marinalife.com WINTER 2024
The Caribbean Is Calling! Answer with an island escape
JOIN AN EXPEDITION TO GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
BEST MARINA CONTEST WINNERS
YOU GOTTA REGATTA IN THE CARIBBEAN
Y O U R S T O RY A W A I T S Whatever type of traveler you are, we invite you to embark on a private expedition through paradise that’s anything you want it to be. Whether you choose to fill your days with activities or go where the wind takes you – set sail and discover why there’s nothing like island-hopping aboard your own private yacht. It’s your vacation, make the most of it with The Moorings. moorings.com | 800.669.6529
ICE AND WATER SYSTEMS
CONTENTS >
ON THE COVER | Antigua, Caribbean islands, English Harbour view. Photo IR_Stone
IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s Log 8 / What’s New 10 / Nauti Shopper 20 / Port Personalities 79 / Cast Off 138
52
Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!
Courtesy BVI Spring Regatta 1
72 102 14
BEST MARINA CONTEST WINNERS Three cheers to the top large and small marinas
30
GALÁPAGOS ISLAND EXPEDITION Discover the flora and fauna in this magical archipelago
38
WHAT’S UP, DOCK? New feature showcases marina upgrades and updates
46
FLORIDA’S COASTAL STATE PARKS Explore a boater’s playland along the western shoreline
52
PINEAPPLE FARMS ON ELEUTHERA The revival of a flavorful island tradition
72
DAMES ON DECK Women go fishing for fun and social good
91-133
SPECIAL SECTION:
THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN
22 Cruise Itinerary Southern California, from Long Beach
93 Marina Spotlight Abaco Beach Resort, The Bahamas
to San Clemente
40 Cruising with Members
A delightful day trip to the Exumas
96 Caribbean Events Calendar The islands invite you to festivals and musical events
60 Weekend Warrior Explore the land and sea of St. Augustine, FL
102 You Gotta Regatta Participate or spectate in a Caribbean yacht race
26 Destination Boca Grande & Gasparilla Island, FL 36 Smart Boater The inside scoop on painting your boat’s bottom 56 Destination Providenciales, Turks & Caicos 64 History U.S. Coast Guard 68 Destination Cozumel, Mexico 77 Marina Spotlight Marina Jack, Sarasota, FL 80 Captain’s Tips Detecting dangerous gases onboard 84 Destination Delray Beach, FL 86 Eco-Friendly Boating Solar accessories for boats
108 Boat Building in the Abacos A family legacy of crafting exceptional vessels 114 Best Bahamas Charter Companies Pick the perfect boat for your dream vacation 122 Top 10 Caribbean Beaches Sunny destinations for a bucket list experience 128 Diving for Shipwrecks in Warm Waters Take the plunge and delve into history
Marinalife (ISSN 2152-2200), Vol. 19, Iss. 1 is published quarterly (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) by Marinalife LLC, 921 E. Fort Ave, Suite 225, Baltimore, MD 21230. Periodicals Postage Paid at Baltimore, MD and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marinalife, 921 E. Fort Ave., Suite 225, Baltimore, MD 21230. Annual subscription price $24.99 for subscription (please add $10 for Canadian address and $20 for all other international addresses), renewal or change of address, call 410-752-0505 or visit marinalife.com
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Phoenix Han/unsplash
Winter 2024
EDITOR’S LOG >
Dear Fellow Boaters: Happy New Year! By the time you open Marinalife’s first issue in 2024, we hope you popped a cork or two, made resolutions to be forgotten by February and have started to daydream about the upcoming boating season. We’d like to kick off 2024 with a couple of announcements. Marinalife has created a new feature called What’s Up, Dock? that showcases recent upgrades at our Snag-A-Slip partners and other marinas. In this issue, you get the news on improvements ranging from new amenities and fuel docks to just-opened restaurants and ship stores at marinas from the mid-Atlantic to The Bahamas. Also, please join us in congratulating and celebrating the winners of our 2024 Best Marina Contest. With votes coming in from across North American and the Caribbean, six outstanding ports earned accolades for their exceptional waterfront properties, services and hospitality. For readers who take advantage of the off-season to assess
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their boating needs, several articles are must-reads. Check out Nauti Shopper items that help prevent water-related incidents — from waterproof chartbooks to floating dry bags that keep your phone, wallet and keys dry. And the article on solar accessories for boats reveals how to use the power of the sun to navigate, communicate, cook meals and light up the dark. No winter issue would be complete without a nod to boaters who dream of warm water adventures. A photo spread of Galápagos takes you on an expedition to discover exotic marine creatures that flourish in this Pacific archipelago. And our Special Section on the Caribbean serves as a guide to the region’s regattas, festivals, soft-sand beaches, fish-filled diving spots and favorite charter companies that host idyllic vacations. We wish you safe travels and happy boating,
Susan Elnicki Wade, Editor-in-Chief
Marinalife magazine, published four times a year, is focused on the cruising lifestyle. The magazine includes articles on where to cruise, new marina destinations, upcoming events, boating stories and news from the maritime industry.
PLAN YOUR TRIP AND
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Susan Elnicki Wade swade@marinalife.com FOUNDER & PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Joy McPeters
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Alexa Zizzi
CONTRIBUTORS
Micah Angel Bob Arrington Carol Bareuther James R. Barnett Heather Burke Jay Fleming Ellen Honey Richard Kern Jen Leroux Scott Miller Teri Miller Claire Ruppert MAGAZINE PRODUCTION
Mid-Atlantic Custom Media jmann@midatlanticmedia.com Ebony Brown, Art Director MARINALIFE SALES
sales@marinalife.com QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
info@marinalife.com
MARINALIFE, LLC 921 E. Fort Avenue, Suite 225 Baltimore, MD 21230 410-752-0505
Adventure starts with marinalife.com WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 9
Venture on a New Pursuit this Season For more than 45 years, Pursuit Boats has produced high-end yachts accommodating boaters nationwide. The new OS 405 is the latest model with updated styling and luxurious finishes. The design presents a sleek silhouette with new features including joystick controls and dual 22’ Garmin multifunction displays at the helm. If you’re a Pursuit boat owner, enjoy our perks and join Marinalife’s Pursuit Advantage Club. To learn more, visit marinalife.com/pursuit-advantage-club
BY ALEXA ZIZZI
WITH
Pursuit OS 405
Suntex Welcomes New Gulf Coast Destination Premier marina owner and operator, Suntex Marinas added another property to its Florida roster. Mariner’s Cove Marina in Gulfport is a wellknown dry stack facility on Boca Ciega Bay just minutes from the Gulf of Mexico. Ideal for all your winterizing needs, the facility offers safe high and dry slips customized for most boat types, and is equipped with aluminum floating docks, fuel and a fish-cleaning station. Visit suntex.com 1 0 m ar ina lif e.c o m
Courtesy of Pursuit Boats
The Moorings in The Bahamas
ePropulsion Expands to the United States
‘Tis the Season to Charter a Luxury Yacht
An international leader in marine electric propulsion systems, ePropulsion, recently announced its American expansion. The distributor offers a vast dealer network for high-end products ranging from diesel engines to electric motors. ePropulsion USA’s branch aims to further the company’s presence and expand opportunities in the North American boating industry. For info, visit epropulsion.com
Escape the cold and head south this winter to let The Moorings charter your next dream destination. This worldclass company is offering new Caribbean charter packages for private trips on state-of-the-art yachts. Whether you prefer bareboating or crewed charters, all needs are accommodated through easy booking. Top Caribbean locations include Antigua, St. Thomas, St. Lucia, St. Martin, Grenada and the British Virgin Islands. Book today at moorings.com/destinations/caribbean
Upcoming Boat Shows
Trawlerfest Stuart
Stuart, FL February 27-March 2, 2024
St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show
Miami International Boat Show
St. Petersburg, FL January 18-21, 2024
Miami, FL February 14-18, 2024
Seattle Boat Show
Palm Beach International Boat Show
Seattle, WA February 2-10, 2024
West Palm Beach, FL March 21-24, 2024
UP TOP Media
WHAT’S NEW
Industry Updates
EMBRACE THE
JOY
of
this
season
in
the
inspiring city by the sea, Hampton. Where weather beckons travelers, while silvery
moonlight kisses the sea.
Where adventure, history, and fun brighten eyes, both old and young.
Go Beyond Familiar this season – and create memories that last through all the years.
YOUR GATEWAY TO
Unforgettable
EXPERIENCES
Oasis Marinas is propelled by a boater first mentality, on and off the water. By combining innovative marina management with hospitality driven customer service, we do more than elevate the boating lifestyle - we transform waterfront communities. Here, remarkable experiences become lasting memories.
Visit our website to see our full compliment of remarkable marinas.
Oasismarinas.com
YOUR MAINE MARINA
For over 50 years, Chicks Marina has been the name synonymous with the Kennebunkport River
207-967-27 2 manager@chicksmarina.c m 75 Ocean Avenue, enne unk r , 0 0 6 |
2023 BEST MARINA CONTEST BY ALEXA ZIZZI
Each year for our Best Marina Contest, Marinalife asks readers to choose their go-to spot to tie up the boat. Ranging from familiar homeports to favorite vacation destinations, we receive hundreds of votes for marinas with state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional customer service and hospitality. In this highly anticipated competition, the winners were determined by a nationwide boater survey throughout the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. We are pleased to announce the winners of our 14th annual Best Marina Contest. Thank you to all the hardworking marina staff and dedicated boaters who participated. Look for the 2024 Best Marina Contest announcement in our summer issue to cast your vote!
1st Place Best Large Marina
BRUNSWICK LANDING MARINA in Brunswick, GA
Just off Georgia’s East River, this spacious facility boasts 445+ wet and dry slips with more than 3.5 miles of leasable dock space. Experience southern hospitality with friendly concierge services and amenities such as laundry, lounges, a fitness center and propane grills on every dock. Catch all-you-can-drink free beer and wine offered three times per week at Happy Hour. Marina management is currently working with the Army Corp of Engineers and Department of Natural Resources to construct a mooring ball field adjacent to the property to provide lower-cost options for visitors to the marina and downtown area. brunswicklandingmarina.com
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2nd PLACE BEST LARGE MARINA
SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA in Hilton Head Island, SC
Courtesy of Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
In the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina boasts 187 wet slips. This destination is near beautiful beaches, golf courses and attractions including the marina promenade with shopping and dining at seven waterfront restaurants. The on-site eatery, Top Dawg Tavern, plans to open a new pizzeria adjacent to the pavilion stage. Catch live entertainment and seasonal shuttle services to access the neighboring Palmetto Dunes Resort amenities. This year marks the 35th anniversary of HarbourFest, Hilton Head Island’s largest multi-week summertime event featuring live entertainment, Tuesday night fireworks and kids’ activities from June to mid-August. sheltercovehiltonhead.com
3rd PLACE BEST LARGE MARINA
MORNINGSTAR MARINAS GOLDEN ISLES in St. Simons Island, GA
Located on the Frederica River, this spacious marina is surrounded by Georgia’s picturesque Golden Isles. The facility boats 1,100’ of state-of-the-art transient dockage, wet slips accommodating 25’ to 56’ and covered dry storage for vessels up to 30’. The river provides smooth sailing with no obstructions making this deep-water marina an easy stop along the ICW and Atlantic Ocean. Amenities include a restaurant, pool, ships store, fuel and full-service mechanic on-site. Guests can enjoy concierge services and a courtesy car shuttle for inland visits. morningstarmarinas.com
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1st Place Best Small Marina CHICKS MARINA in Kennebunkport, ME
Holding the first-place title for the fourth year in a row, the family-owned Chicks Marina continues to win the hearts of boaters with its top-notch facility and outstanding service. Tucked away in the southern coast of Maine, this charming 50-slip marina offers seasonal and transient dockage, heated winter storage and custom boat services. Lounge on the sundeck and patio complete with Adirondack chairs, picnic benches and gas grills. Amenities include laundry, showers, shuttle services, a ships store, and gas and diesel fuel dock. chicksmarina.com
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2nd PLACE BEST SMALL MARINA
JEKYLL HARBOR MARINA in Jekyll Island, GA
dowrycreekmarina.com
Situated along the southern Golden Isles, this full-service facility is nestled in a secluded cut surrounded by 10 miles of beaches and attractions. The 50-slip marina accommodates vessels up to 150’ and is an easy stop off the ICW. Amenities include dry storage, a marina store, fish-cleaning station, restaurant and fuel dock, plus complimentary golf carts and bike rentals to explore the island and 22 miles of scenic bike trails. jekyllharbor.com
3rd PLACE BEST SMALL MARINA
DOWRY CREEK MARINA in Belhaven, NC
This family-owned and operated marina is located three miles north of Belhaven’s Inner Banks along pristine marshlands. The facility offers deep-water transient slips accommodating vessels from 20’ to 120’. Relax in the Captain’s Lounge, swim in the saltwater pool or enjoy live music and delicious food at the new on-site restaurant, The Salty Crab. Amenities include laundry, fuel and watersport rentals such as paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and peddle boats. dowrycreekmarina.com
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HILTON HEAD ISLAND
SHELTER COVE MARINA Dock. Shop. Dine. Play.
Located in the middle of Hilton Head Island across from Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and just off the Intracoastal Waterway, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina offers easy access to great shopping & restaurants plus bikes, watersports, golf, tennis & pickleball. The Ship’s Store offers a large selection of apparel, accessories, convenience items & fishing tackle. • Floating docks / vessels up to 150' • Electrical: 30, 50, 100 amp • 9' MLW, well marked channel • Pump-out boat • Monitor channel 16/71 • Restrooms, showers, laundry • Grocery store nearby • Full service yacht maintenance • Wi-Fi internet access & cable available • Seasonal resort shuttle • Private 70' transient dock with in-slip fueling & pump-out services
1 SHELTER COVE LN, HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29928 844-264-0981 • SHELTERCOVEHILTONHEAD.COM
NEWLY ADDED DOCKS & AMENITIES
ONCE YOU VISIT OUR MARINA YOU WILL NEVER WANT TO LEAVE Staying at Brunswick Landing Marina offers marina guests and crew a full home port solution. The marina’s 445+ dry & wet slips are complemented by an extensive range of services and amenities. The marina is proud to employ and contract with technicians highly skilled in most types of marine repair.
PROUDLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED
BUILDING A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE • 50-ton travel lift • 3-phase power • Vessels up to 240’ long x 180’ tall Dog park • Free laundry • Happy Hours 3x a week with free wine and beer • Free High Speed OnSpot Wi-Fi Catered holiday parties • Dock front parking • Security gates on all docks • Roaming security at night Former US Navy hurricane hole • Exclusive discounts at most downtown restaurants • Full service boat yard 375 deep water wet slips
(912) 262 9264 | INFO@BRUNSWICKLANDINGMARINA.COM
| BRUNSWICKLANDINGMARINA.COM
FLOATABLE & WATERPROOF PRODUCTS Handy items for keeping all your valuables dry while at sea
WATERPROOF CHARTBOOKS
Maptech These sturdy guides are printed on tough, tear-resistant, waterproof pages and feature 12 x 17” full-size, full-color charts in a conveniently compact book. The high-resolution chartbooks include pre-plotted courses, GPS waypoints and hundreds of marina locations at popular boating destinations on the east and west coasts. ($69.95-$79.95) richardsonscharts.com/category/maptech-waterproof-chartbooks
Custom Captain This bag is perfect for boating excursions as the heavy-duty nylon is wind resistant and waterproof with lightweight, machine washable material. Customize the bag with your own photos and artwork or let the Custom Captain team enhance your bag with unique graphic designs. Get creative and have a ball customizing! (Prices vary) thecustomcaptain.com
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Maptech
OAKLEY 22L DRY BAG
Waterproof Chartbooks
©iStockpphoto.com/lucadp
NAUTI SHOPPER > BY ALEXA ZIZZI
FLOATING KEYCHAIN
Chums What’s worse than misplacing your keys? Accidentally dropping them in the water! For more than 40 years, Chums has produced top-notch floatable products to prevent just that. This waterproof keychain fits over your wrist and comes in bright yellow, neon and tie-dye colors, so it’s easy to spot on the water’s surface. ($7.99) chums.com/products/floating-keychain
PREMIUM FLOATING DRINKHOLDER
Diveblast If you’re tired of saltwater in your chips or beverages, this is the right item for you. Float drinks and snacks across the waves in the durable, water-resistant serving tray with built-in holders that accommodate cans, bottles, food and ice. Plus it’s got slim slots for phones, books, sunglasses and whatever else you can fit! ($22.97) diveblast.com
200 LUMEN LED FLOATING FLASHLIGHT
Dorcy Every captain needs a trusty light to guide the way at sea. Small yet powerful, this flashlight floats on the water’s surface, and the rubber coating gives a slip-free grip. The light blasts 200 lumens of power and lasts for up to 17 hours on three AA batteries. ($14.99) dorcy.com/200-lumen-led-waterproof-floating-flashlight
WATERPROOF COOLER SETS
Junedays Keep your dinner and drinks dry with these sets that outsmart Mother Nature. The multipurpose, cube-shaped coolers are designed to keep provisions separated with space for fresh food, dry goods and more. The foldable shape is soft-sided and collapsible for easy storage no matter how small the space. ($38-$110) junedays.com
WATERPROOF FIRST AID KIT
ugo wear
Adventure Medical Kits Cover all the bases for a worst-case scenario and keep a waterproof first aid kit on deck. The Marine 600 Medical Kit is made with an impact-resistant dry box containing everything needed for emergencies. ($199.99) adventuremedicalkits.com
ugo Dry Bag
ugo wear This waterproof dry bag not only functions as a phone case, but also leaves space for money, cards, keys, medication and more. Most importantly, the fully floatable bag will never sink to the bottom of the sea! The bright and flashy seafoam green, blue and orange colors stand out when hitting the water. The clear case allows for texting, talking and taking photos without removing your phone from the bag. It even takes great underwater shots! ($74.99-$129) ugowear.com/collections/ugo-geo-collection Oakley 22L Dry Bag
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thecustomcaptain.com
PHONE 2.0 DRY BAG
Long Beach skyline
Take a Scenic Coastal Journey
Pxhere.com
CRUISING ITINERARY > SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
from Long Beach to San Clemente
T
he California coast between Los Angeles and San Diego is all about sand, surf and year-round sunshine. It’s the place that spawned beach culture, car culture, surf culture, amusement parks, sun-worshipping and drive-ins, all set to a Beach Boys soundtrack. If you’re looking for an easy jaunt with plenty to see and do, this 36 NM cruise from Long Beach to San Clemente is a perfect way to spend a few days soaking up SoCal sunshine with good tunes playing on your boat.
