Contents
February 2006 - July 2006
Publisher Ruth Saunders - Execuprint Ltd
Features “Junkanoo” #18
Bahamian Magic in Masque and Music
Contributing Writers Richard E. Fawkes Mirella Santillo Portia Jonsson Neil Aberle Cindy Pastor Cindy Newell
Artist On His Island #34 Marsh Harbour #39
Contributing Photos Tuppy Weatherford Dave Ralph Lynn Johnson Green Turtle Club Erik Russell Mirella Santillo The Abaco Club on Winding Bay Treasure Cay Resort & Marina Samantha Sands
Between two ferries
Treasure Cay # 46 What a Jewel!
Green Turtle Cay #49 Island Roots Festival
Sales/Research MaryLou Albury Memose Cornish
Man-O-War Cay #51 What a Life!
Guana Cay # 53 Relax & Enjoy!
Hope Town #55
Surfing in the Bahamas
Published bi-annually by Execuprint Ltd. For advertising rates and information:
My Abaco Summer #64
Tel (242) 367-3202 or 367-2107 Fax (242) 367-3202 or 367-2107 US (954) 495-8483
Cover photos taken by Dave Ralph Mirella Santillo
www. destinationabaco.net
“Junkanoo” Bahamian Magic in Masque and Music
Email: destinationabaco@coralwave.com Destination Abaco is published by Execuprint Ltd. © Copyright 2006 by Execuprint Ltd. P.O.Box AB-20968, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the publisher is prohibited.
4 - Destination Abaco
Welcome to Abaco Jeritzan Outten Director of Tourism The Abacos jeritzan@batelnet.bs
Destination Abaco, Feb - July '06 This publication of Destination Abaco is a celebration of its fifth edition and we at the Abaco Tourist Office are delighted with the dynamic growth that is evident from one magazine to the next. Following in this wonderful evolutionary trend, readers will once again find a wealth of functional information that will attract the interest of both the visitor and resident of the Abacos.
When asked, we often describe this island as a multi-destination with a wide variety of experiences; well, Ruth Saunders and her excellent team have made our jobs so much easier as visitors need only to take a copy of this edition and discover the 'unique' Abacos all by themselves.
What do I recommend? As usual I say, "All of it!" Island hopping is my favorite though, as I still have many 'Wow' experiences, even after two years of checking most of them out. My latest was observing the many shades of turquoise 'blues & greens' in the ocean across from Schooner's Landing at Man-O-war Cay on a beautiful, sunny day. It was absolutely stunning and paradisiacal. I really shouldn't be so astonished each time, because whether you swim in it, surf it, dive or snorkel it, fish it, sail it or just watch the sun rise or go down over it, the Sea of Abaco will always be a wonder to behold.
Once again "Destination Abaco" has represented the local product with interest and accuracy and is to be congratulated for its growth and resourcefulness. Another keepsake for the tourism collection!
6 - Destination Abaco
8 - Destination Abaco
Important Numbers
The Bahamas Area Code (242) unless otherwise stated
Directory Assistance
US & CANADA
1-(Area Code)-555-1212
Long Distance Services
AT&T USA Direct Canada Operator MCI Customers Sprint Customers United Kingdom Operator
1-800-872-2881 1-800-463-0501 1-800-888-8000 1-800-389-2111 1-800-389-4444
United States Embassy Canadian Consulate
1-888-247-2262 1-800-433-7300
A & P Auto Rentals Allison Car Rentals Bargin Car Rentals Cash’s Resort Carts Cornish Car Rentals Rental Wheels Sea Star Rentals
367-2655 365-8193 367-0500 365-8771 365-8623 367-4643 367-4887
Commonwealth Bank First Caribbean Int’l Bank Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour Treasure Cay Scotiabank (Bahamas) Ltd
367-2370 - ATM 367-2166 - ATM
Embassies/Consulates Car Rentals
Banking & ATM
367-2420 - ATM 365-8119 - ATM 367-2141 - ATM
Emergency Services ‘919’
Royal Bahamas Police Force 367-2560 Fire Department (MH) 367-2000 Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc 366-0500
Medical Services
Abaco Family Medicine Auskell Advance Medical Corbett Medical Center Health Power Therapeutic Massage Government Clinics Marsh Harbour Cooper's Town Green Turtle Cay Hope Town Sandy Point Marsh Harbour Medical Out Island Chiropractor Agape Family Dental Centre Diamente Dental Clinic
367-2295 367-0020 365-8288 375-8416
367-2510 365-0300 365-4028 366-0108 366-4010 367-0049 367-2584 367-4355 367-4968
Airline & Charter Services
Abaco Air Ltd. 367-2266 Air Florida 367-5599 Air Sunshine Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-434-8900 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8900 Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2800 American Airlines /American Eagle Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2231 US Reservations 1-800-433-7300 Bahamasair Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2095 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8601 US Reservations 1-800-222-4262 Bimini Air Marsh Harbour 367-0140 US Reservations 954-939-8991 Calypso Air Marsh Harbour 367-0140 Treasure Cay 365-8660 Cherokee Air Ltd. Marsh Harbour Airport 367-3451 Office 367-2089 Continental Connection/Gulfstream International Marsh Harbour Airport 367-3415 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8615 US Reservations 1-800-231-0856 Island Express Marsh Harbour 367-0169 Major’s Air Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2498 Reginal Air Marsh Harbour 367-0446 Sky Limo International Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-491-5930 Twin Air Treasure Cay Airport 365-8677 Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-359-8266 Vintage Props & Jets Treasure Cay Airport 367-4852 New Smyrna Bch Airport 386-423-1773 Yellow Air Taxi Service Marsh Harbour Airport 367-0032 Fort Lauderdale Airport 954-359-0292
Travel Agencies
A & W Travel Agency Marsh Harbour Travel Spot Marsh Habour
10 - Destination Abaco
367-2806 367-2817
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Calendar of Events February
TBA Annual Man-O-War Craft & Trade Fair
Local crafts, general items, food and drinks are featured at this popular fair that directly benefits Man-O-War School on Man-O-Cay, Abaco. For further information call 242.365.6049
4
Abaco’s Annual Country Music Festival
Hundreds of visitors and locals will get the opportunity to be entertained by popular Country and Western Music Stars at the Annual Abaco Country Music Festival. Contact the Abaco Tourist Office at 242.367.3067
22 People to People Reception (Treasure Cay) This event presents an opportunity for
local People-to-people volunteers facilitated by Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Office to meet and interact with winter residents in an annual ‘get together.’ Bahamian music, food and other cultural expressions are highlighted. For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office 242.367.3067
23
March
People to People Reception (Marsh Harbour, Abaco)
TBA
Hope Town’s Annual Heritage Day
The Annual Heritage Day is held in the park and museum area of town. Generally featured are: historical speakers, new book signing, traditional school songs and cultural dances, a mini boat parade with historic flags, sculling ‘dingy’ boats with single-oars, art & crafts, shell collection displays, museum tours, demonstration of threatened loyalist-style homes in addition to Bahamian cuisine freshly prepared for purchase. (10am - 1:30pm)
TBA
Barefoot Man Concert - Guana Cay
April
The world famous Nippers Beach Bar & Grill, Great Guana Cay. For further information call 242.365.5143
TBA
Annual
Reef
Ball
Fun draiser for Friends of the Environment Abaco Beach Resort, Marsh Harbour. For further information call FRIENDS at 242.367.2721
TBA Annual Seashell Show
A variety of Bahamian shells is showcased in authentic art and craft fashion. The venue is at Cherokee Sound, Abaco.
TBA
Abaco Anglers Fishing Tournament (Hope Town, Abaco) Deep Sea and Bottom
Fishing Tournament has been a part of the landscape for more than thirty years. It is family oriented and caters primarily to local fishing enthusiasts and to visitors wishing to experience the sea depths for Dolphin, Tuna and Grouper. All levels of fishing abilities, including children are encouraged. Contact 242.366.3151 or 242.359.6111.
5-9
Bahamas White Marlin Open Fishing Tournament (Treasure Cay Hotel & Marina, Treasure Cay) For further information all
242.365.8801
10-14 Sea Spray Fishing Tournament [Hope Town, Abaco] Deep sea fishing has a home in White Sound, Hope Town. It caters to fishing enthusiasts wishing to visit the Abacos and enjoy hunting the monsters of the deep such as Blue Marlin and Tuna. Contact Sea Spray Resort, Hope Town. Tel: 242.365.0065
14-17 Cedar Harbour Homecoming Festival (Cedar Harbour, Abaco) These annual events serve to bring local residents and other domestic visitors from neighbouring islands together to share cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. They generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities.
14-17
Grand Cay Homecoming Festival (Grand Cay, Abaco) These annual events serve to bring local residents and other domestic visitors from neighbouring islands together to share cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. They generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities. For further information call (242) 353-1306.
17-22
Calendar of Events April
Bahamas Billfish Boat Harbour Championship (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) the Bahamas Billfish Championships sponsored by Rolex, is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. This leg of the championship kicks off the five leg series of an event that attracts dozens of seasoned and crafty deep-sea fishermen. Bragging rights are the order of the day as reputations and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prizes and cash are up for grabs. Abaco Beach Resort Tel: 242.367.2158
26-30 3rd Annual Marine Maxx Hatteras Billfish Invitational (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The full release tournament for the Abacos, featuring lots of fun and exciting events. For more information call the Abaco Beach Resort. Tel: (242) 367-2158
May
TBA 2nd Annual Buttonwood Boondoggle in Green Turtle Cay, Abaco. This three-day event features a musical and food-fest weekend in Green Turtle Cay, Abaco. ‘Gully Roosters’ Calypso Band will perform in addition to visiting musicians and other guest artists.
5 - 7 3rd Annual Island Roots Heritage Festival, New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay The communities of Green Turtle Cay, Abaco and Key West Florida enjoy a common heritage with a similar history. This event is intended to become a vehicle to connect familial and historical ties common to residents of these islands across geographical and national lines furthering the ‘Sister City’ concept. Descendants will be bought together to share in cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. This festival has tremendous external marketing value for Green Turtle Cay and the Abacos as a destination both for international and domestic tourism promotion.
29 - June 2 Bertram Hatteras Shootout (Billfish Tourney) The Bertram Hatteras Shootout, commonly referred to as “The Shootout” is the creme de la creme of the tournaments held in the Abacos. Abaco Beach Resort (242) 367-2158
June
2-5 Little Abaco Home Coming [Fox Town,
Abaco] Heritage-based event organized by the community. Cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. These events serve to generate economic activity and lend the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities.
2-5 Sandy Point Homecoming/Mimi Regatta (Sandy Point, Abaco) In addition to heritage based events called “home coming,” this event also promotes the Bahamian sailing sloop sailing regattas. Usually a midsize competition, the community takes pride in attracting some of the best skippers. These events serve to generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities. Cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. Contact the Abaco Tourist Office for more information. 242.367.3067
16 & 30 Goombay Summer Festival (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The Premier Bahamian Street Festival. Goombay is the rhythm we know as Bahamian music and is also the name of our native festival. It captures several elements of our culture on a single stage for a dramatic one-night experience over several weeks of the summer. It is but a glimpse inside our cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. For more information contact the Abaco Tourist Office (242) 367-3067
4-9
Calendar of Events
Bahamas Billfish Championship (Treasure Cay, Abaco) The BBC sponsored by Rolex is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. Bragging rights are the order of the day as reputations and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prizes and cash are up for grabs. Contact Treasure Cay Resort & Marina, Abaco. (242) 365-8535
11-16
23rd Annual Treasure Cay Billfish Championship (Treasure Cay, Abaco) The Treasure Cay Billfish Championship is a “Mainstay” among the Abaco fishing events with consistency the order of the day. It caters to a cross section of fishermen and is a major promotional event for northern Abaco. The event also features beach volleyball and a native arts & crafts show on the lay day. For more information contact Treasure Cay Resort (242)365-8535
15
Treasure Cay Annual Arts and Crafts Show (Treasure Cay, Abaco) Hosted as an activity event connected with the TCBC fishing tournament. Offers a stage for display & sale of local art & craft. For more information contact Treasure Cay Resort at (242) 3678535
18-23
Bahamas Billfish Boat Harbour Championship (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The final leg of the BBC sponsored by Rolex is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. Spouses of the anglers participate in a People-to-People Luncheon and silent auction for charity, while the overall results for all the legs are tallied and a festive awards’ banquet is prepared by the organizers. The venue is the Abaco Beach Resort Tel: 242.367.2158
30 Round the Green Turtle Race - Come join the fleet in Green Turtle, Abaco, Bahamas this summer as the Green Turtle Yacht Club hosts the 6th annual "Round the Great Turtle Race" for the 2005 Bahama Cup Trophy. A fun race for all types of sailing ves-
sels - ultralight racers, cruiser/racers, multihulls or fully loaded gunkholers - the "Round the Green Turtle Race" will challenge you and your crew's sailing ability on the Sea of Abaco, and your partying ability afterward at the Green Turtle Club's docks. Contact the Green Turtle Club Tel: 242.365.4271
14-28
July
Goombay Summer Festival (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) Goombay street festival at the ‘Goombay Park’ will continue its cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. For further information contact the Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 367-3067.
1-8 Regatta Time In Abaco (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) Regatta Time sailing event is hoisted between the American and Bahamian Independence celebrations serving to link both important commemorations. This event that involves primarily American sloopes brings dozens of sailing enthusiasts to the Abacos for a racing series with few peers in the region. The series begins in Green Turtle Cay with stops at Guana Cay with parties at Nippers and Blue Water Grill, Man-O-War Cay dubbed the “Sailing Capital of the World”, Hope Town, home of the world famous candy-striped lighthouse and Marsh Harbour, the commercial hub of the Abacos. The regatta is in its 31st year and is an important promotional event for Abaco. For further information contact Dave & Kathy Ralph at (242) 367-2677 7-10 Cooper’s Town & Fire Road Heritage Festival (Coopers Town, Abaco)
10
Bahamas Independence Celebrations (Public Holiday)The Bahamas will celebrate 33 years as an independent nation. Events are planned across Abaco in commemoration of this significant event in the life of our young nation. For further information contact (242) 367-2344
18 - Destination Abaco
JUNKANOO is a Bahamian
state of being. Of being tingled by anticipation while jostling with joyous crowds jockeying for favoured viewing positions on Bay Street at 3 a.m. on Boxing Day — the day after Christmas — or New Year's Day, in a darkness pregnant with the dawn, but still enchantingly lingering over the precedingall-night partying that inexorably propelled you to this perennially appointed place of ritual revelry in the commercial heart of Nassau, the archipelago's capital.
