Home Sweet Home!

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward pulled in to our Gulf Harbour Marina slips this afternoon.  The day was gray, rainy, and long, but otherwise uneventful.  I think we are the last of the original GHYC Abacos cruisers to return.  We had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back again.

Cheers, Gail B. 

INPUT FROM BAHAMAS

I hope you got inputs from the group as requested. I know I should have sent earlier, but until we were on our boat this weekend I sort of put it off. There wasn't much I would change, and I think it was well thought out and planned. Must have been, since we hit out ports as planned and were home on the planned date.

 

Some thoughts;

    1. I personally would like to have a few planned events. I know this is hard to do from a distance, but with a lot of new members on board this might have moved the group closer together. Dock parties are always good mixers, A possible group outing one day might have been fun. We did get together a couple of times, but I think we may have left a few people out. The birthday party was a fun evening, and the pizza party the last night was fun...however again we missed a few couples.

 

        2. I would encourage boat owners to invite GHYC members to go with them. Many may want to only have one couple on their boat, but we should encourage larger crews. We do this on the rental trips, why not on our own boats. For one it cut our cost in half...not big deal but a $5000 check helps. We are all getting older and extra crew helps in marinas and emergencies. Dave and Marilyn are a great crew, but I know GHYC members would be just as much fun.

 

        3. I think we have an opportunity to manage our fuel costs. Gary putting together a fuel plan to be sure we get fuel was good, but I think we can negotiate pricing with our volume...trawlers not included. 3000 gallons at a stop has to worth something and would guarantee fuel availbility. This would also allow us to better plan our fuel stops so as stagger arrivals. Each captain will have to calculate his fuel plan ahead time and submit it. We stretched our use so as to buy at freshest and lowest priced locations. Running at few less knots can save a lot of money and be part of the trip planning.

 

I look forward to another extended cruise next year and will make it part of 2012 planning. The thought of an early May Keys cruise might be under discussion. Dennis Little has suggested a panhandle cruise, and we did visit a number of ports in that area when did the loop. The gulf crossing is the only tough part. An earlier season cruise through the ditch and up the east coast could also be a possibility.

 

There also is more to see and due in the Bahamas and that area.

 

Lets hope Cuba opens up in our lifetime.

 

Again great job and thank you for all your efforts.

 

Craig and Mary Lou

Back in the good old US of A.

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward are happily docked behind Linda and Steve Evens' condo on Hibiscus Island in Miami Beach.  We are having a great time drinking lots of wine and catching up with each other.  We plan to head out tomorrow morning for Marathon Yacht Club.

Cheers, Gail B.

Last Morning in the Bahamas

We enjoyed a beautiful sunrise on our last morning in the Bahamas.  Will get photos on the website soon...

Cheers, Gail B.

Cat Cay Yacht Club

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward are at Cat Cay Yacht Club on North Cat Cay.  We covered 114 NM from Nassau today (Saturday, 25 June).  The weather was beautiful and the seas flat. 

I have a few more photos for the website, but the CCYC internet service has SmugMug blocked.  I can't even look at photos, let alone upload any.

This will be our last night in the Bahamas.  Plan to cross the Gulf Stream and back to USA waters tomorrow.

We have checked and the fuel barge will be outside Mia Marina tomorrow from 9 AM to 1 PM.  We plan to leave here around 8 AM so we'll arrive in Miami with plenty of time to fuel.  Then we'll go to our friend's home for the night.  Linda and Steve Evens have a condo on Hibiscus Island with two empty slips.  It is always great to spend time with them.

Monday we'll cruise to Marathon Yacht Club.  Have dinner at Keys Fishery.  Then back to Gulf Harbour on Tuesday, 28 June.

Cheers, Gail B.

Julie's Abacos Photos

Just received some great photos from Julie Allen.  Thanks!  I have posted them on the GHYC website.  You can get to them from the home page or the extended cruising page.

Anyone else wanting their yacht club photos on the GHYC website please let me know.  You can either email the photos to me or I can send you instruction on how to directly upload them.

Cheers, Gail B. 

Nassau

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward are back in Nassau.  Claude and JoAnn have left for the airport.  JT is having some A/C work done on Salty Lady.  Camille is making dinner reservations.  David is cleaning the outside of Tonto.  I'm doing laundry both on Tonto and in the marina laundromat.  

Our current plan is to travel to Cat Cay tomorrow.  Then cross the Gulf Stream on Sunday.  Right now thr forecast looks good.

Cheers, Gail B.

Warderick Wells Cay

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward spent yesterday at the Exumas Land & Sea Park at Warderick Wells Cay.  Claude, David, and I snorkeled the Ranger's Garden and Emerald Rock.  The Ranger's Garden was beautiful, but had quite a current running through it.  Was a good leg workout!  We then went to check out the Emerald Rock snorkeling.  There was one very nice coral head with beautiful colors and a great variety of coral and fish.  JoAnn, Camille, and JT toured the park via dinghy.  The views were great everywhere you looked.  After snorkeling, Claude and David hiked to Boo Boo Hill.  The GHYC 2004 cruise sign was still there, but our burgee was gone.

Camille and JT came over to Tonto for dinner.  We grilled steaks, baked hasselback potatoes, tossed a salad, and drank red wine to celebrate Claude and JoAnn's last night on Tonto's Reward.  Great dinner and very fun evening!