Starting Point: Long Beach, CA
Located about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach is the second busiest container port in the United States and one of the biggest shipping ports in the world. It’s also the permanent home of the RMS Queen Mary, the Art Deco ocean liner that was the
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fastest in the world from its christening in 1936 until 1952. The city was officially incorporated in 1897, first gaining recognition as a seaside resort. Later, the oil industry, a U.S. Navy shipyard and the port facilities grew to dominate. In addition to touring the Queen Mary, visitors can also check out the local vibrant art scene, which includes the Long Beach Museum of Art, Museum of Latin American Art, and downtown’s East Village Arts District, where galleries host openings and exhibits on the second Saturday of each month. Adjacent to the Convention Center and Queen Mary, visitors tour the massive Aquarium of the Pacific on Rainbow Harbor, which houses a collection of more than 11,000 animals. And don’t forget the canals of the Naples neighborhood on a group of islands in Alamitos Bay, where you can take a gondola trip complete with a singing gondolier. The Naples Island Christmas Parade has been held every
December since 1946, passing through the canals and around the bay. Springtime brings the Long Beach Grand Prix for racing enthusiasts and the Congressional Cup — the only Grade 1 Match Race Regatta held in the United States — both in April. During the summer months, you can enjoy the Long Beach Sea Festivals, a string of events held at various places along the shoreline, three beaches, several city parks and Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier. Highlights include the Pirate Invasion, 4th of July, the Love Long Beach Festival, Crawfish Festival and Tiki Beach Festival, among numerous others. For an unforgettable pre-departure dinner, try Heritage on East 7th Street in the city’s Rose Park neighborhood, where Chef Philip Pretty serves up seasonal delicacies such as wild striped bass, Iberico pork shoulder and toasted sunchoke ice cream.
Henrik Landfors / Getty Images
BY RICHARD KERN
Stop 1: Newport Beach Estimated Mileage: 16 NM
International Yacht Race has drawn experienced sailors to Newport Beach. Billed as the largest sailboat race in the world, N2E offers more than 20 competitive classes, ranging from large ultra-light and maxi-yachts to smaller yachts in non-spinnaker categories. As you might expect, Newport Bay is also home to numerous marinas and restaurants. Standout eateries include The Dock (seriously upscale waterside), The Winery (check out their nightly wild game specials), Gulfstream (classic seafood-house ambiance), and Bluewater Grill (copious portions of fish and shellfish in a casual dockside locale). Upper Newport Bay (known locally as the Back Bay) offers myriad recreational opportunities. A network of trails and paths through coastal wetlands attracts walkers, joggers and bicyclists, and
birdwatchers flock to the 1,000-acre Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, as do hikers and mountain bikers. Side trip: Catalina Island is just 28 NM west of Newport Beach. Watersports and activities are centered around Descanso Beach just north of Avalon Harbor. Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and other nautical conveyances are available here, providing the perfect way to see seals, sea lions, flying fish and dolphins. With more than 700 moorings, Catalina is a yachtsman’s paradise in summer.
Stop 2: San Clemente Estimate Mileage: 20 NM
San Clemente is known by most people for two things: 1) surfing and 2) President Richard Nixon’s home (La Casa Pacifica). Often referred to as the Western White House, it’s still viewable on a beautiful
Eric-Butler/Pexels
Beachcombers love Newport Beach, the storied seaside enclave with a 10-mile stretch of unsurpassed sand and sun. Surfers prefer The Wedge, located at the southeast end of the Balboa Peninsula, known for its large waves, some reaching 30 feet. More than a dozen area beaches have been awarded a five-star rating from the Natural Resources Defense Council, with the city’s Municipal Beach taking top honors. Newport Harbor is home to about 9,000 boats, making it one of the largest recreational boat harbors on the west coast. Popular pursuits include fishing, kayaking, rowing, paddleboarding and canoeing. Every spring since 1948, the Newport to Ensenada (N2E)
Channone Arif/Wikimedia Commons
Bernard Spragg/Flickr
Queen Mary at Long Beach
Rainbow Harbor at Long Beach
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manhhai/Flickr
Don Graham/Flickr
San Clemente beach
red tile roofs, stucco walls and dark wood doors, as are most of the area’s oldest homes north and south of downtown. The San Clemente Pier and Beach Trail are popular spots for fishing, jogging and hiking, but the main attraction here is farther south at Trestles, a series of five breaks at San Onofre State Beach that
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy/Flickr
stretch of California coast just north of San Mateo Point and San Mateo Creek. From its inception as a 2,000-acre oceanside enclave in 1925, San Clemente was dubbed the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” and it’s still famous for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Downtown San Clemente’s structures are replete with
La Casa Pacifica Nixon House
draws surfers from all over the world and hosts major professional surfing events. If you’re not quite ready to tackle the big waves, you can visit the Surfing Heritage & Culture Center at 110 Calle Iglesia, with its huge collection of exhibits, archives and oral histories. The city also has a large concentration of surfboard shapers and manufacturers, and worldfamous surfers call San Clemente home. After an invigorating day at the beach, you can wind down at any number of restaurants on Avenida Del Mar, whether your tastes run to French, Belgian, Italian, Mexican, American or vegetarian. At the foot of San Clemente Pier, The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar serves up nearly 20 daily seafood specials, in addition to bountiful breakfast and luscious lunch menus. ml
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Joseph Plotz/Wikimedia Commons
Newport Beach houses from Balboa Island
Don Graham/Flickr
San Clemente Beach Pier
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/LongBeachToSanClemente
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Gasparilla Island Kids Classic Tarpon Tournament
EXPLORE BOCA GRANDE A jewel among America’s best small beach towns BY CLAIRE RUPPERT
B
oca Grande is a small town at the southern end of Gasparilla Island, one of Florida’s many barrier islands. A secluded, long-time escape of the country’s social elite, Boca Grande is one of South Florida’s hidden gems. Gasparilla Island is idyllic for visitors who want a relaxing vacation. Steeped in Old Florida charm and seemingly forgotten by the rest of the world, Boca Grande truly runs on island time. The historic downtown is well preserved and dotted with Spanish colonial-style community buildings. The oldest lighthouse on the island, Port Boca Grande Lighthouse was completed in 1890 and is open for tours at the southernmost end of the island in Gasparilla Island State Park. The best way to explore the island is by bike or golf cart, both available to rent, on the paved path that runs six and a half miles, end to end. Free of chain restaurants and shrouded in
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preserved landscapes, Boca Grande visitors often feel like they’ve stepped back in time. Learning about the island’s history is easy with museums at the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and historic Whidden’s Marina. Gasparilla Island State Park offers four beach access points to the powder soft sand. These beaches are accessible and outfitted with grills, showers, parking and shade canopies. Between the amenities and the clear blue waters, Boca Grande is every beach-goer’s paradise. The shallow Florida waters are a great place to snorkel, but Gasparilla Island is better known as a world-famous tarpon fishing and angling site. When visiting the beaches, be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Gasparilla Island is a treasured shelling location, revealing beautiful seashells and fossils such as shark teeth. All the island’s beaches tend to be laid back, but if you are looking to add a day trip to your itinerary, Caya Costa, the island state
Christopher Harrison/Flickr
DESTINATION > GASPARILLA ISLAND
WHERE TO DOCK Boca Grande Marina 941-964-2100 This marina accommodates vessels up to 130 feet. It’s a full-service, pet-friendly place with free Wi-Fi, restaurants and golf cart rentals that also offers the only roadside gas pump for vehicles on the island. The Inn Marina 941-964-4620 Available to guests of the Gasparilla Inn & Club, this marina is located on the Boca Grande Bayou and offers wet and dry storage, as well as an extensive marina store. As a full-service, certified green marina, it has on-site technicians.
Lee Leblanc/Flickr
Whidden’s Marina 941-964-2878 As one of the area’s oldest marinas, this family-owned facility has been serving the Boca Grande community since 1925. The historic establishment offers overnight slips, gas, bait and tackle and onsite fishing charters. Gasparilla Inn
Gasparilla Island Lighthouse
WHERE TO DINE The Pink Elephant 941-964-4540 Located in a historic building on the Boca Grande Bayou, The Pink Elephant is part of Gasparilla Inn & Club. The second floor accepts reservations and is somewhat formal, but the first floor, known as “The Pink” is a casual and popular watering hole with a seafood-forward menu that includes surf ‘n turf and comfort foods.
Ebyabe/Wikimedia Commons
The Temptation 941-964-2610 An extremely popular eatery known for fresh seafood, The Temptation has been around for 75 years, still maintaining its original retro vibes. Often called “the fish house of your dreams,” it has a stocked wine cellar and chefs will cook your catch of the day.
park across the strait, is another exceptional beach option. On the east side of the island, just north of the golf club, is the Boca Grande Bayou, home to the famous Gasparilla Inn & Club. The bayou is perfect for exploring by kayak or paddleboard, especially in the morning. Whether you come here for fishing, the beautiful Florida waters, the privacy or the Old Florida experience, Gasparilla Island will delight and surprise you. Embrace your escape; enjoy Boca Grande. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/BocaGrande
The Outlet Restaurant at the Innlet 855-643-7557 Start your day right with a hearty breakfast and a lovely waterfront view at The Outlet. Open from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the kitchen dishes out comfort foods from omelets and French toast to po’ boys and paninis. Box lunches for day trips on the water are available if you call in advance. Eagle Grill & Miller’s Dockside 941-964-8000 Located at the Boca Grande Marina, this pair of restaurants can accommodate any whim or budget. Miller’s Dockside on the bottom level has a lively sports bar vibe with good pub fare. On the second floor, Eagle Grill presents fine dining in a calm setting with a gorgeous view of Charlotte Harbor. WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 27
Scan to start S your yo adventure
The adventure of a lifetime
America’s Great Loop
Join our group of likeminded boaters exploring the 6,000mile waterway known as the Great Loop. There is no more unique way to explore the U.S. and Canada than from the water! Whether you’re brand new to the idea of the Great Loop, actively planning your trip, or ready to drop the dock lines and head out, we offer something for you!
• Access to hundreds of harbor hosts to assist you with local knowledge around the route
Visit us at www.greatloop.org or call 877-GR8-LOOP
• Participation in our discussion forum that offers a deep-dive into Great Loop-related questions and topics
A G L A C G A L A C G A L C A
I C
Membership in America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association includes:
TM
• Webinars exclusively for members • Discounts on dockage, fuel, equipment.... • Monthly digital magazines and newsletters
N T
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customerservice@hosehut.com WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 29
EXPLORE THE
Galápagos Islands A photographic journal of extraordinary land & sea life
ARTICLE BY JAY FLEMING & SUSAN ELNICKI WADE
A Galápagos sea lion swims near the surface at Isla Pinzon
PHOTOS BY JAY FLEMING
S
ince the 1500s, visitors ranging from pirates and European explorers to tourists and renowned scientists (such as Charles Darwin) have sailed to the Galápagos Islands. Located about 600 miles west of Ecuador, this Pacific archipelago delights guests with a menagerie of unique and exotic creatures that live on rocky land forged from volcanic eruptions. Among last year’s nearly 300,000 island sightseers was photographer, Jay Fleming, best known for his books and photos that chronicle the Chesapeake Bay. In January 2023, Fleming embarked upon a five-day Galápagos tour with Holbrook Travel, along with a dozen expert birders, travel professionals, fishery scientists and a college professor as his cruising companions.
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After a couple nights in Ecuador’s capital city of Quito, they flew to San Cristóbal Island to board the Galápagos Legend, a 301-foot steel hull vessel that served as a hospital ship in the Vietnam War and passenger ship in the Baltic Sea before transforming into a luxury cruise ship in 2002. Fleming and his crew were slated for a southern Galápagos island-hopping excursion to four destinations: San Cristóbal, Española, Floreana and Santa Cruz. After departing from San Cristobal, the first stop was Española, an island uninhabited by humans but bustling with wildlife and nesting colonies of Nazca boobies and albatross. A two-mile hike around the western side of the island introduced them to other feathered residents such as Galápagos hawks and swallow tail gulls.
Galápagos Legend cruise ship
Next on their itinerary: Floreana, a small, inhabited island about 30 miles west of Española. The morning’s snorkeling expedition took place on a protected beach along Post Office Bay, where Pacific green sea turtles, white tip reef sharks, Mexican hogfish, parrotfish and other species put on a dazzling aquatic display. The afternoon excursion entailed a deepwater snorkel at Devil’s Crown, a rock offshore of Floreana, and a hike to meet nesting sea turtles at Punta Cormorant. The island of Santa Cruz presented a new destination to observe up close more amazing flora
and fauna. The crew hiked around a beach and lagoon in an area called Dragon Hill, which was home to American flamingos and oystercatchers, black-necked stilts, and the endemic lava heron. Land iguanas fed on fallen fruit from a cactus, while finches and Galápagos flycatchers posed for Fleming’s camera. The afternoon trip brought them to a beach at Punta Bowditch, south of Dragon Hill landing. The waters shimmered with schools of parrotfish, Mexican hogfish and black-striped salema. For the final voyage, the group packed up their luggage and gear and headed to the Itabaca
Jay Fleming with a large Galápagos tortoise at El Chato Ranch on Santa Cruz
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An American flamingo preens after feeding in a small lagoon on Floreana Island
A Galápagos mockingbird perches atop a marine iguana on the shoreline of Española Island
Channel, a small passage between Santa Cruz and Baltra. After disembarking, they loaded into a small bus that transported them to El Chato Ranch in the interior highlands of Santa Cruz Island where dozens of Galápagos tortoises roamed the property. After returning to the United States, Fleming began building a portfolio of his work from the Galápagos journey and preparing photography workshops for others to explore the islands. Marinalife is honored to present a sampling of his images from the trip. To learn more about Jay Fleming Photography and his workshops, go to jayflemingphotography.com
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A sea lion rests on the beach at La Lobería on Floreana Island
A school of yellow-tailed surgeonfish swims near the rocks at Isla Seymour Norte
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A Pacific seahorse conceals itself amongst a clump of marine grass at Los Túneles on Isabela Island
The path to the beach at La Lobería on Floreana Island
A Sally lightfoot crab crawls on an igneous rock on the shoreline at Punta Cormorant on Floreana Island
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Snorkeling along the shoreline at La Lobería on Floreana Island
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/GalapagosIslands
WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 35
SMART BOATER >
The Inside Scoop on
Painting your Boat’s Bottom
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the market today, and a smart boater will research the options when selecting paint to understand how the boat is used and where it goes.
Which fits your boating style — hard or soft coating?
Hard paint coating does not wear away like an ablative (an older type of hull paint designed to come off slowly). It works all the time whether the boat is moving or not. However, with hard paints, the antifouling properties (biocides) leach out over time thus losing power to keep growth and barnacles from attaching. With ablatives, when you run your boat, the soft paint sloughs off exposing a new
Goran Stimac
I
f you keep your boat in the water year-round, odds are that you might wonder what the bottom looks like and the condition of your running gear. Choosing the right bottom paint and coating goes a long way for the boat’s protection and performance, as well as your peace of mind. To pick correct paints, several factors are considered such as the type of water, where you boat, how often you boat, the boat’s material and your budget. You don’t have to spend a fortune, but you should maintain it if you want to get the best performance. Bottom paint is essential to protect the hull and prevent fouling of the bottom and running gear. Many choices are on
amnat jomjun
BY SCOTT MILLER
layer of antifouling and removing the old layer of growth. While boat movement is a big consideration for hard or ablative, many other factors are considered. • Cruising Area: Especially in warm waters like the Caribbean, bays and sounds, you need a high- quality antifouling paint specifically designed for saltwater. These paints usually provide better protection against marine growth. Freshwater cruising doesn’t mean you don’t need bottom paint. Algae and other marine growth still foul the bottom and running gear based on temperatures. • Hull Material: Hull material also plays a big role in paint selection. Most antifouling paints are suitable for fiberglass boats. Aluminum boats require antifouling paints formulated for aluminum surfaces to prevent corrosion and protect the bottom from marine growth and barnacles. Wooden boats may need specialized bottom paints designed to protect wood against fouling and rot. Some traditional copper-based paints work well for wooden boats. • Environmental concerns: Be aware of local and regional regulations regarding bottom paint. Some areas have restrictions on certain types of bottom paints, especially those containing high levels of copper or other potentially harmful substances. Many boat yards are required to follow these regulations and won’t let you or the staff use paints that are locally restricted.
Selecting the right paint
westmarine.com
Once you know what characteristics you’re looking for, various reputable bottom paint brands are available, such as Interlux, Pettit, Sea Hawk and more. While it is important to consult with your boatyard or marina for recommendations based on local conditions, boaters should do their research. Most paint manufacturers have well-written instructions and guidance on use and proper application. Be sure to follow manufacturers’ instructions for application, surface preparation, number of coats and drying times. Applying paint correctly is crucial for the paint’s effectiveness, and most poor paint jobs were doomed at the first step with surface preparation. Some boaters use the same bottom paint on their running
gear as the hull, but it’s not designed for this and will not last. Many options for paints and application methods are available, with potential solutions ranging from metal paints and zinc spray to brush-on paints. Some choose to go paint free on the running gear, and with frequent boat use and proper cleaning, this can be effective. One coating gets a lot of attention. Propspeed’s bright and high-gloss gold appearance stands out in the boat yard and gets noticed by boaters who aren’t used to seeing it. Propspeed is a foul-release coating that is free of biocides and applied to the propellers, shafts, thrusters and other underwater metals. It creates a surface that is tough for marine organisms to adhere to instead of antifoulants. If you select this coating, make sure you understand the application process and your boat yard is properly trained to apply it.
