We left Ft Lauderdale on Monday afternoon about 1:30. A couple hours earlier than we planned but we always seem to be anxious to leave. Great Harbor Cay, in the Berry Islands, ended up being our entry point because we’ve never been there and they have a marina where we could check in with the new Covid protocols.
Our night transit was interesting. Although we missed seeing the water turn from dark blue to that amazing Bahama turquoise, we were treated to seeing all the cruise ships at anchor just off Little Stirrup Cay. We had seen them in the spring when we came back from the Dominican Republic but now there are twice as many, about two dozen, and at night they are lit up like Christmas trees. We spent about 3 ½ hours wending our way through all the ships usually passing within less than a half mile. Quite the site as they can be seen from miles away.
Getting into the marina at Great Harbor was another interesting event. It’s a hurricane hole and well disguised. Unless you are following the charts you will never see the entrance as it is narrow and heavily treed. We originally thought we would have problems getting in. Approaching the cut we had to wait for a 100+ foot yacht to leave which reassured us that we would have no problem.
Once docked at the marina customs and immigration came directly to the boat to check us in. The only other place this has happened is in the DR. Usually we have to get off the boat and go hunt up the c& i offices. So now we’re feeling spoiled.
Once customs and immigration was done we had an inspection of another kind to get through. It’s not unusual to encounter “marina cats” on the docks but this was the first time we’ve been boarded and inspected by one. Beauty jumped on board and walked all around the outside of the boat. Only then would she acquiesce to some petting and chin scratches. She wanted to check out the interior but that was a no-go. When the hose came out to wash off the boat she casually left only to return later in the evening with a friend. They spent the night sleeping on the aft cushions. Normally I would put food out for them but they are very healthy and well cared for so no need to give them anything other than a treat or two.
Right now we’re anchored outside enjoying a day or two before heading back into the marina for our followup covid tests on Saturday and probably another Beauty visit.
A note about the Bahamas and Covid. They have a good system that is extremely responsive. When I first read about the process I was skeptical because, well… it’s the Bahamas. Attitudes are usually lackadaisical and follow up can be non-existent but they are taking this seriously. Before leaving we applied online for our health visas. Once we uploaded our negative covid test results we were approved for entry within an hour or so. Present a copy of your approved health visa on entry and you’re good to go until the five day follow up rapid test. Easy peasy.
There is a facebook page, “Bahamas, Land and Sea” that has up to date information about protocols and ever changing requirements. It seems that in the few instances where there has been a glitch in the system a phone call has been all that’s necessary for resolution.
Looking forward to a nice winter!