Cheers, Gail B.

Staniel Cay

We have had a great time at Staniel Cay.  Exploring by land and by sea.  We bought fresh bread at the Yellow Bakery and groceries at both the Pink Store and the Blue Store.  Definitely a colorful place.  In the afternoon we took the dinghy to Big Major's Spot and saw the swimming pigs.  While Claude, Joann, David, and I were there they just waded in the water.  I am sure they wanted us to feed them, but we don't feed any wild animals.  David went back the next day with Jim and said the pigs were actually swimming -  not just wading.  Yesterday morning Claude, David & I snorkeled Thundercloud Cave.  Really interesting and lots of great coral along the rock just outside the cave.  Then we picked up JoAnn for another dinghy outing.  Took lots of photos of the clear aqua water, blue sky and beautiful cloud formations.  Checked out Sandy Cay and stopped for lunch at Sampson Cay on the way back to Staniel.

Today we will be going to Warderick Wells.  Will listen to the park report on the VHF at 9 AM and put Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward on the mooring request list.  Then take off pretty quickly.  We want to have lots of time with good light for snorkeling at Warderick Wells.  Claude and JoAnn are going to jump ship and travel with Salty Lady today.  They want to experience a trawler and the views from a fly bridge.  Also without Linda and Tony, Salty Lady could use a another pair of hands picking up the mooring.

Tomorrow, 24 June, we head from Warderick Wells back to Nassau.  It is the end of a wonderful week with JoAnn and Claude aboard Tonto.  They fly from Nassau to DFW (non-stop) and then on to Austin getting all the way home in one short travel afternoon and evening of travel.

All my photos have been edited and posted to the GHYC website.  Cheers, Gail B.

Sad News

Linda and Tony Smythe, crew on Salty Lady, had to fly out yesterday afternoon.  Linda received a call in the morning that her brother-in-law, age 60, had unexpectently died from a heart attack.  Linda and her family are in our thoughts and prayers.    Gail B.

Compass & Staniel Cays

The Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward cruised from Highbourne Cay to Compass Cay on Sunday, 19 June.  We stopped at Norman Cay with hopes of having lunch at McDuff.  However, they had a private party of  20 or 25 and could not handle any more.  So we had lunch aboard our respective boats as we cruised to Compass Cay. 

Compass Cay Marina has expanded since we were there in 2004.  The marina is larger, they serve grilled hamburgers at lunch time, have several gazebos throughout the island, and a few more rental villas.  Tucker is still in charge and it still has the most beautiful beach.  We hiked some of the trails, toured via dinghy, swam with the sharks, and had a absolutely fabulous time.

This morning, after one more beach walk, we headed for Staniel Cay.  The Yacht Club was very busy and we had to wait for someone to leave before we got out slip assignment.  Then a quick trip to the grocery store and the bakery for more GREAT Bahamian bread.  We dinked around this afternoon.  Saw two swimming pigs at Big Majors Spot.  Tonight we are joining the Salty crew for dinner at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club.

Cheers, Gail B.

Highborne Cay

Yesterday, 17 June, Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward cruised from Nassau to Highborne Cay.  It was a lovely smooth luncheon cruise.  After getting settled the Tonto crew walked the East Beach.  It is covered with stromatolites, which are the world's oldest macro fossils.  Then a late afternoon dinghy ride.  We were hoping to see a green flash as the sunset, but there were too many clouds.  So we just saw a beautiful sunset as we enjoyed cocktails and grilled some chicken for dinner.

Today we plan to dinghy to Allen Cay for a little iguana watching.  Then on to Norman Cay for lunch at McDuff in the Norman Cay Beach Club.  We also want to find Octopus's Garden.  The cruising guide recommends snorkeling there.

All my photos have been posted on the GHYC website.  I have not had time to get captions on all of them, but at least the photos are current.   

Cheers, Gail B.

Nassau

Mike and Ann left Salty Lady yesterday morning.  A few chores in the morning...  laundry and grocery store run.  David & I enjoyed some fresh conch salad for lunch.  JoAnn and Claude's flight was on time and they were at Tonto within an hour.  Bernsteins, Welleses, and Tichenors enjoyed a fun evening and nice dinner at the Nassau Yacht Club last night.  Smythe's flight is due in about 9:30 this morning.  As soon as they get aboard Salty Lady we'll be starting up the engines and heading for Highborne Cay. 

--
Gail Bernstein
Email: gcb@austin.rr.com
Cell: 512.659.6674

Texas
1201 Challenger
Lakeway, TX 78734-3851
512.261.0883

Florida
11620 Court of Palms, #703
Ft. Myers, FL 33908
239.985.8578

Fixed!

Props have been changed.  When David gets back from paying the bill, we'll be on our way to Nassau.  Cheers, Gail B.

Spanish Wells Once Again

We had a great time at Harbour Island.  Joined up with the Royal Palm Yacht Club Air/Sea/Land Cruise.  We toured Dunmore Town, Harbour Island via golf cart.  The beach on the Atlantic coast of Harbour Island is pink in color.  When you look close there are little specks of red coral in the sand.  That's what causes the overall pink color.

This morning we pushed off the dock at 6:30.  Bandit drove Salty Lady and Big City fell in behind her.  We were next followed by a sport fish.  Big City and the sport fish broke off at Bridge Point (the devil's Backbone jumping off point for the Abacos).  Salty and Tonto went all the way in to Spanish Wells.  The 11-NM trip took about 90 minutes. 