Regular maintenance is key
Maintaining your boat bottom well is crucial to get the life expectancy from a paint job. Inspect the bottom regularly, ideally once a month or before each outing. Look for signs of fouling, such as barnacles, algae or slime. If you notice fouling at the waterline, it’s also likely to be on the bottom. Use a soft brush or a pressure washer with a low setting to remove marine growth and slime where you can reach. Hire a diver to regularly clean below the water line. The warmer the water, the more often you need to do this. Depending on the extent of fouling, you may need to haul the boat out of the water for a thorough cleaning or repainting. Hauling out should be a last resort, and if proper maintenance is done all year long, it isn’t always needed annually. When you do haul out, check anodes (zincs) for excessive wear and through-hulls for debris and growth. Finally, keep records of when the bottom was last painted, what type and how much was used. This information is valuable for future maintenance and deciding on the next application. By staying proactive and following best practices, you can enjoy a clean and well-protected hull while extending the life of your bottom paint. To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/BoatBottomPaint
Do you have boat maintenance questions or problems? Send them to swade@marinalife.com, and we’ll see if our Smart Boater team can help.
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Courtesy of Rod ‘N’ Reel
New Featu re for Better Boating!
WHAT’S UP, DOCK? The latest news on changes at marinas
Rod ‘N’ Reel Marina
BY ALEXA ZIZZI
I
n this new feature, Marinalife highlights recent upgrades, renovations or additions to our Snag-A-Slip partner
marinas and other popular ports. This issue focuses on destinations from the mid-Atlantic to The Bahamas that have enhanced their facilities, added amenities, rebounded after stormy weather, built new docks, established a new restaurant or ship store, or found innovative ways to make visits to their marinas more enjoyable.
Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort
Dowry Creek Marina
In 2021, this Chesapeake Bay marina resort launched a three-phase remodeling project, including a parking garage addition and removal of Smokey Joe’s Grill. Last year, the marina completed Phase 2, opening CBQ, a barbeque restaurant offering dishes from smoked brisket to baby back ribs, two floors of gaming areas and The Overlook event space. Phase 3 is currently in progress with plans to reconstruct the original Rod ‘N’ Reel building and add a new beachfront atrium for weddings and events. rnrresortmd.com
This family-owned facility placed as a winner in this year’s Best Small Marina category of our Best Marina Contest — and its exceptional customer service shows why. Just three miles north of Belhaven along the Pungo River, this destination offers deep-water slips and amenities such as a saltwater swimming pool. The marina opened a new seafood restaurant, The Salty Crab, hosting live music, fishing tournament specials and deals on meals. dowrycreekmarina.com
Chesapeake Beach, MD
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Belhaven, NC
Belle Bluff Island Campground & Dock Townsend, GA
Just off the ICW on the White Chimney River, this southern escape offers cozy campsites, fishing piers and a dock accommodating vessels up to 60 feet. The facility recently added new waterlines and power along 567 feet of floating docks. The marina is located 10 minutes from Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge and the Georgia Peach World market. bellebluff.wordpress.com
Bradford Marine Fort Lauderdale, FL
In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, this full-service marina is expanding its top-of-the-line facilities. In October, Bradford Marine acquired Roscioli Yachting Center located adjacent to the property, and it plans to expand services. The facility is also expanding lift capacity, in-water dockage and dry storage. bradford-marine.com
PORT 32 Palm Beach Gardens Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Leading marina owner and operator PORT 32 Marinas is adding new properties to its portfolio left and right. Centrally located between Jupiter and Palm Beach Inlets, this facility has big plans for a multimillion-dollar redevelopment to add 57 slips and modernize the marina. The 50-year-old infrastructure currently offers indoor dry storage, repair services, on-site boat sales and a waterfront tiki bar. Stay tuned for updates. port32marinas.com
Courtesy of Bradford Marine
Mariakray
Atlantis Paradise Island Resort
Atlantis Paradise Island Paradise Island, Bahamas
The luxurious resort Atlantis offers five-star accommodations, dining and attractions in a tropical setting. To celebrate its 25th anniversary,
the property recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation to the Royal Towers. Two new restaurants also opened including the Bahamas’ first Shake Shack and the high-end Paranza restaurant. atlantisbahamas.com WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 39
CRUISING WITH MEMBERS > JEN LEROUX
DAY TRIP TO
THE EXUMAS: A GLIMPSE OF PARADISE ARTICLES AND PHOTOS BY JEN LEROUX
DURING MY VISIT TO NASSAU, the vibrant capital of the Bahamas, I was presented with a remarkable chance to set sail on a day trip to the Exumas. This was a dream come true, as I had only ever glimpsed the blue-green waters of the Bahamas from above, whether during a flight or in photographs. Unlike Nassau, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural epicenter of the Bahamas, the Exumas promised a more tranquil and laid-back escape. The Exumas lie near Nassau, nestled within the Exuma Cays. This chain of islands and cays is a part of the broader Bahamian archipelago, which comprises more than 700 islands and 2,400 cays. My husband Jim and I had the privilege of being guests aboard Captain Peter Maury’s boat. Peter is the General Manager of Bay Street Marina and a past president of the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM). With his childhood spent boating in and around the Exumas, Peter was an ideal host and guide to unveil the splendor of these islands. Joining us on this adventure was Erika Feszt, Assistant Manager of Bay Street. Our day commenced bright and early as we boarded Peter’s boat at Bay Street Marina, conveniently situated within walking distance of Paradise Island to the east and downtown to the west. The marina boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including a fitness center, stunning pool and the on-site restaurant, The Green Parrot, where fried snapper and lobster are a must-try! It was a picturesque morning, and the waterway was already bustling as we departed from the marina, headed toward the open sea. Despite our repeated inquiries about the day’s itinerary, Captain Maury kindly advised us to cease questioning and simply savor the unfolding day. After navigating around a brief squall, we reached our first destination about an hour later — the untouched, remote Cabbage Cay, also known as Iguana Island or Leaf Cay. What set it apart was 40 m arina life.c o m
the presence of a rare and protected population of Northern Bahamian rock iguanas. Stepping off the boat to explore the island’s white sandy beaches and lush vegetation, we observed these remarkable iguanas in their natural habitat. Our next stop was Highbourne Cay, steeped in a rich history interwoven with stories of shipwrecks and pirate legends. The island’s history traces back to the early 18th century when it became a haven for buccaneers who used its natural harbors and concealed coves as bases for their operations. Highbourne Cay, like many other islands in the region, was a favorite haunt of notorious pirates such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack. Its historical significance was accentuated by the discovery of the oldest-known shipwreck in the Americas, a Spanish galleon dating back to the early
16th century. This shipwreck bore witness to the extensive maritime history of The Bahamas and Exumas, where sailors, pirates and explorers had left their mark for centuries. Today, Highbourne Cay Marina offers a serene haven for boaters, thanks to its naturally sheltered harbor. By this point in our journey, we were ready for lunch! Every mention of the Exumas had included a mandate: “You must go to MacDuff ’s for the best burger you will ever have!” So, off we went to MacDuff ’s Cottages & Restaurant on Norman’s Cay. We anchored in the ocean, waded onto the beach, and immediately spotted the quaint wooden path leading to the restaurant. As we ascended the stairs to be seated and absorbed the inviting ambiance, friendly staff, and lush surroundings, we knew this would be a meal to remember.
After devouring mouth-watering burgers chased down with frozen margaritas, I can wholeheartedly endorse MacDuff ’s. While the burger was undeniably spectacular, it
It was a picturesque morning, and the waterway was already bustling as we departed from the marina, headed toward the open sea. was the warm hospitality, the salty margaritas, and sea tales shared by Captain Maury that rendered it an unforgettable experience.
Our next stop, aptly named “The Washing Machine,” required precise timing based on the tides. Before taking the plunge into its clear waters, we climbed to the top of a nearby hill to soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands. From there, we immersed ourselves in the swirling waters, where the significance of tides became evident. A unique tidal whirlpool effect, engendered by the dynamic interplay of ocean currents and submerged caves, made this a must-see natural phenomenon. As we swam and floated around, it felt as though we were effortlessly drifting through the water, akin to being inside a washing machine. It was an exhilarating and somewhat nervewracking adventure that showcased the awe-inspiring forces of nature. Before we headed back to Nassau, our
View from the top of Washing Machine
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last stop was Ship Channel Cay, the home of Powerboat Adventures. It’s typically lively with cruise ship excursions and tourists seeking to swim with pigs, feed stingrays, and swim with sharks, but we arrived after the day’s guests had departed and had the island to ourselves. After relaxing and engaging in a conversation with the island’s owner and manager, we swam in the ocean to cool off. Soon, we realized we were not alone. Several uninvited nurse sharks came over to join us! Regrettably, the day was ending, and it was time to bid farewell to our newfound friends and leave the unexplored beauty of the Exumas. No words can sufficiently describe the jaw-dropping turquoise hues of the waters against the pristine white sands that graced our journey. As we made our way back to Nassau, the sun began to set in the sky. It was a peaceful, contemplative ride as we reflected on an extraordinary, authentic and inspiring day on the water. Upon returning to port, we made one final stop at the renowned Margaritaville on Paradise Island. To our delight, we arrived just in time for the weekly Junkanoo Rush Out — a dazzling spectacle, featuring elaborate costumes, rhythmic music and electrifying dance performances. Each group, or “rush,” dedicates months to crafting intricate costumes and choreographing their routines, blending historical narratives with modern artistry. It was a sight to behold, a vibrant and captivating display. Jim and I remain eternally grateful for the opportunity to explore the Exumas like a local, thanks to Captain Maury. This experience has solidified our love for the Bahamas, its people, and its culture, and it will remain a favorite destination for years to come. ml
Swimming with sharks
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Norman’s Cay
MacDuff’s Restuarant
Special Destinations on my Exuma Getaway Bay Street Marina baystreetmarina.com Green Parrot Bar & Grill greenparrotbar.com Highbourne Cay highbourne-exumas.com Norman’s Cay normanscay.com
Iguana Island
MacDuff’s Cottages & Restaurant macduffscottages.com Powerboat Adventures powerboatadventures.com Margaritaville Paradise Island margaritavillebahamas.com
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/ExumasDayTrip
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Explore. Book. Boat.
Bay Street Marina
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WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 45
Best Coastal State Parks
Part II: WEST COAST
Treat yourself to hidden treasures at these seaside parks & preserves BY ALEXA ZIZZI
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
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Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
to Explore in Florida
Henderson Beach State Park
Destin Snow-white sand dunes and warm Gulf waters shine at this Emerald Coast gem. The park offers six pavilions, 60 campsites and fishing along a beautiful beachside. Lay out a picnic to take in the foliage or walk trails that showcase the last remaining coastal scrub area in Destin. Campsite renovtions are planned for this summer. What to Do: Biking, fishing, camping, swimming Where to Dock: HarborWalk Marina
Grayton Beach State Park
Santa Rosa Beach Paddle the backwaters of Western Lake or hike four miles of forest trails at this beachside park. Pitch a tent at a campsite or stay at one of the cozy cabins complete with screened-in porches and outdoor grills. What to Do: Boating, paddling, camping, hiking, fishing Where to Dock: Sandestin’s Baytowne Marina
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
St. George Island This island offers crystal white sands on the Gulf side and saltwater marshes on the Apalachicola Bay side for the best of both worlds. Canoe, kayak or swim through barrier island waterways and take advantage of the abundant shelling and beachcombing opportunities. What to Do: Hiking, biking, beachcombing, boating, camping, fishing Where to Dock: On-site; $8-$10 boat entry fee
Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
Crystal River Preserve State Park
Crystal River More than 20 miles of protected islands, marshes and forest span this ecologically diverse preserve. Take a clear kayak tour or snorkel cruise to swim with manatees in their natural habitat. To arrive by water, visitors can dock at Twin Rivers Marina on the other side of the river and paddle over to the park’s kayak launches. A short car ride to the park allows for access to a boat ramp at the end of Ft. Island Trail, as well as dockage at Pete’s Pier marina on Kings Bay. What to Do: Hiking, biking, birdwatching, boating, camping, fishing Where to Dock: Twin Rivers Marina or Pete’s Pier
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Crystal River Preserve State Park
Honeymoon Island State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs Ellie Schiller Homosassa Park Springs Wildlife State Park State Spring Hill Homosassa Get an up-close look at this park’s captive wildlife from wolves and black bears to alligators and flamingos. You can meet Lu, the oldest hippo in captivity. Jacks, snapper, and fresh and saltwater fish flourish in this park’s natural spring. The unique Underwater Observatory structure allows guests to walk beneath the spring’s surface to witness fish and manatees. What to Do: Hiking, birdwatching and boat tours Where to Dock: Homosassa Springs Marina (moorings and dry storage only)
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Ebyabe/Wikimedia Commons Peter Massas/Wikimedia Commons
Courtesy of of Citrus County Visitors Bureau
Homosassa Springs State Park
You may spot wildlife at these Florida locations, but Weeki Wachee is the only park where you can see mermaids. Witness a live-action version of The Little Mermaid like you’ve never seen it before as the performers grace an underwater amphitheater with a spectacular show. The park also offers kayaking, exotic riverboat cruises and wildlife shows. Kids love splashing around on giant waterslides at Buccaneer Bay waterpark. What to Do: Mermaid and wildlife shows, boat tours, water slides, kayaking Where to Dock: Hernando Beach Marina
Honeymoon Island State Park
Dunedin Feel like you’re on a honeymoon and fall in love with this serene island. Four miles of shoreline offer swimming, surfing, fishing and combing pristine beaches where sea turtles nest from March through October. Check out Wheel Fun Rentals for a variety of bikes to cruise around the island, kayak along Pelican Cove, or hike the 2.5-mile Osprey Trail for peaceful birdwatching. What to Do: Hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, swimming Where to Dock: Marker 1 Marina
Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
Grayton Beach State Park
qwesy qwesy/Wikimedia Commons
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
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Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
Riverboat ride at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Dunedin Just a few nautical miles south of Honeymoon Island and only accessible by boat, this hidden gem is a gorgeous getaway. Dock at the 108-slip bayside marina offering amenities such as 30 AMP electric, canoe/kayak launch, a covered pavilion, grills for picnicking, plus a snack bar and gift shop at the marina. Paddle stunning mangroves, hike sandy trails on the Beach Loop and enjoy fishing in permitted areas. What to Do: Boating, camping, paddling, fishing, swimming Where to Dock: Caladesi Island State Park Marina To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/FLStateParks-Part2
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Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau
Caladesi Island State Park
The Weather is Here!
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27075 Marina Road • Orange Beach, AL • 251.981.4207 • OrangeBeachMarina.com WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 51
FOOD & DRINK >
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
THE GOLDEN TOUCH
A SWEET LEGACY OF PINEAPPLE GROWING ON ELEUTHERA BY MICAH ANGEL
BETTER KNOWN TO LOCALS AS LADY DI, DIANNA THOMPSON has been farming pineapples on the slender Bahamian island of Eleuthera for over 45 years — a particular variety called “sugar loaf.” After biting into a slice of her sunny nectarous fruit, you’ll agree with Lady Di that “There’s no other pineapple as sweet.” “You work hard until you know what to do,” she claims in her cheerful Caribbean accent. Now a central figure of Bahamian pineapple farming, Lady Di started learning to cultivate the spiky fruits when she moved to Eleuthera in 1974 from Long Island (Bahamas). She worked alongside her brothers who were well-established farmers, and they taught her to cultivate fruits and vegetables including melons, mangos, avocados, key limes, 52 m arina lif e.c o m
peppers, cabbage, greens and herbs. But most of all, Lady Di adored growing pineapples. She eventually wanted to farm her own plot of land and asked her brother Lyn to help clear “a little piece ‘a pine” for herself. He helped Lady Di prepare a dedicated field to farm, and she was officially on her own. Her first few years proved difficult, and pineapples’ 18-month harvesting cycle requires a special kind of patience. “You can’t force the pine,” she explains. After a successful but small initial yield, she started expanding. Little by little, her pineapple farm grew, and more land was cleared for future pineapple fields. She learned as she went and kept an open attitude.
Pexels.com The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
Eleutheran pineapple
What makes her pineapples so sweet? “We plant them in the red clay soil,” she explains. Eleuthera’s red soil actually originates in Africa’s Sahara Desert, where it is swept up in powerful dust storms and then blown across the Atlantic. This colorful dirt is high in iron and raises the acidity of the alkaline Bahamian soil, making the land better suited for farming. Lady Di remains a keen source of farming knowledge throughout the islands and fellow Bahamians frequently seek her agricultural expertise. Her reputation as a master cultivator of fruits and vegetables has drawn the attention of both backyard and commercial farmers. And business on her farm is booming. She recently started doing business with rum maker Bacardí and regularly ships massive quantities of pineapples to use in their spirits. In fact, if you’re sipping Bacardí’s Pineapple Fusion Rum, Pineapple Mai Tai, Rum Punch or Tropical Rum, you’re likely tasting Lady Di’s sugar loaf pineapples. As for favorite family recipes using pineapples, Lady Di’s daughter Sabrina Thompson says they make pineapple jam, pineapple pepper jelly and piña coladas using fresh pineapple juice. On special occasions, Sabrina and her brother make “Mr. Cool Pineapple Wine” in honor of their late father. The recipe remains a secret.
A REVIVAL IN PINEAPPLE FARMING ON ELEUTHERA
Before their home became a travel destination for beachgoers, sport fishermen and pleasure boaters, most Eleutheran locals made their living farming crops. As early as 1845, Eleuthera was known as the premier pineapple-growing island in The Bahamas and supplied the United States and England with thousands of succulent fruits each year. By the late 19th century, The Bahamas Lady Di offers sage wisdom and a delightful sense of humor
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A short boat ride away from Eleuthera, Harbour Island boasts stunning New England-style architecture
dominated the commercial pineapple market — with Eleuthera notorious for yielding the sweetest crop. Ultimately, overproduction led to soil exhaustion and plant disease on Eleuthera, and the booming pineapple industry started to falter in the early 20th century. Meanwhile, Hawaiian-grown pineapples started hitting the market and posed significant competition. The Eleutheran pineapple business was on the brink of collapse by the late 1900s, and only a handful of aging farmers remained. The next generation of would-be farmers, preferring a steady paycheck to a life tending the fields, chose to work in hotels and other tourism-related trades. It was only a matter of time before pineapple farming on Eleuthera died out altogether. But recently Eleuthera has enjoyed a resurgence of pineapple farming, thanks in part to the wisdom of Lady Di. Young farmers, frustrated with high-priced, pesticide-ridden imported fruits and vegetables, have started farming on Eleuthera again. As produce prices continue to rise and the farm-to-table movement gains popularity, more folks consider farming as a legitimate profession. And Lady Di supports them in their efforts, offering planting tips and tricks to newcomers. “This isn’t the ‘90s anymore. You can make money in farming,” 54 m ar ina lif e.c o m
Lady Di tending to her field
GOOMBAY SMASH A classic Bahamian cocktail, the Goombay Smash is found on the drink menu at nearly every bar in the archipelago. Although no two recipes are alike, this concoction is best known for packing an island-flavor punch. Mix up a pitcher at your next boat party and whisk your guests off to the tropics.