Of being heart-stopped and breath-shorted and hair-raised as the first whistle of the first band of mystic masters signals the start of the improbably rhythmic clanging of cowbells by the dozens, which set off sweetly resonating, fire-heated goatskin drums that activate your feet and every connecting moving part of your by now pulsating body. Of being further animated by the layering of brass and wind and more whistles as amazing interpretations of songs you well know and love soar into the hallowed atmosphere. And just when you thought your senses of hearing and feeling had been "amped" up to near enjoyment overload - behold!
by Richard E. Fawkes
You're riveted - bedazzled by the spontaneous explosion of a thousand colourful chrysalises from which emerge fantastical thematic costumes transporting dancers and music makers who transport you in a magical whirl for hours, straight to disenchanting daylight; and part of your energized journey must have been an unconscious sharing of the year then months then days then hours of pent-up anticipation finally released in a burst of total creative freedom the day after Christmas for the African slaves of yore who started this Junkanoo state of being in The Bahamas to begin with, in celebration of their master's brief lifting of his yoke from their necks in honour of his Lord's birth and they could be their human selves with wild abandon for one shining moment between the old year and the new. This is the experiential essence of Junkanoo, the Bahamian masquerade festival with its distinctive boominggoatskin — drums-and-kalikking-cowbellsdriven sound which achieves its most accomplished spectacular expression in massive presentations by fiercely competing groups with names like Saxons, Valley Boys, One Family, Roots, Fancy Dancers, and Fox Hill Congos in the pre-dawn hours in downtown Nassau on December 26 and January 1.
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To achieve this annual double gift-giving to the Bahamian people and visitors from around the world, these artisan transmitters of such a vital component of Bahamian culture - in the spirit of the makers of Carnival in Trinidad and Brazil, of Mardi Gras in the United States, of the New Year in China or the spiritual festivals of India and Spain, and other celebrations throughout the human family spend untold hours year-round in production "shacks" conceiving, designing with sweeping and individualistic vision, and fabricating costumes thematically stitched into myriad tableaux expressing various aspects of the ever-changing national and global human condition. Although other construction materials, including fabric, and new design styles in costumes and floats have crept into Junkanoo from other international festivals, the traditional use of crêpe-paper pasted on cardboard in stunning Caribbean-informed colour schemes remains, along with the musical style, at the heart of defining the distinctive Bahamian character of Junkanoo. The origin of the word Junkanoo
itself is sometimes disputed. Most Bahamians lean toward John Canoe, who was a legendary African chief or the leader of a slave rebellion, who used the rhythms of the West African drums as his rallying signal. Another explanation is that it is a word of French origin, “gens inconnu,” or masked people. The French colonisers certainly would have encountered many African peoples in the areas they conquered who created exquisitely artistic masks as part of various celebrations such as fertility of the soil or rites of passage into adulthood. There is general agreement, however, that the festival emerged from the annual celebration in song and dance of slaves in The Bahamas from Africa on the morning of Boxing Day, the only time of year they were allowed such "freedom." The performance in movement of the Junkanoo groups is called a "rush-out." The individual participants "rush." And what is the reward for the hardworking Junkanoos who create and perform such wonders of sight, sound and movement year after year? The combustion of passions on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, of course: intense enjoyment expressed in roars of adulation, partisan loyalty bordering on fanaticism, and the joy of winning the crown of victory. Junkanoo in the Christmas season has become as much an authenticator for Bahamians of the Christian holiday as snow has become for people of northern climes. Here's what no less a person than the late Sir Lynden Pindling, regarded as "The Father of the Nation" for having led The Bahamas into Independence, had to say about the spirit of Junkanoo.
"In point of fact, I convinced myself - whether it was so or not - that the real heart of the Bahamian is Junkanoo. I don't know if it is possible for Bahamians to think of Christmas without Junkanoo ... it is a part of the Bahamian psyche. If you want to get Bahamians involved in anything - involve Junkanoo. Junkanoo transcends all occupations, all denominations. At one time some churches might have frowned upon Junkanoo as a replica of a pagan ceremony, but we've gone beyond that stage now. Junkanoo is part of the Bahamian psyche and it replicates within our breasts." When Sir Lynden, who himself used to rush on Bay Street with a group called the PIGS (Progress through Integrity, Guts and Strength), died on August 26, 2000, it was considered a fitting tribute to him, in a week filled with outpourings of respect and farewell, for all the major J u n k a n o o groups to stage a united rushout from the working-class neighbourhood of Grants Town, Over-the-Hill, to Bay Street, past Parliament, where he was lying in state. Hardly any celebration or activity of note takes place anywhere in The Bahamas without a Junkanoo rush-out: from political party rallies and conventions, to community festivals, to the welcoming of visitors on special occasions, and even at weddings.
As a means of guaranteeing the continuity of this national cultural treasure, the Ministry of Education introduced Junior Junkanoo competition in the schools several years ago, with Junkanoo arts and history as part of the curriculum. Students from kindergarten through High School create costumes and music and dance ensembles, and participate in competitions throughout the Family Islands and on Bay Street in Nassau the week before Christmas. Here in Abaco, there are several Junkanoo organizations, including the Spring City Rockers, the Dundas Town Supreme Dancers, the Motown Shockers of Murphy Town, and the Green Turtle Cay Rockers. Visitors join residents in Abaco in enjoying Junkanoo rush-outs during the Green Turtle Cay Spring Heritage Festival, the G o o m b a y Summer celebrations in Marsh Harbour, the Junior Junkanoo the week before Christmas and the Senior Junkanoo on Boxing Day in Marsh Harbour, and the New Year's Day celebration in Green Turtle Cay. And should you come here any other time during the year and your host resort does not find some occasion to treat you to a Junkanoo rush-out, ask them why they are cheating you of this "made in The Bahamas" cultural revelry.
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Goombay Summer Festival
It is but a glimpse inside our cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. June 16th & 30th, July 16th & 30th - August 11th & 25th
Let a Bahamian introduce you to The Bahamas! Participate in our People-To-People Programme where you will meet warm and genial Bahamian residents. Experience Bahamian Life in�Grand’ Style. Just as the Abaconians do! Take home with you the memory of one of the greatest resources... Our Bahamian People.
Bahamas Immigration Cards
When leaving make sure and fill out your departure card located at the back of the immigration form. This will tell us about your experience while you were in the Abacos. For more information, Contact the Ministry of Tourism , Abaco Tourist Office, www.bahamas.com - jeritzan@batelnet.bs Tel: (242) 367-3067 or 367-4512
Ferry Schedule
ARAWAK AGENCY
Albury’s Ferry Service
CUSTOMS BROKERS
Telephone: 367-3147/365-6010 VHF 16
One Way Adult Round Trip Adult
· Air & Sea Shipping
$15 Child $ 8 6 -12 $20 Child $10 6 -12 Kids 5 and under Free
· Customs Clearance
Charters Available at any time!
Marsh Harbour to Hope Town *Friday & Saturday Only 7:15am/9:00am/10:30am/12:15pm/2:00pm 4:00pm/5:45pm/*9:00pm/*10:45pm
Hope Town to Marsh Harbour *Friday & Saturday Only 8:00am/9:45am/11:30am/1:30pm/3:00pm 4:00pm/5:00pm/6:15pm/*9:45pm*11:30pm
Marsh Harbour to Man-O-War *Except Sundays & Holidays 10:30am/12:15pm/*2:30pm/4:00pm/5:45pm
· Freight Forwarding
· Transportation & Logistics Services · Ship Agencies
For More Information: Tel: (242) 367-2089 Fax: (242) 367-2530 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Visit our office on Front Street “One Call Does It All”
Man-O-War to Marsh Harbour *Except Sundays & Holidays 8:00am/11:30am/1:30pm/*3:15pm/4:30pm Marsh Harbour to Guana Cay 6:45am/10:30am/1:30pm/3:30pm/5:45pm
Guana to Marsh Harbour 8:00am/11:30am/2:30pm/4:45pm/6:30pm
Green Turtle Ferry
Telephone: 365-4166 or 365-4128 VHF 16 One Way Adult $7 Child $3 under 12 Round Trip Adult $11 Charters Available at any time!
Green Turtle Cay to Treasure Cay Site 8am 9am 11am 12:15pm 1:30pm 3pm 4:30pm
Treasure Cay Site to Green Turtle Cay 8:30am 10:30am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 4:30pm 5pm
CHEROKEE AIR
CHARTER SERVICE Servicing the Bahamas and South Florida Turbo Prop Service MARSH HARBOUR, ABACO, BAHAMAS
(242) 367-2089 · (242) 367-2613 · (242) 367-2530
Call for Scheduling
Committed to a Higher Standard in Aviation
23 - Destination Abaco
Shopping
· MH - Marsh Harbour· HT - Hope Town· GTC - Green Turtle Cay· TC - Treasure Cay· · MOW - Man-O-War Cay· GC- Guana Cay · LH - Little Harbour ·
Native Art & Crafts
Albert Lowe Museum (GT) Alton Lowe Art Gallery (GT) Abaco Ceramics (TC) Bahama Dawn Designs (MH) Blue Sky Gallery (MH) Buds and Blooms (MH) Conch Pearl (MH) Ebb Tide (HT) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) Island Petals (MH) Java Coffee Shop (MH) Johnston’s Studio (LH) Joe’s Studio (MOW) Kemps Souvenirs (HT) Ocean Blue Gallery (GTC) Native Creations (GTC) Wrackers (MH)
365-4094 365-4264 365-8489 367-4648 367-0579 367-2837 367-0137 366-0088 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5 121 367-2260 367-5523 367-2720 365-6082 366-0423 365-4234 365-4206 367-0197
Boat Rentals
Island Marine Rentals (HT) J.I.C. Boat Rentals (TC) Concept Boat Rentals (MH) Sea Horse Boat Rentals (MH) Rich’s Rentals (MH) Rich’s Rentals (TC) Rainbow Rentals (MH) Blue Wave Boat Rentals (MH) Laysue Boat Rentals (MH) Waterways Boat Rentals (MOW)
366-0282 365-8465 367-5570 367-2516 367-2742 365-8582 367-4602 367-3910 367-4356 365-6143
Snap Shop (MH) Wally’s Studio (MH) Computer Creations (MH)
367-3020 367-2722 367-2004
Cameras, Film, Developing
24 - Destination Abaco
25 - Destination Abaco
Shopping
· MH - Marsh Harbour· HT - Hope Town· GTC - Green Turtle Cay· TC - Treasure Cay· · MOW - Man-O-War Cay· GC - Guana Cay· LH - Little Harbour ·
Crystal Treasures
Abaco Treasures (MH) Corner Value (MH) Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) Solomon’s Mines (TC)
367-3460 367-2250 367-4405 365-8132
Adam & Eve (MH) Bluff House Boutique (GTC) Corner Value (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) His & Her Jeans (MH) Lowes Pharmacy (MH) Lighthouse Marina (HT) Mangoes Boutique (MH) Spooners Dept Store (MH) Wally’s Boutique (MH) Iggy Biggy (MH) Wrackers (MH) Island Girl Boutique (MH)
367-5792 365-4200 367-2250 365 -4511 367-2011 367-2667 366-0154 367-2366 367-2017 367-2074 367-5121 367-0197 367-0283
The Bike Shop (HT) Rental Wheels (MH) Wendals Bicycle Rentals (TC)
366-0292 367-4643 365-8687
A & P Auto Rentals (MH) Bargain Cart Rentals (MH) Cornish Car Rentals (TC) Sea Star Rentals (MH) Reliable Car Rentals (MH) Rental Wheels (MH) Quality Star (MH)
367-2655 367-0500 365-8623 367-4887 367-4234 367-4643 367-2979
Abaco Dive Adventures (MH) Brendal’s Dive Shop (GTC) M-O-W Dive Shop (MOW) Dive Abaco (MH) Dive Guana (GC) Froggies Out Island Adv. (HT)
367-2963 365-4411 365-6013 367-2787 365-5178 366-0431
Boutiques
Grocery Stores
A & A Food Store (MH) Abaco Groceries (MH) Albury’s Harbour St (MOW) Bahamas Family Market(MH) Curry’s Food Store (GTC) Cost Rite (MH) Guana Harbour Grocery (GC) Harbour View Grocery(HT) Lowe’s Grocery (GTC) Man-O-War Grocery (MOW) M & R Food Store (MH) Price Right (MH) Roderick’s Food Store (MH) Sid’s Grocery (GTC) Solomon’s Super Center (MH) Treasure Cay Mini Mart (TC) Vernon’s Grocery (HT) Mikula’s Grocery Store (TC)
Bicycles, Scooters Car Rentals
Scuba/Diving Gear
i
367-3606 367-5308 365-6004 367-3714 367-4 171 367-2020 365-5067 366-0033 365-4243 365-6016 367-5196 367-7283 367-3237 365-4055 367-2601 365-8350 367-0037 365-8795
Tropical Souvenirs
Straw Baskets i T-Shirts i Hats i Casual Wear i Gifts i Souvenirs
Located on Don MacKay Blvd near Airport in Marsh Harbour Mon - Sat 7:30 - 5
Sun 10 - 5
Tel: (242) 367-2431
Visa and MasterCard Accepted POSTAGE STAMPS SOLD WITHIN
26 - Destination Abaco
Shopping
· MH - Marsh Harbour · HT - Hope Town · GTC- Green Turtle Cay · TC - Treasure Cay · · MOW - Man-O-War Cay · GC - Guana Cay · LH - Little Harbour ·
Jewelry
Abaco Treasures (MH) Conch Pearl (MH) Iggy Biggy (MH) Iggy Biggy (HT) Island Treasures (MOW) Mangoes Boutique (MH) El Mercado (HT) Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH) Tropical Treasures (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) John Bull (MH) Jewels, Gems & More (MH) Native Creations (GTC) Wrackers (MH)
367-3460 367-0137 367-5121 366-0354 365-6072 367-2366 366 -0661 367-4405 367- 2158 367-5576 365 -4511 367-2473 367-2418 365-4206 367-0197
Abaco Treasures (MH) John Bull Ltd (MH)
367-3460 367-2473
Perfumes
Pharmacies
The Chemist Shoppe (MH) Lowe’s Pharmacy (MH) Island Pharmacy (MH)
367-3 106 367-2667 367-2544
Bellevue Office Supplies (MH) Abaco Treasures (MH) Office Supply Plus (MH)
367-3916 367-3460 367-3186
Buds & Blooms (MH) Island Petals (MH) Pinewoods Nursery (MH) Tropical Farm Nursery (MH)
367-2837 367-2260 367-2674 367-2783
Stationery, Books & Magazines
27 - Destination Abaco
Florists
Shopping
· MH - Marsh Harbour· HT - Hope Town · GTC - Green Turtle Cay· TC - Treasure Cay· · MOW - Man-O-War Cay· GC - Guana Cay· LH - Little Harbour ·
Marine Stores
BRAND NEW
Abaco Outboard Engines (MH) Abaco Yacht Services (GTC) B & D Marine (MH) Black Sound Marina (GTC) Dolphin Marine (GTC) Lighthouse Marina (HT) National Marine (MH) The Outboard Shop(MH)
367-2452 365-4033 367-2622 365 -4531 365-4262 366-0514 367-2326 367-2703
Cash’s Cart Rentals (TC) C & D Rentals (GTC) Chris Cart Rentals (TC) D & P Cart Rentals (GTC) Guana Cay Rentals (GC) Hope Town Cart Rentals (HT) Island Treasures (MOW) Island Cart Rentals (HT) Island Road Runners (GTC) J.I.C. Cart Rentals (TC) Resort Cart Rentals (TC) Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC) T & A Cart Rentals (GTC) T & N Cart Rentals (HT)
365-8771 365-4311 365-8053 365-4655 365 -5195 366-0064 365-6072 Offering over 60 wine selections! 366-0448 Wide variety of Rums, Beers and Liqueurs 365-4610 Open Monday - Saturday 8:00am - 5:30pm 365-8465 Tel:366-0525 VHF 16 365-8465 Email:hopetownwines&spirits@abacoinet.com 365 -4120 365-4259 366-0069