We both fueled up and are now waiting for a diver.  He is currently busy with under water work blocking a big lobster boat on a haul out track.  This is off season for lobsters so the boats are getting pulled for new bottom paint and annual maintenance.  Then the diver will pull our props and put on our spare set.  Once fixed we'll head for Nassau.

Ann & Mike leave Salty Lady tomorrow (Thursday, 16 June).  They will be replaced by Linda & Tony Smythe.  JoAnn and Claude Welles will join David & I on Tonto's Reward.  They we head for the Exumas.

Cheers, Gail B.

Harbour Island

Bandit, our pilot, drove Salty Lady from her fly bridge and Tonto's Reward followed very close behind.  We made it through the Devil's Backbone safely and never bumped anything.  I'm very glad we had a pilot!

After getting tied up at Valentine's Marina, David went off in search of the diver who was supposed to be lined up to pull our props and put on our spare set.  However, it turned out to not so easy.  David talked with two divers and the harbor master.  Seems they only have the equipment to pull small 3-blade props.  We have large 5-blade props.  However, Bandit came to the rescue again.  Yesterday afternoon he was piloting BIG CITY, 140-foot motor vessel, through the Devil's Backbone.  David talked with him when he got here.  We think we now have it arranged for someone from Spanish Wells to bring the proper sized prop puller to Harbour Island and get us fixed up.

In lieu of prop pulling, we went sightseeing yesterday afternoon.  Had access to two golf carts so Tichenors, Bordelons and Bernstein putted around Harbour Island.  The beach on the Atlantic side of Harbour Island has PINK sand.  It is very fine, soft and really pink in color.  Beautiful beaches.

l'll get photos edited and on the GHYC website soon!

Cheers, Gail B.    

Tonto's Reward & Salty Lady June 12

Arrived at Spanish Wells about 1300 on Sunday with a easy crossing. 1 to 3 with a easy roll. Even lighter as we approached Egg Island to cross the reef. Got a golf cart to share and both the Salty and Tonto crews toured the island. Dinner ashore where we were the only people in the dining room. Departed at 1000 with Bandit, our pilot, to cross the Devils Backbone to get us to Harbor Island. We are tied stern to stern at Vallentines Marina with a number of boats from Royal Palm Y C. They have invited us to join them in a dinner at the resort this evening. Salty's crew opted for someone to wash our boat as we are going to tour the area in a golf cart. Life is good. 

Spanish Wells, Eleuthera

Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward left the Abacos yesterday, 12 June. The
Atlantic still had about 3-foot swells from the east with a little
chop on top from the west. It was a relatively smooth crossing - much
easier than we had expected.

Spanish Wells is a working town. The spinney lobster capital of the
world. They provide 75% of spinney lobsters world wide. Jim,
Camille, Mike and I each had a lobster tail for dinner last night.
Excellent! Davids and Ann stuck with cracked conch. Also excellent!

Yesterday I ran aground coming into Spanish Wells harbor. When our
pilot, Bandit, was here this morning to confirm crossing the Devil's
Backbone to Harbour Island, he said he had already talked with the
port authority about dredging the spot I hit. The entire town must
know about my hit!

Everyone takes a pilot when crossing from Spanish Wells to Harbour
Island. We have talked with several friends who are excellent boaters
and have crossed many, many times. They take a pilot every time. You
can share pilots. Bandit will guide either Salty Lady or Tonto and
the other will follow. My guess is that he will drive Salty Lady from
her fly bridge. He will have a much better angle to see the reefs and
coral heads from up high. Bandit said about eight boats in a line is
about all one pilot can handle. When the line gets too long the end
boats tend to be in different water at different times than the lead
boat.

More from Harbour Island. Cheers, Gail B.

Blue Bird I continues its journey north to Ontario

It was good timing to be able to have dinner at West End with Elske & Kismar and bid our farewells. The following is a very brief summary of our activity departure from West End to this evening where we are enjoying a lovely evening at Myrtle Beach, contemplating what a great trip we had, weather, people and places. It doesn't get much better than that.

 

Farewell to the GHYC Abaco Fleet, and to Blue BIrd I

 

Til the next time.  "mesi bon kou"

 

Blue Bird I

 

 

June 5, 2011

0745hrs Blue Bird I departed, Old Bahama Bay Club, West End, heading NW. The seas increased to 3'-5' with a 1'-2' chop on them as we were crossing the Gulf Stream.

 

1130hrs arrived Ft Pierce City Marina; we took on fuel as the Capt'n made arrangements with Homeland Security. HS wanted to see "everyone who is on board" at their offices at the  Ft Pierce County Airport. Took a cab there, an official looked at us and sent us on our way. ?????

 

1430hrs BBI departed Ft Pierce headed for Ponce de Leon inlet, however the ride became uncomfortable so we decided to go in at Sebastian Inlet. A very tricky inlet, however we connected with a local commercial fisherman and followed him in to the ICW.

 

1730hrs arrived Sebastian River Marina, dinner onboard as everything was either closed or "blew away"

 

June 6, 2011

0630hrs BBI we enjoyed a wonderful sunrise while having breakfast.

 

0905hrs departed Sebastian River Marina heading for Daytona Beach.

