Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Say, that sounds line an Endeavour 32. Is it?

(The waterline the painted isn't the one they measured the draft to BTW:)

--
Roger Long

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 17, 6:39 am, wrote:
I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

We enjoyed Green Turtle very much. Marsh is kind of the middle. We
took the route around the top and down.
You can see & read about all this at our site

http://www.knottydog.com/kd2005/bahamas.htm

Have fun
Larry

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 17, 10:17 am, Ziggy wrote:
On Apr 17, 6:39 am, wrote:

I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

We enjoyed Green Turtle very much. Marsh is kind of the middle. We
took the route around the top and down.
You can see & read about all this at our site

http://www.knottydog.com/kd2005/bahamas.htm

Have fun
Larry

Thanks very much. Enjoyed your site.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Mike,

I went down to the Abacos twice this winter and have twice been there
before. We had 4'-8" draft this year, but on one occasion the boat was a 50
footer with 7'3" draft!

On one earlier trip, we crossed from Lauderdale to West End. Did this
overnight arriving early morning. After checking in, we took local bus to
Freeport to buy some parts for outboard and look around. Next day, we
motored sailed to Great Sale, but because of draft, went round Memory Rock.
It was dusk when we got there, but with daylight savings time and the longer
daylight, you may be able to go direct from West End to Great Sale - there
is not much protection at Mangrove.

Otherwise, your itinerary looks OK. But, a few comments.

Manjack, just North of Green Turtle is a nice spot - good swimming on North
side - walk through small conservation area to get to the beach. There are 3
anchoring areas. Just 3 houses on this island.

Green Turtle has two parts - White sound where Green Turtle Club and Bluff
House are located. Nice spots for some R&R. Entrance is just 4'-6" at low
water, so be careful of the tides. Black Sound is where marina is and you
can walk into New Plymouth - a must - also limited draft at entrance. You
can also anchor just off the Main dock of New Plymouth, but this is exposed.

Guana Cay is a must because you have to go to Nippers for lunch! Not that
great, but everyone HAS to go there! You can anchor in Settlement Harbour,
but holding is not too good and most of space is taken by mooring cans - you
should pick one up if you can. There is a very nice marine (Orchid Bay) but
it does cost $2.25/ft. But, on opposite side of the harbour, there is a
white dock where you can tie up for $20.00. It used to be part of the resort
that had a fire (There is a small bar at the beach that overlooks Fishers
Bay. There is a guy in a houseboat who will collect the money. You can also
anchor in Fisher bay, just to the North.

Treasure Cay has a nice marina and an anchorage area. Seems like they are
now charging for anchoring! There is a nice restaurant (Spinnakers) as well
as the Tipsy bar. There are a few stores including a smallish grocery store.

Marsh Harbour is not a place to spend too much time, but is convenient for
airport pickups. You can anchor or pick up a can in the main harbour or use
one of the marinas. Also some nice restaurants like Mangos. To the South,
there is a good marina at Boat Harbour - a bit expensive though, but
sometimes useful if heading South to Little Harbour which is about far as
you will likely go (shallow entrance, watch tides!)

Man-o-war has good anchorages. One in front of town is a bit busy, but we
have been able to anchor there - there is a bit more space in the other
basin to the South. The entrance look narrow, but is easy if you follow the
instructions.

Other must stop, is of course Hopetown on Elbow Cay. Not much chance of
anchoring, so be sure to phone ahead and book a mooring can. We called
Hopetown Harbour Marina (they also have slips), They are on stbd side going
in. Otherwise, try calling Abaco Charters or Lucky Strike on VHF. The
lighthouse is worth a visit - An original kerosenne powered light that still
works! Have a look at the Hopetown Harbour Lodge - it runs from the ocean
right over to the bay. The swimming pool and bar on the ocean side are a
great spot for lunch and there is a snorkelling area just off the beach.
Vernons is small store that is worth a visit for supplies - they make a
great Key Lime Pie - phone ahead and order one. Captain Jacks and Harbours
Edge are good places for a good dinner, but not fine dining!

Have a great Cruise!


wrote in message
oups.com...
I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 17, 12:37 pm, "Anon" wrote:
Mike,

I went down to the Abacos twice this winter and have twice been there
before. We had 4'-8" draft this year, but on one occasion the boat was a 50
footer with 7'3" draft!