A & K Liquors (MH) Archer Brothers Store (MH) Bristol Wines & Spirits (MH) Burns House (MH) Central Liquors Store (MH) Fig Tree Wine & Spirits (GC) Hope Town Wines & Spirits (HT) Lighthouse Liquors (HT) Plymouth Rock Liquors (GTC) Spanky’s Liquor Store (TC) Tupps Liquor Store (MH)
367-2179 367-2022 367-2180 367-2135 367-2966 365-5058 366-0525 366-0567 365-4234 365-8385 367-3498
Golf Cart Rentals
Wines & Spirits
Need help with any aspect of your visit - contact the local Abaco Tourist Office at 242.367.3067
Tupp’s Fine Wines, Beer & Spirits
Located next to Sapodilly’s Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas
COMING FEB 2006
28 - Destination Abaco
Shopping
· MH - Marsh Harbour· HT - Hope Town · GTC - Green Turtle Cay· TC - Treasure Cay · · MOW - Man-O-War Cay· GC - Guana Cay · LH - Little Harbour ·
Abaco Souvenirs
Abaco Ceramics (TC) Abaco Treasures (MH) Albury’s Sail Shop (MOW) Buds n Blooms (MH) Bell Ena (MOW) Ebb Tide (HT) Edith Straw Market (HT) El Mercado (HT) Fantasy Boutique (HT) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) Island Petals (MH) Island Treasures (MOW) Java Coffee Shoppe (MH) Joe’s Studio (MOW) Lighthouse Marina (HT) Kemp’s Souvenirs (HT) Native Creations (GTC) Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) Seashore Gift Shop (GC) Sunset Souvenirs (MH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH) Tropical Souvenirs (MH)
365-8489 367-3460 365-6014 367-2837 365-6077 366-0088 366-0423 366 -0661 366-0537 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5121 367-2260 365-6072 367-5523 365-6082 366-0154 366-0423 365-4206 367-4405 365-5028 367-2658 367-2158 367-2431
Abaco Shoe Gallery (MH) Adam & Eve (MH) Brass & Leather (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) The Shoe Place (MH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH)
367-5510 367-5792 367-3643 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5121 367-2424 367-2158
Abaco Hardware (MH) 2170 Standard Hardware (MH) Man-O-War Hardware (MOW) Guana Cay Hardware (GC) Imports Unlimited (HT) New Plymouth Hardware (GTC) Roberts Hardware (GTC) 4122
367-
Sandals & Shoes
Hardware Stores
367-2660 365-6011 365-5020 366-0136 365-4305 365-
GALLERY
Bahamian Art Framing Original and Prints Professional Photography by
Tuppy Weatherford Special Occasions Weddings
P.O.Box AB-20244 Marsh Harbour, Abaco 242-367-0579 (W) 242-365-6064 (H)
30 - Destination Abaco
Florist Gift Shop Souviners
We specialize in flowers for weddings & special events Tel: (242) 367-2260 Fax: (242) 367-2262
ROBERTS’ MARINE
Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas
SALES PARTS SERVICE DIESEL SERVICES VHF 16 PHONE : (242) 365-4249 Workshop located on Black Sound Green Turtle Cay, Abaco
ROBERTS’ Hardware & Building Supplies Paint Supplies, Fishing & Dive Supplies, Ice, Charts, Rope
VHF 16 Phone: 242-365-4122
Conveniently located near town dock Green Turtle Cay, Abaco 31 - Destination Abaco
Abaco Air
Celebrating 30 Years Of Service CHARTERS BETWEEN ABACO & ALL THE BAHAMA ISLANDS & FLORIDA
WITH SCHEDULED SERVICE BETWEEN MARSH HARBOUR & NASSAU (DAILY) AND MARSH HARBOUR & NORTH ELEUTHERA AND MARSH HARBOUR TO MOORES ISLAND
www.abacoaviationcentre.com reservations@abacoaviationcentre.com TEL: 242-367-2266 FAX: 242-367-3256 P.O.Box AB-20492, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas
Come visit our beautiful Islands! Come fly our friendly skies!!
32 - Destination Abaco
33 - Destination Abaco
by Portia Jonsson
When one thinks of Little Harbour, Randolph Johnston and his talented family always come to mind.
Randolph W. Johnston was a celebrated artist who dreamed of working and bringing up his children, Bill, Pete, Denny and Marina, in peaceful pristine surroundings. He left his career as an assistant professor at Smith College in Massachusetts and in 1951 on a wintry New Year’s Day, said goodbye to the “Mega-machine” and set off in search of the good life. 34 - Destination Abaco
In 1952 he moved his family to Little Harbour and found the paradise he had always dreamed of. The only other inhabitants there were the lighthouse keeper and family. After living in harbour caves, he built a home and foundry where he created many pieces of monumental bronze sculptures such as monuments to Bahamian Women and Sir Milo Butler which can be seen in Rawson Square, Nassau.
In 1989 while working on a major commission Randolph suffered a stroke at the age of 85. The stroke affected his memory. Sadly, he lost interest in his art and announced his retirement. In 1992 at the age of 89 Randolph died and was buried at Little Harbour, marked simply with a wooden cross. His book, Artist on His Island, A Study in Self-Reliance, is an inspiring account of a man who left convention behind to pursue an artist’s vision. His son Pete continues to maintain the studio, shop and foundry on the water’s edge where he casts his own marine sculpture and gold jewelry. Grief
35 - Destination Abaco
Death
36 - Destination Abaco
Guide to Marinas X
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367- 80
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367- 20
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4000
Harbour View Marina (MH)
367- 40
4255
Marsh Harbour Marina (MH)
367- 67
3910
2700
Mangoes Marina (MH)
Club Soleil Marina (HT)
366-0003
HopeTown Hideaways Marina(HT)
0224
0154
Lighthouse Marina (HT)
Sea Spray Marina (HT)
Treasure Cay Marina (TC)
8578
Bluff House Marina (GTC)
4247
Other Shore Club (GTC)
16 12
366- 6
366- 50
366-0065
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150 X 38
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365- 15
365- 25
365- 32
37 - Destination Abaco
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Restauran
X
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Laundry
192 X
82
Groceries
Showers
(MH)
Ice
Conch Inn Marina
Electricity
366-0083
Water
Spanish Cay Marina
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina (MH) 367-2158
Slips
Marinas
Fuel
& Cruising Facilities
X
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Marsh Harbour Betw een two Ferries by Mirella Santillo
Long and narrow, Abaco Stretches more than a hundred miles from north to south; and is accessible by Ferry from both ends: from Nassau to Sandy Point and Grand Bahama to Crown Haven. Let's take a trip from ferry to ferry as we drive north from Sandy Point to Crown Haven. Put the car on the Ferry at Potter's Cay in Nassau and reach your destination approximately four hours later. It will be evening when you arrive in Sandy Point, a quaint fishing village on the south west coast of Abaco. Before starting the drive towards Marsh Harbour, stop at Nancy's Bar and Restaurant for a cold Kalik, the local beer, or a typical Bahamian meal of fresh fish or fresh lobster, while watching the sunset. But when you return, make sure you have plenty of time before sailing to take a stroll down the narrow streets: they all lead to the sea. At the end of each, you'll discover beautiful fine sand beaches and turquoise clear waters. If you are a shell collector this is the place to look for them. Sandy Point has approximately five hundred inhabitants, mostly locals and only a few second home owners such as Canadians, Tom and Erica Asselin, who, since the early seventies, spend half of the year in their beach house. "It feels like home here, we know everybody and it is a very friendly place", says Erica. Sandy Point is also the base of the Bahamas Marine Mammals Survey, sponsored by Earth Watch and operated by Ms. Diana Claridge, who has been studying whales for several years, she very often invites scientists to visit the settlement to take part in studies on the different species of whales, particularly the Beaked Whales, which abound in these waters. Wild life is plentiful in that area of the island and you might have been lucky enough to be greeted by a few dolphins upon your arrival or observe some rare species of birds.
Should you decide to stay the night, two fishing lodges, Pete & Gay and Richmon Lodge can provide comfortable accommodation. The settlement has a primary school, a clinic and a small airport. A few miles away from Sandy Point is the Abaco National Park, home of the Rose Breasted Parrot. The park offers a mixed habitat ranging from Abaco pines to coppice, to swampy areas and for that reason is inhabited with a variety of birds as well as a few wild boars. It is accessible through logging roads, but driving with a regular vehicle should not be attempted, as they are in very bad condition. Seventeen miles north of Sandy Point you'll pass the small village of Crossing Rocks, also a fishing village. A mile up the road is the development of Long Beach, which, as the name indicates, is located along a beautiful white sand beach. Twenty-nine miles north of Sandy Point is Bahama Palm Shores, another development popular with locals and second home owners. It also borders the Atlantic Ocean with a long powdery sand beach. A few miles north, a right hand turn will bring you to Casuarina Point, a quiet sleepy hamlet, home of "Different of Abaco". Before reaching the turning for Cherokee, you'll pass the neem Farm, where thousands of neem trees produce the raw material for the neem products made on the island, such as soap, lotion, shampoo and more. Next, turn right to follow the winding road that will take you to Cherokee Sound, one of the oldest settlements on Abaco, founded in the late Seventeen Hundreds by Loyalists escaping the American War of Independence. You'll find yourself in another era when you stroll the narrow concrete streets lined with quaint cottages. Cherokee Sound is a close community boasting a yearly antique show, a shell show and carol singing around a tree on Christmas Eve. Before reaching Cherokee Sound, notice on the left, the exclusive resort of The Abaco Club onWinding Bay, located as the name indicates on a beautiful winding beach.
Commonwealth Bank
Port of Marsh Harbour
Dundas & Murphy Town
F.C.I.B.C
Abaco Shopping Center
D&S Plaza Island Bakery
Government Subdivision Cherokee Aviation
Fine Dinning Restaurant & Club Solid Gold
Abaco Air
Marsh Harbour International Airport
Bahama Dawn Designs
Subway
Lowes Pharmacy
Adam & Eve
Don Mckay Blvd.
B.E.C. Bella’s Rooms To Go Computer Creations
Blue Sky Gallery
Party Time A&K Liquors
Batelco
Marsh Harb Medical Ce
Bahamas Family Texaco Medical
K & S / Esso
23 miles to Treasure Cay
Standard Hardware
Price Right
Royal Bank of Canada
Abaco Hardware
Abaco Wholesale
Queen Elizabeth Drive
Court Dove Plaza Post Office
AID
KFC Scotia Bank
Insuranc Managemen Spooners
Bristol Cellers
Bahamas Family Market
Island Care Wireless Da Bes’ Yet Bakery
Arawak Agency
Rainbow Rentals
National Marine
UPS
Dis We Style
Front Street
Solomons
Mars
D&R Sports Lounge
Anglican Church
Brethren Church Government Clinic Catholic Church Pine Woods Nursery Abaco Grocery
The Abaco Club at Winding Bay Spring City
D
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Go
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Pelican Shores Jib Room
Mangoes
Snappas
Triple J Marina
PARK
Dive Sandra Conch Abaco Evans Royal Harbour Inn Realty Village
Wallys Sapodilly’s Iggy Biggy
Blue Wave Rentals
Albury’s Ferry to Guana Cay
Regatta’s of Abaco
Memorial Plaza Ministry of Tourism Gym
bour enter
Hummingbirds
Buds N’ Blooms
N
John Bull
Abaco Gold
Wrackers Art Gallery
Great Abaco Beach Resort
Jamie’s Place
Albury’s Ferry
ROYAL HARBOUR VILLAGE * Conch Pearl Galleries Abaco Dive * Bahamas Realty Adventures * Java Coffee Shop
Laines Curls & Cuts
sh Harbour Legend
Doctors’ Offices
ocal Stores
hurches
overnment Offices
anks
estaurants
Accommodations
Bill Thorndycraft and Sandra Evans Realtors You Know and Trust See
www.abacoAgent.com
for Multiple Listings Recent Sales Requirements Local Services Instant Translation Mortgage Calculator Currency Conversion Area Map and Weather Abaco, Bahamas
(242) 367-0365
On the way back to the Marsh Harbour Highway, there'll be one more stop: Little Harbour. An unpaved road winding through the forest will bring you to this unexpected harbour, a complete circle of azure protected by high ridges. Even more unexpected are the foundry, where you can admire and purchase bronze creations by Pete Johnston and Pete's Pub, where you'll be served the strongest daiquiris and the freshest catch of the day. And now, on to Marsh Harbour, where you could rest a night or two before hitting the road again. Located in the central part of the island, Marsh Harbour is the governmental centre and the getaway to the cays and the
John Bull Ltd - Marsh Harbour
rest of the island. It offers all types of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to inns and motels and a choice of restaurants and clubs, as well as boutiques, shops, supermarkets and art galleries. Note that John Bull, the luxurious perfume and jewelry boutique, has relocated to new premises, bigger and more sophisticated, Snappas, the popular bar, part of Harbour View Marina that had to be demolished by hurricane, has been rebuilt. The new Snappas is larger than the old one and is directly accessible by boat or dinghy. All the entrees are grilled and the atmosphere is jolly. It offers Karaoke on Tuesdays and live music on the weekend. After a few days of shopping, sightseeing and partying in Marsh Harbour, it is time to take the road again on our way to the North. Approximately 25 miles from Marsh Harbour, we'll encounter Treasure Cay, which boasts one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. The Treasure Cay Resort and Marina has a golf course and hosts a very popular fishing tournament each year. Lunch at one of the bars or resort's restaurants facing the incredible turquoise blue of the ocean and do not leave before buying the best cinnamon bun on Abaco at the local bakery. Three miles north
of Treasure Cay is the ferry dock for Green Turtle Cay, a must to visit. You may leave the car on the dock and hop on the ferry for a few hours in New Plymouth the town of Green Turtle Cay. Back on the road! Stop at the Junkanoo CafĂŠ, opposite the airport for refreshments. This small, quaint establishment is decorated with Junkanoo artifacts; the atmosphere is friendly and the pastries delicious. The gift shop there offers locally made crafts. Next stop will be Coopers Town, home of our former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham. It is the government center for North Abaco and has a police station, primary school, high school and clinic. A few more miles north will bring you to the divide between Great and Little Abaco. The waterway between the two islands has now been filled, so you may keep driving. Hungry for lunch, stop at BJ's in Mount Hope, where a hearty lunch of fresh fish or Bahamian lobster will satisfy your hunger. I have been told that the seafood platter is a favorite. Ask for Birdie or Jonathan Curry, the owners: one of them is always on the premises. Fox Town, a small fishing settlement will be next, then the very top of the island, Crown Haven, where the ferry to Grand Bahama departs at 7:00 in the morning and 2:30 in the afternoon. Next to the dock, a small bar offers libations for the waiting traveller. Not in the mood to drive? A bus service, the Great Abaco Express, covers the route between Marsh Harbour and Crown Haven, and will pick you up in Sandy Point with sufficient notice. Enjoy the sightseeing!