2 ounces coconut rum 2 ounces apricot brandy 3 ½ ounces dark rum 1 ½ cups pineapple juice 1 cup orange juice Juice of 1 lime Fresh orange and pineapple slices for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
RDNE Stock project/Pexels
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
INGREDIENTS
Sabrina Thompson
Sabrina Thompson asserts. Growers are launching farms on Eleuthera, sparking a substantial resurgence of agriculture on the island. In the last five years alone, Eleuthera has welcomed roughly 20 new farmers. Many work normal day jobs until they can get their small farms off the ground. This past September, Lady Di was awarded the Minister’s Choice Lifetime Achievement Award by the Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture. At 69 years young, she continues to serve as a beacon of light for her fellow Bahamian farmers. If you visit Eleuthera, be sure to call Lady Di for a tour of her farm at 242-335-5006.
THE SWEETEST FESTIVAL IN THE BAHAMAS
Eleuthera entices travelers from across the globe with its charming fishing villages,
Fill a pitcher ⅔ with ice. Combine all ingredients and stir. Serve over ice. Garnish with orange and pineapple slices. Serves four guests.
untouched beaches and swimming pigs. Locals and visitors celebrate their pineapple-growing heritage every June at Pineapple Fest, a celebration with food, games and music held in Gregory Town, Eleuthera’s agricultural center. Referred to as “the sweetest festival in The Islands of The Bahamas,” the multiday event features culinary competitions for dishes including Pineapple Rum Cake, Pineapple Custard and Pineapple Coconut Cookie Cups. You might be fortunate enough to witness Lady Di herself cooking her mouthwatering pineapple jams. For more, go to bahamas.com/events/pineapple-festival ml
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/EleutheraPineapples
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Explore Providenciales
Blue Haven Marina
To experience a slice of Caribbean heaven
T
BY CLAIRE RUPPERT
he Turks and Caicos Archipelago is situated on the Caribbean’s Caicos Plateau, which makes the perfect place for snorkeling in the shallows and diving or deep-sea fishing off the edge of the plateau. Providenciales, or “Provo,” is the most populated island in the archipelago, and the best option for a base of operations during a Turks and Caicos vacation. The island boasts one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean as well as luxury resorts and spas. But the real draw of Turks and Caicos is the pure natural beauty. With clear turquoise water, soft white sand beaches and no shortage of options around the island and surrounding cays, the 40+ Turks and Caicos islands are your oyster — or maybe your conch, in this case. The shopping and nightlife district is sandwiched between the award-winning Grace Bay Beach on the north coast of Provo and Long Beach Bay on the southeast side of the island. Good dining options are plentiful, but the weekly fish fry at Bight Park on Thursdays is a must. 56 m arina life.c o m
Both Grace Bay and Long Beach have beaches lined with colorful resorts and villas, and the two locations provide different opportunities to enjoy the pristine coast. The Grace Bay area offers snorkeling nestled in the curve of the island at Smith’s Reef and Bight Reef. Not much farther from shore is the second largest reef in the Atlantic, the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef. Another offshore attraction is Provo’s famous friendly dolphin Jojo, who although wild, has been known to befriend humans. Once you have your fill of snorkeling, Long Beach Bay is a popular kitesurfing destination, thanks to the Eastern trade winds that carry surfers through the waves. On the southwestern side of the island awaits one of the most stunning attractions, Chalk Sound Lagoon. An almost entirely landlocked lagoon filled with tiny islets, Chalk Sound is ready to be explored by paddle board or kayak. Aside from Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve, Chalk Sound Lagoon is one of the few places in the world with “ironshore” landscapes consisting of stunted salt-resistant shrubbery and heavily weathered limestone. The erosion of the limestone cliffs leaves
Visit Turks & Caicos
DESTINATION > TURKS & CAICOS
WHERE TO DOCK
Joe Shlabotnik/Flickr
South Bank Marina +1-649-946 5600 This full-service marina and boatyard is located off the island’s south shore along the Caicos Bank natural sheltered barrier. Amenities include a ships store, fuel, haul out, storage, megayacht concierge services, and the boatyard operates the only 75-ton marine travelift in Provo. Blue Haven Marina +1-649-946-9910 Blue Haven is situated in a sheltered cove on the eastern side of Provo. This fullservice marina is complete with a concierge service, catering and dry-cleaning, and it can accommodate megayachts larger than 200 feet. South Side Marina +1-649-946-4137 A quieter marina and popular with cruisers, South Side Marina is on the southern coast of Providenciales, offering water, power, fuel, Wi-Fi, laundry, ice and a small pub.
Visit Turks & Caicos
Turtle Cove Marina +1-649-941-3781 The oldest recreational marina on the island, Turtle Cove is in the middle of Provo on the north shore, and it provides gas, diesel, water and power, as well as a boat ramp and restaurants. The location is naturally well protected from the elements.
WHERE TO DINE
Visit Turks & Caicos
da Conch Shack +1-649-946-8877 A waterfront beach restaurant and rum bar, da Conch is a reliable spot to fill up on delicious traditional and modern island dishes. The restaurant features live music multiple times a week, and the menu ranges from fresh seafood to ribs, steak, and vegetarian dishes, making it one of the most popular restaurants on the island.
South Bank Marina
sinkholes and caves that reveal centuries of history, marked by storms and marooned sailors alike. The stunning natural beauty of Turks and Caicos makes it a truly unique experience. It is no surprise that Providenciales and surrounding islands are thought to be one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/TurksAndCaicos
Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar +1-649-946-5050 Infiniti is part of the Grace Bay Club. It is an open, gourmet oceanfront restaurant that has received the Wine Spectator award for the past four years for serving hand-crafted cocktails and premium ingredients on its high-end menu. Coco Bistro +1-649-946-5369 Coco Bistro is optimally located in the center of Grace Bay. The dining experience happens under the largest grove of palms on the island. The menu consists of fresh local dishes such as conch and local tuna, which cater perfectly to the beachy setting and earns the reputation of one of the best culinary establishments in Provo. WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 57
to
the islands HYANNIS
MARTHA’S VINEYARD
NANTUCKET
NAVIGATE TO A GREAT CAREER OPPORTUNITY
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CONSULTANTS & ADVISORY SERVICES
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Your marina business or boat show is our business. We believe in making your dreams and goals a reality, and with our extensive hands-on experience, we know just how to do that and do it well! We're prepared to help you at any level, from impartial advice to practical operations assistance to help you make the most of every opportunity. We can even help you with a sale of your marina or a major boat show production.
BehunMarineManagement.com Carlsbad, CA
WEEKEND WARRIOR > NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Visit St. Augustine
To enjoy 72 hours of seaside delights ARTICLE BY HEATHER BURKE, PHOTOS BY GREG BURKE
T
HE OLDEST CITY IN AMERICA is a must-visit for boaters. St. Augustine is old meets new, loaded with Spanish revival architecture and a fun festive coastal vibe. This northeastern Florida destination offers historic charm, plus beautiful waterways and beaches, trendy cuisine, and a lively music scene. St. Augustine was first flagged by Spanish explorer, Juan Ponce de León who proclaimed he’d found the fountain of youth here in 1565. You’ll find plenty of “youthful” entertainment in this very walkable town, with an ancient city skyline of towering terracotta rooftop spires, an imposing 1600s fortress and marble lions guarding a beautiful bridge.
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Bridge of Lions
Day 1: Intracoastal Waterway to St. Augustine Municipal Marina Just a mile from the Atlantic inlet, follow the ICW south, under the bascule Bridge of Lions, to St. Augustine Municipal Marina, MM 779, on the western shore. This well-staffed marina has stunning views of St. Augustine, overlooking Matanzas Bay, in the shadow of the 1924 Lions drawbridge. You know you are in “nauti” company when you spy the pirate ship and mega-yachts. The marina is just steps to the Spanishmoss-draped Plaza de la Constitución. Passing the Governor’s House, head up St. George Street to experience the half-mile brick pedestrian zone. This colonial-era avenue is lined with coquina walls, cafés, shops, a serene Greek shrine and America’s oldest wooden schoolhouse. Stroll all the way to the 1808 City Gates. Enjoy lunch with river views at Sainte-George Restaurant on the balcony, or at River & Fort on the top deck. Pop into City Gate Spirits for a free distillery tasting tour of their clever boozy concoctions — Apple Pie Moonshine, Salted Carmel Whiskey, Limoncello. Tour the 1672 Castillo de San Marcos fort, a U.S. national monument along the waterfront with a fascinating legacy of occupations and preservation
due to its unique coquina construction. Your visit may coincide with cannons firing. Afterward, stroll back along Avenida Menendez riverfront promenade watching boats ply the Matanzas (ICW) and occasional dolphins bobbing and blowing. For dinner, stop at O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits in the arbored courtyard near the marina. This was St. Augustine’s first hotel, established in 1790. Today, O.C. White’s serves delicious daily catch, crab, shrimp and Key lime pie, with a side of spirited stories (yes, it’s haunted!). An easy walk from the marina are Collage and Catch 27 that feature more upscale global cuisine. After dinner, live music may draw you into A1A Ale Works taproom, Tradewinds (a local crowd), or back to St. George Street to Prohibition Kitchen, Pierre’s Pub, Milltop Tavern or Colonial Oak Music Park.
Day 2: St. Augustine With so much to see and do in St. Augustine, you might want to stay two nights at the municipal marina in the heart of everything. After coffee at Kookaburra in the grand 1920s Treasury on the Plaza, board the Old Town Trolley open-air narrated tour to explore St. Augustine’s highlights. Ride the circuit to learn how St. Augustine was founded, fought over by the Spanish and British, and how Henry Flagler made this a
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Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Train tour
Gatsby-style winter retreat at the turn of the century. The Flagler College tour presents a perfect opportunity to go inside Henry Flagler’s lavish 1887 Ponce De Leon, Florida’s first luxury hotel. Now turned into a college, it was state-of-the-art back in the day with stained glass crafted by Louis Comfort Tiffany and electricity installed by Thomas Edison. Flagler had all the right friends including Roosevelts and the well-to-do from Newport, Philly and New York, who came to his vacation haven for the season. Across King Street is Flagler’s second masterpiece: the 1888 Alcazar Hotel, now called the Lightner Museum. The world’s largest indoor swimming pool is the impressive centerpiece. You can no longer swim here, but you can have an elegant lunch in the pool’s deep end at Café Alcazar, where a pianist fills the magnificent space with incredible acoustics. Or dine at a cozy café, Gaufre’s & Goods on historic Charlotte Street, 62 m arina lif e.c o m
Dining at Caps on the Water
where they dish up authentic Greek and Polish dishes such as hunter stew, gyros, pierogies and buttery baklava. Stroll Lincolnville, St. Augustine’s post-Civil War African American neighborhood, a charming district established by freed men. Shaded by moss-draped trees, colorful Victorian homes are listed on the National Historic Register. Signposts depict legendary spots including the home where Martin Luther King Jr. wrote his “I Have a Dream” speech. Here you’ll learn how St. Augustine played a pivotal role during the Civil Rights movement. Your wandering brings you to St. Augustine Distillery, North America’s #1 whiskey tour, and it’s free! Visit the distillery in a renovated Ice Plant and taste hand-crafted spirits and the awardwinning barrel-finished gin. Visit San Sebastian Winery, just a block north, for another free tasting tour, don’t miss the rooftop Cellar Upstairs for fabulous city views. Nearby on King Street is
Whetstone Chocolates, this tour will cure any sweet cravings. Aviles Street, just off King Street by the marina, is the oldest street in the oldest city in America. The cobble and brick alley is lined with art galleries and local jewelers’ shops. Dine here at Forgotten Tonic, grab a seat at the bar or out on the lovely sidewalk. Discover live music happening around town or simply head back to the docks to watch the sunset light up the Bridge of Lions and the picturesque city skyline.
Day 3: St. Augustine Vilano - Salt Run – Conch House Marina 7.6 NM
Take a leisurely boat ride 3.8 NM north, watching for dolphins as you pass the fort and cruise under the Vilano Bridge. Caps on the Water is an ideal dock and dine lunch on the ICW Tolomato River. Arrive
WHERE TO DOCK Flagler College
at 11:30 a.m. to secure a coveted dock slip. Sitting along Cap’s waterfront deck, shaded under mossy branches, savor smoked fish dip, grouper, gator — all ideal for sharing with a drink and view of your boat. Boat 3.8 NM south to the eastern shores of Anastasia Island, with St. Augustine Lighthouse as your beacon. Your destination, the Conch House Marina, is a fun full-service marina with a relaxed tiki bar restaurant, and pool for marina guests. Live bands play at “The Conch” (locals’ nickname) Thursday to Sunday afternoons on the Pier Deck. It’s fun to watch charter fishing boats return and filet their catch on the docks below. From the Conch Marina, you can walk .8 miles to climb the 1874 St. Augustine Lighthouse, where its 219 circular steps award you with an amazing 360-degree view of the Atlantic. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum to learn of lighthouse keeping and the hauntings of this glorious light. If you love gators, snakes and birds, nearby St. Augustine’s Alligator Farm Zoological Park will fulfill your reptile fantasies (or fuel nightmares if you are phobic). Anastasia State Park is also in this neighborhood, a pristine four-mile Atlantic beach park, home to the original Coquina quarries that built the Fort. St. Augustine Ampitheatre. Just over a mile from The Conch House is a fantastic outdoor concert venue hosting popular bands. Or just kick back on your boat enjoying the island vibe and the Conch’s free band. ml
St. Augustine Municipal Marina 904-825-1026 A great in-town location on the ICW and Matanzas Bay, southwest of the Bridge of Lions (opens on-demand every half hour for over 25’ clearance), this marina offers 151 slips, fuel, showers, laundry and a lounge. Conch House Marina 904-829-8646 This full-service marina is just off the ICW in Salt Run, with a fun tiki bar and live music, a casual restaurant and motel. The Conch has 200 protected dock slips, fuel, pump-out, showers, swimming pool and laundry for marina guests. Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor 904-829-5676 Located just two miles from St. Augustine’s Historic District, this full-service marina boasts 230 wet slips, high-speed fuel pumps and a service yacht yard. Enjoy amenities such as a pool, fish cleaning station and on-site dining.
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/StAugustineFL-Weekend
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CRUISING THROUGH HISTORY >
The U.S. Coast Guard How it all began centuries ago BY JAMES R. BARNETT
Wikimedia Commons
I
f I told you the Coast Guard was America’s original maritime defense force, would you believe me? And what if I said it was the brainchild of a man born in poverty in the West Indies and memorialized after his death with his face on the $10 bill? As improbable as this all sounds, it’s a true albeit mostly forgotten story.
Alexander Hamilton portrait by John Trumbull, 1804
The Founding Father
Arrival of the Revenue Cutter Harriet Lane at the Battery
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visuals6x/Adobe Stock
reduce the nation’s debt, Hamilton in 1790 convinced Congress to provide 10 ships known as “revenue cutters” to stop and check out the cargo on ships heading to major U.S. East Coast ports and make sure the goods they declared matched up with the items on board. Hamilton wisely hired ex-smugglers to man the cutters. He set up customs
Mike Goad/Flickr
In 1789, the first Congress of the newly independent United States of America appointed Alexander Hamilton to manage the government’s finances. Hamilton, you likely know, had fought in the Revolutionary War with George Washington and helped draft the Constitution. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, he is credited with creating the American financial system. Hamilton didn’t have an easy job, for the young nation had hit rough seas, financially speaking. The American Revolution had created millions in debt, mostly to France. With no income tax to raise money back then, the government was forced to rely on tariffs on luxury goods brought into the country via boat. And we all know that American colonists had gotten pretty good at avoiding paying tariff fees. Smuggling was considered patriotic. As part of his plan to
Coast Guard News/Flickr
Marine Security Response Team boarding exercise
agents at the ports to collect tariff revenue for the federal government. Back then, tariffs, also known as customs duties, provided as much as 90% of federal revenue. That’s why Hamilton originally called this service branch the Revenue Marine. In addition to their tariff enforcement role, the fleet of cutters rendered aid and assistance as needed for the protection of lives and property at sea.
Wars and Quasi-Wars
powerful in the world. Once again, the nation called upon the Revenue Marine Service and American privateers. Despite being out manned and out gunned, the Revenue Service had some success winning battles in the Great Lakes in the early months of the war. Eventually, though, British naval power succeeded in blockading American port cities. On land, the Americans prevailed, leading to a stalemate in the war and the Treaty of Ghent, which ended U.S.-British antagonism for good. When the Civil War broke out, revenue cutter captains had to choose between supporting the Union or the
Tomas del Coro/Wikimedia Commons
The Revenue Marine’s first major test came during the undeclared war with France at the end of the 18th century. The French were angry that America wasn’t paying its debts back fast enough and was trading with the
British, with which it was at war. So, French privateers began to capture American merchant ships to recoup their losses. In response, Congress passed the Naval Armament Act of 1794 to officially create a navy. Most of the ships, however, were still in various stages of construction and outfitting. To meet the interim need, merchant ships, privateers and revenue cutters joined forces to take on the French. America did not end up going to war with France, but the expanded non-revenue role of the Revenue Marine service stuck. When the United States declared war on Great Britain in June of 1812, its Navy was still small. The British Royal Navy, on the other hand was the most
Eurocopter MH-65D Dolphin 6563 U.S. Coast Guard San Francisco
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Confederacy. Some sided with the South so cutters from the Great Lakes were repositioned on the East Coast. The Revenue Service battled smugglers, guarded northern ports and helped enforce the wartime blockade of the South. The revenue cutter Harriet Lane, for example, fired the war’s first naval shot in 1861 while attempting to relieve federal force at Fort Sumter, SC. The Civil War had a transformative effect on this country’s military services. It changed the Revenue Service fleet from a 66 m arina life.c o m
collection of obsolete sailing vessels to a new steam-driven fleet of cutters. The vital
When the Civil War broke out, revenue cutter captains had to choose between supporting the Union or the Confederacy. operations supported by cutters also cemented the role of the service in such
missions as convoy duty, blockade operations, port security and coastal patrol. The Revenue Marine was renamed the Revenue Cutter Service in 1862. It participated in the Spanish American War in 1898.