On one earlier trip, we crossed from Lauderdale to West End. Did this
overnight arriving early morning. After checking in, we took local bus to
Freeport to buy some parts for outboard and look around. Next day, we
motored sailed to Great Sale, but because of draft, went round Memory Rock.
It was dusk when we got there, but with daylight savings time and the longer
daylight, you may be able to go direct from West End to Great Sale - there
is not much protection at Mangrove.

Otherwise, your itinerary looks OK. But, a few comments.

Manjack, just North of Green Turtle is a nice spot - good swimming on North
side - walk through small conservation area to get to the beach. There are 3
anchoring areas. Just 3 houses on this island.

Green Turtle has two parts - White sound where Green Turtle Club and Bluff
House are located. Nice spots for some R&R. Entrance is just 4'-6" at low
water, so be careful of the tides. Black Sound is where marina is and you
can walk into New Plymouth - a must - also limited draft at entrance. You
can also anchor just off the Main dock of New Plymouth, but this is exposed.

Guana Cay is a must because you have to go to Nippers for lunch! Not that
great, but everyone HAS to go there! You can anchor in Settlement Harbour,
but holding is not too good and most of space is taken by mooring cans - you
should pick one up if you can. There is a very nice marine (Orchid Bay) but
it does cost $2.25/ft. But, on opposite side of the harbour, there is a
white dock where you can tie up for $20.00. It used to be part of the resort
that had a fire (There is a small bar at the beach that overlooks Fishers
Bay. There is a guy in a houseboat who will collect the money. You can also
anchor in Fisher bay, just to the North.

Treasure Cay has a nice marina and an anchorage area. Seems like they are
now charging for anchoring! There is a nice restaurant (Spinnakers) as well
as the Tipsy bar. There are a few stores including a smallish grocery store.

Marsh Harbour is not a place to spend too much time, but is convenient for
airport pickups. You can anchor or pick up a can in the main harbour or use
one of the marinas. Also some nice restaurants like Mangos. To the South,
there is a good marina at Boat Harbour - a bit expensive though, but
sometimes useful if heading South to Little Harbour which is about far as
you will likely go (shallow entrance, watch tides!)

Man-o-war has good anchorages. One in front of town is a bit busy, but we
have been able to anchor there - there is a bit more space in the other
basin to the South. The entrance look narrow, but is easy if you follow the
instructions.

Other must stop, is of course Hopetown on Elbow Cay. Not much chance of
anchoring, so be sure to phone ahead and book a mooring can. We called
Hopetown Harbour Marina (they also have slips), They are on stbd side going
in. Otherwise, try calling Abaco Charters or Lucky Strike on VHF. The
lighthouse is worth a visit - An original kerosenne powered light that still
works! Have a look at the Hopetown Harbour Lodge - it runs from the ocean
right over to the bay. The swimming pool and bar on the ocean side are a
great spot for lunch and there is a snorkelling area just off the beach.
Vernons is small store that is worth a visit for supplies - they make a
great Key Lime Pie - phone ahead and order one. Captain Jacks and Harbours
Edge are good places for a good dinner, but not fine dining!

Have a great Cruise!

wrote in message

oups.com...



I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

That's enormously helpful. Thank you so very much!

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On 17 Apr 2007 14:33:29 -0700, wrote:

That's enormously helpful. Thank you so very much!

All of anon's advice jibes very closely with my own experience.

One thing that I haven't seen mentioned is the possibility of checking
in someplace a little less busy than West End.

As long as you don't fish or go ashore, it is permissable to anchor
for the night without checking in. Just fly the Q flag and keep going
the next day. Spanish Key makes for a nice quiet and uncrowded place
to clear customs, and you can continue south from there.

Our favorites we

Green Turtle - anchor either Black Sound or White Sound; rent a golf
cart and tour the island; visit New Providence and Sarah Pineapple's
Pub; visit the Green Turtle club; tour the beaches on the north east
side.

Great Guana Key - primary attractions are the great beaches;
snorkeling behind the reef on the east side; and of course, the famous
Nippers Pub. Don't miss the pig roast on Sunday afternoons.

Treasure Key Cove and Marina - We didn't go by boat but everyone raves
about it. Go out to the end of the point and go wading on the sand
flats that stretch out for miles.

Marsh Harbour - Great place to resupply - lots of stores and
restaurants. Carry your VHF handheld ashore, everyone uses them to
call taxis and ask advice. Don't miss the cruisers net on VHF 68 at
8:00AM - great source of advice and information.

