We have been waiting for a weather window to go to The Berry Islands for almost 2 weeks. Again, the locals are saying this is the windiest they have seen in decades for this long duration of time. Our crossing to The Berry Islands is a 90 mile, about 140 km, cruise to Chub Cay. Chub Cay is one of 2 established areas in “The Berries”. It was our original plan to spend some time here between the isolated anchorages of this archapelago. Since winds are not getting better and we have lost some time waiting for the good winds we are now going to skip the Berries for another chance next year.
Being in Bimini allows us to really get to know the area. Again we can take out “Otter” for a good run between North and South Bimini Islands. We find a nice patch of sand and hang out with Alcyone again in the middle of the reefs. It’s a breezy one today but in a decent direction that we can at enjoy the sights on the water.
Scott was hoping to do some snorkeling and spear fishing for a mahi however once out in the open waters the winds were too much for a snorkel. We did stop over at the cruise port where a Holland America ship was. “Rotterdam” was bringing in the cruisers today and they toured the area.
Finding a small canal where the locals live, and likely some foreign investors, we find half built or partially remodeled homes. Hurricane Dorian in 2019 decimated Bimini with sustained winds over 200 mph for over 48 hours. Then covid hit. There is a lot of unfinished business here. Tourists are starting to come back but it is a slow process. Bahamian regulations still must show proof of vax, a negative covid test to enter and wear masks indoors. A lot of folks we met Stateside said they were going to wait to come to the Bahamas until they were rid of the requirements.
We are always making friends with the wildlife too. We fed a crab some apple and he quickly learned the sweet taste. We had to ration is supply. There is always pickleball. Everyday we play with Patty and Todd on our duct taped lined tennis court. It works great and it keeps us all very happy.
Another bonus of Bimini are the sunsets. Every Night a stunning view of the yellow and orange sky settles on the royal blue waters and creates a fascinating ora of colours.
We are prepping for the 10 hour cruise at 8 or so knots to Chub Cay. Drinking water filled, dingy covered, lunches and dinner made and batten down all the hatches to make the cross. It will not be a great crossing with winds predicted ESE at 10-15 knots but that is the best there is to get us east to Chub Cay.