1915: Toward a More Modern Force
As national defense became a prominent issue in the early 20th century, a movement on Capitol Hill emerged to combine the U.S. Life-Saving Service with
Seal: Coast Guard/Wikipedia
U.S. Coast Guard Academy/Flickr
U.S. Coast Guard Academy top brass
Raging Wire/Flickr Background: H. Ozmen/Adobe Stock
the Revenue Cutter Service, because both shared a lifesaving mission. The merger occurred in 1915 when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Coast Guard Act creating the United States Coast Guard Service. Although placed under the U.S. Treasury Department, the Coast Guard was temporarily transferred to the Navy Department during World War I and again during World War II. This modernization paid off. During Prohibition, the Coast Guard became the lead agency fighting booze smugglers, all while increasing its size and technological sophistication. During World War II, the Coast Guard played a critical role manning Navy ships and Army amphibious-type assault craft to get men to the beaches. Only experienced men could successfully maneuver landing craft through strong currents, reefs, sand bars and heavy surf, making Coast Guard contributions to amphibious operations
DVIDSHUB/Wikimedia Commons
Tony Webster/Wikimedia Commons
U.S. Coast Guard member gives aid to Haitian refugee
immeasurable. Coast Guard intelligence also helped to break the enemy’s codes. The Coast Guard’s national defense responsibilities remain one of its most important functions today. In 2003, it was transferred to the Department of Homeland Security, where today it serves as the nation’s front-line agency for enforcing the nation’s laws at sea,
protecting the marine environment and the nation’s vast coastline and ports, and saving lives. ml
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/USCoastGuard
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Wikimedia Commons
DESTINATION > MEXICO
Cozumel waterfront at Quintana Roo
DISCOVER COZUMEL Mexico’s island of aquatic life & watersports BY RICHARD KERN
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Cozumel beach at sunset
Gerardo Mendoza/Pexels.com
L
ocated just off the Yucatan Peninsula across from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is Mexico’s largest Caribbean island, making it a prime boating and cruise ship destination, as well as one of the country’s most popular beach resorts. For boaters, Cozumel offers plenty of aquatic attractions. The island sits on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, which has created a snorkeling and scuba diving mecca. One of the top reefs is Palancar, located about a mile offshore from the southeast tip of the island. It’s actually a series of four reefs — in descending order from Palancar Gardens, Bricks and Herradura to Caves, ranging from about 30 feet to 120 feet in depth. Other popular snorkeling/diving spots include Santa Rosa Wall, Paradise Reef, Columbia Reef, Chankanaab Reef, Punta Francesa, Villa Blanca and Yucab Reef. Most are located within Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park, a 46-square-mile protected area that is also the habitat of loggerhead turtles, hawksbill turtles, queen triggerfish and splendid toadfish. Beaches are plentiful too if you just want to relax and recharge. The east side of Cozumel is a spectacular stretch of remote beaches interspersed with funky local beach bars. Sandy spots worth checking out include Chen Rio, Punta Morena and San Martin. Shopping and dining options are plentiful.
Pxhere.com
WHERE TO DOCK
Catamarans along the shoreline of Cozumel
Marina FONATUR Cozumel +52 987-871-4381 The new 333-berth Cozumel marina represents one of the Mexican government’s largest investments in tourism infrastructure. Its construction has been managed by Fonatur, the same federal agency that created the Mexican Caribbean resort of Cancun, and it is also known as the Marina Fonatur. It lies next to the Caleta marina, a few miles south of downtown, and shares the same sea access as its neighbor.
WHERE TO DINE Buccanos at Night +52 986-114-5607 BaN creatively showcases culinary masterpieces that include fish freshly caught by the owner, along with signature seafood dishes and seasonal specials.
dMap Travel Guide/Flickr
Burritos Gorditos +52 987-116-7214 Burritos Gorditos is all about fresh ingredients and huge portions. This small, family-owned joint serves what many agree are the best burritos in Cozumel.
Underwater adventure at Riviera Maya
Ix-Kool +52 987-105-9793 Located about 10 minutes south of San Miguel town center, Ix-Kool is widely regarded as one of the best places in Mexico to get authentic Mayan cuisine. Try the Cochinita Pibil, Sikilp’aak, Pork Panucho and other Yucatecan specialties.
Flickr
K’ooben Laab +52 987-100-4726 If you’re looking for a break from Mexican cuisine, the homemade bread and pasta here will have you thinking you’re on a rooftop terrace in Tuscany. You can’t go wrong, whether it’s the caprese, carpaccio, frutti di mare or carbonara.
Grand Velas on Riviera Maya
Pxhere.com
Winter travel tip: Carnaval de Cozumel is one of the top celebrations in Mexico, having been around since the mid-1800s. Beginning the week before Mardi Gras in February, it features multiple parades and events with elaborately costumed revelers battling in dancing competitions and bands playing live music around San Miguel. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/CozumelMexico Tropical red parrot
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Dive into the wonder.
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor | aqua.org
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MARINALIFE CARES >
Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation
fun & social good BY ELLEN HONEY 72 m arina life.c o m
— now one in three anglers is a female! Currently, up to 14 million American women throw a hook or two in the water. The lady anglers are discovering that beside the many lifetime benefits such as stress reduction, increased confidence and elevated mood, fishing is just plain fun! Several female-oriented organizations have recognized the trend and are helping women to fully appreciate the sport, not only for their own benefit, but also for a healthy future on our waterways.
Find Your Best Self on the Water
Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to boost participation in this field thereby protecting and restoring the nation’s aquatic natural resources. Take
Abbies Art Shop/Adobe Stock
DAMES ON DECK Women go fishing for
Historically, fishing has been regarded as a manly pastime, but recently the tides are changing
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Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!
Me Fishing brand has increased awareness about the benefits of water-oriented activities with interactive state-by-state fishing information on its website. RBFF has put extensive effort and resources into researching consumer trends as well as the motivations and barriers to the sport. The data show that despite record levels of “fisherwomen,” the activity is still not overly welcoming to women: 43% of female anglers do not feel respected by the fishing community while one in four think that widespread negative stereotypes undercut their ability to fish. Interesting that data reveal that more moms than dads take their kids fishing! The RBFF’s newest campaign, “Find Your Best Self on the Water,” aims to spread awareness among diverse new audiences and motivate women, youth, and people of color to discover the life-changing benefits of fishing and boating. Created by a women-led team, their series of ads depicts female anglers of various ages experiencing the joys of fishing and boating first-hand. The website has excellent how-to segments for beginners. Research highlights that fishing 74 m ar ina lif e.c o m
promotes wellness, fosters a bond with family and friends, and forges a deep connection with nature that many Americans seek. It is also beneficial to the fishing industry to nurture a new generation of enthusiasts and guarantee a healthy future for our waterways. takemefishing.org/find-your-best-self
CURRENTLY, UP TO 14 MILLION AMERICAN WOMEN THROW A HOOK OR TWO IN THE WATER Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!
Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! (LLGF) is a national organization dedicated to attracting more women to sportfishing while promoting conservation through responsible angling. Founder Betty Bauman, a marketing and PR professional
who once held positions in some of the industry’s largest boat companies, is committed to enabling and empowering women to enter fishing with the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy the sport with family and friends. As Betty says, “Women need a helping hand to simplify that which seems complicated.” Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! University does exactly that through a series of weekends that provide hands-on training and experience for participants. With more than 9,000 graduates of women from their teens to their 90s, the “No Yelling!” school of fishing has become a raging success. The weekends encompass all the elements of a hands-on angling experience from where to find fish and how to catch them to specific terminology. Also included are a wide variety of exercises depending on the locale: casting, knot tying, boat maneuvering, landing and releasing, net casting, gaffing, trailer backing, electronics usage, and more. They even teach participants how to fillet their catch. Venues vary by location, facility and styles of local fishing such as bluewater or bottom fishing, flats or inshore fishing,
Brett Sayles/Pexels.com Ladies Lets Go Fishing
Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!
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Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation
Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation event
and fly fishing. Space is limited to an average of 100 women (and a few invited men). ladiesletsgofishing.com
Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation (CBWCF) strives to make higher education a reality for all through fund-raising events and partnerships with organizations such as the Access College Foundation. Their vision is to create a brighter future for the next generation in South Hampton Roads by inspiring generosity and support from the community. Over the past 30 years, CBWCF has raised and distributed $14 million for charity. Their November Grand Auction is the largest and most successful wine auction on the eastern seaboard. An increasingly popular CBWCF annual event is Wine, Women & Fishing (WWF), a catch and release tournament and silent online auction that has raised more than $1 million for breast cancer research at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Open to women of all levels of fishing expertise, WWF emphasizes having a great time while raising awareness and seeking a cure for breast cancer. The 22nd annual WWF event is scheduled for August 18, 2024, at Southside Marina, Virginia Beach, VA. Catch it if you can! cbwc.org/wine-women-fishing ml
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/WomenAnglers
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Chesapeake Bay Wine Classic Foundation
Wine, Women & Fishing (WWF)
Courtesy of Suntex Marinas
MARINA SPOTLIGHT > SARASOTA, FL
MARINA JACK SUNTEX MARINAS BY ALEXA ZIZZI
AS YOU CRUISE DOWN THE GULF COAST, enjoy the scenery of lush
wetlands and mangrove forests on your way to Marina Jack — a stunning destination along Sarasota Bay. The full-service marina boasts 305 wet slips on floating and fixed docks accommodating vessels up to 185 feet, as well as a 58-ball mooring field for annuals and transients up to 50 feet. The property is connected to Bayfront Park, which offers trails, a picnic area, playground with a splash pad and Sarasota’s iconic dolphin fountain. Amenities include laundry, showers, 24-hour fuel, Ship Store and recently upgraded Wi-Fi. Services include a list of contractors for boat repairs and detailing. Choose from a variety of on-site restaurants including an award-winning wine list and the region’s finest steaks and seafood at The Marina Jack Dining Room on the second floor or dine al fresco and sip tropical drinks at the recently
renovated Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill offers a more casual setting with lovely waterfront views along Bayfront Park. For the city’s best sightseeing, embark on a lunch tour or sunset dinner cruise aboard the Marina Jack II. Depart from the marina and voyage to Lido Bay and Bird Key passing through the Ringling Bridge and cruising along the Gulf. To sightsee by land, take the marina’s concierge shuttle to explore downtown Sarasota’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Kayak, birdwatch and explore nature reserves at the nearby Myakka River State Park, explore historic neighborhoods through Spanish Point, and admire orchids and tropical plants at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens nature museum. Check out the local hidden gem, Towles Court, where you’ll find live music, art galleries, studios and gift shops near Old Floridastyle homes. Just across the bay, cruise to St. Armands
Circle, an island destination for dining, visiting galleries and shopping at more than 130 boutiques. The area is also known for its golf courses, white sand beaches and fishing, and the marina is a premier venue for inshore, offshore and billfish tournaments. “Marina Jack provides a world-class hospitality experience where a community of boat owners, enthusiasts, renters and waterside diners can all relax with family and friends and enjoy the benefits of being on or near the water,” says General Manager Patrick Lustro. “Our attentive and experienced team has a single mission of providing every tenant and guest a lifetime of treasured memories.” Don’t miss the Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts in February, or the marina’s two biggest events: the annual 4th of July and New Year’s Eve fireworks. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/MarinaJack
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BUY MORE PROVISIONS, DO MORE GOOD. Every time you make a provisions purchase, we donate $1 to the Bitter End Foundation in support of our BVI community as well as the stewardship of our planet’s marine environment.
PORT PERSONALITIES >
Nick Putman Marina Manager Bitter End Yacht Club Virgin Gorda, BVI
How long have you been at the marina, and what brought you here? I initially came to work for Bitter End in 2013 as a sailing/windsurf instructor within the watersports team. In 2016, the marina manager asked me to be her assistant, and I jumped at the opportunity. What in life prepared you for this job? My parents always hosted parties and get-togethers with family or friends. They were my first great examples of what hospitality looks like. I then worked eight summers as a sailing instructor, where I put my own hospitality and customer service skills to the test. I found out through the summer seasons that I enjoyed working in the industry, which made me pursue opportunities in the warmer Caribbean climate. I knew the marine industry in Michigan would only support me for half of the year!
If you could walk in anyone’s shoes for a day, who would it be? John Frusciante shredding guitar for a sold-out Red Hot Chili Peppers concert. To be clear — I am no good, but I would love to know what it feels like to play like that in front of thousands of people! You work in paradise. Where do you go on vacation? I love to travel, so I take vacations to new places as much as possible. This summer, I visited Costa Rica, Hawaii and Thailand. Because I live far from my home in Michigan, I also go back to see family and friends for part of my annual vacation. Name the top three favorite boating songs on your playlist. “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass, “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash and “Set Sail” by The Movement. Describe the perfect meal. What would you eat, and where would you go? Marinated flank steak, rice pilaf and asparagus made by my mom and dad, enjoyed together on our back porch.
What is the most important item to always keep on a boat? Rum! What is the one thing everyone should do or see at your marina? Tie off in the marina and hop in your dinghy to cruise the entire North Sound/ Eustatia Sound for snorkeling, bars, restaurants and secluded beaches. I’ve been here for 10 years and am still exploring and discovering. There is so much to see and do for a relatively small area. Describe yourself in three words. Living The Dream. What makes your marina special or different than other destinations? It’s naturally protected by land and reef with no break walls to take away from the view, so you can see crystal clear water all the way to the bottom. Plus, we have the friendliest and most fun marina staff on the planet. To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/NickPutman
CAPTAIN’S TIPS >
Detecting Dangerous Gases Onboard Best practices for preventing accidents & incidents BY SCOTT MILLER
with many boat owners when talking about invisible and sometimes odorless gases. While conducting surveys with sail and power boats (gas and diesel), I am surprised to still find many vessels without carbon monoxide (CO), smoke or propane gas detectors. I’m also astonished to see vessels that are equipped with these devices, and they are either inoperable or disabled on purpose due to perceived or real false alarms. 80 m ar ina lif e.c o m
kenlh/Getty Images.
The saying “Out of sight, out of mind” rings true
Given the dangers involved with these deadly gases and the risks they pose to the owners, guests and crew, captains should ensure their boats comply with the standards of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) for their crew’s and guests’ safety. Propane and carbon monoxide can potentially be deadly gases if not handled and monitored correctly. To do this, it’s important to understand what and how to deal with the risks.
Propane or Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
• Install and use a propane detector according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Detectors should be installed at the lowest point possible near the appliance and where it is visible and will not be damaged. • Regularly inspect and test the detector and ensure proper ventilation when using propane appliances. • Inspect the propane locker and gasket, which should only open at the top and be above the waterline. • Ensure the locker is vented at the bottom and vented overboard away from openings near accommodation spaces. • A readily accessible electric or manual shutoff valve should be installed in addition to the propane tank valve. • Fuel lines should be inspected and secured correctly. • Each propane appliance should be supplied by a separate low pressure, regulated supply line originating from the propane locker.
Aleksander Georgiev
LPG is used on boats for grills, stoves, heaters and ovens. If propane is not installed correctly and/or monitored and vented correctly, it can become a high safety risk. It’s also highly flammable, and if the gas leaks and accumulates in an enclosed space, it can explode when it comes into contact with an open flame or spark. Propane systems can develop leaks that can be dangerous and difficult to detect. Leaking propane can build up inside the boat, creating a potentially explosive atmosphere. A slow leak can fill an accommodation space with lethal fumes and overwhelm the vessel’s occupants very quickly. To mitigate these dangers, it’s crucial to install and maintain propane systems correctly. Here’s how: If you see any signs of propane leaks or faulty equipment, shut off the propane and call a qualified technician immediately.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
This colorless, odorless gas is produced when carboncontaining fuels like gasoline, diesel, natural gas and propane burn incompletely. On boats, CO can be a significant danger with internal combustion engines and generators. CO can come from your own boat or other vessels around you, so don’t be lured into a false sense of security because you have diesel power on your boat. Poisoning risk is the biggest concern with CO. Inhaling it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and in severe cases, death. CO poisoning can occur if exhaust gases are not properly vented, or if leaks or malfunctions are in your boat’s exhaust systems or other vessels are nearby and their fumes are venting into your vessel. Since CO is odorless and colorless, detecting its presence can be a challenge without a carbon monoxide
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Dori Arrington
Smoke detector
detector. With a moderate concentration of 1600 ppm (parts per million), headache, dizziness and nausea are present within five minutes and death occurs within 30 minutes.
Leaking propane can build up inside the boat, creating a potentially explosive atmosphere. To mitigate the dangers of carbon monoxide on a boat, it’s essential to have the proper equipment onboard and follow these guidelines: • Install marine carbon monoxide detectors in all enclosed accommodation spaces, particularly near sleeping quarters but also galleys with a sink, head compartments and other enclosed spaces. Home CO detectors do not have the same specifications and operating parameters that are designed with the marine environment in mind. 82 m arina lif e.c o m
• Maintain your CO detector and test regularly. • Replace the CO detector every five years or at intervals based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. • Regularly inspect and maintain propane and other exhaust systems to ensure they are functioning correctly and only use approved generators on your boat and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • Educate all occupants about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and the importance of proper ventilation. The ABYC Standards A-1/A-14 (propane) and A-24 (carbon monoxide detection) provides guidance and requirements for proper installation and operation of detection devices. Additionally, using gas detectors for propane and carbon monoxide can provide early warnings and help prevent accidents and poisoning incidents. It is the captain’s responsibility to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience and avoid unnecessary risks. To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/DangerousGases
Do you have boating questions or problems? Send them to swade@marinalife.com, and we’ll see if Marinalife’s captain can help.
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Jodi Jacobson
DESTINATION > FLORIDA’S ATLANTIC COAST
Delray Beach, FL BY SUSAN ELNICKI WADE
N
estled between West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale along Florida’s eastern seaboard lies Delray Beach, a sweet getaway spot with a charming vibe that has earned the nickname of the “Village by the Sea.” In 1911, when the coastal town was incorporated, its population only numbered 250, and pineapples were grown nearby for canning at the factory in town. It was located along the Florida East Coast Railroad, and by 1927, the town stretched east across the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean. Today, Delray Beach has grown to more than 67,000 residents, and its two distinct communities are divided by the ICW — downtown and the beach. In fact, Delray Beach is governed by the rhythms of the ICW drawbridge. Traffic stops along the main thoroughfare 15 minutes before and after every hour to let the bridge lift.