42 - Destination Abaco
Fox Town, Abaco
Photo by David Dorsette
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Marsh Harbour
Abaco Beach Resort
367-2158
Ambassador Inn
367-2022
82 rooms, 6 villas with kitchens, 2 fresh water pools, 2 tennis courts, boat rentals, dive shop, gift shop, full service marina with 192 slips, restaurant & 2 bars. www.abaco-bahamas.com
“Family Affair”
private porch with each room. loftyfig@mymailstation.com
6 rooms with A/C, mini fridge, cable T.V., restaurant, liquor store, convenience stores nearby.
Conch Inn Hotel/The Moorings 367-4000
9 rooms, fresh water pool, boat rentals, dive shop, gift shop, full service marina with 80 slips, restaurant & bar and laundry facilities. moorings-conchinn@oii.net
Bustick Bight Resort
367-5995
Pelican Beach Villas
367-3600
7 rooms with A/C, satellite, mini fridge, microwave. www.everette@coralwave.com
7 rooms with laundry, dock, near the Jib Room and Mermaid Reef. www.ivacation.com
Family Affair 1960
422-
2 bedroom, 2 bath condo, pool, private beach, stove, fridge, washer & dryer, dishwasher, T.V. A/C. familyaffair@coralwave.com
D’s Guest House
367-3980
Island Breezes Motel
367-3776
Regattas of Abaco
367-0148
Lofty Fig Villas
367-2681
6 rooms with microwave, mini fridge, cable T.V., nearby take-out/restaurant and convenience store 8 rooms, A/C, cable T.V., mini refrigerator & microwave.
2 bedroom rentals, fresh water pool, tennis court, located on the beach, walking distance to major restaurants. abacotowns@oii.net 6 rooms with full kitchen, A/C, pool, cable T.V.,
"Family Affair"
is a tastefully furnished and spacious two bedroom, two bathroom condominium located in a central area of Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas. Its island décor gives you a feel of a 'home away from home.' Enjoy all the resort amenities from a swimming pool to a private beach located on the Sea of Abaco just steps away. The vacation of your life awaits in this luxury condos... For further information and availability Email - familyaffair@coralwave.com
Tel: (242) 422-1960
Relax... Enjoy... Discover
Sandy Point Oeisha’s Resort 366-4139 Pete & Gay’s Resort
366-4119
Rickmon’s Bonefish
366-4477
10 rooms, 4 suites, beach, A/C, T.V., mini fridge, sports lounge, on the beach. peteandgay@oii.net 9 rooms, 1 suite, beach, A/C, T.V. rickmon@aol.net
Spanish Cay
Spanish Cay Resort
365- 0083
18 rooms, mini fridge, microwave, swimming
43 - Destination Abaco
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Cherokee
Casuarina Point Different of Abaco 366-2150
Lee Pinder
Grand Cay Rosie’s Place (242) 352-5448
The Abaco Club on Winding Bay
20 beach front suites (1BR), pool, A/C, www.differentofabaco.com
Moores Island Moore’s Bonefish Camp 366-6334
8 rooms (2BR) A/C, satellite T.V., telephone, use of a kitchen, near airport.
Lubbers Quarters Sea Level Cottages 366-3121
Sea level Cottages, 4 cottages fully furnished, on site caretakers, each cottage has the use of a boat, kayaks, very remote cottages on the beach. info@sealevelcottages.com www.sealevelcottages.com
366-2053
Sea View - 2 BR - full furnished, central A/C, cable T.V., located on the beach. seaview@oii.net
The Cottages at The Abaco Club represent the beauty and history of Bahamian architecture at its best. The cottages offer generous verandahs and balconies, open airy interiors, designer custom furnishings, fully equipped custom k i t c h e n s , wireless internet, satellite television and luxurious bedding, linens and towels. Club amenities include: a championship golf course, clubhouse with infinity pool, European spa, deep sea and bone fishing, equestrian, tennis, children activities and numerous water sports on a pristine 2 ¼ mile powder soft sand beach.
The Abaco Club welcomes non-members to enjoy the private club once only. Exquisite one to four bedroom cottages are available for rent. For reservations, please contact Member Services at 1-888-303-2765 (US Toll Free) or 1-242-367-0077 (Worldwide) or email memberservices@theabacoclub.com or visit
44 - Destination Abaco
Bahamas Vacations Spectacular sailing, diving, fishing, beachcombing, shelling & relaxing. Enjoy a wonderful, affordable Bahamas getaway vacation tailored to your tastes and means.
RENTALS
Resorts Apartments Private Beachfront Villas Cottages & Houses Economical Off-Water Cottages Car Rentals Boat Rentals
LOCATIONS
Great Abaco (Marsh Harbour & Treasure Cay) Green Turtle Cay Great Guana Cay Man-O-War Cay Elbow Cay Lubbers Quarters Island
Call Toll Free 1-800-GO-BAHAMAS (462-2426) www.bahamasvacations.com
Subscribe to Destination Abaco
Name:___________________________
_________________________________ Address: _________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________ City:_____________________________
State:____________________________ Email: ___________________________ US Surface Mail $10.00 Other Mail (Bahamas) $8.50 International Mail $15.00 Mail to: Destination Abaco P.O.Box AB-20968 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Email:destinationabaco@coralwave.com
45 - Destination Abaco
What a Jewel! Have fun on our unspoiled beaches and in our sparkling clear Bahamian waters. Discover the sights and sounds of the Caribbean and its natural habitats. Explore breathtaking coral reefs as you snorkel or scuba dive among exotic tropical fish, dolphins, starfish, sand dollars. Delight in our local cuisine: conch fritters, fresh fish, lobster and Johnny Cake. Join in the adventure of world-class deep sea fishing, bonefishing, boat rentals, sailing, water skiing and out-island trips. Play championship golf, tennis and beach volleyball. Enjoy our fresh water pool and jacuzzi, car, bicycle and golfcart rentals, barbeques, beach parties, duty-free shopping, steel band island music and more... or just sit back and relax in our tropical paradise! - Bahama Beach Club
Treasure Cay is a jewel on Abaco and boasts one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world with three and a half miles of powdery white sand. Treasure Cay has become a major tourist development on Abaco today. It offers a unique tranquil getaway, retaining its Bahamian charm and as National Geographic states “One of the ten best beaches in the world”. Treasure Cay has most anything you would find in a small town including hotels, shops, medical centre, library, dive shops, restaurants, post office, police station, grocery store, bank with ATM, car rental agency and liquor store. Treasure Cay has its own commercial airport less than 10 miles from the Treasure Cay Hotel Resort and Marina. Private planes and charters service this airport frequently. It is accessible from West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. Transportation in Treasure Cay is by foot, bicycle or golf cart. It is only 10 minutes away to famous Green Turtle Cay by ferry. Try a guided excursion with Buddy’s Abaco Adventure
Treasure Cay
by Portia Jonsson Cindy Newell Photo - Treasure Cay Resort
on Prozac with all day tours of scenic ferry rides, snorkeling trips and sunset sail-aways. The Treasure Cay and Marina is a 150-slip full service marina with laundry and shower facilities. In the marina complex there is a pool, bar, tennis courts, watersports, restaurant and dive shop. Boat rentals and charters with guides are available. Treasure Cay is strategicly centralized in that you can hop on a ferry to Guana Cay to have lunch at Nippers or enjoy their breathtaking beaches. Green Turtle Cay is only 10 minutes away to experience the town once inhabited by the Loyalist. On resort grounds is a 18- hole 7,000 yard championship golf course designed by the legendary Dick Wilson which will certainly make you want to play it more than once. Treasure Cay Resort is famous for the billfishing and whaoo fishing tournaments. Bahama Beach Club is also an exclusive resort at Treasure Cay featuring 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom luxury beachfront condo
46 - Destination Abaco
47 - Destination Abaco
miniums that are fully equipped and include spacious kitchens, cable TV, air conditioning, telephones, free high speed wireless internet service and daily maid service, freshwater pool & spa. Bahama Beach club is expanding to include more condominiums and additional amenities. Treasure Cay is a vacation homeowners dream from cozy one bedroom villas and condos overlooking the marina to large beachfront estate homes and protected canal lot residences where one can keep their boat right at their doorstep. All of the amenities that make Treasure Cay a unique vacation paradise also appeal tot he second home owners, both for their own environment and for the opportunity to rent for others to enjoy. There are several new projects in Treasure Cay including the expansion of Bahama Beach Club. The Carleton Landing Cottages and Condominiums, designed by a well know Bahamian Architect is the newest canal front project with large units and individual dock slips. Both developments are still offering the last minute opportunity to invest during the construction stage and
Photo - Bahama Beach Club
take advantage of pre-development prices. Weather you are in Treasure Cay for the sun, sand and sea or golf and weather you are here for a quick visit or to call home, you are sure to find that Treasure Cay truly is the Jewel of Abaco. Looking for real estate investments? Abaco Estate Services, www.abacoestateservices.com ‘see back page,’ is one of the fastest growing Bahamas Real Estate Agencies in Abaco, with listings database expanding daily. They feature the best real estate opportunities that Abaco has to offer in all price ranges and property types, including luxury beachfront homes, canal waterfront lots, ocean waterfront lots, canal properties, condominiums and acreage on the mainland of Abaco, Treasure Cay, Marsh Harbour, Leisure Lee
Where to stay Treasure Cay
Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina 365-8578 or 365-8819 95 rooms, A/C, cable T.V., pool, bar by the pool, restaurant & bar on the beach, full service marina, 18-hole golf course. www.treasurecay.com
Bahama Beach Club
365-8500
44 condos fully equipped, central A/C, cable T.V., dial-up data port, swim-up tiki bar & pool craig@bahamabeachclub.com
Island Dreams
365-8507
50 - 60 house, villas and cottages fully furnished for rent. www.islanddreamrentals.com
48 - Destination Abaco
Green Turtle Cay Is l a n d R o o t s Festiv al
Founded in the late 1700s, New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay is proud of its Loyalist heritage and its African roots. The two cultures have happily co-habited for many decades, sharing customs and entertainment. It is the home of the "Bunce" of The Green Turtle Cay Junkanoo Rockers and of The Island Roots Heritage Festival and of the six months young, Green Turtle Cay Marching Band composed of all ages of the community. Festivities are always well planned, so it does not come as a surprise that many visitors from all over Abaco and abroad flock to New Plymouth on those occasions. And it is no different on the weekend of May 20th when New Plymouth renews its ties to Key West with the Island Roots Heritage Festival. During the mid eighteen hundreds, many residents of Green Turtle Cay moved to Key West, establishing a permanent bond between the two towns. In 1977 Key West became New Plymouth’s Sister City, an occasion celebrated by the first festival. A second one was organized a year later by Mr. Alton Lowe,Then it became dormant until 2004, when it was finally revived with the help of Mrs. Karen McIntosh and Mrs. Julie Farrington. In 2005 the festivities started on May 20th with music and poetry reading by local artist Garnell Stuart, who sang her compositions to the rhythm of a rap beat on several occasions during the afternoon. A group of Green Turtle Cay girls performed a May Pole dance. They were followed by Amy Roberts kindergarten school children play- acting and singing. It was soon time for the Royal Police Force Band to parade through town. Seventy five officers from around the Bahamas in full attire, led by Band Leader. Superintendent Sylvester George and Drum Major Taborie Dean, marched around New Plymouth and performed on the festival grounds before a captive audience. The festivities were officially opened by representatives of Key West and of various Ministries of The Bahamas, and local dignitaries. Mr. Don Cornish, who represents the Ministry of Tourism in
by Mirella Santillo
Florida, was the master of ceremony for the evening. Sitting on a platform set against one of the most beautiful sunset? each dignitary took turns praising Green Turtle Cay for its speedy recovery after the hurricanes and for the efforts of the committee in organizing the Festival. "Let's celebrate what we are about. Without culture, we are lost. Roots are strong beginnings. People from other parts of the world have come and helped cement our roots, and made us what we are today." These words from the Minister of Tourism , The Honourable Obie Wilchcombe, described the atmosphere on the fair grounds. A cosmopolitan multitude enjoyed the boutiques displaying paintings and art works by Bahamian artists showing different cultural backgrounds. Food stands offering local fare such conch chowder and fritters; fried fish; scrumptious desserts, and of course. daiquiris and pina coladas and performances by local musicians. A commemorative issue of stamps representing the John Bartlum and the William Curry mansions, designed by Green Turtle Cay artist Alton Lowe, moved to Key West in 1847, were on sale that day for the first time. The Loyalist and Indian heritages were represented with expositions of artifacts found on the island. During the three days of the festival, there were movies and talks by archeologists and writers about the roots of The Bahamas and Green Turtle Cay in particular. The festival was very well attended, drawing hundreds of people who found food for their body, their eyes and their mind! Children had not been forgotten, with face painting, stain glass making, and games. The Island Roots Festival for 2006 is scheduled for May 5th, 6th and 7th, so mark the dates on your calendar!
