelter from wind and waves.
The waves on the Atlantic side were quite spectacular. It never ceases to amaze me as to just how powerful nature can be!
Preacher's Cave provided shelter for the crew of a ship that went down in the reef called the Devil's Backbone. Evidently, this is an area that only the most experienced sailers attempt to navigate. It has claimed many ships over the years. The entrance to the cave is so huge that people in the area actually held church services there.
After a high speed water taxi ride over to Harbour Island we were ready for a break. This beach view cafe was perfect!
One of the gorgeous pink sand beaches along the Atlantic coast of Eleuthera. This is a stunning beach, but so much more suited to the fly-in tourists than the beaches we have enjoyed on our trip.
Harbour Island is probably the most touristy place we have visited so far. The homes are beautiful and the flowers are awesome considering the time of year.
For my followers from the south, I couldn't resist taking this picture of the Bahamas version of a Piggly Wiggly! Unfortunately they were not open, so I have no idea how well they were stocked.
A lovely street bordering the harbor side of the island. Loved the names of some of the cottages. The one at the end of the curve is named "On the Point", right next door the house is named "Beside the Point."
Eleuthera actually has enough soil to grow some of its own vegetables. We stopped at this little stand to pick up some fresh tomatoes. Nothing like fresh tomato sandwiches in the middle of the winter!
This is from the bank side of the Glass Window. At this point the Atlantic and the Bahama Bank actually connect under a bridge. Many years ago there was a natural bridge here that was washed away, along with several people, during a storm.
There are several caves in this area that for some unknown reason the guys really felt they needed to explore. Luckily there were not enough flashlights to go around, so after a quick look Mary and I headed for the sunlight. I have nothing against caves, I just prefer there to be a guide, and a walkway, and electricity.
Headed through another narrow channel on our way to Spanish Wells. We actually encountered 2 dolphins along the way. They were the first we had seen since leaving Florida.
The crystal clear waters here are absolutely stunning!
I am always a little stunned when I look up and see my home sitting in places that I never dreamed I would ever experience. Life is good!
Another beach! Another hammock! They just seem to call his name.
Jess decided it was time to clean the water line on Bama Dream. Its a tough job, but someone has to do it, even in this beautiful water.
I really did share! It appears that when the Shipyard restaurant on Spanish Wells has happy hour, it means the drinks are not actually cheaper, you just get two at the same time.
Mary tried one of the house specials, called a Shipwreck. Roger was a big help in assisting her with her second one. The food was excellent too!
Our boats were on mooring balls close to the restaurant, so we were able to enjoy a leisurely meal and still find our way home after dark.
The numerous varieties of palm trees and other plants that thrive in this hot, dry climate provide for some very interesting landscapes.
Man, I could have helped you manage that happy hour special!
ReplyDelete