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The well-groomed, two-mile beach is dotted with umbrellas and wood chaises, backed by low sand dunes covered in native vegetation. While relaxing on the beach is a favorite local pastime, the downtown area has put Delray Beach on the map. The main drag, Atlantic Avenue, is lined with palm trees, eclectic shops, lively bars and good restaurants. At night, the area comes alive with music and beachy entertainment. In the 1920s, when an artist and writers’ colony was established here, the groundwork was laid for a vibrant cultural scene. The Pineapple Grove Arts District is home to Artists Alley, where painters and sculptors maintain studios and galleries. Adding to the creative environment are Old School Square Center for the Arts, Cornell Art Museum and Crest Theatre. Local parks, gardens, athletic fields, tennis courts and more round out the options for a unique and fun Atlantic vacation. ml
WHERE TO DOCK City Marina 561-243-7250 Also known as the City of Delray Beach Municipal Marina, this facility along the ICW provides 24 rental slips for boats up to 55 feet. Amenities include showers, laundry, coinoperated pumpout and liveaboard accommodations.
Jodi Jacobson
The Seagate Yacht Club 561-665-4800 This hotel and full-service marina offers 44 slips accommodating boats up to 120 feet for daily, monthly or annual rentals. Upscale amenities include a sun pool, lounge and ship store, plus the hotel operates a spa, restaurants and golf club. Delray Beach waterfront home
WHERE TO DINE Caffe Luna Rosa 561-274-9404 Enjoy oceanfront, alfresco dining at this local dining staple that blends fresh Italian flavors with meat and seafood dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Lunamarina
Deck 84 561-665-8484 Stop by this casual and dog-friendly dock and dine to watch boats cruise by on the ICW while you take a fork to classic American cuisine meals and daily seafood specials.
Delray Beach
Dada 561-330-3232 Revolving artwork matches the creative cooking at a 1924 historic house flanked by a tree-filled patio. Live music plays while patrons peruse an eclectic menu of fresh fish, sandwiches, meatloaf and vegetarian dishes.
Scott Beale/Flickr
Brulé Bistro 561-274-2046 This casual chic café in the Pineapple Grove neighborhood mixes local beer and craft cocktails with sustainable foods ranging from shrimp tacos and jumbo lump crab cakes to grilled lamb chops and chicken meatballs.
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/DelrayBeachFL
Pineapple Grove Arts District
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ECO-FRIENDLY BOATING >
Solar Accessories FOR YOUR BOAT The power of the sun can enhance life on the water BY TERI MILLER
LAGNIAPPE. This French Cajun word, pronounced (lan-yap),
means “a little something extra.” When it comes to making eco-friendly adjustments to our boating lifestyle, the little extra things can have a big impact. Solar-powered accessories are lagniappes for boaters looking for a little eco-friendly independence from standard power sources. Whether you are looking to increase your visibility, supplement dinghy lights, create ambiance or shed light in out-of-the-way spaces, solar-powered options can be cost effective and eco-smart. For example, solar-powered Kandle Rail Lights are a perfect addition for most boat models. Designed to clamp onto 1.25” to 1.0” rails or stanchions, these small lights are easily added to dark spaces around the vessel. With 360 degrees of rotation, these lights can illuminate your deck, dinghy boarding area or even the dockside of your boat when in port. A full day of sunlight can yield up to eight hours of light.
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BigBlue SolarPowa 28
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GoSun sport boating
Originally designed to meet the need for lighting in places without electricity, remote countries or in the aftermath of catastrophes, collapsible solar lanterns are finding new purpose for boaters. The Luci Light, LuminAID and Solight are notable examples of small items with big benefits. Designed to pack flat to be cost-effectively distributed after disasters, these lanterns are perfect for spaceconscious boaters. The LuminAID and Luci Lights are inflatable solar-powered LED lanterns easily stored when not in use. Solight’s design is origami inspired and does not require inflation by mouth. Instead, you simply tug the sides apart to puff up the cube-shaped lantern. All three solar lantern products can 88 m arina lif e.c o m
emit over 60-300 lumens for 24 hours (depending on the model) after only a day of direct sunlight. These lightweight lanterns are waterproof and have straps making it easy to hang them in a variety of situations. Boaters report using them as a backup for navigating dinghies, creating ambiance on the deck for late-night dinners or cocktails, illuminating work areas, and serving as part of emergency gear. Diverse sizes, models and even color options are available. If you have ever struggled to locate your boat in a crowded anchorage when returning by dinghy after dark, you can appreciate the benefit of a unique-colored light on the back deck. Several available models include the ability to function as a phone charger.
Charged batteries give peace of mind
Keeping our devices charged is more than just practical, it is often a point of safety for boaters. A common tension-building scene in movies these days involves some sort of emergency/crisis, a character trying to call for help/warn others, and a close-up image of the cell phone battery life indicator about to go dead. This works because we all understand that feeling. For boaters, an uncharged device can be a problem. While the VHF radio is a primary communication source, cell phones and tablets are key support devices for tracking weather, planning courses, contacting marinas/services, and sharing navigation updates. The ability to recharge without
electricity is eco-friendly and convenient. Solar-powered charging units are a great option for making sure you always have connectivity. Most models are compact and easy to include in your safety gear or toss in a bag when out on the dinghy or prolonged excursions. The BigBlue 28W solar charger is consistently rated highly for its efficiency and compatibility. This flat panel power plant can charge multiple devices and fold up small enough to store in a backpack. Another portable option is the 4Patriots Power Cell. This handheld power bank is rugged and water-resistant and can be recharged by solar or micro-USB connections.
Photos courtesy of GoSun
Beat the heat with ease
GoSun
Anyone who has experienced the bliss of air flowing through boat windows and hatches has also known the dread of stuffiness when the air ceases to move. Adding USB-chargeable or solar powered fans to your space can help keep things comfortable. From tiny table fans to units designed to cool small greenhouses, air-moving options are plentiful. Solar power-focused company, GoSun, offers accessories to cool things down or heat them up. The Breeze, a powerful and portable fan, can be powered by a USB or foldable solar charger. When you are looking to heat things up, check out GoSun’s Sport Marine solar oven. Designed for attachment to boat railings, this solar oven can bake, roast or steam your fresh catch in minutes on a sunny day. Harnessing the sun’s energy is not limited to large panel installations or repowering propulsion. Taking advantage of this abundant resource while reducing your carbon footprint can take place in small ways. Solar-powered accessories are the little something extra, lagniappes, that can enhance our boating experience while supporting a healthy environment. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/BoatSolarAccessories
GoSun Grill on the beach
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All photos ©iStockphoto.com: bird: dwowens;; drink: Moncherie woman: :Dijur; food: edoneil; sailboat: cdwheatley; fish:Damocean
THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN
@reallygreatsite @ reallygreatsite ABACO'S PREMIER RESORT & MARINA
April 22
"Save Our Earth"
Experience the aquatic & mystical charm of our boating, fishing & beaching paradise 200 slips & yachts up to 200ft 9ft MLW entrance
95 Oceanfront Rooms & Suites
11ft maximum dockside 120/240/480V, single & 3-phase
2 Tropical Pools one heated 2 Restaurants & Bars
Customs & Immigration Gas & Diesel
Water Toys & Fitness Center Marina Concierge Services
24 Hour Security
92 m arina lif e.c o m
Call: 877-533-4799 or 242-367-2158 E-mail: reservations@abacobeachresort.com www.abacobeachresort.com
Abaco Beach Resort
MARINA SPOTLIGHT > MARSH HARBOUR, BAHAMAS
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina BY ALEXA ZIZZI
PICTURE YOURSELF perched under a palm tree on a secluded white sand beach overlooking Bahamian cays and waterways at Abaco Beach Resort. The boat harbour marina boasts 200 wet slips along the stunning Sea of Abaco with amenities including two swimming pools, a fitness center, fuel dock, two on-site restaurants and a private beach with complimentary nonmotorized watersports. The marina’s 24-hour services provide concierge, security and boat washing, plus boat mechanics available per request. Dock your vessel and stay for a while in one of the 96 guest suites. The recently renovated, cozy rooms include hammocks, hot tubs, private patios and beachfront balconies with panoramic views of the gardens and ocean. For an elegant, fine-dining experience, feast on ribeye steaks and Caribbean spiny lobster tail at The Bistro or relax in a tropical paradise with poolside snacks and fruity drinks at The
Terrace & Pool Bar at Marinaville. The property spans 40 acres along Marsh Harbour offering 100 nautical miles of protected cruising grounds. Less than eight minutes from the local city center and Marsh Harbour International Airport, the resort is a quick jaunt to town for provisions. But you don’t need to leave for fun, because plenty of attractions are available onsite including beach bonfires, live entertainment, watersports, beach volleyball, pickleball, weekly Karaoke and Sushi Night at the pool bar and other year-round events. Experience ecological treasures of the Bahamas and embark on adventures including deep-sea diving, reef fishing, swimming with pigs and sting rays, and visiting nearby sites such as Man-O-War Cay, Tahiti Beach and Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park. Just 15-20 minutes away, the ferry dock offers trips to the beautiful outer cays. “The Abaco Beach Resort Marina’s prime
location continues to play a strategic role in the success of our business,” says Brent Ingraham, director of sales and marketing. “With the recent infrastructural improvements, ongoing customer service training, and multimillion-dollar upgrades to the hotel, restaurants, beach and other guest amenities, we’re honored to share our little piece of paradise with our boating enthusiasts, adventure seekers, avid fishermen and vacationers looking for an escape to the Bahama Out Islands.” The marina hosts the White Marlin Roundup in April and The Shootout — Production vs. Custom billfish tournament in May. Be sure to check out the area’s popular annual events including Regattas in the Abacos in the spring and the Stranded Naked Flotilla in the summer. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/AbacoBeachResort
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FEBRUARY 14-18 • MIAMIBOATSHOW.COM
94 m ar ina lif e.c o m
Valentines Resort H A R B O U R
I S L A N D
B A H A M A S
Laid-back Luxury on Harbour Island - Valentines Resort & Marina Harbour Island’s Valentines Resort & Marina is a must-visit destination for those seeking a laid-back luxury boating experience in the Caribbean. With its pristine turquoise waters & stunning sunsets, the marina offers unparalleled views & easy access to one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Boaters enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including deep-water slips that accommodate yachts over 200 feet with 24-hour security and concierge services. Valentines also offers a variety of on-site amenities including a full-service fuel dock, gourmet restaurants, brand new electrical service, a full service all suite hotel, pool pavilion, fitness center, conference space & Valentines Provisions, for all your island shopping needs. Whether you're a seasoned boater or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Valentines Resort & Marina offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Why settle for ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary? Let us be your home away from home. AT A GLANCE 24 hour security, full property wireless internet, unlimited RO water, restaurant & bar, provisions store, pool, spa, gym, conference space, and dive center 51 slips accommodating boats over 200', draft up to 14' Fees based on length of stay & size of boat Brand new electrical 110/220 volts, up to 100 amps State of the art fueling dock open daily Stunning sunsets from our marina
Book Now
1 (242) 333-2142
reservations@valentinesresort.com
More Information
www.valentinesresort.com @valentinesresort
WINTER 2024 CARIBBEAN
Calendar of Events BY ALEXA ZIZZI
From traditional parades to music festivals and sailing regattas, the Caribbean boasts an array of
events showcasing the cultural diversity within each country. To escape the cold, head south this season to feast on homemade regional dishes, watch watercraft race across tropical waters, dance to culture-infused music and enjoy all the islands have to offer. Check out the following events hosted from January to March, plus a Carnival calendar through April. 96 m arina life.c o m
JANUARY Island Exodus
Runaway Bay, Jamaica January 14 – 18
Kick off the new year with an intimate concert experience at the coastal town of Runaway Bay. Taking place at Jewel Paradise Cove Resort Jamaica, guests can purchase allinclusive resort packages and enjoy four days of live music on the beach. The stellar lineup announces the return of rock band Gov’t Mule, plus a solo act from Warren Haynes.
isitsharp
THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián (San Sebastián
Street Festival)
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico January 18 – 21
Larry Penaloza/Pexels
This annual tradition honoring Puerto Rican heritage is the country’s largest celebration. Enjoy a day-long festival with vendors, live music, authentic cuisine and parades showcasing captivating performances and intricate costume designs. Where to Dock: San Juan Bay Marina
Rebel Salute
Priory, St. Ann, Jamaica January 19 – 20
For more than two decades, this festival has honored traditions celebrating healthy living and the preservation of authentic roots reggae. The venue is located on the north coast of Jamaica overlooking the Caribbean Sea and hosts various artists and vendors selling indigenous jewelry, clothes and crafts. For the full experience, stay overnight at the campground onsite.
Dominican Republic Carnival
FEBRUARY Hope Town Music & Rum Festival Abaco, Bahamas February 6 – 11
Situated along the gorgeous shores of Elbow Cay, this decade-long tradition hosts beachfront concerts and vendors to honor the Hope Town community and its resilience from past hurricane damage. Catch events hosted at local resorts with a variety of tastings from local and international rum distillers. Where to Dock: Hope Town Inn & Marina
Union Island Conch Festival
Saint Vincent & the Grenadines February 23 – 25 Celebrate the significance of Union Island’s conch industry at this traditional food competition and fun fest. Feast on conch water, stew, salads, curry, chowder and pasta as chefs create delicious masterpieces. Competitions include conch and dumpling eating, conch shell blowing, conch chopping and kayaking. Where to Dock: Anchorage Yacht Club
Dominican Republic Independence Day Dominican Republic February 27
rebelsalutejamaica.com gallery.
This month is an exciting time to be in the DR as both Carnival season and the country’s Independence Day take place in February. Since its liberation from Haiti in 1844, this has been honored as one of the country’s most important cultural holidays. Enjoy parades, music, delicious food and festive traditions. Where to Dock: Ocean World Marina
Rebel Salute
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Astro Aerials Atlantis Paradise Island Resort
SXM Festival Saint Martin March 11 – 18
This plush event hosts a seven-day electronic music festival throughout unique venues across the island. Dance from sunrise to sunset in beach clubs, lush rainforests, stunning villas, secluded beaches and aboard luxury yachts. Embark on watersports, ziplines and catamaran charters. Where to Dock: Marina Fort-Louis
Atlantis Wine & Food Festival
diversifylens
Nassau, Paradise Island, Bahamas March 13 – 17
MARCH
Virgin Islands Jam Fest St. John, USVI March 7 – 9
Overlooking waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands, kick back, relax and watch grassroots music concerts at 98 m arina life.c o m
this quaint and cozy venue that usually hosts about 350 people. The 2024 lineup includes Blac Rabbit, Kyle Smith and Patsy & The Heavy Set, to name a few. Where to Dock: St. John Marina
Set your tastebuds on spectacular cuisine this season at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort. Renowned chefs and culinary personalities will showcase their best dishes, wines and spirits at this five-day festival. Events kick off with Wine Down Wednesday presenting stunning views of Nassau Harbor and the exclusive Swirl Party offering unlimited food and wine at the Golf Course Club House. Where to Dock: Atlantis Marina To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/2024CaribbeanEvents
Joy McPeters
Trinidad Carnival
CARNIVAL CALENDAR Trinidad & Tobago Carnival February 7 – 14 socaislands.com/trinidad-carnival-2024
Dominica Carnival February 12 – 13 avirtualdominica.com/project/carnival-in-dominica
Curaçao Carnival February 8 – 13 carnivalinfo.com/category/curacao-carnival
Jamaica Carnival April 3 – 9 socaislands.com/jamaica-carnival-2024
Aruba’s Grand Carnival Parade February 11 visitaruba.com/things-to-do/carnival/aruba-carnival-schedule
Bahamas Carnival April 28 – May 3 fetebookit.com/bahamas-carnival/2024/
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STUART, FLORIDA FEB 27–MAR 2, 2024
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ICKET S use co MARIN de ALIFE
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Trawlerfest is the premiere event for cruisers nationwide, presented by Passagemaker, returns to South Florida for its first stop of 2024, February 27–March 2nd. This is the premiere event for boat owners and prospective buyers to hone their boating skills or to find their next boat. Powerboaters and sailors alike will have unparalleled access to a wealth of industry experts, from manufacturers to other experienced cruisers. For more information or to register, head on over to www.trawlerfest.com.
Dive into
relaxation
Chart a course for waypoint N24° 45’ 48’ W80° 54’ 40’ and refuel, reload and relax in an island paradise known for some of the best fishing and diving the world has to offer. Laid back luxury is a way of life at Hawks Cay Marina. Drop your anchor, tie up and indulge in the incomparable amenities and culinary excellence of our world-class resort while docked within reach of the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. Hawks Cay Marina features 85 boat slips, accommodation for vessels up to 110 feet in length, one spectacular resort, five pools, the Key’s only saltwater lagoon, award-winning restaurants and a full-service spa.
HAWKSCAY.COM | (888) 395-5539
THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
YOU GOTTA
Regatta
in the Caribbean! BY CAROL BAREUTHER
C
HARLES CORNETT crewed on a sailing yacht one summer several decades ago in the Chesapeake Bay. He loved it. Then, work and family took priority in his life, and he set sailing aside for way too long. “I had known of the Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) regatta, and it being one of the largest such events in the world, and had long harbored a desire to participate in it,” says Cornett, who lives in Winter Park, FL.
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He completed several American Sailing School (ASA) courses in 2021 and became a U.S. Sailing certified instructor in 2022. After that, Cornett vowed to be more intentional about getting out on the water. “While visiting the Annapolis Boat Show in 2022, I came across the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority booth and asked them about ASW. The representative quickly dialed Peter Anthony at Ondeck Sailing, and he explained how I could participate as a crew member. I remember thinking ‘Wow, this can really happen!’ I live in Florida, so a regatta in the Caribbean offers a relatively nearby destination and is easy to get to. That, and the beautiful landscape, crystal blue waters, and reliable wind meant that the experience would be amazing — and it was,” says Cornett, who was one of the crew aboard Ondeck Sailing’s Farr 65, Spirit of Juno, in the 2023 ASW.