 

1600hrs arrived Daytona, Halifax Harbour Marina. ICW 830.7  Dinner at Stavros and watched the Stanley Cup game at the sports bar.

 

 

June 7, 2011-06-11

0900hrs departed Daytona, Halifax Harbour Marina. Stopped at St Augustine ICW776 ,  for lunch at (O C Whites) across the street from the dock. Brought back memories of the GHYC East Coast Trip.

 

1700 hrs arrived at Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach Harbour. We tied up on the outside and went for a walk through the downtown. Very old, quaint, pretty, downtown, nice shops and restaurants. Fortunately, most stores were closed and the crew was tired with a low alcohol level.

 

June 8, 2011

0600hrs Fernandina Beach Harbour Marina ICW 716.7

Weather warm/hot, sticky/humid, no wind

 

Breakfast on board, "doasted bahama bred mahn"

 

0830hrs departed FBHM

 

0950 ICW 685 Jekyll Island, Jekyll Island Club. A bit of a challenge crossing thru St Andrew Sound, Janice on the charts & binocs, Linda on the Chartplotter, Smokey at the helm, WE MADE IT !!! Yeah, SMOKEY,  Smokey????? Oh, that's another story.

1730hrs ICW555 Hilton Head. Skull Creek Marina is full so we are tied on the "fuel dock", but on a good note we're in the middle of all the action.

 

Dinner aboard, great Italian meal, pasta with a very unique sauce (everything that was going to be thrown out tomorrow), MUSTGO SAUCE.

 

 

June 9, 2011, Thursday

0830hrs departed Skull Creek Marina, Hilton Head ICW555.  210nm to Myrtle Beach (ICW340+/-), might stay in Charleston (ICW470+/-) tonight

 

1500hrs Charleston ICW467. Charleston Maritime Centre. Capt'n managed to get us a dock at the CMC, the closest a private vessel can get to the historic district.We strolled around the "old town", shopped at the market and ate at Pearlz (outstanding)

 

June 10, 2011 Friday

0930hrs departed CMC, heading for Myrtle Beach

 

1730hrs ICW354 arrived at Barefoot Marina, Myrtle Beach.  The restaurant will not officially open until but we were invited for a "trial run" tomorrow evening. So, dinner on board, terrific meal, hats off to the galley grunts.

 

June 11, 2011 Saturday

Spent the day packing and getting Blue Bird I ready for her new crew. Managed to spend a couple of hours at the pool. Dinner at the marina restaurant was.  .  .  . well let's just say there's room for improvement.  It's under new management; they are not officially opened and still have some kinks to work out.

 

 

 

Carpe Diem

We got smashed, punched, nipped, blasted, bushwhacked, bitten and wrecked
- and enjoyed it every time.
Gomba Smash                Bushwhacker                Tipsy Turtle            
Yellow Bird                     Rum Punch                    Rum Keg
Yellow Tail                     Turtle Racer                   Bakers Bay Wreck
Rumrunner                     Nipper Shark Bite          Bahama Mama
Teaser Snappa              A Day On Da Beach     Sex On Da Beach Blaster                        

A huuuuuge thank you to Greg, Jo, David and Jackie for putting together such a memorable cruise.

Carpe Diem

The final passage

Kismar arrived in Gulf Harbour at 12.30 on Thursday, June 9th. We had three long days at sea with strong easterly winds gusting to 20 knots and a fairly comfortable sea hitting us on the beam. We motor sailed all the way struggling with the Gulf Stream but enjoying conditions in Florida Bay. It is wonderful to be home, Kismar safely in her slip, catching up with friends and remembering lovely days and nights in The Abacos. Many thanks to Greg, Jo, David and Jackie for organising a very memorable cruise.

Sent from my iPhone

Road signs at Hope Town

Apparently I forgot to attached these photos to my previous email about the road signs, so, here they are.

 

Blue Bird I

Hello from Salty Lady, June 11

Hello from Salty Lady,
We are in Hope Town waiting on the seas to diminish so we can make our trek down the east coast of the Abacos. Yesterday we washed clothes and bedding and dodged the tropical showers. Last night the Tonto crew came aboard and we polished off some wine and told stories. Some few minutes after they made the short trip across the dock the heavens opened up and gave both boats a good washing. Today the sun is shining and almost all of the clouds are gone and the winds have shifted southerly indicating the low has passed north of us. Today we plan a dink run to Lubbers Quarters and lunch at Cracker P's. The liquor cabinet will need some topping off this afternoon as Spanish Wells does not sell liquor.
Jim, Camille, Mike and Ann aboard MV Salty Lady

Spot is NOT broken!

However, Mother Nature has changed our plans several times.  Originally we were to spend yesterday in Little Harbour and cross from the Abacos to Eleuthera today (Saturday, 11 June).  Due to the forecast of 6-foot swells diminishing to 1 to 2-foots on Sunday made us push our crossing back a day, with two days to explore Little Harbour.  I was looking forward to walking to the lighthouse, snorkeling, collecting sea glass, checking out the gallery, and going to Pete's Pub.  We had rain all day yesterday so our next change was to stay in Hope Town another day and go to Little Harbour today.  After rereading the Cruising Guides and checking the tide tables, we scratched Little Harbour totally.  The harbor has plenty of water, but the channel in has less than four feet at low tide.  Getting in this afternoon on a rising high tide would not be a problem, but leaving Sunday morning on a dropping tide would not ideal.  So we have decided to save Little Harbour for our next trip to the Abacos!