Hope Town Harbor - Great place, very scenic, climb the lighthouse,
rent a golf cart and drive down to the south end - spectacularly
scenic on a windy day.

Little Harbor - nice snug little cove way out in the boondocks - great
scenery - interesting history - visit the famous Pete's Pub and art
gallery, you will not be disappointed.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Mike,
Here's another routing if you want to save some time *and* if the weather is
suitable. Leave West Palm in late afternoon-early evening and arrive on the
Little Bahama Bank just after daybreak and just keep on going to arrive at
Great Sale by late afternoon for a total run of a bit under 24 hours more or
less depending on conditions.

Given the need to fight the Gulf Stream on that particular crossing, there
is a lot to be said for laying a more northerly course, more towards Memory
Rock than West End.

Spend the night at Great Sale, get a reasonably early start and you can
easily make Green Turtle that afternoon without having to push too hard.
Pick up one of the inexpensive moorings in Black Sound off "The Other
Shore Club", dinghy in, walk into town and clear customs there. Nice
friendly relaxed place and Marsh Harbor is easily reached by taking the
ferry across to Treasure Island and taxi or rental car from there to Marsh
Harbour. With your draft you should have no problems along that route if
you have up to date charts. We made that run a couple of years ago, cleared
the W. Palm Beach inlet around 6pm and got to Great Sale around 5 pm next
day and Black Sound the next afternoon.
Scott
SV Itchen


wrote in message
oups.com...
I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 17, 9:53 pm, "Scott" ASDF wrote:
Mike,
Here's another routing if you want to save some time *and* if the weather is
suitable. Leave West Palm in late afternoon-early evening and arrive on the
Little Bahama Bank just after daybreak and just keep on going to arrive at
Great Sale by late afternoon for a total run of a bit under 24 hours more or
less depending on conditions.

Given the need to fight the Gulf Stream on that particular crossing, there
is a lot to be said for laying a more northerly course, more towards Memory
Rock than West End.

Spend the night at Great Sale, get a reasonably early start and you can
easily make Green Turtle that afternoon without having to push too hard.
Pick up one of the inexpensive moorings in Black Sound off "The Other
Shore Club", dinghy in, walk into town and clear customs there. Nice
friendly relaxed place and Marsh Harbor is easily reached by taking the
ferry across to Treasure Island and taxi or rental car from there to Marsh
Harbour. With your draft you should have no problems along that route if
you have up to date charts. We made that run a couple of years ago, cleared
the W. Palm Beach inlet around 6pm and got to Great Sale around 5 pm next
day and Black Sound the next afternoon.
Scott
SV Itchen
- Show quoted text -

Scott,

Although I may have misunderstood your post, what port of entry are
you suggesting he use instead of West End?

Thanks and take care . . .

John

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On 18 Apr 2007 05:33:25 -0700, John wrote:

Although I may have misunderstood your post, what port of entry are
you suggesting he use instead of West End?

New Providence on Green Turtle Cay as I understood it. Perfectly
valid as long as you fly the Q flag, don't leave the boat or fish
before you check in.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Just a few things :

The town on Green Turtle is New Plymouth, not New Providence.

It's true that you can check in at several of the islands provide you don't
go ashore. So no real need to go to West End, but we certainly did not find
it busy earlier in the year. If you have the crew and the desire, you can
sail direct to Great Sale and then check in at Spanish Cay or Green Turtle
(there may be others too). Read the instructions on entering the Bahamas - I
think the crew must remain on board while the captain takes all the
passports to the customs (you do need passports). You will also have to pay
for a cruising permit - $300, I think.

You cannot get a ferry from Green Turtle to Treasure Cay Marina (It's
Treasure Cay not "Island" ;) ). There is a ferry that goes to a ferry dock
that is part way between the Treasure Cay resort and the Treasure Cay
airport. From there you can get a taxi to Treasure Cay. The taxi fare into
Marsh Harbour (about 30 miles) is about $70.00 for 2 plus $10/person. Can't
see doing that if you can sail there yourself to pick up your crew.

In Black Sound, GTC, there is a dinghy dock just to the North of the marina
on the starboard side (is that the Other Shore Club?). We usually left our
dinghy there and walked up the little path next to a collapsed boathouse on
our way into New Plymouth. For a low cost Bahamas lunch, try the Wrecking
Tree cafe, just as you enter town.

