Cambridge Cay

      As we left Emerald Rock anchorage this morning, the winds were still with us, but we wanted to see some more of the Exumas.  During the 9 AM “roll call” for the Park, we let Darcy know that we had left E19 and thanked her for the stay. 

Cambridge Cay anchorage

Brunelle, waiting for the
tide to return.

      Today’s destination is Cambridge Cay. This well protected anchorage is one of the more tricky entrances to navigate.  From the Conch Cut, you have to follow the Explorer Charts precisely in order to avoid the shallows and coral heads.  Between the winds, the 3-5 foot rollers from the ocean, the dive boat, and the request for us to hold our positions while the 3 divers re-enter their boat made our entry into Cambridge a little dicey.  Then, on the way in, Brunelle tried to go around a shallow area and the wind took her into another shallow, where she was unable to get free until high tide -- 6 hours later.

We were really here!

No words are needed.

      Betty, Julia, Pete and I went ashore to do some exploring. We met some of the other cruisers, who encouraged us to climb up to the top of the bluff for the view. Once we were on top we were glad we did, for the view was breathtaking. Another rain was coming so we had to make our way back quickly, but not before one or two last minute pictures.

Belle Rock on the ocean side

 

Scrubby mountain bush

      The crew of the trawler Down Time stopped by to say hello and to collect our mooring fee of $15. They are the current Park Rangers.  They are also friends of Lori and Dick of Forever Young. They have managed to provision and be self-sufficient for their 3 month commitment. Solar panels with the assistance of a Honda generator work great for meeting the electrical needs and the water maker is a big plus. 

View from atop the hill with one of the rocky mounds
built by cruisers and another cruiser's plaque.

All the snails stayed in the land-side
of the rocks waiting for the incoming tide.

    Though Brunelle might be anchored temporarily in an unauthorized spot, they did send a party ashore for some “playtime.”  From our mooring, we kept tabs knowing that the tide was rising.  Pete and John were prepared to help, but Brunelle was able to free herself around 5:15 PM.

Constant water over rock causes
wonderous patterns.

Water hiting rocks causes endless patterns, too!

     It is truly amazing in this country of a thousand low-lying small islands how each cay has its own personality and beauty. We can’t wait to explore more.

11.9/   total miles

~  ~ (\_~ ~ ~     Kathy and Pete