Heineken Regatta Laurens Morel
The Caribbean: A Yacht-Racing Paradise
The ideal place to participate in a sailing regatta is the Caribbean, says Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager for Clearwater, FLheadquartered The Moorings & Sunsail, which sponsors yacht charters for several Caribbean regattas. “It offers all the excitement and thrills of racing competitively while allowing you to leave the foul-weather gear at home. Incredible weather, consistent trade winds and lively beach parties to end each day are just part of what makes a Caribbean regatta so appealing.” A big help for sailors to plan which regattas to compete in is the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA) five-year Caribbean Regatta Calendar. Creating the calendar helped CSA work with each island’s regatta organizers to ensure no overlap in dates. Competing in bareboat charters
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Souleyman
“Each island adds its flavor to their regatta, which is unique to sailing events. You have the champagne, high-end experience at Les Voiles de St. Barths, the down-to-earth, community feeling at BVI Spring Regatta, lots of one-design racing in St. Thomas, and the Serious Fun in St. Maarten. The islands themselves add to the mix. There’s around the rocks racing with lots of beautiful vistas. Plus, each island has its local culinary delights, cocktail specials, accommodations and much more. You see teams pick a new regatta each year simply because they fell in love with the Caribbean and want more,” says Michele Korteweg, CSA president and director of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. A typical day at ASW gives a good idea of what race days are like at Caribbean regattas. “You get up early to get the boat prepped, pick up or make breakfasts and lunches, and get out on the water by 9:00 a.m. and ready for first
Arthur Daniel
Courtesy Antigua Sailing Week
Racing at the 2023 Antigua Sailing Week
Awards at the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta
warning signals,” says Alison SlyAdams, CSA past president and ASW director. “Racing starts promptly at 10:00 a.m. and usually finishes by 2:00 p.m. ensuring boats are back on the dock at 3:00 p.m. ready for wash down
and repairs. There’s an afternoon prize giving, with time for plenty of healthy banter by competitors about the racing and hobnobbing with sailing celebrities, before heading out to one of the restaurants and party venues in the
Grenada Sailing Week 2023
harbor for a big crew night out. So, there are equal parts competitive racing and a lot of fun off the water.” The racing itself is a combination of round-the-islands and round-the-buoy courses, both short and long depending on the type of boats in each class. “We start with our slower paced yet competitive Sailing Festival where we feature longer course racing,” says Cayley Smit Pile, director of the BVI Spring Regatta. “For example, there’s the Nanny Cay Cup that sails around the island of Tortola. Then the traditional three-day regatta is faster paced with two-to-four or more races per day, depending on class. The beauty is that even if you’ve raced with us for years, every year is different. That’s because our professional race committee decides each morning which course they will run for each class, and where they will run it — in a protected channel or offshore and based on the conditions.” Classes range from grand prix style with sleek sailing machines manned by a professional crew to talented weekend warriors and island racers on smaller boats, and even beginners as crew to sit on the rail for weight, affectionately called “rail meat.”
Five Ways to Join the Fun
These five ways to participate in a regatta mean there is something for everyone.
BYOB (bring your own boat)
Cruisers who come to the region for the winter can sail their “home” in cruising or jib and main classes. Professional teams piggyback their racing machine on transport vessels that sail from the eastern United States or western Europe. Global yacht transport companies include Dockwise, Sevenstar, and Peters & May. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Antigua and Le Marin, Martinique are destinations for yacht arrivals in the Caribbean.
Charter a boat
Chartering is likely the most popular way to race for those who don’t BYOB. The Moorings & Sunsail offer monohulls to race. “The process is much like chartering a yacht for a normal sailing vacation; however, there is an additional cost for the regatta entry fee. We coordinate with the regatta organizers to ensure your vessel is properly entered into the regatta. Usually, there is a separate charter race class, so don’t worry, you aren’t going to be up against a professional racer in a carbon-fiber hull! The charter yacht race class is always fun, and very competitive since each yacht is outfitted similarly,” says Pedersen. St. Thomas Sailing Center (STSC), the racing arm of the St. Thomas Yacht Club, owns a fleet of one-design IC24s it charters for the island’s annual St. Thomas International Regatta, which celebrates 50 years in 2024. WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 1 05
“Our IC24 charter program involves a race ready IC24 (a converted J24 with Melges24 style deck, small jib with a symmetrical spinnaker). You and your crew show up and head out sailing within a 15-minute turnaround. No launching, dealing with wind, setting up the boat, sail selection for the day, etc. Just hop on the boat and sail from the mooring field to the racecourse a quarter mile away,” says Bobby Brooks, STSC’s executive director. “This year we are also offering our Race with a Pro program. Come down with three of your crew or just as an individual and sail in a day-and-a-half clinic before the regatta. The clinic will have morning lectures, on-the-water drills, practice races, and video debriefs using the latest coaching software. Then sail in the regatta with a professional coach and racer on your boat.” The crew spots are less expensive than chartering an entire yacht, but no less thrilling. “Race novices want to ensure they will learn, and we get people involved,” says Anthony, of Ondeck Sailing, which offers its Spirit of Juno for charter in eight Caribbean regattas. “Learn a position like helming and calling tactics, and then rotate. We have two to three of our Pro crew onboard for safety and instruction.”
Look for boats that need crew
“Crewing on a boat isn’t easy as most teams are made up in advance. So, it’s an opportunity that most of the time doesn’t become available until the last minute,” says the CSA’s Korteweg. Yachtscoring.com, the online scoring system used by
most Caribbean regattas, has a crew/boat/charter button on each regatta’s page. Crews in search of a boat can post their skills and experience here, as well as boats that need crew.
Spectate
“ASW is known for its ‘Chase the Race’ spectator opportunities,” says Sly-Adams. “We charter 60- to 80-foot catamarans and sell spots on board daily to go out and watch the racing. This year, we are expanding to helicopter tours and VIP charters.” Both The Moorings & Sunsail offer a range of catamarans perfect to use as spectator yachts, which allow you to follow the races and festivities but still participate in the event at your own pace.
Join regatta celebration parties
“Whether it’s a nightly affair, or a grand closing party, in the Caribbean we do like to dance with our feet in the sand to soca music! Of course, it varies from the world-renowned shows at St. Maarten Heineken Regatta to Reggae in the Park in Antigua to more intimate, local shows at the other islands,” says the CSA’s Korteweg. Finally, you don’t have to be a sailor to attend and enjoy a Caribbean regatta. “Several of the crew on our boat brought along their spouses,” says Cornett. “There are always plenty of sightseeing opportunities on land for the non-sailors to enjoy.”
©LaurensMorel
Stunning vistas at the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta
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To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/CaribbeanRegatta
Courtesy of Bitter End Yacht Club
2024 International Caribbean Regatta Calendar Barbados Sailing Week January 15-22 roundbarbados.com
St. Barths Bucket Regatta March 21-24 bucketregatta.com
Grenada Sailing Week January 28-February 2 grenadasailingweek.com
St. Thomas International Regatta, U.S. Virgin Islands March 28-31 stthomasinternationalregatta.com
Caribbean Multihull Challenge, St. Maarten February 1-4 caribbeanmultihullchallenge.com St. Maarten Heineken Regatta February 29-March 3 heinekenregatta.com
BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, British Virgin Islands April 1-7 bvispringregatta.org Les Voiles de St. Barths April 14-20 lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com
Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua & Barbuda April 17-22 antiguaclassics.com Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua & Barbuda April 27-May 3 sailingweek.com Regattas in the Abacos (RiTA) June 23-30 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas regattasintheabacos.com
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THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
The Enduring Tradition of BY MICAH ANGEL
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The schooner William H. Albury, built on Man-O-War Cay
CC By 2.0 DEED - Florida Keys History Center
It began with a shipwreck and a love story. In 1820, a marooned 16-year-old sailor named Benjamin Albury washed ashore on Man-OWar Cay, an outlying barrier cay in The Bahamas’ Abaco archipelago. He and his crew had run their ship aground in the reef along the tiny island’s Atlantic coast.
Man-O-War at the time was only inhabited by the Archer family, who settled there to farm in 1798. Hearing unfamiliar voices beyond the brush, 13-year-old Eleanor Archer soon discovered Benjamin Albury and his shipwrecked crew. According to Albury family lore, when Benjamin’s gaze caught Eleanor’s, it was love at first sight. Benjamin’s crewmates sailed back home to the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, but he stuck around and married Eleanor the following year. As a wedding gift, Eleanor’s father gave the newlyweds his entire 60-acre plot on Man-O-War Cay, and the island began to take shape. Benjamin was a descendant of the Eleutheran Adventurers — English Puritans who arrived in The Bahamas in the 17th century after refusing to swear allegiance to the Crown. Eleanor’s family was among the original settlers of Abaco, American colonists loyal to Britain who sought refuge after the American Revolution. Eleanor, proving to be an urban planner ahead of her time, thoughtfully laid out the town’s every detail, including roads, a cemetery, church and school. Her foresight and her husband’s seagoing expertise set the groundwork for what blossomed into a well-knit community and thriving boat-building hub. Mammy Nellie and Pappy Ben, as they were lovingly known, had 13 children and helped populate Man-O-War Cay. Their substantial family worked in seafaring and sail-making trades, but above all, Alburys were known for designing and building boats.
A nautical dynasty takes shape in the Abacos
By the 1880s, about 70% of boat builders on Man-OWar Cay had the last name Albury. They specialized in making smacks, sloops, schooners and Abaco dinghies, all crucial to Bahamian fishing and commercial enterprises. Other locals made their living fishing and wrecking — salvaging assets from the bounty of ships foundered along the reefs and sandbanks within the necklace of cays. As the
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
Boat Building in the Abacos
Elbow Reef Lighthouse and Hope Town Harbour
lucrative wrecking business expanded, demand grew for Alburybuilt boats. Man-O-War Cay quickly emerged as The Bahamas’ boatbuilding epicenter. An abundance of timber and an influx of laborers fueled a profitable shipbuilding industry on Man-O-War, and by the 1950s numerous shipyards lined its harbor. Boatmaking prodigy William H. Albury, or “Uncle Will,” who built his first schooner at age 14, constructed some of the largest shipyards on the cay. The last big vessel he completed on Man-OWar was the 56-foot-long, two-masted schooner Esperanto, later renamed the William H. Albury in his honor.
Boat building on Man-O-War in the modern era
In the generation that followed, the now late brothers Willard and Benny Albury started Albury Brothers Boats with their father Maurice in 1952. Their outboard runabouts and skiffs gained a reputation for strength, simplicity and seaworthiness, broadening demand for Albury Brothers’ boats. Originally built of Abaco pine, most Man-O-War-built boats eventually adopted a fiberglass design as lumber became increasingly scarce. Albury
Brothers made the official switch from wood to fiberglass in 1985. Demand for their boats got so high that in 2003, most of Albury Brothers’ production moved to Riviera Beach, FL. Now headed by Willard’s sons Don and Jamie, the company still builds its 18.5 and 23-foot-long models exclusively on Man-O-War Cay. While some manufacturers crank out 30 boats a month, the Albury Brothers’ Man-O-War facility builds just six to eight per year. But that’s not just because things move a little more slowly here in the Abacos. After a 200-year reputation for superb craftsmanship, the Alburys have no intention of sacrificing quality for speed. If you come to Man-O-War, be sure to visit Joe’s Studio, one of the best souvenir shops for locally produced gifts, nautical antiques and handcrafted boat models by Joe Albury. At 78, Joe represents the seventh generation of Albury to craft classic wooden Abaco dinghies from his studio on Man-O-War. Completing just two vessels per year, he employs time-honored techniques using simple hand and power tools. Another keeper of tradition, Andy Albury of Albury’s Designs builds wooden boat models, half hulls, rocking chairs and other wooden products custom-made to order. And no trip to WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 1 09
Man-O-War would be complete without a visit to Albury’s Sail Shop, where you’ll find Annie Albury weaving pastel-colored handbags and other fashionable items from sailcloth — another family tradition. A legend in The Bahamas, Annie has been sewing hats and bags since the late 1980s. Her warm smile can light up a room.
On September 1, 2019, Category 5 Hurricane Dorian made landfall in The Bahamas and took direct aim at the Abacos. First devastating Elbow Cay, the storm next ravaged Marsh Harbour with up to 12 feet of storm surge. Dorian then churned north, decimating Man-O-War Cay, Great Guana Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay and Coopers Town before finally stalling over Grand Bahama Island. The most powerful storm ever to hit The Bahamas, Hurricane Dorian left unforeseen destruction in its wake. But Abaconians, known for their 1 1 0 m arina lif e.c o m
Andy Albury
fortitude, courage, and love of community have staged a tenacious comeback. Evidence of Dorian’s destruction can still be seen everywhere, but docks are being built, construction projects are underway,
Bahamas Tourism
An inspiring recovery effort after Hurricane Dorian
businesses are reopening, and a spirit of renewal buzzes throughout the islands. Man-O-War Cay still holds its title as Boat Building Capital of The Bahamas, and the Alburys remain ubiquitous there.
WHERE TO DOCK IN THE ABACOS
Hope Town, Abacos
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina Marsh Harbour, Great Abaco Island 877-533-4799 Centrally located in the heart of Marsh Harbour, this classic Bahamian marina offers boating provisions and resort amenities including restaurants, a fitness center and a private beach. Load up on foodstuffs at nearby stores like Maxwell’s and the Abaco Asian Market. Conch Inn & Marina Marsh Harbour, Great Abaco Island 242-577-7000 Known for outstanding service, this marina offers waterfront suites and is home to Snappas Bar & Grill, a celebrated hangout for Caribbean cuisine and libations.
mr-fox
Hope Town Inn & Marina Elbow Cay 850-588-4855 With dockage for boats up to 125 feet, Hope Town Marina affords stunning views of the New England-style village and access to the candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse — the world’s last remaining lighthouse that’s hand-wound by a keeper and fueled by kerosene.
Endless adventures await boaters
The Abaco Islands lie just 165 nautical miles east of the Florida coast among a pristine paradise of turquoise waters. Two long slender islands, Little Abaco and Great Abaco, are complemented by dozens of small, largely uninhabited cays, islets and mangrove forests to explore, making the perfect setting for a boater’s adventure. It’s no wonder that the Abacos are known as the Boating Capital of The Bahamas, with lots to do on land as well. Whether cruising in a golf cart through charming 18thcentury English villages, perusing enchanting museums, reading on a white sand beach or birdwatching, Abaco offers something for everyone. While island-hopping through the Abacos, keep in mind that although you’ll find exclusive collectables on Man-O-War Cay, one thing you won’t find there is alcohol. Due to its devotion to religious values, the entire island is dry. But the rest of the islands more than make up for it with a multitude of laid-back beach bars serving fruity rum drinks. After all, The Bahamas’ most famous cocktail, the Goombay Smash (see p. 51 for recipe), was first created here in Abaco.
Lighthouse Marina Elbow Cay 242-366-0154 Located at the base of the iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse, this small but charismatic marina offers six protected slips for vessels up to 60 feet. Man-O-War Marina Village Man-O-War Cay Still undergoing extensive repairs, Man-O-War Marina Village has a limited number of slips for docking as well as water, fuel and ice. Electricity should be available in early 2024. Be sure to visit the historic Man-O-War Heritage Museum & Coffee Shop. Orchid Bay Marina & Yacht Club Great Guana Cay 242-365-5175 This full-service marina comes with a 217-acre resort and plant nursery along Guana Cay’s most beautiful beach, with dazzling views of the Sea of Abaco. Bluff House Beach Resort & Marina Green Turtle Cay 242-365-4200 The oldest resort in the Bahamian Out Islands, Bluff House is the only marina on Green Turtle Cay to offer catamaran-specific slips. Walker’s Cay 833-869-2553 Just 53 miles northeast of Grand Bahama Island, Walker’s Cay is renowned for world-class sport fishing and recently underwent a massive restoration led by philanthropist Carl Allen.
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/BoatBuildingInAbacos
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THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
Bahamas Companies With so many good options, we can help you choose 1 1 4 m a rina lif e.c o m
BY ELLEN HONEY
BEYOND THE TOURISTY CRUISE SHIP PORTS AND THE GLITZY RESORTS OF THE BAHAMAS, sleepy seaside towns and secluded harbors await discovery. A great way to experience this chain of more than 700 islands and cays is aboard a Bahamas yacht charter. Many charters are in the off-the-beaten-path “Out Islands.” The Abacos has been the Bahamian boating capital since colonial times, and its nautical ambience continues to lure voyagers from across the sea to picturesque villages and dazzling ocean sunsets.
The flawless coastline of the Exumas, a 120-mile-long archipelago, is an unspoiled strip of islands and cays known for friendly locals, secluded beaches and underwater caves designed for snorkeling. On Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, you can even take a dip with the residents, the famous swimming pigs. The Bahamas is one of the world’s leading charter destinations, and it’s no surprise that you will find a variety of vessels along with some of the world’s most impressive superyachts cruising its waters. Charter companies offer multiple options, and a little research will lead you to the most suitable for your dream vacation aboard.
Charter s
navigare-yachting.com, 703-401-3161
Dream Yacht Worldwide
Exumas, Bahamas Exumas Bahamas
Navigare Yachting Bahamas Ltd.
A Swedish bareboat charter company, Navigare is the world’s third largest charter operation. Their Bahamas fleet consists of yachts custommade for the market: sailing catamarans to 50’ from Bali and Lagoon and power cats to 48’ from Aquila, Navigare’s own brand. New yachts are always being added; two 51’ Lagoons are on order. The minimum charter is four days, with no set check-in/checkout days. Weather permitting, sailing grounds in the Abacos are limited to the Sea of Abaco, including Great WI N T ER 2 0 2 4 1 1 5
Dream Yacht Worldwide
Abaco and numerous cays to the east. A 10- to-14-day charter can be extended into the Exumas. Additional end-of-charter expenses are avoided through the Navigare Carefree package, which includes full coverage damage waiver insurance, a welcome pack, linens, dinghy, outboard engine and fuel, propane, full water tanks, snorkeling equipment, and a final cleaning. The fuel tank is full when your charter begins; you top off the tank at the end.
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Cruise Abaco
cruiseabaco.com, 321-830-9412 Located at Great Abaco Beach Resort in Marsh Harbour, Cruise Abaco was the first charter company in the Abacos. A small niche operation, they offer charters with their “Captained by Day, Bareboat by Night” program. A captain guides you through the day with snorkel and beach stops, and then leaves you safely moored in a different seaside settlement or secluded cove each evening. As support boats transfer the crew, they can also bring any essentials needed.