49 - Destination Abaco
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Green Turtle Cay
Bluff House Beach Hotel 365-4200
Pineapple Bar & Grill
365-4226
Green Turtle Club and Marina 365-4271
Island Property Mang.
365-4047
Ocean Blue Properties
365-4636
Roberts Cottages
365-4105
30 rooms, central A/C, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, 1 pool, 1 gift shops, 45 slip marina. bluffhouse@oii.net
32 rooms, central a/c, fresh water pool, gift shop, restaurant & bar, pool bar, full service marina with 35 slips, boat, golf cart & bicycle rentals, fishing charters available. info@greenturtleclub.com
Coco Bay Cottages
365-5464
4 cottages, fully equipped, ocean & bay front, coral reef off the property, A/C., telephone, info@cocobaycottages.com
Other Shore Club Marina &
2 houses & 1 cottage, fully equipped, pool bar & grill, full service marina with 15 slips, 5 min walk to town, fishing charters & island tours available, golf cart rentals. relax@othershoreclub.com 48 houses available, offer phone calls & internet services. www.abacoislandrentals.com
50 plus cottages and apartments for rent - A/C, T.V., dockage available, telephone, waterfront or beachview available, nightly, monthly or yearly rentals. www.oceanblueproperties.com 3 cottages, full kitchen, A/C, screened porch, on the water, dockage. www.go-abacos.com/turtle@oii.net
50 - Destination Abaco
Man-O-War Cay What a Life!! Man-O-War Cay is an extraordinarily peaceful and self-contained little island with beautiful ocean beaches and narrow streets, used mostly by pedestrians and residents in golf carts. There are only 324 natives and numerous vacation homeowners that live on this cay. Man-O-War is a Christian community that hold to its traditional past. There are no bars or liquor sales, however you are welcome to bring your own. All petroleum products and services are available at Man-O-War Marina.
There is a dive shop and laundry facility on the premises. Lunch and dinner are served at the Man-O-War Pavilion or at Hibiscus Cafe. Boat rental services are also available from Waterways Rentals. You can explore the quaint island by golf carts rented at Island Treasures. Nearby are gift shops, a telephone station, school house, post office, restaurant,
grocery store and by Samantha Sands
by Portia Jonnson
two banks, First Caribbean and Royal Bank of Canada. Wishing to spend a night or a week in Man-O-War Cay spend it at beautiful Schooner’s Landing on the breathaking beach. Offering 4 units with all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay. There are also private cottages for rent. Now stop at Man-O-War is complete without a visit to the Sail Shop on the harbour next to Edwin’s Boat Yard. There one can watch them make sturdy, colorful canvas products such as handmade duffel bags, yachting jackets, hats and other wonderful accessories. Joe Albury, boat building icon and the name behind Joe’s Studio, makes solid
wood dinghy half models in several different sizes and half and full ribbed models that are an exact third and quarter scale replica of the sailing dinghies he and his father once built together. A short walk from the town brings you to the Atlantic Ocean where magnificent white sandy beaches await to be explored. Fowl Cay Preserve, a national underwater sea park, lies north of Man-OWar Cay. The local dive shops offer gear and trips to many surrounding reefs in the area. Stop in at Waterways Rentals and they will steer you in the direction of what is available.
51 - Destination Abaco
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Man-O-War Cay
Schooner’s Landing
365-6143 367-4469
4 units with balconies with ocean view, full kitchens, fresh water pool, central A/C, cable T.V., laundry facilities, golf cart & boat rentals available, gazebo overlooking the ocean, telephone. www.schoonerslanding.com
Island Home Rentals
365-6048
Waterways Rentals
365-6143
11 homes fully furnished for rent 1 - 4 BR’s
4 - condos ( 2 & 3 Bedrooms), full furnished, A/C., cable t.v., fresh water pool, telephone, 3 cottages (3 & 4 bedroom), overlooking harbour. Also boat and golf cart rentals available. www.waterwaysrentals.com
Located on the tropical Island of Man-O-War Cay in the Abacos.
Tel: (242) 365-6143 or 365-6072 Fax: (242) 365-6285 www.schoonerslanding.com info@schoonerslanding.com
52 - Destination Abaco
Guana Cay
Relax & Enjoy
Longest of the Abaco Cays, Great Guana Cay has perfect white sand beaches that stretch for seven miles on both ocean and bank sides. The settlement is small, modest and picturesque with small resorts, rental cottages, a grocery store (easily reached from the public dock) and some superb diving just offshore. There are souvenir/sundry shops on the waterfront road as well as a telephone station and post office. Follow the signs up a hill to where Nippers Beach Bar and Grill perches high with a breathtaking view of the ocean and beach below. Let’s not forget to sit under the famous Fig Tree where locals and tourists alike hang out to catch the breeze or just simply enjoy a friendly chat. There is daily ferry service between Guana Cay and Marsh Harbour. Sea Shore Villas is a beautiful rental property where you can leave your problems behind. It features three townhouse-style units with fabulous views of the beautiful Sea of Abaco. The comfortable villas reflect the quaint charm of Guana Cay. Ocean Frontier Hideaway is located on the breathtaking beach of Guana offering cabin style accommodations just next to Nippers. Orchid Bay Yacht Club and Marina offers exclusive beachfront and bayside home-sites, seaside restaurant, full-service marina with fuel, water, ice, electricity, showers and laundry, open to visiting yachts. On the extreme northern end of Guana Cay is Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean
by Portia Jonsson
Club, an exclusive island paradise by Discovery Land Company, which began construction of Phase One in June this year. When completed the Ocean Club will feature a golf course, clubhouse with fine and casual dining, beach service, resort-style swimming pool, spa and fitness facilities and tennis courts as well as watercraft, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing equipment.
Located on Guana’s breathtaking beach with snorkeling, beachcombing and swimming a few yards away! Each cabin sleeps up to 6 with two bedrooms and a loft Kitchenette & bath Adjacent to Nippers for excellent food and fun! Two minutes from settlement For reservations call:
1-888-541-1616 or 1-519-389-4846 email: info@oceanfrontier.com www.oceanfrontier.com
53 - Destination Abaco
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Sea Shore Villas
Guana Cay
365-5028
6 apartments, 1 cottage, full kitchens, central A/C, satellite T.V., swimming pool, gift shop, laundry facilities, use of privately owned dock. seashorevillas@abacoinet.com
Dolphin Beach Resort
Ocean Frontier Hideaway 1-888-5411616
365-5137
10 ocean front cottages, lodge with 4 guest suites with private bathrooms, porches & kitchenette, A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, complimentary bikes, kayaks & snorkel equipment, bottle of wine.reservation@dolphinbeachresort.com
Abaco Sea Fan 664-2608
603-
Upper level 1 bedroom, 1 bath www.abacoseafan.com
54 - Destination Abaco
Nippers Beach by Bahamas Realty
Christian Wilhoyte spanking the lip in Hope Town
Hope Town
Su rfi n g i n t h e Ba h ama s by Neil Aberle
Perfect surfable waves have October through late April/early May, been breaking on the reefs, shorelines when we pick up powerful swells from the and beaches of the Bahamian archipela- north and north-east when cold fronts and go for many millions of years, but it is only their associated low pressure centers push in the last few decades that surfers have off the east coast of the United States; been riding them here. Early pioneers of and the Summer Season, from mid July the sport in the Bahamas in the late 1960s through October, when we can get and early 1970s were visitors from places beautiful clean groundswells from passing such as Florida, California and Hawaii who tropical storms and hurricanes. With its brought their boards to the Bahamas to miles and miles of reefs and coastlines, the surf empty perfect waves Bahamas offers a here. A few curious locals tremendous diversity of got in on the act, and surfable waves that work before long the Bahamas best on a specific comwas on the map as a bination of swell direcbona fide surfing destination, tide, and wind tion, with the islands of direction, giving even Abaco and Eleuthera the most jaded surfer litbeing the most popular erally hundreds of and easily accessible to options. traveling surfers. The most well ‘Bahama Mama’ Geographically Christine McCully in a curl known and consistently speaking, the Bahamian surfed waves are locatarchipelago stretches over a thousand ed on the islands of Abaco and Eleuthera, miles from Walker’s Cay in the north to including Williwaw and Dudley’s Point on Inagua in the south, and yes, there’s surf Great Guana Cay, Four Rocks, Indica, on both those islands and hundreds more Rush Reef, Pools and Garbonzo on Elbow in between. Our north and east facing Cay, and Holiday Beach, Surfer’s Beach, reefs and coastlines can pick up swells Hatchet Bay and James Point on from as far away as Europe and Africa — Eleuthera. However, there are literally hunessentially storm systems and wind fetches dreds more surfed and unsurfed waves on from almost anywhere in the North the other islands such as Cat Island, Long Atlantic Ocean can send us waves. There Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, Crooked are two main seasons for surf in the Island, Mayaguana, Inagua, New Bahamas: the Winter Season from mid- Providence and even Andros! Eric Mernard feeling it.
Blake Sands droppin’ da bomb!
The late 1980’s saw the beginning of the organized surf scene in the Bahamas when our first National Surf Team competed in the Caribbean Cup in Puerto Rico in 1986 under the leadership of surf pioneers Tim Albury and Scott Patterson. After a brief hiatus, the Bahamas Amateur Surfing Association (B.A.S.A, now renamed the Bahamas Surfing Association, B.S.A.) was re-formed in 1994, with the impetus of Elbow Cay resident Christine McCully, to provide support and sponsorship for young up-and-coming surfers. This led to the Bahamian National Surf Team competing in the Pan American Surfing Games held in Venezuela in 2001, and they are scheduled to compete again in the upcoming Pan Ams to be held January 2006 in Lima, Peru. The current national team is a mix of veterans and exciting young surfers, including Christian Wilhoyte, Lou Kanitsch, Christine McCully, Tim Albury, Scott Patterson, Jeff Gale, Brandon Sands, Joshua Sands, Joe Thompson, Ashley Knowles and Corey Engle. Another dynamic surfer, Blake Sands, has recently left his home break on Guana Cay to pursue his dream of becoming the first Bahamian pro surfer to win an international surfing title. He is currently competing in the Eastern Surfing Association’s contests on the east coast of the United States and is sponsored by Oakley and B.C. Surf and Sport. Travelling surfers, looking to enjoy our uncrowded, crystal clear waves, can choose from three main surf destinations: Guana Cay and Elbow Cay on Abaco, and the island of Eleuthera. There is also a well established surfing community on remote Rum Cay. The wave variety is tremendous, from Indica’s perfect barreling lefts to the long playful walls at Surfer’s Beach. Whatever your experience or ability, the Bahamas has a surf spot for you! Popular accommodation options are the Surfer’s Haven guesthouse at Surfer’s Beach, Eleuthera, which was featured in Surfer Magazine in 2000 and has only gotten better. Here local company Bahamas Out-Island Adventures rents boards, offers surf lessons and guided surfaris on the island. (www.bahamasadventures.com). Another Eleuthera Island Shores resident,
Skip Miller, founded the first Bahamian chapter of Christian Surfers in the same area. On Abaco, please email Neil Aberle at bahamassurfscene@yahoo.com for information on surfing conditions and accommodation options. It won’t be long before more and more young Bahamian surfers start competing on the international surfing circuit, and more people discover the quality surf that blesses the reefs and shores of the Bahamas. But for now, we’ll continue enjoying our uncrowded, perfect lineups and crystal clear Bahamian waves. See you out there!
Christian spins one!
Welcome to Elbow Cay Properties... The best of the Bahamas from $600 to $7000 per week
Vacation home rentals on beautiful Elbow Cay provide you with the ideal vacation experience -- all the convenience and comforts of home! Here you can spend your days on the beach enjoying the turquoise waters and sunshine, or experience the thrills of diving, snorkeling, fishing, or surfing. Rent a boat and do some island-hopping, or stroll the quaint streets of 18th century Hope Town. All this, just 150 miles from the Florida coast! Elbow Cay Properties can help you find the perfect home for your vacation. Browse through our website or give us a call to make your reservation. Looking to buy? Elbow Cay Properties has teamed up with Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty - an internet realty company with new world technology and old world service.
Elbow Cay Properties
Phone/Fax: (242) 366-0569 Email: elbowcayproperties@abacoinet.com
56 - Destination Abaco
Where to stay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Hope Town
Abaco Inn
366-0133
22 rooms, A/C, restaurant & bar, fresh water pool, free amenities, dockage available, free use of kayaks & bicycles. www.abacoinn.com
Hope Town Hideaways 0224
366-
4 villas with kitchens, A/C, pool, 12 slip marina with complimentary dockage for up to 26’ boats, laundry facilities, maid service upon request, onsite caretaker. www.hopetown.com
Hope Town Marina
366-0003
6 hotel rooms, 1 apartment with kitchen, central A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, dockage. www.clubsoleil.com
Turtle Hill
366-0557
6 villas, A/C, T.V., Full kitchen, 2 swimming pools
amy@turtlehill.com
Lighthouse Marina/Rentals 366-0154
4 cottages with full kitchen, A/C, laundry facilities, full service marina, gift shop, bait & tackle, liquor store on site. www.htlighthousemarina.com
Hope Town Harbour Lodge 366-0095
26 rooms, pool, 2 restaurants & bar, beach, A/C, dockage available up to 26’ boats, near the beach. www.hopetownlodge.com harbourlodge@abacoinet.com
Sea Spray Resort
366-0065
5 villas with full kitchen, A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, full service marina www.seasprayresort.com
Hope Town Hideaways REAL ESTATE
The Out Islands’ Finest Vacation Homes & Waterfront Properties Rentals and Sales 12 - Slip Marina with Freshwater Pool One Purple Porpoise Place Hope Town, Abaco, Bahamas
Chris & Peg Thompson Proprietors Phone: 242-366-0224 Fax: 242-366-0434
www.hopetown.com
57 - Destination Abaco
Crystal Villas
Where to stay
7 villas for rental
Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels
Elbow Cay Properties
366-0522
61 houses - each has its own amenities elbowcayproperties@coralwave.com
Hope Town Villas
3660035
Abaconians are famed for their beauty and kind spirits. Locals welcome visitors with warm smiles.