One thing to be aware of, is that in sailing from Green Turtle to Guana and
beyond, you normally sail around Whale Cay. This passage is often benign,
but in strong northerlies or other high wind conditions, the passage can be
impassable. With 4'-3" draft you can take an inside route through Don't
Rock - It's not marked, but you just sail just to the east of the small
islands (see chart book). Depth at MLW is about 4-5 ft. We went through with
4'8" draft at high tide and always had a foot or more to spare.

By the way, Stephen Dodge's Guide to Cruising the Abacos is a must for those
who have not done this trip before.

"Scott" ASDF wrote in message ...
Mike,
Here's another routing if you want to save some time *and* if the weather
is
suitable. Leave West Palm in late afternoon-early evening and arrive on
the
Little Bahama Bank just after daybreak and just keep on going to arrive at
Great Sale by late afternoon for a total run of a bit under 24 hours more
or
less depending on conditions.

Given the need to fight the Gulf Stream on that particular crossing, there
is a lot to be said for laying a more northerly course, more towards
Memory
Rock than West End.

Spend the night at Great Sale, get a reasonably early start and you can
easily make Green Turtle that afternoon without having to push too hard.
Pick up one of the inexpensive moorings in Black Sound off "The Other
Shore Club", dinghy in, walk into town and clear customs there. Nice
friendly relaxed place and Marsh Harbor is easily reached by taking the
ferry across to Treasure Island and taxi or rental car from there to Marsh
Harbour. With your draft you should have no problems along that route if
you have up to date charts. We made that run a couple of years ago,
cleared
the W. Palm Beach inlet around 6pm and got to Great Sale around 5 pm next
day and Black Sound the next afternoon.
Scott
SV Itchen


wrote in message
oups.com...
I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

To anyone here who has been to Hope Town more recently than me (which
may be almost everyone on the group):

Many years ago, my dad took us into Hope Town. One of my most vivid
memories was going some place in town and having Manhattan-style conch
chowder that was simply outstanding. As I recall it was a house
speciality. Does anyone who has been there recently, know if such a
place might still be there?


To (the original poster): if we can come to some
consensus on where such a place might be, do NOT fail include this on
your itinerary.

Another memory from the same trip: Sitting on the dock with my
girlfriend in New Plymouth, just down the street from the bakery,
using a dive knife (no . . . not the suggested implement) to cut and
butter the fresh, still hot Bahamian bread. Once you try that bread,
you too will understand what all the noise is about. Do not miss it.

Thanks in advance and take care . . .


John

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On 18 Apr 2007 08:57:55 -0700, John wrote:

To anyone here who has been to Hope Town more recently than me (which
may be almost everyone on the group):

Many years ago, my dad took us into Hope Town. One of my most vivid
memories was going some place in town and having Manhattan-style conch
chowder that was simply outstanding.

I was there last year at this time. The restaurant in question is
probably either Captain Jacks or Harbours Edge. They both have good
basic food and are right on the water.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 18, 11:57 am, John wrote:
To anyone here who has been to Hope Town more recently than me (which
may be almost everyone on the group):

Many years ago, my dad took us into Hope Town. One of my most vivid
memories was going some place in town and having Manhattan-style conch
chowder that was simply outstanding. As I recall it was a house
speciality. Does anyone who has been there recently, know if such a
place might still be there?

To (the original poster): if we can come to some
consensus on where such a place might be, do NOT fail include this on
your itinerary.

Another memory from the same trip: Sitting on the dock with my
girlfriend in New Plymouth, just down the street from the bakery,
using a dive knife (no . . . not the suggested implement) to cut and
butter the fresh, still hot Bahamian bread. Once you try that bread,
you too will understand what all the noise is about. Do not miss it.

Thanks in advance and take care . . .

John

Thanks very much to everyone who posted this information. You guys
are a great resource!

I hear what some of you are saying about steering for Memory Rock and
heading straight for Great Sale instead of fighting the current down
to West End. That sounds like a good option, but it sounds like I
won't be fishing for two days. I love to troll for fish, and I
usually cook what I catch. I'd hate to sail almost the breadth of
the Sea of Abaco to Green Turtle Cay committed to not fishing unless
the fishing is usually not worth it. Anyone able to comment on that?
If the fishing is worthwhile and trolling from a sailboat before
checking in is something strictly forbidden, that's a reason to check
in at West End.

