Bahamas Passage

In November of 2012, Christie, Stuart Wade, Clay Chick and I delivered Galadriel to the Abacos in the northern Bahamas. We waited until hurricane Sandy passed, which resulted in generally very nice sailing.

For those readers who have never crossed the Gulfstream, one of the interesting sights is the well defined and dramatic difference in color between it and the surrounding ocean.

Once we were in the stream, Stuart baiting up the trolling rigs with ballyhoo.

We relaxed a bit while waiting for the lines to sing out.

We didn’t have to wait long though to start seeing the results of Stuart’s expertise and Clay’s muscle. First came a small mahi, then a bonita and finally this large bull mahi. Pretty tasty too!

Afterwards, Clay enjoyed a bit of well deserved down time on the fantail.

Unfortunately, we lost our transmission on the way down and as we approached the islands we learned that a “rage” was in progress. This is the local term for strong northerly winds which can render all channels allowing transit from the ocean into Great Albaco sound very dangerous. When the locals learned that we didn’t have engine propulsion they recommended that we sail to west end over 100 miles to the west to make a safe entry. We weighed that lengthy diversion against the risk and after much discussion decided to proceed.

Clay agreed to pilot Galadriel through the breaking seas in the unmarked channel.

I nervously stood watch on the bow for shallow spots or coral heads.

Needless to say, we made it through unscathed and received numerous hugs when we arrived at the marina, from the other sailors who had been monitoring the whole thing on their radios.

For the rest of the winter Bluffhouse on Green Turtley Cay and the marina/resort’s wonderful staff would make us feel at home as we explored the Abacos.