The rain is over and it is a beautiful morning (Saturday, 11 June).  We plan to take the dinghy to Lubber Quarters to check out Cracker P's Bar & Grill.  We might also check out Tahiti Beach on the south end of Elbow Cay.

We plan to leave early tomorrow morning for Spanish Wells, Eleuthera.  It's about a 60 NM trip.

Cheers from Salty Lady and Tonto's Reward... Gail B.

GHYC MEMBERS CRUISE TO THE ABACOS

Lora by copy of this email I am asking Jackie Kelley to send you a few pictures if she would. Also you could use those on our blog.

Craig

 

 

 

 

Fourteen boats left Gulf Harbour on Sunday and Monday, May 23rd and 24th and headed for the Abacos in the Bahama. The captains and their crews were;

    Treadnwater...Craig and Mary Lou Anderson and guests

    Lady Brooks...Dave and Brooks Burleson

    Bucharoo..Karl Pierce and two of his daughters

    Marisa Mae...Stewart and Andrea Mills

    Captain Morgan...Gary and Sharyn Morgan and son

    Doc's Jewel...Tom and Julie Allen

    Blue Bird...Alex Jarlette and guests

    Annie Time...Al Den Besten and Annie

    Carpe Diem...Bob and Dee Moore

    One Fine Tolly...Jo and Greg Callaway...cruise leaders

    Tonto's Reward...David and Gail Berstein and guests

    Salty Lady,,,Jim and Camille Tichner and guests

    Kismar...Jimmy and Shiela Johnston

    Elska...David and Jackie Kelley...cruise leaders

 

The first leg was a run to Marathon which proved to be the roughest water of the 2 week trip. After a night in Marathon the fleet made its way to Miami. Most of the group ran the inside ICW route which proved to be calm, scenic and a navigation challenge.

 

Wednesday found the crews up early and heading out through the rough waters of Government Cut into the Atlantic and across the gulf stream. The 84 mile cruise proved to be uneventful and all arrived mid afternoon at West End in the Grand Bahamas. Each boat flew their quarantine flag until they cleared customs and then raised the Bahama flag for the remainder of the trip.

 

Thursday found the fleet  in Green Turtle Marina after a 80+ mile run in the Sea of Abacos. Most everyone rented golf carts for the two day stay and toured the island.

 

Saturday the fleet faced its next big navigation challenge...Whale Cay. This required the fleet to enter the Atlantic ocean through a narrow cut and then run a couple of miles before reentering the protection of the barrier islands. The seas were kind to us and after the short run we arrived at Bakers Bay on Great Guana Cay. This is a top of class development and that night Ryan Seacrest, idol fame, and Julianne Hough, dancing with the stars, were hosting a private party. Our invitations seemed to have got lost in the mail...or maybe our boats were a little too small.

 

Sunday the group found their way to Nippers Bar on the beach for the famous pig roast. People from all the various Cays cruise in for this weekly event. Beside being on the beach they have a pool which made people watching the highlight of the day.

 

Monday the fleet motored an exhausting 12 miles to Marsh Harbor. This is the largest town we visited and was a chance for the fleet to lay in provisions from the supermarket. Many of the group rented cars and visited the 3 mile beach at Treasure Cay. This has been rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and I think it was underrated. I have never seen sand so white and fine; and the water so clear and blue.

 

For those not visiting the beach, Pete's Pub and gallery was a great spot for lunch. The 6 mile one lane dirt road to reach the pub only made the trip more worthwhile.

 

After paying our dockage and electric bill in Marsh harbor the fleet cruised to Sea Spray resort on Elbow Cay. The highlight of this stop was Hope Town and its fine restaurants. Karl's daughter also planned a surprise birthday cocktail party including a local band.

 

Due to weather the fleet laid over an extra day before crossing Whale Cay and on to Spanish Cay. Spanish Cay is a privately owned island and development that seems to be eating up cash of its owner. The Wreck Bar on the beach and the one restaurant were great; and the staff and owner were probably the most accommodating of any port. . The private runway will handle small private jets. The owners personal 150 foot yacht is an easy land mark when looking for the harbor. Sure hope they make it; it is a great stop

 

Sun began our return cruise home with the first stop back at West End. The crew met at the West End restaurant that evening and celebrated Jimmy's upcoming birthday. A number of boats separated from the fleet, either staying in the islands, heading to different ports or just adjusting their float plans based on cruising speeds.

 

The remaining fleet of 7 boats left West End at 7:00am Monday, crossing the Atlantic to Miami and on to Mangrove Marina in the Keys by way of the ICW. The water was extremely shallow in the marina, but with local boaters help we all got docked and Annie put together a pizza party on the dock.

 

Tuesday morning June 7th we found a little deeper water on the way out of the marina and the fleet made its way to our home port, Gulf Harbour. It really felt great passing the lighthouse and bringing in all our boats safely to our GH docks. Better yet we had no major mechanical problems or breakdowns. This is a true sign of the care GHYC members give their boats.

 

Believe it or not the float plan prepared by the Callaways and Kelleys nearly a year prior was followed except for one day. This was either the best float plan ever, they have an in with the weather man.

 

This is what belonging to GHYC is all about...being on the water for an extended cruise with a great bunch of skippers and crew. 