I'm also a big believer in "smelling the roses" along a cruise rather
than putting miles under the keel, and I generally plan itineraries
for less than a full day unless it's just unsafe to stop sooner. One
of the guide books says Mangrove Key provides a suitable lee. If so,
I'd be more inclined to anchor there after checking in at West End on
the first day, and to take my time reaching Green Turtle to allow more
time to sleep late, swim and snorkel in the morning, have that extra
cup of coffee, and lolligag my way across the bank than to commit to
an early morning start and a late afternoon arrival at a farther
destination. That's just my approach to cruising, though. I realize
others may prefer otherwise.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

wrote in message
ups.com...
On Apr 18, 11:57 am, John wrote:
To anyone here who has been to Hope Town more recently than me (which
may be almost everyone on the group):

Many years ago, my dad took us into Hope Town. One of my most vivid
memories was going some place in town and having Manhattan-style
conch
chowder that was simply outstanding. As I recall it was a house
speciality. Does anyone who has been there recently, know if such a
place might still be there?

To (the original poster): if we can come to some
consensus on where such a place might be, do NOT fail include this on
your itinerary.

Another memory from the same trip: Sitting on the dock with my
girlfriend in New Plymouth, just down the street from the bakery,
using a dive knife (no . . . not the suggested implement) to cut and
butter the fresh, still hot Bahamian bread. Once you try that bread,
you too will understand what all the noise is about. Do not miss it.

Thanks in advance and take care . . .

John

Thanks very much to everyone who posted this information. You guys
are a great resource!

I hear what some of you are saying about steering for Memory Rock and
heading straight for Great Sale instead of fighting the current down
to West End. That sounds like a good option, but it sounds like I
won't be fishing for two days. I love to troll for fish, and I
usually cook what I catch. I'd hate to sail almost the breadth of
the Sea of Abaco to Green Turtle Cay committed to not fishing unless
the fishing is usually not worth it. Anyone able to comment on that?
If the fishing is worthwhile and trolling from a sailboat before
checking in is something strictly forbidden, that's a reason to check
in at West End.

I'm also a big believer in "smelling the roses" along a cruise rather
than putting miles under the keel, and I generally plan itineraries
for less than a full day unless it's just unsafe to stop sooner. One
of the guide books says Mangrove Key provides a suitable lee. If so,
I'd be more inclined to anchor there after checking in at West End on
the first day, and to take my time reaching Green Turtle to allow more
time to sleep late, swim and snorkel in the morning, have that extra
cup of coffee, and lolligag my way across the bank than to commit to
an early morning start and a late afternoon arrival at a farther
destination. That's just my approach to cruising, though. I realize
others may prefer otherwise.

You have the right attitude but may I suggest two weeks to get to Marsh
and back home is not enough time unless you put more miles in per day
than you seem to wish to. Try to get a month off if you expect to be
able to smell the roses. I spent three weeks one time just getting from
West End to Marsh. The wind was always howling right on the nose and I
stopped in this lee and that lee to smell the roses for days at a time.
Sometimes this is what you run into getting to Marsh from West End. I
got stuck at Allans/Pensacola for five days. The wind never blew less
than twenty knots right from the southeast. If this happens to you and
you start to run low on supplies or snacks remember Fox Town to the
southwest. Few stop there but the anchorage is sheltered and groceries,
fuel and ice are available. Oh, I'd recommend you get an Explorer
Chartbook of the Abacos. Very worthwhile for navigation.

Wilbur Hubbard

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Apr 18, 1:25 pm, "Wilbur Hubbard"
wrote:
wrote in message

ups.com...





On Apr 18, 11:57 am, John wrote:
To anyone here who has been to Hope Town more recently than me (which
may be almost everyone on the group):

Many years ago, my dad took us into Hope Town. One of my most vivid
memories was going some place in town and having Manhattan-style
conch
chowder that was simply outstanding. As I recall it was a house
speciality. Does anyone who has been there recently, know if such a
place might still be there?

To (the original poster): if we can come to some
consensus on where such a place might be, do NOT fail include this on
your itinerary.

Another memory from the same trip: Sitting on the dock with my
girlfriend in New Plymouth, just down the street from the bakery,
using a dive knife (no . . . not the suggested implement) to cut and
butter the fresh, still hot Bahamian bread. Once you try that bread,
you too will understand what all the noise is about. Do not miss it.

Thanks in advance and take care . . .

John

Thanks very much to everyone who posted this information. You guys
are a great resource!

