Southern Eleuthera

South thru Eleuthera

Fri, April 30th- Early morning showers cleared out by noon and we had a great sail south to Current Settlement. Anchored off beautiful beach and wandered about this tiny village. We will pass thru Current cut in the morning and I was trying to figure the timing of slack current. This deep narrow channel has tidal currents that run like a raging river. Apparently there are only a few minutes where the water is slack at the tide change and this was to occur at dawn. Rather than navigate its winding channel in poor light we decided to run with the flow mid morning.

Sat- After an exciting ride thru the cut we sailed into choppy waves to the glass window where we found protection for the night behind Mutton fish point. Another sunny warm afternoon spent exploring the cliff lined shores. The land here is quite hilly and much of the shoreline reminds us of Lake Champlain.

Sun- Off early to beat south into choppy seas and building winds. Exhilarating sail to Hatchet Harbor which is entered thru a 66 ft wide cut in the cliffs. Another exciting few minutes as the waves were throwing us about until we entered the protected waters of the harbor. Picked up a free mooring and met up with Karen and George aboard Sunseeker for a long hike thru the village and to the ocean side to explore the rocky beach. Cocktails later aboard Sunseeker.

Mon- Biked north stopping at limestone caves which apparently can be followed for over a mile. Our excuse for not exploring more than the entrance was no flashlight (likely excuse). Biked on thru very hilly terrain to Gregory town where we bought 5 conk from locals. Long hot ride back.

Tues- Rented a car with friends aboard Sunseeker and explored much of the southern end of the island. Arriving back at dusk the local crab boat was returning from his day pulling pots. We bought a dozen crab claws which made an excellent dinner. Chris even felt they were better than lobster.

Wed- Headed south to Governors’ Harbor sailing under bright blue skies and warm south breezes. Water in bay was 78 and crystal clear. Wandered about town then enjoyed sunset cocktails with John and Mary aboard Marylee, the only other sailboat at anchor here.

Thurs-Sailed south with warm breeze to Rock Sound. Caught 3 ft Barracuda and 16 in grouper we had for dinner. Made conk salad and froze cuda after checking with locals on if they are ok to eat. Large ones can carry a poison but these caught here are supposedly good. Swam in 82 deg water.

Fri-To town for groceries and wifi before heading across to Exumas tomorrow. Warm ashore but great on water. Breeze favorable for traveling but big winds are coming back next week.