 

For more day by day details and pictures visit our blog site http://ghycabacos2011.blogspot.com/

 

  

Hope Town - Back Again

Tonto's Reward and Salty Lady met Monday, 6 June, at Whale Cut returning to Green Turtle Cay for a night at Bluff House.  Salty Lady has new crew... Ann & Mike Bordelon.  The next day we headed south to Orchid Bay Marina on Great Guana Cay.  Took both dinks to Fisher's Bay for a couple of drinks at Grabbers.  The guys also walked over to Nippers so Mike could see the Atlantic side of Guana.  We tried to have dinner at Orchid Bay, but they were overwhelmed with fishermen (host to a billfish tournament that starts Thursday) and power blips.  After 35 minutes of not even getting to place a drink order we left for Pirate's Cove.  Had an excellent dinner with great service!  This morning we cruised back to Hope Town.  While the Tichenors and Bordelons go sightseeing, I plan to do laundry and catch up on photo editing.  Since water is a flat fee no matter how much you use, David plans to give Tonto a good bath. 

Cheers, Gail B.  

Oh, Captain, My Captain

ONE FINE TOLLY is back in Gulf Harbour...Greeted by crew of Captain Morgan and Lady Brooks.

And the Conch Award for the best line of the Abacos trip 2011, goes to . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

JIMMY

 

" Ach Jimmy, you kin tell a man from Edinburr, but yuh can't tell im much"

 

Til we meet again

 

Blue Bird

Farewell dinner Old Bahama Bay Club, West End, 4jun11

 

Elske "USA" , Kismar "Scotland" & Blue Bird I "Canada"

 

TTFN

Blue Bird crew, on the way to dinner, West End, Old Bahama Bay Marina, 4jun11

Our last night as part of the fleet

 

Boo hoo, sniff

 

Blue Bird

Blue Bird, dinner at Spanish Cay, 3jun11

We don't wanna go home.

 

Blue Bird

Blue Bird crew, dinner at Sea Spray, 2 jun11

I think the Capt'n worked up an appetite

 

Blue Bird

Karl's birthday party at Sea Spray, Blue Bird Capt'n sets the pace

The Capt'n sets the pace at Sea Spray.

 

Blue Bird I

Bahamas Trip Fleet is on its way HOME to GHYC Marina

June 6:  BUCAROO and MARISA MAY are back in GHYC Marina safely tucked into their berths.

June 7:  Anticipated arrivals include ONE FINE TOLLY, CAPTAIN MORGAN, DOC's JEWEL, ANNIE TIME, TREADNWATER, LADY BROOKS, and CARPE DIEM.

June 8:  Anticipated arrival of KISMAR

Last Supper

To much good food...so Annie organized a pizza party at the end of the dock. Pizza tasted great. Evening is cool and everyone is sitting on their boats for the last evening. Can't believe it is over.

Way home

We are down to 7 boats. The group ran from West End Bahamas to Mangrove marina in the keys. Plans are to run to GH on Tuesday.
Water is really skinny in the marina and most are on the bottom. We will plow our way put tomorrow.
According to captain Morgan pods don't turn in the mud.
Was the only inside marina with space.
Craig Anderson
419 722 9218 cell
419 423 0199 Findlay
239 590 0641 Fort Myers

Jimmy celebrates his birthday at West End

Surprise Jimmy it is your birthday.

Treasure Cay

David and I had a wonderful time at Treasure Cay.  Got our chores done early so we could play the rest of the day.  Walked the beach a couple of times.  Not good shelling, but beautiful blue/green water!  We explored by dink.  Had lunch at Cocoa Bar & Grill on the beach.  Cooked dinner on Tonto and watched part of the NBA game.  Could not stay awake for the whole game.

We join back up with Salty Lady this morning on our way to Bluff House Marina on Green Turtle Cay.

Cheers, Gail B.

Multi-national dinner at West End, June 4, 2011

Sunrise at Sebastian Inlet

Sunrise, from Blue Bird at Sebastian Inlet,

Elbow Cay, didn't even have to snorkel for it!

May 27, 2011, at Green Turtle

Jackie & David roaming around Hope Town

Signs at Hope Town

Hope Town is bilingual. The local language is almost French, "Mesi bon kou"

 

Blue Bird

 

 

June 5, 2011, Blue Bird I, West End to Sebastian Inlet

0600hrs Sunday June 5, 2011 The crew is stirring, time to get moving. Breakfast on board, Bahamian cinnamon bread & coffee/tea whilst filling out our Bahamas Customs Departure Forms.  There is no fee to leave, at least not yet, unlike USA's neighbour to the south.

 

0745hrs departed Old Bahama Bay Club Marina, West End, Grand Bahama Island. Winds are E NE light & building, seas 2' rollers & building, 92 nm to Ft Pierce.

 

0845hrs  30+/- mph, 3100rpm,  34 gal/hr, seas 2'-4' rollers., 68 miles to Ft Pierce. Auto pilot right on.

 

0905hrs 28mph, 2900rpm, , 30 gal/hr, 57 miles to FtP, seas building

 

0955hrs,  27mph, 2750rpm, 28.5 gal/hr, 35.8 mi to Ft P, seas 3' to 5'+, with a 1' – 2' chop and the Communications Officer is typing, trying to get caught up on the daily log.