I hear what some of you are saying about steering for Memory Rock and
heading straight for Great Sale instead of fighting the current down
to West End. That sounds like a good option, but it sounds like I
won't be fishing for two days. I love to troll for fish, and I
usually cook what I catch. I'd hate to sail almost the breadth of
the Sea of Abaco to Green Turtle Cay committed to not fishing unless
the fishing is usually not worth it. Anyone able to comment on that?
If the fishing is worthwhile and trolling from a sailboat before
checking in is something strictly forbidden, that's a reason to check
in at West End.

I'm also a big believer in "smelling the roses" along a cruise rather
than putting miles under the keel, and I generally plan itineraries
for less than a full day unless it's just unsafe to stop sooner. One
of the guide books says Mangrove Key provides a suitable lee. If so,
I'd be more inclined to anchor there after checking in at West End on
the first day, and to take my time reaching Green Turtle to allow more
time to sleep late, swim and snorkel in the morning, have that extra
cup of coffee, and lolligag my way across the bank than to commit to
an early morning start and a late afternoon arrival at a farther
destination. That's just my approach to cruising, though. I realize
others may prefer otherwise.

You have the right attitude but may I suggest two weeks to get to Marsh
and back home is not enough time unless you put more miles in per day
than you seem to wish to. Try to get a month off if you expect to be
able to smell the roses. I spent three weeks one time just getting from
West End to Marsh. The wind was always howling right on the nose and I
stopped in this lee and that lee to smell the roses for days at a time.
Sometimes this is what you run into getting to Marsh from West End. I
got stuck at Allans/Pensacola for five days. The wind never blew less
than twenty knots right from the southeast. If this happens to you and
you start to run low on supplies or snacks remember Fox Town to the
southwest. Few stop there but the anchorage is sheltered and groceries,
fuel and ice are available. Oh, I'd recommend you get an Explorer
Chartbook of the Abacos. Very worthwhile for navigation.

Wilbur Hubbard- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Sounds reasonable. Nothing like the voice of experience. I see your
point. Do others in this group concur, then--assuming conditions and
Mr. Murphy will permit--that a crossing leaving from West Palm mid
afternoon and heading directly to an achorage at Great Sale, then
checking in somewhere east of Great Sale, is the best routing option
for starting the trip? After that, it would appear that we'll have
enough of a lee to make Marsh Harbor easily in five days barring
something rather unusual weather for late May, no?

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On 18 Apr 2007 10:42:14 -0700, wrote:

Sounds reasonable. Nothing like the voice of experience. I see your
point. Do others in this group concur, then--assuming conditions and
Mr. Murphy will permit--that a crossing leaving from West Palm mid
afternoon and heading directly to an achorage at Great Sale, then
checking in somewhere east of Great Sale, is the best routing option
for starting the trip?

It will certainly get you into the heart of the Abacos a lot more
quickly and maximize the use of your departure weather window.

We did the trip in 3 weeks last year, and frankly it was barely enough
even though we cruise a trawler at 8 to 10 kts, and pulled a couple of
all nighters on the way back. Of course we were coming and going from
the Florida left coast so that adds a day or two each way.

One of the risks you face is getting stuck over there longer than you
expect waiting for adverse weather to clear. Consequently any time
you can gain on the front end improves your margins on the back end.

A big 20 to 30 kt nor'easter came in last year while we were in Marsh
Harbour early May. We were able to go to Hopetown and Little Harbor
but the waves were really rolling in on the outside of the reef.
After waiting a few extra days for things to lighten up we headed
south to Spanish Wells in following seas of 10 to 12 ft. No problem
but it was kind of interesting to watch 50 ft sportfishing boats with
full tuna towers disappear behind a wave once in awhile.

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Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

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On Tue, 17 Apr 2007 12:37:55 -0400, "Anon"
wrote:

Mike,

I went down to the Abacos twice this winter and have twice been there
before. We had 4'-8" draft this year, but on one occasion the boat was a 50
footer with 7'3" draft!

On one earlier trip, we crossed from Lauderdale to West End. Did this
overnight arriving early morning. After checking in, we took local bus to
Freeport to buy some parts for outboard and look around. Next day, we
motored sailed to Great Sale, but because of draft, went round Memory Rock.
It was dusk when we got there, but with daylight savings time and the longer
daylight, you may be able to go direct from West End to Great Sale - there
is not much protection at Mangrove.

Otherwise, your itinerary looks OK. But, a few comments.

