March 8, 2004

Sometimes too much of a good thing is, well, too much.  Now that I've experienced the opening night of the Georgetown Regatta, found the runaway dinghy (see stories & tales) and the new windlass has been installed (making the anchor easier to raise in any condition) it is time to leave Georgetown, Exumas, its people and the wonderful community of boaters behind.  After over 11 days of 20-30+ knot winds day and night, and being hunkered down in one spot for nearly a month now, I've just got to go. 

You won't see any further updates for a couple weeks as I am taking the road less traveled south to the Jumentos.   This 110-mile semi-circle chain of islands are supposed to be some of the most pristine and isolated in the Bahamas.  They lie about 50 miles east of the coast of south Cuba.  To get there we'll first go to Salt Pond on the southwest coast of Long Island then take the shallow Comer Channel southwest to Water Cay.  The area is uninhabited except for a small settlement at the southern tip of the chain called Duncan Town on Ragged Island.  Even the name, Ragged Island, suits me, and because it is unspoiled and wild, seems like a great place to go.  Because of the isolation, today will be a fun day spent filling up with diesel, water, gas, groceries to last for this leg of the trip. Yep, I'll miss Georgetown, but I miss not sailing even more, so hopefully, I'll be able to regale you with tales from the far reaches of these lovely Bahamas in my next message so stay tuned. 

Also;

 I've added a couple pictures of Georgetown to the picture gallery so you can see how stunningly beautiful it is.  I have been pleased to call it my home for these past few weeks.

I continue to add to the helpful hints section.  Coming soon will be a cruising budget as well as provisioning list for those considering a trip. Hope it is helpful!