366-0030
info@hopetownvillas.com
Sea Glass
366-0290
Sea Gull Cottages
366-0266
10 houses for rent
3 cottages, T.V., pool, full kitchen, dockage available. www.seagullcottages.com
Tanny Key
366-0053/0140
Houses,cottages & villas with A/C, cable T.V., telephone, fully furnished, in and outside of town.
58 - Destination Abaco
by Peg Thompson
4 waterfront villas (2 bed/2 bath), A/C, TV, telephone access,
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The following documents are required: 1. Birth Certificate 2. Passport 3. Notarized Affidavit stating that you/they have never been married 4. Divorce papers if you/they have been married before With The Ministry of Tourism assistance, you can obtain the following: A personal wedding consultant Marriage License Administrator or minister of religion to conduct ceremony Licensed marriage officer Wedding Cake Photographer Videographer Wedding Location
Abaco Tourist Office
Tel: (242) 367-3067 Fax: (242) 367-3068 Email:abacotourism@hotmail.com
Wedding Sites on Abaco
Abaco Beach Resort www.abacobeachresort.com Regatta of Abaco www.regattasofabaco.com The Abaco Club at Winding Bay www.theabacoclub.com Schooners Landing www.schoonerslanding.com Hope Town Harbour Lodge www.hopetownlodge.com Abaco Inn www.abacoinn.com Hope Town Hideaways www.hopetownhideaways.com Sea Spray Resort www.seasprayresort.com Treasure Cay Resort www.treasurecay.com Bahama Beach Club www.bahamabeach.com Bluff House Beach Resort www.bluffhouse.com Green Turtle Cay www.greenturtleclub.com
59 - Destination Abaco
Photo by Green Turtle Club
Getting married in the Bahamas could not be easier. Just call the Ministry of Tourism Abaco Office to assist with your personal arrangements. To qualify to get married in the Bahamas, you must have been in The Bahamas for a minimum of one day. If either party has been divorced, the original final decree divorce papers must be produced. If either party is unmarried, being a citizen or resident of a country other than the USA, a declaration certifying this fact must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths.
Where to Dine B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner
Angler’s Restaurant
Credit Card Accepted
Abaco Beach Resort, Marsh Harbour
Delivery Available
Marsh Harbour 367-4333 Located in Hope Town, Elbow Cay
Ambassador Inn Dundas Town, Abaco
Boat House
366-0133
Bluff House
Located on Green Turtle Cay
365-4200
Located on Great Guana Cay
365-5137
Blue Water Grill Cap'n Jacks
Located in the harbour, Hope Town
366-0065
Located at Conch Inn Marina, Marsh Harbour
Dis We Style Take Out
Located on Crocket Drive, Dundas Town
Golden Grouper
Located in Dove Plaza, Marsh Harbour
Geno's Kitchen
Located in Marsh Harbour
367-2301
Hibiscus Cafe
Hummingbird Restaurant Memorial Plaza, Marsh Harbour
Hudson’s Delight
Located in Treasure Cay
Harbour’s Edge
Jamie's Place
Located in Marsh Harbour
Jib Room
B,L,D L,D
B,L,D
B,L,D
B,L,D
B,L,D
B,L,D 367-2700
Located in Abaco Shopping Plaza, Marsh Harbour
60 - Destination Abaco
B,L
L,D
367-2880
Kentucky Fried Chicken
L,D
B,L,D
B,L,D
365-6501
Located on Pelican Shores, Marsh Harbour
L,D
366-0087
366-0095
Located in Man-O-Way Cay
B,L,D
B,L,D
365-8648
HopeTown Harbour Lodge Located in Hope Town
365-6380
367-2922
Located on the harbour, Hope Town
Island Treats
365-4271
365-5106
Located on the harbour, Man-O-War Cay
B,L
367-2002
Located in White Sound, Green Turtle Cay Great Guana Cay
367-4444
367-4244
Green Turtle Club & Marina
B,L,D
B,L,D
366-0247
Curly Tails
L,D D
367-2022
Sea Spray Resort, White Sound, Elbow Cay
Guana Sunset
B,L,D
367-2158
Abaco Pizza Abaco Inn
Happy Hour
367-2615
L,D L
Entertainment
61 - Destination Abaco
Where to Dine B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner
Laura's Kitchen
New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay
Mangoes Restaurant
Located in Marsh Harbour
365-4287
367-2366
Mother Merle’s
Dundas Town, Marsh Harbour
McIntosh's Restaurant
367-2770
New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay
Munchies
Located in Hope Town
New Plymouth Inn
365-4625
366-0423
New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay
Nippers Bar & Grill
on the beach, Great Guana Cay
Orchid Bay
365-4161 365-5143
On the harbour, Great Guana Cay
On Da Beach
Located in Hope Town
Pavilion Restaurant
365-6175
366-0558
Located in Man-O-War Cay
365-4636
Pop's Place
Located in Marsh Harbour
Rudy's Place
Located on Elbow Cay
Sapodilly's Bar & Grill
Treasure Cay Resort, Treasure Cay
Snack Shack Marsh Harbour
365-8469
367-4005
Snappa's Bar & Grill
Harbour View Marina, Marsh Harbour
Sundowners
Green Turtle Cay
Subway
Marsh Harbour
367-2278
365-4060
Touch of Class
365-8195
Treasure Cay
365-8654
Traveller's Rest Wally's
L,D
367-2074
Reservations Thur, Fri, Sat.
62 - Destination Abaco
B
L,D
L,D
L,D
B,L,D
L,D
D
B,L,D B,L,D L,D
L,D
D
L,D
B,L
Queen Elizabeth Drive, Marsh Harbour
B,L,D
B,L
367-2798
Treasure Cay
L,D
L,D
367-3498
Spinnaker Restaurant
L,D
L
367-3796
366-0062
Located in Marsh Harbour
Happy Hour
D
365-6185
Plymouth Rock Café Green Turtle Cay
Credit Card Accepted
Entertainment
63 - Destination Abaco
Breaking the surface of crystalline waters, I rolled onto my back and contemplated our good fortune to spend a summer on Abaco. Like so many beckoning hands, palm trees lazily swayed their green fronds in the gentle southern breezes and the brilliant sun sparkled diamonds on the protected bay. Our boat, CYRANO, a 33-foot Morgan Out Island cutter sloop, lay at anchor within the tranquil enclosure, her black hull reflecting the surrounding rocky outcrop. I leisurely swam to our floating home, thinking of autumn, which was fast approaching with the end of September. Soon the winter cruisers would be arriving, breaking the months of solitude we had discovered in these sunny isles. Eddie, my husband and shipmate, and I arrived in The Bahamas mid June, crossing to Bimini from Cape Florida. The 45 mile trek across the Gulf Stream started with a glorious sunrise and light, southerly winds. A daylight crossing allowed us to see the water colour change from green to deep indigo as we edged into the Stream's current. At the halfway mark on the eastern horizon, the Great Bahama Bank began to reflect its turquoise coloured shallows onto the bottoms of puffy white clouds. Familiar with the entrance to North Bimini from previous trips, we sailed into the harbour and completed the process of clearing Customs and Immigration. Many friends were made in Bimini during past visits, and several days were spent catching up on what had been going on in our lives. While there, we met with several of our cruising buddies, who extolled the delights that lie north and east, and a decision was made to travel to the Little Bahama Bank and Abaco. Waiting for weather is a familiar preoccupation with sailors and after a week of meteorological observation, we left the protection of Alice Town Harbour, beginning our trip to Abaco. A low pressure system north of Andros shadowed us, bringing rolling seas and occasional squalls as we passed through the Northwest Providence Channel and into the lee of Grand Bahama. Our intended approach to the Banks via Indian Cay passage was made hazardous by large swells that lifted CYRANO's hull up and down in hobbyhorse fashion. The alternative was Memory Rock Cut, a wider, more prudent access, about 10 miles farther north. Heading eastward through the gap brought us onto the Little Bahama Bank, with the closest anchorage, Mangrove Cay, about 21 miles away. We traveled until nightfall, finally
by Cindy Pastor
gaining the protection of the island after a day's travel of 18 hours and 117 miles. A daybreak departure graced us with 10 to 15 knots of wind on the forward starboard quarter and fairly small waves. The miles clicked away on an azure sea as we reached each way point: Carters Cays, Moraine Cay, AllensPensacola Cay and the small settlements on the main islands of Abaco - Fox Town and Coopers Town. Each island seemed unique to us, hilly and verdant, edged in the deep russet color of ancient coral. On previous trips to the Bahama chain, we saw mostly flat isles with slight rises in their centres. What a delightful surprise to see cliffs and headlands rising skyward, many topped with sumptuous homes sentinels overlooking the sea. We thought to stop for the evening at Powell Cay, but the fair winds and favourable current pushed us ahead of schedule and we continued onward. The hook was finally lowered in front of the town of New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay, a tidy settlement with a quaint waterfront. We were surrounded by a fleet of boats encompassing all sizes and descriptions, their crews shouting over greetings of welcome. Our first day on Abaco and her sea was stellar, with kind winds, views, clear skies and a warm reception from the community. The timing of our arrival was fortuitous, coinciding with the 30th running of the Regatta Time in Abaco sailboat races. The event was slated for nine days of racing and parties designed for everyone-serious racers with their sleek sailing machines from Florida, Nassau and local crews to family boats to observers. We would fall into the latter group as CYRANO socladen with our life that racing is out of the question. The group travels from town to town like an armada, covering a 30-mile stretch through the archipelago on the Sea of Abaco. Race days were separated from "lay" days, during which the boats would cruise to the next stop and each night there was a celebration.
64 - Destination Abaco
We met many of our cruising friends who planned to participate in the regatta and head back to the United States after its completion, to avoid the hurricane season. The dreaded "H" word frequently popped up in conversations and too often our sanity was questioned as we planned to spend the storm season in the Abaco cays. Our explanation was that since we had to pay heed to the weather in Florida, we may as well find refuge here. There was much head shaking and concerns for our safety, but we felt that our decision would be sound if we took time to connect with local sailors and discover protected hidey-holes for bad weather. We followed the group to the different sites, filing away places we wanted to return to for an extended visit. Each leg of the competition gave us a brief overview of the outer jewels of the Abacos, allowing us to sample the special individual flavour of the islands along the route. Green Turtle Cay, with lovely New Plymouth; Great Guana Cay, home to the world famous Nipper's Beach Bar; Man-O-War Cay's working waterfront; Elbow Cay and its candy-striped lighthouse; and the ‘big city’ of Marsh Harbour. In our idle hours, we pored over charts, picking out anchorages to stay at and places we desired to fully explore. The culmination of Regatta Time in Abaco saw many cruisers leaving The Bahamas and returning to their homes. Most stores were closed for Independence Day and, with the exodus of the revelers, Marsh Harbour felt oddly deserted. As each day passed, more yachts would leave the area, until there was a small core group of four or five of us that chose to stay through the summer months. With fewer demands on the bars and restaurants, the native-born wait staffs were able to take extra time for conversation, filling us in on many facets of their lives in The Bahamas. We found most Abaconians eager to share their knowledge of the islands and surrounding waters. Invitations to share a meal or drink usually ended up with us dragging out charts and marking passages and places off the beaten path to visit. Information for finding where the best Johnny Cake could be had or where we could locate elusive conchs was enthusiastically and freely given.
August's arrival carried many tropical low pressure systems, some with the potential to become storms or hurricanes. We were touched by the concern and compassion of the residents and their offers of hospitality and kindness. " Will you be safe on your boat?" “Do you need a place to stay?" “Please let us know that you're OK after the storm passes through." It was a comfort to know that we were not alone. Marsh Harbour would become our "home base" as we continued our forays to the outlying islets. Our wandering took us to the sanctuary of Little Harbor and its high bluffs and caves, through the untouched Lynyard Cay and the pristine North Bar Channel and Pelican Cays Sea Park. Weaving through the Tilloo Bank, we would see hundreds of brilliant-coloured starfishes littered on the sandy bottom. Elbow Cay surprised us with colonial homes stacked up the hills and the pinkish sand of its beaches. The streets of Man-O-War Cay were all but deserted, leaving us to roam the boatyards and docks admiring the lovely old schooners that were there for repairs. The usual carnival atmosphere of Great Guana Cay was missing and the waters of Fisher's Bay cleared for wonderful snorkeling around the rock piles near the shore. We sought out the safety of the enclosed harbor of Treasure Cay during a late summer tropical storm and, surprisingly, shared that refuge with only one other vessel. Stopping at many spots to explore the raw and savage beauty, we wound our way through the island chain. Seldom did we encounter another boat, making each anchorage seem like an isolated paradise. So clean and clear was the sea that swimming in the limpid waters was akin to floating in the sky. At night, the stars were profuse in the velvety blackness and, at times, the water reflected back their sparkling in the form of luminous minute sea creatures, making it difficult to discern the horizon. September brought a change of wind direction, temperature and, too soon, the conclusion of the summer months. On the heels of the autumnal equinox, a few travellers started to appear in the harbour, heralding the beginning of the "season" for the cruising boats. Seeing them gave us mixed feelings; happy for news from home, conversation and company, but a little sad to be losing the seclusion and tranquillity we found during our Abaco summer.
65 - Destination Abaco
What to do
· MH - Marsh Harbour · HT- Hope Town· GTC- Green Turtle Cay· TC- Treasure Cay · MOW- Man-O-war Cay· GC- Guana Cay
Galleries
BAHAMA DAWN DESIGN is a working studio and gallery of fun things. Offering the finest in handmade products such as art quilts, table decor, silk paintings and so much more. Andorsia and Bahama Handprint fabric is also available. All handmade by Kim Roberts. Tel: 367-4648
BLUE SKY GALLERY offers fine Bahamian Art, prints, professional framing & photography by Tuppy Weatherford. Displayed artwork of Lou Lihou, Anne Ray Fritz Keck, Beth Sweeting and Zandrick Jones are found here. This store is located on Queen Elizabeth Dr. Open Mon - Sat, 9am - 5 pm Tel: 367-0579 CONCH
PEARL GALLERIES offers fine Bahamian jewelry made exclusively by Peter Bradley. This is where you will find the conch pearl that can be handcrafted in unique pieces. The store also offers a variety of Bahamian artist pieces. Showcased are Stephen Knowles, Eddie Minnis, Sonia Issacs. The store is located in the Royal Harbour Village. Open Mon - Sat. Tel: 242.367.0137
WRACKERS is located at the entrance of Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour and offers fine original artwork by local artists including Marjolein Scott, Cal ‘Jeep’ Byers, Livingston Pratt, Don Wood, Sean McNamara, Brigitte Carey, Don Russell, Bob Zwickel, Kathy Hayes, Chan Pratt and Peter Johnston with a wide variety of styles and subjects from oils and acrylics to watercolours and silk to bronze and wood sculptures. Open daily. Tel: 242.367.0197
Abaco’s Lighthouses
Built in 1836, Hole-In-The-Wall lighthouse’s old mechanism has been dismantled and the light is now automated. The Elbow Cay Lighthouse is probably the most recognizable landmark in the Abacos. This 89-foot candystriped figure was built in 1863 and is one of three hand-wound kerosene burning lighthouses left in the world and is worth the viewing.