 

1130hrs arrived at Ft Pierce City Marina, fuelled up, contacted Customs (Homeland Security) they requested that all passengers & crew, on board,  present themselves at their office at the Ft Pierce County Airport. Called "Checker Cabs", no problem, take us to the airport, driver would have a little nap, and bring us back to FPCM.  We presented ourselves at HS (Homeland Security), Our 30 second presentation went, "are you all Canadians", "yes".  Back to the waiting cab/sleeping driver. How can anyone fall asleep that fast in a vehicle (no a/c) ?  Return to Blue Bird at the FPCM.

 

1430 hrs departed for Ponce de Leon inlet at New Smyrna, 120nm north, however E NE 2'-4' seas and we're running into them, not good. It was decided to get on the ICW, the DITCH, at Sebastian Inlet. Very tricky, but as luck has it we followed a commercial fisherman in.  Zig Zagged our way thru 100s of small boats & people swimming on the sandbars which apparently shift almost hourly and headed north for a couple of miles on the ICW and we stopped at Sebastian River Marina 1730hrs.. Diesel $4.39, Electricity $5.00, water no charge.

 

Mixed drinks, washed down the BBI, cooked steaks on the dock, 95F, humidity 100% +, under the supervision of some of the crew who were observing from the air conditioned wheel house. Showered and it's "beddy bye time". We're on the gas dock, which was  the last available dock.

 

TTFN

Blue Bird I

Buckaroo and Marisa Mae June 5

 Departed Spanish Cay at 0850 Sunday. Smoothest day yet. One to threes all across until some rollers coming into Government Cut. Arrived at sea buoy 1632. Don't even need to wash boat. Staying at Miami Beach Marina and walking to Joes for stone crabs. Could it get better? Know your crossing tomorrow will be even better. See you at Gulf Harbour.

ELSKE returns to USA June 5

Elske left West End at 0615 and arrived at SOVEREL HARBOUR MARINAvand tied up in slip by 1500.
This marina was recommended to the Kelleys by the Johnstons of Kismar. Elske will remain here until Lake O waters rise enough.
The passage was smooth and without problem. Perfect weather, little wind, virtually no whitecaps, minimal swells. So nice indeed that Jackie got to take a nap on the way.
A trip highlight was seeing friends, Kaleen & Dave Dixon on FAMILY TIME as they journeyed with their flotilla from West Palm to Old Bahama Bay! Both boats took pictures of each other under way! Who would think that friends could meet in the middle of the Gulf Stream?
One very nice thing to report-- LOCAL BOATER OPTION WORKS FOR CUSTOMS CHECK-IN...easy & quick.
Kelleys head back to Fort Myers tomorrow via rental car. They will be visiting Elske on weekends.

SOVEREL HARBOUR MARINA
2401 PGA Blvd, Suite 120, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
561-691-9544
561-691-9557 fax
http://www.soverelharbour.com/
shmarina@bellsouth.net

Buckaroo heads from Spanish to Miami

>

A Clean Boat is a Happy Boat!

Tonto is clean so now we get to play!  Gail B.

Tonto's Alone

Salty Lady took off this morning about 8 a.m. for Marsh Harbour.  Mary Lynn & Russell Painton fly out and Ann & Mike Bordelon arrive this afternoon.

David & I decided to stay in Treasure Cay.  There is a beautiful beach across the street from the marina, which we plan to enjoy this afternoon.  I have chores to fill my morning... more photo editing and a little inside boat cleaning.

We will join back up with Salty Lady tomorrow at the entrance to the Whale Channel.  We'll be at Bluff House Marina on Green Turtle Cay for a night and at Orchid Bay Marina on Great Guana Cay a night.

Cheers, Gail B.

A great day for sailing

Kismar sailing along at 9 knots.

Clear water at Spainish Cay

Has to be some of the clearest water in any port. Calm morning and the group is preparing. For a 60 mile run to west end.

June 5 Sunrise West End, Bahamas

Bye Bye Bahamas

ELSKE left West End at 0630 June 5, USA bound.

Marsh Harbour sunset

Tonto's Reward at Nippers

Blue Bird I, Marathon, May 23, 2011

Dee & Bob at Abacos Inn, June 1, 2011

Blue Bird crew at Abacos Inn, June 1, 2011

The Kelleys on the dock at Marsh Harbour, May 31, 2011

Blue Bird crew enjoying the evening at Sea Spray Marina

Marsh Harbour, Pete's Pub, May 31, 2011

Marsh Harbour, get together on the docks, May 31, 2011

Blue Bird I, June 4, 2011, West End, Old Bahama Bay Club Marina, photos to follow

Blue Bird departed Spanish Cay Marina 1020hrs heading for West End, 92nm. Wind E NE was light and seas were calm but both built as we headed West. We arrived 1420hrs at Old Bahama Bay Club Marina, via Indian Rock Passage. Elske (Jacquie & David) were already here, Kismar (Sheila & Jimmy) arrived while we were fueling. We tied up at our slip and were at the pool and beach by 1500hrs.

 

The bread lady came by approx 1800hrs, we stocked up and got rid of all our Bahamian dollars.

 

Dinner was in the dining room with the Johnsons & Kellys. A delightful evening with a chance to visit with some of the GHYC fleet.

 

Blue Bird will be departing West End tomorrow morning, heading for Ft Pierce FL. The forecast is E NE 9-12knts, seas 2`-3`, should be a good crossing.

