Stats for March 26, 2019

Origin: Norman’s Cay

Destination: Norman’s Cay Whale Tail

Distance: 7.6 miles

Speed: 7.3 mph

Time on the Move: 1 hour and 1 minute

We felt stuck and lost, not knowing which way to turn next. Our time was growing short in the Bahamas and we had 2 choices–head west back through the Berries and Bimini or head east to Eleuthera and then north to the Abacos. Plus, we had a cold front creeping in that was supposed to bring wicked west winds for 3 days. Mike and I sat there for a good few hours hashing out options and looking over possible routes, trying to match them with good weather protection. Finally, a friend mentioned Cape Eleuthera Marina as an option and instantly, we knew we found our path. We had 1 more day to play in the Exumas before we needed to head east, so we went to the east side of Norman’s, just outside of the pond, where there is a “whale’s tail” for protection. We loved this area the last time we were at Norman’s and do you want to know the REAL reason we went there?! Hermit crabs!!

As soon as we dropped anchor, we gathered our gear for the beach. We have fond memories of playing here before, and the scenery is gorgeous.

After a bit of beach walking for the adults and playing for the kiddos, we walked over to the other side of the whale’s tail to the spot where we found lots of hermit crabs before. Both sides of the tail are beautiful and amazing. I could stay here for a long time in the right weather!!

Sure enough, the kids found tons of hermit crabs and had races and competitions of all kinds. We told them (reluctantly) that they could each pick 3 crabs to bring back to the boat. Our friends have hermit crabs and they are so entertaining for the kids and very low maintenance, so….why not?!

After everyone picked their 3 crabs, we headed back to the boat for lunch. We were surprised to find we had a big sister anchored RIGHT behind us. Seemed like they could have given us a little space, but what can ya do??

After lunch we swam off the back of the boat and made the hermit crab habitat just right. I was desperate to explore some of the other beaches, so we took off exploring until just before sunset when we went back and gathered up all of our gear at the first beach. All in all, on our last day in the Exumas, we set foot on 10 beaches. That is a good day!!

Mike made preparations for our 40 mile crossing through the Sound the next morning, which included putting the dinghy up, securing it, securing all the toys in the back, and probably checking some “tings” in the engine room. We are lucky he isn’t afraid of hard work!!

What a great last day in the Exumas!! It’s been a fun ride!! Thanks for reading and following along!!