Apres-Ski moored in Grand Cay Harbor
March 12th thru 22nd , 2012, Jensen Beach- Headed out mid day spending our first night just 10 miles from home at Pecks Lake. On Tues morning headed south to North Lake Worth (Palm Beach) where we were surprised to meet up with friends Nancy and Harvey on Stardust. We spent the following week here waiting out the strong east winds and seas that make crossing to the Bahamas rather uncomfortable. Bike rides, days at the beach and a few dinner gatherings helped pass the time.
March 23rd- Looks like we finally have a weather window to cross the Gulf stream so we moved to anchor close to the inlet. Have been waiting for winds from the south and fairly calm seas. The Gulf stream flows north at approx 3 knots and any wind from the north kicks up very steep waves making it hazardous for even big boats. After motoring directly into east winds and waves the past two years we decided to wait for the ideal conditions.
March 24th- Anchor up at 3:30 AM motoring until sunrise dodging 3 large freighters that crossed our path. By Sunrise wind veered south enough for us to set full sail and with the assistance of our little diesel, motor sailed all day anchoring at Mangrove Cay for cocktails and a swim in the gin clear waters by 6:30pm. By far the easiest crossing we have experienced.
Sun-March 25th- With a cold front approaching(the reason for yesterdays south winds) We were off early to find a protected anchorage for the anticipated storms. On our way to Great Sale Cay a few storm cells popped up and we changed course to the north for Grand Cay. Arrived at the protected harbor mid afternoon and picked up a private mooring as from past experience we have found the holding to be poor here. The storm front passed thru late afternoon with big winds and lots of lightening and we were glad to be in a snug harbor.
Mon- Dawned clear and breezey. Ashore to activate our Bahamas cell phone(no luck) and clear customs. On our previous visit in 2010 we had to hire a local small boat to take us to nearby Walkers Cay to clear in. This time customs came to us making the process much easier. Bought 7 small lobster tails and 12 cleaned conch from a local for a total cost of $30. Wish we had some room in the freezer to stock up.
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