Bonefishing
Enjoy a day of fishing on the "Marls", Abaco's less explored western side. The Marls, considered the world's best bonefish destination, consists of 400 square miles of pristine flats teeming with trophy size bonefish. One of the local bone fishermen will happily guide you to Abaco's "Wide Open Spaces."
South Abaco
Cherokee Sound Junior Albury Maxwell Sawyer Marty Sawyer Jimmy Lowe Randy Sawyer Sandy Point Richmon’s Bonefishing Pete & Gay Guest House
North Abaco
Coopers Town Alexander Rolle Edward Rolle Donald Rolle Treasure Cay Carey McKenzie Ed Newell
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366-3058 366-3058 366-2115 366-2165 366-2284
366-4139/4477 366-4119
365-0120/0532 365-0024 365-0105
365-8313 365-8752/359-6023
What to do
Mount Hope Herbert Thurston Pedro Thurston
Central Abaco Marsh Harbour Jay Sawyer Buddy Pinder Christopher Pinder Justin Sands Terrance Davis Jody Albury Spring City Edmund Williams
Cays
Hope Town Maitland Lowe Green Turtle Cay Ronnie Sawyer Jeff Survance Ricky Sawyer
365-4205 365-2405
367-3941 366-2163 367-4540/367-2234 367-3526/359-6836 367-4464/375-8550 367-5119/375-8068 367-7123
366-0478/366-0033 365-4070 365-4040 365-4261
Barefoot Boat Charters
Charter a boat that will help you experience beautiful Abaco and its surrounding cays
The Moorings at Conch Inn (MH) Florida Yacht Charters (MH) Abaco Charters (HT) Abaco Mutihull Charters
367-4000 367-4853 366-0151 366-0552
Cultural Activities
Homecomings
Every year various settlements or towns throughout Abaco host local homecomings, usually held during a long holiday weekend. These homecomings give residents, past and present, an opportunity to showcase their community spirit, and visitors a chance to enjoy the festivities. Bahamian eats, treats and drinks are always the specialty. Some of the communities that stage such homecomings are Sandy Point, Blackwood, Cedar Harbour and Moores Island & Murphy Town.
Regatta Time In Abaco
Regatta Time In Abaco is a five-race series held each year between the American and Bahamian Independence Day holidays. Its primary focus is for cruising sailboats although they do have a
special class for the serious racers. The races are held on the waters off different towns from Green Turtle Cay to Hope Town. The shore activities include street parties, Junkanoo and hosted parties at a different location each night for the 10-day event.
Junkanoo
The Junkanoo Parade is held twice a year, Boxing Day(December 26th) in Marsh Harbour and New Year's Day in Green Turtle Cay. It is the most exciting display of art and culture in The Bahamas, displaying elaborate and exciting costumes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Listen to the sounds of the horns and whistles and feel the pulsating rhythms of the goatskinned drums and cowbells. Rush out with local groups like the Spring City Rockers, Supreme Dancers, Green Turtle Cay Rockers and LA Conquerors.
Island Roots Festival
Island Roots Heritage Festival - 3rd Annual!! Come celebrate Tings Bahamian!! Rediscover your Bahamian Heritage by enjoying old time games, delicious native foods, great Bahamian entertainment. The fantastic family fun - filled weekend will close with a community worship service Sunday morning, and possibly a Gospel Concert! The Island Roots Festival for 2006 is scheduled for May 5th, 6th and 7th.
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What to do
Goombay Festival
Summertime on Abaco means Goombay time. This festival, staged by the Ministry of Tourism throughout the summer months, highlights everything that is truly Bahamian. Local residents and visitors alike get to taste the flavour of the islands. In addition to the variety of Bahamian dishes and drinks, there are performances from the world famous Royal Bahamas Police Force Band and local Junkanoo and dance groups. Fire dancing, limbo, hair braiding and native crafts are also displayed.
Eco - Adventure Explorations Ocean Holes
Large Ocean Holes in the middle of the pine forest (west) Treasure Cay. Numerous ocean holes near Cherokee Sound. Drinking water Blue Hole Southwest of Cedar Harbour along an old wagon trail.
Diving/Snorkeling
Experience the natural wonder of Abaco’s undersea ecosystems, renowned the world over for their beauty and variety of marine life on a diving expedition. Reefs, home to as many wrecks as fish, 100 foot ‘walls’ that drop into the abyss of the Atlantic and undersea caves are just some of Abaco’s natural wonders just a boat ride away.
Abaco Dive Adventures has a wide variety of dive sites to choose from. Their most popular sites called the Bakers Reefs are located at the north end of Guana. These reefs spread
over a 3-square-mile area where a maze of reefs reaches the surface from depths of 30 to 70 ft. Black Tip Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, Turtles, Tarpon and other interesting sea life are often seen on these reefs.
Brendals Dive Center established in 1985 with over 20 years experience with Platinum Pro Instructor. Discover Scuba, Full Certification Courses & Advanced Scuba Courses, CPR and First Aid & Dive Master Courses. Adventure Specialty Trips of: - Fresh seafood caught and prepared on island Picnic - Hand feed the sting rays - Wild Dolphin Encounter & island hopping trips - Kayak tours and rentals - Afternoon and sunset sailing cruises - Hand feed Groupers "Junkanoo & Calypso” - Dive historic ship wreck - Dive with school of Tarpon Fish Call for further info at (242) 365-4411
DIVE ABACO! is conveniently located in the heart of Marsh Harbour at the Conch Inn Resort & Marina. Phone: 242.367.2787. DIVE ABACO! is a full service dive/snorkel center and offers trips, SCUBA instruction & resort lessons; certifications & referrals; equipment rentals, sales & repair; and private charters & guides. They are affiliated with PADI, NAUI, YMCA & CMAS and participate in the Universal Referral Program. For 2-tank dive and 2-site snorkel trips, check-in is at 9:00am. The trip departs at 9:30am and returns by 2:00pm. Overnight gear storage is provided. Reservations are recommended.
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What to do
DIVE ABACO! provides guided underwater tours along the world's third longest barrier reef or dive site - excluding drift dives. Whether you are just learning to dive or are a world traveler, DIVE ABACO! has something to offer. With nearly two dozen dive sites ranging in depth from 25' to 130', the area by Dive Abaco
extends from Whale Cay in the north to Little Harbour in the south. This includes the Fowl Cay Undersea Preserve and Sandy Cay Reef, which is part of the Pelican Cay Land & Sea Park. The Preserve is approximately 5 miles and a 30-minute boat ride away. In addition to brightly colored tropical fish and magnificent marine life - lobster, turtles, shrimp, crabs, sting rays, spotted eagle rays, sharks, barracuda, moray eels and dolphin the reef is riddled with coral encrusted and sponge covered tunnels, swim-throughs, caverns and a mini-wall. They also offer night, wreck and shark observation dives, and they dive the inland blue holes of Abaco. Abaco is a GREAT destination if you're looking for a true Out-Island experience! You can do as much or as little as you desire, and DIVE ABACO! will gladly help you plan the perfect getaway. Abaco Dive Adventure (MH) Brendal’s Dive Center (GTC) DIVE ABACO (since 1978)(MH) Dive Guana (GC) Spanish Cay Water Sports (SC) Treasure Divers (TC)
by Dive Abaco
367-2963 365-4411 367-2787 365-5178 365-0083 365-8465
TREASURE CAY RESORT & MARINA
Treasure Cay Golf Course is a superb 18-hole championship course designed by Dick Wilson, one of America’s most renowned golf course architects, with several classic courses consistently ranked in “Golf Digest’s Top 100”. The best known probably being the Doral “Blue Monster” in Miami. The tropically landscaped 186acre Treasure Cay golf course was the last Dick Wilson planned; he died before it was completed in 1968. His assistant, Joe Lee, completed the course and went on himself to become a famous golf course architect. At 6,985 yards from the blue tees
and with 66 strategically placed sand bunkers, the Treasure Cay course presents a formidable challenge with ocean winds, tight fairways and a layout that makes you ponder every club selection. It will certainly make you want to play it more than once. Despite its length, the course at Treasure Cay can be played inside three hours. Golf carts are available and the course is generally un-crowded. No tee times are necessary. It can also be walked with a pull cart by those with more time seeking a bit more exercise. If you are a single looking for a game, just show up at 8:30am and Pro Ronnie Bootle will assist you in finding a partner. Tee times are not necessary! In fact, if you tee off after 10:30am, you may not see another group – you may be playing your own private championship course! During the winter season, homeowner tournaments are often held at biweekly intervals. Guests are most welcome, a reasonable and fun way of meeting new people. Very attractive golf packages are available to guests staying at Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina.
Pan of the 4th at The Abaco Club on Winding Bay
THE ABACO CLUB ON WINDING BAY
The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, Private International Members’ Golf Club & Sporting Retreat The Abaco Club on Winding Bay features the world’s first Scottish style tropical links golf course. The par 72, 7,123 yard championship course, designed by Tom Mackenzie and Donald Steel, tracts upwind and downwind knowingly along a 2 ¼ mile pristine, powder soft sand beach, and concludes in a crescendo style with four stunning holes along a canyon and sea cliff. The dunes that dominate throughout would be the envy of many of the greatest seaside layouts. Amenities at the Club include: clubhouse and infinity pool, European spa, deep sea and bone fishing, equestrian, tennis, children’s activities and numerous water sports. The Club’s private plane and air terminal, as well as sport and leisure boats, are also available to mem-
bers and guests. The Club welcomes nonmembers to enjoy the private club once only, and exquisite cottages are available for rent. Estate lots and exquisite turn-key cottages are priced from $875,000 to $4
million. Non-resident membership is also available. For more information, please contact the Membership Department at 1-888-303-2765 (US Toll Free) or 1-242-3670077 (Worldwide) or email info@theabacoclub.com www.theabacoclub.com.
What to do
Hair Braiding
The art of hair braiding can be traced back thousands of years to Africa. Today thousands of people take in the highly specialized and artistic crafts of twisting, braiding and locking natural hair fashions. Hair braiding is more than a means of entrepreneurship. It is an important form of cultural expression. You can find talented hair braiders everywhere on our shores. Megan Cartwright TeL: 367-2198
Inter Island Transport
FERRIES
Albury’s Ferry Services offer ferry service to the various outer cays on a daily bases. Night charters are also available. Green Turtle Cay Ferry offers ferry services from the Treasure Cay ferry dock to Green Turtle Ferry dock located in New Plymouth on a daily bases. Charters are also available. See schedules for both ferries on page 20.
GOLF CARTS See pg 28 for listings
TIP!!
Prior to your adventure to one of the outter cays - call to reserve a cart in advance.
Museums
The Albert Lowe Museum on Green Turtle Cay charts the history of Abaconians from the Loyalists of the 1780s through the morden day development of the island of Abaco. It also features handcrafted ships’ models and paintings by local artists. Once a home, this 150-year-old structure was transformed by artist Alton Lowe in memory of his father. Tel: (242) 367-4094
The Wyannie Malone Historical Museum exhibits the cay’s history from the 1780’s to the present and is named after Hope Town founder from South Carolina. The museum is crammed with manuscripts, photographs and artifacts. Local ancestries, pottery and ships’ china recovered by wreckers, and household antiques are housed here.
Out Island Excursions
Bahamas Fast Ferries - Take a trip to our nation’s capital, Nassau, in under 4 hours on Bahamas Ferries’ state-of-art, airconditioned highspeed ferry. Stroll the world-famous Bay Street or visit Government House. The ferry departs Nassau on Friday and Sunday at 3:30 pm and Sandy Point at 8 pm. Adults: $90 round trip and $50 one way. Cars, trucks, and cargo. Call Sandy Point in Abaco at 366-4119, Marsh Harbour 367-5250 and Nassau 323-2166. Pinder’s Ferry Service offers service between Abaco and Grand Bahamas. Ferry leaves Crown Haven, Abaco for McLean’s Town, Grand Bahama daily at 7am and 2:30pm. Ferry departs McLean’s Town for Crown Haven daily at 8:30am and 4:30pm. Fare: $40 one-way and $80 round trip. Children travel half fare. For more information call Grand Bahama 365-3093 or Abaco 365-2356. Bus serves Freeport and McLean’s Town. Rental automobiles at both terminals.
Entertainment
Abaco Beach Resort (MH) 367-2158 One-man band, rake & scrape Harbour’s Edge (HT) 366-0087 DJ on Saturday nights Conch Crawl Restaurant (MH) 367-4444 One man band Wed-Thur-Sun 6-11pm Club Solid Gold 367-0544 Open Nightly - Friday & Saturdays Club Jam Rock Night Club 456-5887 Open Friday and Saturdays Nippers Beach Bar & Grill (GC) 365-5143 Famous Pig Roast on Sundays Marsh Harbour Marina - Jib Room (MH) Wed & Sat nights - live band 367-2700 Rooster’s Rest (GT) 365-4066 Sapodilly's Restaurant (MH) 367-3498 Fri-5:30 -7:30 Happy Hour Sea Spray Resort (HT) 366-0065 Happy Hour - 5:00-6:00 Snappas Restaurant (MH) 367-2278 Happy Hour, Bar & Grill D&R Pool Bar (MH) 367-2385 Happy Hour, pool table, darts, sports bar
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What to do
The SCURVY FEW MOTORCYCLE CLUB is the only charter motorcycle club in The Bahamas and is based right here in Marsh Harbour. The brain? Child of Sid Dawes and Skeet Lachance, the club was formally started with six "Founding Members" back in 1998 and is still very active today. Their big event of the year is their Toys-For-Tots which distributes over 1000 toys to all communities within the Abacos'. They also participate in the Big Hill Box Derby in Hopetown and do a number of rides throughout the island during the year. They have also been know to sneak over to Grand Bahama on a barge and terrorize Freeport for a couple of days. The club has a number of items for sale at some of the better gift shops in Marsh Harbour including Tshirts, hats, beer cozies, patches and stickers. The proceeds are used in many ways during the year including donations to a number of worthy causes along with the Toys-For-Tots. And if you are lost while walking around the Marina District, the club has a couple of "You-Are-Here" maps beside Snappas and Bahamas Realty to help you find out where you are. Thanks you very much for your support, welcomes you to our island in the sun. Aarrrrrrrrrrr!!! www.scuryfew.org
WildLife
Explore, discover and experience Abaco Island Tours' Wild Dolphin Encounters on a cruise through the Sea of Abaco, home to over 100 bottlenose dolphins and other amazing wildlife. This tour combines wildlife adventures with scientific research and edu-
cation. Experienced and friendly naturalist guide and Bahamas Marine Mammal Survey researcher on board each trip. Gourmet lunch and beverages included. A portion of
the fee is donated to dolphin conservation. Tel 375-8718 or 367-2936.