Manjack, just North of Green Turtle is a nice spot - good swimming on North
side - walk through small conservation area to get to the beach. There are 3
anchoring areas. Just 3 houses on this island.

Green Turtle has two parts - White sound where Green Turtle Club and Bluff
House are located. Nice spots for some R&R. Entrance is just 4'-6" at low
water, so be careful of the tides. Black Sound is where marina is and you
can walk into New Plymouth - a must - also limited draft at entrance. You
can also anchor just off the Main dock of New Plymouth, but this is exposed.

Guana Cay is a must because you have to go to Nippers for lunch! Not that
great, but everyone HAS to go there! You can anchor in Settlement Harbour,
but holding is not too good and most of space is taken by mooring cans - you
should pick one up if you can. There is a very nice marine (Orchid Bay) but
it does cost $2.25/ft. But, on opposite side of the harbour, there is a
white dock where you can tie up for $20.00. It used to be part of the resort
that had a fire (There is a small bar at the beach that overlooks Fishers
Bay. There is a guy in a houseboat who will collect the money. You can also
anchor in Fisher bay, just to the North.

Treasure Cay has a nice marina and an anchorage area. Seems like they are
now charging for anchoring! There is a nice restaurant (Spinnakers) as well
as the Tipsy bar. There are a few stores including a smallish grocery store.

Marsh Harbour is not a place to spend too much time, but is convenient for
airport pickups. You can anchor or pick up a can in the main harbour or use
one of the marinas. Also some nice restaurants like Mangos. To the South,
there is a good marina at Boat Harbour - a bit expensive though, but
sometimes useful if heading South to Little Harbour which is about far as
you will likely go (shallow entrance, watch tides!)

Man-o-war has good anchorages. One in front of town is a bit busy, but we
have been able to anchor there - there is a bit more space in the other
basin to the South. The entrance look narrow, but is easy if you follow the
instructions.

Other must stop, is of course Hopetown on Elbow Cay. Not much chance of
anchoring, so be sure to phone ahead and book a mooring can. We called
Hopetown Harbour Marina (they also have slips), They are on stbd side going
in. Otherwise, try calling Abaco Charters or Lucky Strike on VHF. The
lighthouse is worth a visit - An original kerosenne powered light that still
works! Have a look at the Hopetown Harbour Lodge - it runs from the ocean
right over to the bay. The swimming pool and bar on the ocean side are a
great spot for lunch and there is a snorkelling area just off the beach.
Vernons is small store that is worth a visit for supplies - they make a
great Key Lime Pie - phone ahead and order one. Captain Jacks and Harbours
Edge are good places for a good dinner, but not fine dining!

Have a great Cruise!


Ditto on all the above. You might want to continue on past the elbow
and snorkel the reefs across from Lynard Cay, I believe. Can't
anchor, but they have moorings close by.

Going further in that direction you come to Little Harbour (I believe,
it's been a while) A neat bronze foundry doing sculpture and a grass
shack bar made from whatever washed up on the beach. You might not be
able to get in, might have to anchor out (not the best anchorage) and
dink in.



wrote in message
roups.com...
I am making a crossing from West Palm Beach to sail the Abacos in the
next six weeks, and have two weeks for the trip. Need to drop off and
pick up passengers at the airport in Marsh Harbor half way through.
This is my first trip to the area, and I'd be interested in hearing
suggested itineraries and routes from others who've been there
before. My 32 foot sailboat draws 4 ft. 2 inches. My idea is to
check in at West End then anchor that same night at Mangrove, the next
night at Great Sale, then Allen-Pensacola, then Green Turtle, then
Marsh Harbor. After that, I'd be retracing the same route back to
West Palm. Thoughts about this approach or any others? Many thanks.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

On Wed, 18 Apr 2007 15:31:22 -0400, krj
wrote:

Make sure that your departure time is such that you go by Memory Rock in
daylight if you go south of the light. There a lot of sand bores and you
need good light to navigate them for about two miles.

There is a better entry point approx 9.7 NM north of Memory Rock. We
entered the banks there last year and never saw less than 20 ft of
water. It is well marked on the Explorer charts.

Suggested Abacos Itinerary
 

Hi,

This site could be a useful tool http://www.swingmoorings.com
It is lite on the listings so get in there and put your mooring site
details if your in the business of renting or selling
moorings or your own mooring is free for others to use. The site is
based on google maps so its very easy to use.

ch