 

Goodbye to the GHYC Fleet, the Lord willing, we`ll see you all in the fall, at GHYC.

 

A special thanks to Jo & Greg, Jacquie & David for organizing and watching over the GHYC Abacos 2011 Cruise.

 

Travel safe

Blue Bird I

 

BFN

 

 

 

 

June 4 Old Bahama Bay

A lovely evening was spent together by the crews of KISMAR, BLUEBIRD and ELSKE. We had drinks on Bluebird then dinner at the marina restaurant. It was a multi-national event with Canada, Scotland & USA represented at the table!

Bluebird and Elske leave the Bahamas tomorrow morning. Bluebird will be traveling north back to Canada. Elske is going to Soverel marina in West Palm Beach to await Lake Okechobee waters rising. KISMAR plans to enjoy one more day here before leaving.

Spanish Cay

This is a private island owned by the owner of Richman Yachts...who was our bartender today at the Wreck Bar
He has a 150 foot Richman for sale at the dock here. Need Fran to check GHYC check to see if the club can purchase it.
There is 2 miles of beach.
Great stop.

Spanish Cay

It is a tough life but someone has to do it. Craig at Spainish Cay

Julie and Tom at Hope Town Harbour Lodge

Coco is having a very relaxing day on ONE FINE TOLLY

Eddie Kaplan entertains us at lunch in Hope Town

Blue Bird I at Spanish Cay Marina, June 3, 2011, photos to follow

Departed Sea Spray Resort & Marina at 0930hrs, arrived at Spanish Cay Marina 1130hrs. It was a good trip, 2' to 4' rollers at Whales Cay. Spanish Cay Marina was pretty empty when we arrived but as evening approached another 8 or 10 boats have come in for dockage.

 

Spanish Cay Marina is a nice facility with all the amenities, large well stocked store, fresh Bahamian bread etc.  Good snorkeling with star fish, large & small fish, 1Ray, 1 nurse shark right at the docks.  Several boats, inlcuding the owner's 150' mega have their underwater lights on and there are a lot of fish around them. A couple of the boats are fishing, at the docks, tonight and catching Snapper along with other varities. There are 2 sunken aircraft just off the east end of the airport's runaway, we did not locate them, but were told it's good easy snorkeling. 

 

Dinner was superb, local (?) lobster tails, grouper and chicken, tastefully prepared and served. Dessert, home made Key Lime pie and bread pudding, just the way Ma used to make, hmmm, hmmm good.

 

One or two of the other boats are departing for Stuart FL tomorrow, looks like Monday is going to be good for us. Not sure if we're staying here another night or going on to West End. There's a good games room here and, of course, the snorkeling. Too bad we didn't bring our fishing rods, maybe they'll lend us one or two.

 

Keep healthy and safe

 

Blue Bird I

Band for party on Elbow Cay

Made for a great party. GHYC midnight also exist in Elbow Cay

Birthday boy.

Great bar on Elbow Cay

Again down a little dirt road and overlooking the Atlantic. Local hangout.

Elske June 3 Great Sale Cay to West End

0615 pulled up anchor at Great Sale Cay. Weather already breezy, rain clouds not far away. Dramatic sunrise.
Following seas, Elske is surfing along at 9 knots.

08:30 Passing Mangrove Cay
 Seas 2+ feet with swells, lots of boat rolling...wish we had stabilizers...White caps earlier in day than previously seen.

11:00 seas increasing, probably 4 ft with swells, following sea continues to be challenging.

13:45 DOCKED at Old Bahama Bay...Glad to be here!!!

Captain Pete cleans Conch

Seems the young crew members had a great day snorkeling. Conch salad is on the menu. Great having the young crew and captains on board.

Elbow Cay Lighthouse

David and I took our dink to the lighthouse.  You can only get there by boat - no roads lead to the lighthouse.  Very interesting... the lamp burns kerosene oil with a wick and the lens moves by a spring mechanism that is hand cranked every several hours.  I took lots of photos - both of the lighthouse and the views from the top.  Will get them posted on the GHYC website soon.

Cheers, Gail B.

June 3 Great Sale Cay

Another Sunrise...

Pete's Pub, Marsh Harbour, May 31, 2011

Lunch at Bakers Bay Club, May 29, 2011

Sunset at Marsh Harbour from Blue Bird I

Happy Birthday !!!! Carl

Marsh Harbour, May 30, 2011

Marsh Harbour, MAY 30, 2011

Marsh Harbour, May 30, 2011

ELSKE June 2 Marsh Harbour to Great Sale Cay

06:30 ELSKE left Marsh Harbour. 

We were through Whale Channel by 08:30. Seas were 2 feet with swells, had to steer seaward significantly to avoid going too close to Whale Cay. 

09:10 passing Green Turtle

Calm seas, winds < 10 mph

11:15  Passing Spanish Cay

16:30 Arrived at Great Sale Cay anchorage. 

YES, Elske's DEPTH Sounder WORKS!!!!!!!!!!

We followed our outward-bound BREAD CRUMB trail the entire way...sure makes for an easy day. 

Tomorrow:West End. 

Homeward Bound

In the Abacos, Bahamas 

aboard ELSKE

Jacquelyn Kelley

Sent from my iPhone

cooling off at Bakers Bay Club Marina, May 29, 2011