On this sun kissed island 150 miles off Florida's Gold Coast, 13 rare and endangered horses make their home. Their origins remained unclear until 1998, when it was recognized by a few individuals that the horses probably were Spanish Barbs. In 2002, on the basis of three independent DNA analyzes, the horses were designated a sub breed of the critically endangered Spanish Barb by the Horse of the Americas Registry. Abaco was the curator of possibly the purest strain of the "Horse of the Conquest" in existence. In the 1960s the herd, nearly 200 strong was reduced to three horses. By 1992 the horses were up to 35, but today there are only 13 horses in the herd. There have been no foals. Research indicated that the horses should be returned to their original forest home. To assist with their survival, The Bahamas government has designated a preserve area for the horses and ARKWILD is actively campaigning for funding and support, to ensure that the Wild Horses of Abaco survive as a living part of the history of the Abacos and The Bahamas. For more information visit www.arkwild.com or telephone (242) 367-4805.
The Abaco Parrot
No trip to Abaco is comPhoto by Tuppy Weatherford plete without seeing our endangered Bahama Parrot. For nature enthusiasts and birders alike, Abaco Outback can take you on a ½-day Parrot trip, a full-day birding throughout South Abaco or birding in Green Turtle Cay. Some of the species targeted are the Rosethroated (Bahama) Parrot, Bahama Yellowthroat, Bahama Mockingbird and Bahama Woodstar. Breakfast, lunch, beverages, transportation, area field guides and references are included. Tel. (242) 367-5358
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Information
Banking Hours
Open 9:30 am- 3:00 pm Mon -Thru. 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Fri. Closed on Saturdays & Sundays.
Commonwealth Bank First Carib. Int’l Bank Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour Treasure Cay Scotiabank(Bah) Ltd
367-2370 ATM 367-2166 ATM
367-2420 ATM 365-8119 ATM 367-2141 ATM
Currency
If you come across a $3 bill, it's ok. Bahamian paper money comes in ½ dollar, $1, $3, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills. There is also an extra Bahamian coin, the 15cent, which is square with rounded corners and decorated with a hibiscus.
Exchange Rates
The Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. A small exchange may be applicable when exchanging Traveller's Cheques for local currency.
Illegal Items
Strict laws and penalties apply for possession of dangerous drugs and firearms. Any drugs considered dangerous, including marijuana, bring stiff fines and even jail terms if found in the possession of unauthorized persons.
Immigration
Upon your arrival to The Bahamas you are given an immigration card to fill out. The officer at the Port of Entry will keep the top section and return the bottom section to you. You must return that portion to the ticket agent upon departure. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom or Colonies do not need a passport for a visit that does
not extend beyond 3 weeks, provided that you have proper identification, birth certificate, picture identification and a return ticket.
Bahamas Customs
Baggage declaration by temporary visitors is oral, but the baggage is subject to Customs inspections. In case there are dutiable articles, the visitor will be required to complete a Baggage Claim Form. Each adult is allowed 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or one pound of tobacco and one quart of spirits free of Customs Duty, in addition to personal effects. In addition, purchases up to a value of one hundred dollars ($100) are permitted by all arriving passengers. Household effects, such as china, furniture, linens and appliances with valid invoices and used household effects are subject to assessment by Customs Officers.
US Customs
Residents of the US may take home merchandise valued up to $600 retail, duty free. This exemption applies to each family member, even infants. Family members living in the same household may pool exemptions to reduce the duty on an expensive item or carry in more items. All items must accompany the traveller to be eligible and must be for personal use or gifts and not for sale. The $600 exemption may only be claimed if you have been out of the US for 48 hours and may only be claimed every 30 days. Purchases of up to $1,000 more than the $600 allowance will be taxed at a flat rate of 10 percent, based on the fair retail value in The Bahamas. Separate from the $600 exception, you may also mail gift packages of $100 value or less duty-free. They must be marked ‘Unsolicited Gift’ and you may send as many as you wish, but not more than one $100 gift package to the same person on the same day. Goods shipped for PERSONAL use may be mailed
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Information
into the US DUTY and TAX-FREE if the total value is not more than $200. This exemption does not apply to perfume, alcoholic beverages or to cigars or cigarettes. If you do not meet the 48-hour and 30-day time requirements, you may take in $25 worth of items for your own personal or household use free of duty. This exemption may not be pooled. Exemption limit of 10 cigars (not Cuban), 50 cigarettes and 4 ounces of liquor or 4 oz of cologne, may be included. If you spend more than $25 you must pay duty on the entire amount. SPECIAL NOTES: Antiques are considered duty-free as long as there is accompanying proof that they are over 100 years old. Certain items which are manufactured in The Bahamas are not dutiable such as conch shell jewellery, wood carvings and straw goods. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: US residents 21 years of age and over are entitled to include their duty free allowance 2 litres (967 fl. oz.) of liquor provided that one of the litres is the product of The Bahamas or another Caribbean Basin country. You may carry more than two litres provided you pay the duty and applicable taxes. TOBACCO: Regardless of your age, if you are eligible for the $600 exemption, you may include 100 cigars (not Cuban) and 200 cigarettes. PROHIBITED: Turtle shell goods, plants and fruits are not allowed into the US. REMEMBER: If you are carrying more than $10,000 in US or foreign currency, coins, traveller’s checks, etc. into the US, it MUST be reported to Customs. Please contact US Customs at 242-377-8461 if you have questions on importing any items.
Canadian Customs
Canadian residents including minors may claim $50 (Can.) exemption after an absence of 24 hours or more. This exemption which excludes tobacco and alcohol may be claimed numerous times annually
by verbal declaration. After 48 hours absence any number of times a year, $200 exemption may be claimed. This merchandise which must accompany the traveller can include 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 2 lbs of tobacco and 40 ounces of liquor. A $500 (Can.) exemption can be claimed after an absence of seven (7) days or more. This exemption may be claimed any number of times per year regardless of any $200 exemption claimed on a previous trip, but the two may not be combined at any time. The declaration for this exemption must be written. The allowance for liquor and tobacco is the same as for the $200 exemption. All duty-free items must be for personal or household use or as gifts. Children who are literate and can understand the declaration may claim exemption. Persons must be over 16 years of age to import tobacco and spirits. Amounts are in Canadian dollars.
UK Customs
UK residents returning from the Bahamas after an absence of more than 24 hours can take home duty and tax free 50 grammes (2 fluid ozs) of perfume and 250 cc of toilet water. Persons over 17 years of age are allowed, duty free, 1 litre (over 22% proof) of liquor or 2 litres of alcoholic beverages not over 22% proof or fortified or sparkling wine, plus 2 litres of still wine. Persons over 17 are also allowed 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 grammes of tobacco.UK residents can bring 145 pounds sterling worth of other goods including gifts, souvenirs, cider and beer, which must be carried in baggage and cleared by you at the time of your arrival. You are advised to pack dutiable goods separately. The importation into the United Kingdom of some goods is prohibited and restricted. These include counterfeit coins, dangerous drugs, firearms and ammunition, dangerous knives, plants and bulbs, radio transmitters, (including walkie talkies), meat and poultry (not fully cooked) and live animals.
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Information
Temperatures
Jan Feb March April May June
70 71 72 75 78 81
JulyoF Months August Sept Oct Nov Dec
83 83 82 78 76 70
We enjoy a tropical temperature year round. Water temperature ranges from the low 80s in the summer to the mid-70s in the winter.
What to wear
How to pack for your trip to the Bahamas depends on the time of year, where you plan to stay and what you plan to do. Summer wear is appropriate for day and evening, Bathing suits are not acceptable in any of the communities, only in pool areas and beaches. In the evening, depending on your choice of restaurant and activities, you may dress casually.
Traffic Rules
Drive on the left side. Remember to keep left and wearing seat belts is mandatory. If you are walking where there is no sidewalk, face oncoming traffic.
Taxes
There is no sales tax in The Bahamas. However, there are other forms of taxes that may occur on your trip there. There is hotel room tax of 12 - 15% that will be added to your bill at the time of check out. There is a $5 - $25 agency charge for airline tickets booked through a travel agent.
Public Holidays
New Year’s Day Good Friday Easter Monday Labour Day Whit Monday Independence Day Emancipation Day Discovery Day Christmas Day Boxing Day
Taxis
1 January 24th March 27th March 29th May 2nd June 10th July 1st August 10th October 25th December 26th December
Taxis are available and are found mostly at the airports and the ferry docks in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay. Taxi drivers are willing to wait for individuals to shop and would love to take you sightseeing. Fares vary within the Marsh Harbour area and to the North and South of Abaco. Waiting time is $20.00 per hour. Children under the age of three are free. Fare from the airport to Albury’s Ferry Dock is $12.00 per person and each additional person - $3.00.
CRUISING REGULATIONS Fees for entering The Bahamas: $150 for all vessels under 35 feet and $300 for vessels 35.1 feet or greater. $150 for dinghy tenders over 18 feet.
The above fees cover the captain and three crew members. Any additional crew members over 6 years of age must pay $15 per person. A fishing license for three months is included. If you wish to extend your fishing license, it is an additional $150 for 12 months. Also included is a $15 exit/departure fee.
PORTS OF ENTRY
Port Lucaya - Grand Bahama West End - Grand Bahama Spanish Cay - Abaco Green Turtle Cay - Abaco Treasure Cay - Abaco Marsh Harbour - Public Dock - Abaco Sandy Point - Abaco
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Information
Churches
Call to confirm services and times. Evening services may vary due to the time change. ASSEMBLIES OF GOD 1st Assembly of God (MH) 367-2130 Church of God (GTC) 365-4505 Church of God (MOW) 365-6088 Church of God of Prop.(MH) 367-2071 Church of God (MRF) (MH) 367-2740 Full Gospel Assembly (TC) 365-8097 ANGLICAN St. Simon by The Sea (TC) 365-2714 St. John’s the Baptist Anglican(MH) 365-2518 BAPTIST Calvary Baptist Church (MH) 367-2105 Grace Baptist Church (MH) 367-2926 Unity Baptist Church (TC) 365-8371 Zion Baptist Church (MH) 367-3563 BRETHREN Bethany Gospel Chapel (MH) 367-4472 International Creole Gospel (MH) 367-3784 Gospel Chapel (MOW) 365-6038 New Vision Ministries (MH) 367-3242 New Life Chapel MOW) 365-6458 Marsh Harbour Gospel (MH) 367-2204 New Plymouth Gospel (GTC) 365-4198 Friendship Tabernacle (MH) 367-4238 METHODIST Aldergate Methodist (MH) 367-2009 St. Andrew’s Methodist (MH) 367-2007 St. James Methodist (HT) 366-0400 Epworth Chapel (Cherokee) 366-2249 New Plymouth Methodist (GTC) 365-4293 PRESBYTERIAN Kirk of the Pines (MH) 367-3855 ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Fransis de Sales (MH) 367-2714 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Seventh Day Adventist (MH) 367-2948
Service Groups
Organized clubs of business and professional persons active in public services. PILOT CLUB Dedicated to helping prevent brain related disorders - ‘Brain Minders’ Tel: 242.367.4571 or 359.6455
Meets every 3rd Tuesday in the month at Offices of Friends of Environment at 7pm.
KIWANIS CLUB Dedicated to serving the children of the world “Young Children-Priority One.” Meets every Tuesday except the third Tuesday. Tel: 242.3673680 or 52-1766 Central Abaco Primary School at 7pm
ROTARY CLUB Committed to immunizing all of the world’s children against polio - “Polio Plus.” Meets at Below Decks, Abaco Beach Resort every Monday night. FRIENDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Friends of the Environment (FRIENDS) is a local Bahamian nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of Abaco's terrestrial and marine environments in order to achieve sustainable living for the wildlife and the people of Abaco. In order to achieve this mission, FRIENDS operates a number of programs. FRIENDS provides mooring balls at local reefs to prevent damage and death of coral from anchoring. FRIENDS has aluminum can recycle bins in Marsh Harbour, Hope Town and Man-O-War Cay. FRIENDS provides scholarships for students and teachers to learn more about important environmental work being done in the Bahamas. FRIENDS and the Ministry of Tourism were the local sponsors for the Ocean's Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup day. FRIENDS also provides a forum for environmental concerns to be discussed and coordinate action being taken. Established in 1988 by a group of Hope Town residents concerned about Abaco's natural environment, in the past seventeen years FRIENDS has successfully established a network of businesses, govern ment agencies, and community residents to share information and volunteer support for environmental concerns around the Abacos. FRIENDS is uniquely positioned to address many of the environmental challenges our community faces and we need your help. FRIENDS depends on the support of its members, volunteers and the Abaco community to continue its important work, and there is still so much to be done. If you have comments, would like to join FRIENDS, or would like more information, please visit our website: www.friendsoftheenvironment.org, or call 242367-2721.
77 - Destination Abaco
Information
Immigration Cards
The Ministry of Tourism is working very closely with the Bahamas Immigration Department in creating a more multi-purpose Immigration Card with the ability to collect a wide assortment of information related to the quality of vacation experience throughout the Islands of the Bahamas. This data on the back of the regular section; is utilized to actively assist the Ministry of Tourism with its product development and marketing strategies. The Abaco Tourist Office, recently introduced a visual-aid campaign designed to gently remind visitors to complete the information and deposit it with airlines before departure. The colourful Abaco Parrot is used to spread the message with constant reminders placed in the airports arrival and departure terminals, cabs, ferries and hotel front-desks. All visitors are asked to kindly cooperate.
PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE PROGRAMME
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Participate in our People-To-People Programme where you will meet warm and genial Bahamian residents.
Experience Bahamian Life in ’Grand’ style. Just as the Abaconians do! Take home with you the memory of one of the greatest resources... Our Bahamian People. For more information, Contact the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Tourist Office, People to People Department www.bahamas.com - jeritzan@batelnet.bs Tel: (242) 367-3067 or 367-4512 78 - Destination Abaco