Penny Jo Sailing Charters
Cruise Abaco
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Cruise Abaco
Bluebnc
bluebnc.com, 786-369-6008 Bluebnc caters to its clientele by offering a wide selection of yachts ranging from 15 to 45 meters and accommodates various preferences by offering week-long, day, or weekend charters departing from the lively port of Nassau or the serene Marsh Harbour Marina. Bluebnc combines the convenience and accessibility of online services with
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a personal touch. From browsing to booking, its digital platform provides a seamless user-friendly experience with experts available to answer questions. Bluebnc supports a sustainable business model while also preserving marine life by working with its yachts to create long-term environmental health and well-being.
Ritzy Charters
Cruise Abaco
Day sails with stops at the underwater parks to snorkel, island hop and sightsee are available. Tip: Take advantage of your time aboard by learning the ropes. Sign up for American Sailing courses with your charter and gain certifications as you go! Classes will have you learning and living hands-on with a licensed captain and ASC certified sailing instructors. Throughout a typical week, charter guests can complete up to three courses with American Sailing certifications.
ritzycharters.com, 954-228-5562 Since Ritzy Charters brokers primarily crewed yachts in The Bahamas, it’s a top pick for finding crewed yacht options. The Floridabased company represents a variety of vessels across several categories including luxury yacht charter, motorboats, monohulls and catamarans. Recommended Ritzy itineraries include many activities and schedules with island-hopping maps and more, all custom tailored to vessel type and average cruising speeds to maximize
your vacation time. A favorite recommendation is the Exumas (with a six-night minimum) to see the beautiful parts of The Bahamas.
Dream Yacht Worldwide
dreamyachtcharter.com, 855-650-8902 With more destinations than any other yacht charter company, Dream Yacht
offers choices in both the Exumas and Abacos. From bareboat and skippered to the exclusivity of fully crewed yachts, the fleet includes options for seasoned sailors or those with no experience at all. They introduced electric sailing in the Mediterranean and plan to expand to The Bahamas soon. For the lone traveler wanting to experience time aboard, they offer by-the-cabin charters for social sailing at its best. The yacht is usually a Lagoon 620 cat with a guaranteed departure date from the Exumas.
Cruise Abaco
Penny Jo Sailing Charters pennyjosailingcharters.com, 302-754-0242
Penny Jo is a new 2022 Bali 4.4 sailing catamaran designed for personal comfort and performance. As is part of a co-op of self-managed boats, she’s usually crewed by a live-aboard owner/ captain. Penny Jo’s Capt. Bart is a South African native with fascinating life stories to share. Canadian First Mate/Chef Katie is widely traveled graduate of an exclusive French culinary school. Penny Jo trips are all-inclusive luxury charters with an experienced crew ready to cater to your interests, diet preferences and comfort, much like a floating condo. Instead of paying per item, these charters include linens, alcohol, kayaks, paddleboards, underwater scooter, wakeboard and more. If you are an experienced sailor or have never stepped aboard a boat, a luxury crewed charter is a vacation with no details to worry about. Penny Jo charters begin from her home port in New Providence (Nassau) and follow a custom itinerary through the Exumas.
Yacht Collective
yachtcollective.com, 954-947-5311 In the predominantly male-owned charter industry, Yacht Collective is a
majority woman-owned luxury yacht charter company specializing in crewed charters in the Exumas and Abacos. Yacht Collective is a fast-growing central agency and brokerage that specializes in yacht management, sales, consulting, crew placement network and more. They are known for the owner-support program, which is customized to fit the owner and the vessel. Each boat in the fleet is represented by a single agent for marketing and booking. Yacht Collective will even consult with new owners before a purchase to help them make the best selection.
The Moorings
moorings.com, 888-952-8420 Whether it’s your first time chartering a yacht or you’re a seasoned professional, the Moorings has a range of options for you to choose from bareboat to skippered and crewed. Challenge yourself by taking the helm on a bareboat charter and revel in the freedom and privacy of sailing as master of your own yacht. Hire a skipper for all or part of the journey
and enjoy a combination of relaxing on deck and guiding yourself around the Abacos or Exumas. Want to be the life and soul of the party? Choose a crewed charter and get treated like royalty by a captain and chef team. The Moorings offers private charter flights from Fort Lauderdale or Miami that take you directly to your yacht.
Sunsail
sunsail.com, 888 350 3568 A sister company to the Moorings, Sunsail offers a build-your-own pricing structure, which is appealing to visitors looking for the basic charter experience. All cats in the Sunsail fleet are Leopard Catamarans, which is synonymous with spacious, performance-driven, blue water cruising that offers exceptional seaworthiness combined with comfort and an extensive equipment list. Sail choices include the Leopard 42, 45, and 50 and two Powercats — the 53 PC and the new Leopard 46 PC. ml To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/BahamasCharterCompanies
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THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
TOP 10 BEACHES in the Caribbean & Bahamas
Sand so soft it’s a toss-up whether to describe it as powder or pastry flour. Sapphire seas you can peer through straight to the bottom. A shoreside fringe of stately palms with ceremonial headdress-like fronds for shade. 1 22 mma a rina rinalif life.c e.c oomm
Gerald Yambao/Pexels
BY CAROL BAREUTHER
B
eautiful beaches are picture postcard slices of paradise. You’ll find hundreds in the nearly 1,600-mile stretch of islands from The Bahamas to the Caribbean. Choosing the best to visit may seem like trying to pick a winning lottery number. But the list narrows down if you consider another element — a personality. Below are 10 Caribbean and Bahamas beaches that are selfie-worthy with a bucket-list experience, too. After all, you want something to write home about on that “wish you were here” postcard.
Pig Beach
The Bahamas Swim with the pigs at this namesake beach on Big Major Cay. This uninhabited island, except for its porcine population, is a mile long and ripe for a ramble as well as paddling around with the porkers. A dozen or two of these big hairy feral critters are descendants of colonial times. They are comfortable in company due to the crowds they attract, so snap away with selfies. Reach this beach by taking a day tour from Nassau or The Exumas, or renting a boat, sailing or power boating on your own. Where to Dock: Staniel Cay Yacht Club
Luquillo Beach
Puerto Rico Culture is everything at this world-famous beach. These 12 miles of toe-snuggling sand are a half-hour drive from the island’s capital of San Juan, and only 6.5 miles from the east coast boater-friendly town of Fajardo. Before you reach the beach, stop at the 60-some ramshackle food kiosks along Route 3. They may not look like much, but the real taste of Puerto Rico here is perfect for a picnic. Try bacalaítos (codfish fritters), alcapurrias (meat-stuffed green banana fritter) or pastelillos (meat turnovers), to name a few. Picnic tables, parking and lifeguards line the beach. Be sure to snap a picture next to one of the iconic sloped palms that separate sea from shore.
Roberto Nickson/Unsplash
Where to Dock: Marina Puerto Del Rey
Pig Beach Bahamas
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Buck Island
Roderick Eime/Flickr
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands Tourists and sea turtles flock to the west side strip of white sand on this island managed by the U.S. National Park Service. The only way to get to Buck’s main beach, called Turtle Beach, is by boat. Several operators offer day sails from the town of Christiansted on St. Croix’s mainland. The trip takes a little over an hour. Upon arrival, it’s literally splash down or jump off an anchored boat in waist-deep water and wade ashore. True to its name, the beach is a fertile nesting ground for Hawksbill turtles from July to October. An underwater snorkel trail on the other side of Buck Island offers self-guiding plaques on the sea bottom describing marine life. It’s a great way to cool off after a beach walk. Where to Dock: Green Cay Marina at Tamarind Reef Resort
Tourism St. Barts
The Baths
Orient Beach
St. Martin Nude beaches aren’t the norm in the Caribbean. However, if sunning your birthday suit is at the top of your to-do list, then go to this 1.5-mile-long powdery soft stretch of white sand. It’s the southernmost end where you can ditch your trunks or bikini and frolic au natural in the surf. You’ll find a lot to do here if you want to keep your clothes on, too. Often dubbed the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean,” more than half of the rest of the beach is lined with bars, bistros and beach clubs. Try fine French fare or fly high kiteboarding. Kites, boards and instruction are all available. The colorful kites and acrobatic riders over the bay are spectatorfriendly eye candy. Where to Dock: Anse Marcel Marina 1 24 m a rina life.c o m
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands If you like your sand mixed with the natural gym of giant boulders to climb up, over and under, then take a 10-minute taxi trip from Spanish Town to the trailhead. Pay a $3 entrance fee at the kiosk. A short trek downhill along a dirt path leads to a carpet of white sand with huge rocks left and right. Straight ahead, swim or snorkel off the beach and around the rocks. Afterward, follow the trail signs to Devil’s Bay, another breathtaking beach to the east. The money shot happens along the way in the “Cathedral Room,” a secret pool hidden under the A-frame of these super-sized stones. Victoria’s Secret models posed for a catalog shoot here a few years ago. Where to Dock: Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor
Nikki Beach
St. Barths See and be seen at the beach at St. Jean, this French West Indies island’s poshest piece of paradise. Known as Nikki Beach for the restaurant and beach club here, a parade of celebrities usually convenes where sea meets sand owing to the club’s cosmopolitan draw and the location of the famed Eden Rock resort only steps away. Gwen Stefani, Bono, and Jay Z and Beyoncé have all strolled here. You can rent plush sun loungers and umbrellas that are phenomenal for people watching. Or grab lunch in the breeze-cooled dining room, also a perfect perch. Where to Dock: Port De Gustavia
Courtesy of Caribbean Tourism Organisation UK
Pigeon Point Beach and Jetty, Tobago
No Name Beach
Klein Bonaire If snorkeling beats sunbathing in your book, the serene plateau of this beach is the ideal spot to dive in. The 2.3-square-mile, uninhabited islet is located half a mile from the Bonaire mainland and the capital city of Kralendijk. Reach here by water taxi, private boat, or even kayak or paddleboard if you’re up for a challenge. Two rustic shelters offer shade, but other than that it’s all nature. Pack plenty of water, a snack, and snorkel or scuba equipment. The fish-filled coral reef that runs parallel to the beach’s east shore is relatively shallow, spanning from 12- to 20-feet deep at the drop-offs.
Courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire
Where to Dock: Harbour Village Marina
Pink Sand Beach
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority
Barbuda Think pink when you visit this flat coral island located 30 miles north of its national sibling of Antigua. That’s because this eight-mile beach is blushed with tiny shells that give its flushed feature. It’s definitely a world wonder. The rosy hue ebbs and flows with the weather, with storm surges depositing a full-bodied glow. Getting to Barbuda can be an adventure. BYOB (bring your own boat) and anchor in the bay off the beach, although an Atlantic swell can make it rocky. Or leave your boat at the Jolly Harbour Marina in Antigua and board the Barbuda Express Ferry for the 90-minute one-way trip. Pink Sand Beach is right off the ferry dock, but nothing much else is here, so pack a picnic. Where to Dock: Jolly Harbour Marina & Boatyard
New Beach
Montserrat Talk about off the beaten track. The 2023 United Nations World Tourism Organization report lists this Leeward Island 32 miles southwest of Antigua among the top 10 least visited countries in the world. Add the flavor of a strip of jet-black sand formed only two decades ago from volcanic activity. Formerly called Bottomless Ghaut Beach, nature is unfiltered here. See seabirds, lizards and the occasional wild donkey as you walk the longest beach on the island. The surf can be rough, so instead of a swim, you can climb rock formations that extend out into the sea.
Tobago You won’t find many pigeons here anymore, but you will discover a piece of paradise. Actually three beaches comprise what is formally called the Pigeon Point Heritage Park, a 125-acre nature reserve on the island’s southwestern coast. The Main Beach, the most popular, is where the iconic thatch-roof jetty of postcard fame is located. Dive in! The swimming is great and so is snorkeling. Buccoo Reef, just offshore, is a protected marine park and was rated a thumbs up for its magnificent bounty of marine life by the late oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. Dine out! A couple of casual open-air restaurants serve everything from burgers to lobster, pork ribs and BBQ pigtails. Where to Dock: 100-plus miles to the west on the sister island of Trinidad. Best nearby anchoring is at Store Bay or west of Buccoo Reef.
Courtesy of Montserrat Tourism Division
Where to Dock: There are no marinas in Montserrat, but bays on the west coast at Old Road Bay and Rendezvous Bay are good day anchorages.
Pigeon Point
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New Beach
Harry B./Unsplash
Luquillo Beach Puerto Rico
To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/CaribbeanBeaches
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THE BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN >
DIVING FOR SHIPWRECKS
IN THE CARIBBEAN Take the plunge and delve into history
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
BY MICAH ANGEL
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A treasure trove of coral-coated shipwrecks awaits divers in the Caribbean’s aquamarine waters, captivating history buffs and nature lovers alike. Whether sunken intentionally or under more fateful circumstances, each of these submerged time capsules offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the past. SS SAPONA
Bimini, The Bahamas Run aground during a 1926 hurricane, the Sapona was infamous for smuggling hooch during Prohibition. Originally built during World War I as a cargo ship, she eventually made her claim to fame as a rum-running vessel in the 1920s, transporting contraband liquor between The Bahamas and United States. While en route to Florida — and loaded to the gills with booze — Sapona met her demise in the shallow reefs along the coast of South Bimini just a few miles off Bennett’s Harbour. Regrettably, most of the ship’s potent potables were lost when its stern was ripped off in the storm. A popular destination for beginner scuba divers and snorkelers, she rests in just 15 feet of water and towers 40 feet above sea level. Years of relentless weathering have stripped Sapona down to an easy-to-explore skeletal form packed with marine life.
USS KITTIWAKE Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands One of the best-known wreck sites in the Caribbean, the Kittiwake was an iconic Navy rescue ship that toured the globe for 50 years. She was scuttled in 2011 to create an artificial reef just off Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman and has since become one of the Caribbean’s best-known wreck dives. Easily accessible for divers and snorkelers of all levels, the Kittiwake offers clear visibility under typically calm conditions. The top of the sunken vessel can be viewed at just 16 feet deep, while the bottom rests on a 60-foot-deep seafloor. Divers can explore Kittiwake’s exterior and interior to get a fascinating look into naval history. She’s adorned with colorful marine life, including a goliath grouper known to hang around the propellor.
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The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
Sapona wreck site
MV BIANCA C. Grenada
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cozyta
Known as the “Titanic of the Caribbean,” Bianca C. is a 600-foot-long Italian luxury cruise ship that met her fate in 1961. One of the largest wrecks in the Caribbean and one of Grenada’s most famous dives, the cruise liner tragically caught fire while anchored in the harbor of St. George’s. After roughly 700 passengers and crew scrambled to abandon ship, she was towed out to sea and sunk about a mile off scenic Grand Anse Beach. Exploring Bianca C. is for experienced divers only, as she sits upright in 160 feet of water with her topmost section at 90 feet deep. From her fully intact bow down to her massive on-deck swimming pool, divers enjoy awe-inspiring views of the ship’s elegant past, encrusted with vibrant corals and sponges from over half a century of slumber on the sea floor. The nearby Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park (also a worthwhile diving adventure) was installed in 2006 to mark the 50th anniversary of Bianca C.’s sinking.
Sail Cloudy Bay Sail Cloudy Bay
Above and top right: Pablo Escobar’s wrecked plane from above
Escobar’s sunken plane is also one of the most accessible underwater plane wrecks in the world — easily viewed from the deck of a ship or enjoyed while snorkeling or free diving amid schools of tropical fish. PABLO ESCOBAR’S SUNKEN PLANE Exuma, The Bahamas
Although not technically a shipwreck, notorious Columbian drug lord Pablo Escobar’s sunken plane provides an intimate glimpse into a clandestine narco-trafficking ring and makes for an unforgettable offbeat diving experience. Located just off Norman’s Cay in the turquoise Bahamian waters of Exuma, the plane can be found jutting above water atop a picturesque sandbar in roughly 10-foot-deep water, depending on the tides. Although in a remote section of The Bahamas, Escobar’s sunken plane is also one of the most accessible underwater plane wrecks in the world — easily viewed from the deck of a ship or enjoyed while snorkeling or free diving amid schools of tropical fish. And no, there’s no threat of foul play here. The site is perfectly safe for tourists.
USS BERWYN Barbados
One of Barbados’ oldest wrecks, the Berwyn was a World War I French tugboat whose crew took shelter in placid Carlisle Bay shortly after the war ended in 1919. Legend has it that the crew enjoyed their time in Barbados so much that they no longer wished to return to post-war Europe, but the skipper refused their request. So, after tying one on with Barbadian rum, the crew intentionally foundered the ship onto the bay’s shallow seabed. Having rested in seven to 10 feet of extremely calm water for over a century, she is now blanketed in brilliant coral, brimming with sponges and swirling with prismatic fish. Due to its tame waters and ease of access, the Berwyn wreck site is often used for dive training by local scuba operators and resorts.
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Dean’s Blue Hole
KODIAK QUEEN Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
One of just five ships to survive the Pearl Harbor attack, the Kodiak Queen was a World War II Navy barge later converted into a commercial fishing trawler out of Kodiak, Alaska. After gathering countless crab and salmon for decades, she was ultimately abandoned in the British Virgin Islands. Historian Mike Cochran, not wanting to see the emblematic vessel stripped apart for scrap metal, collaborated with Owen Buggy, photographer and friend of Sir Richard Branson, to convert the ship into an artificial reef and art exhibit. A giant mesh sculpture
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of a Kraken was built atop her deck before the Kodiak Queen was sunk just offshore of Long Bay on Virgin Gorda in 2017. Although her onboard art gallery endured two major hurricanes with no damage, a massive battery of swells in 2018 damaged the head of the Kraken sculpture. Still an extraordinary dive, the Queen is your best opportunity to see a WWII wreck underwater (scuba-diving in Pearl Harbor is prohibited), and a few Kraken tentacles remain jutting off the ship. To view this article online, visit marinalife.com/CaribbeanShipwreckDiving
The Bahamas are home to the world’s highest concentration of blue holes — colossal underwater sinkholes believed to have formed during the last ice age roughly 20,000 years ago. From above, blue holes appear as large dark blue circles punched into the land and seascape, contrasting sharply with the surrounding turquoise water. They serve as diverse ecosystems teeming with marine life. Stunning geological formations such as stalagmites, sheer limestone walls and mineral formations make blue holes an absolute delight for divers. The Bahamas claims more of these natural wonders than anywhere else in the world, with more than 200 found off the island of Andros alone. But not all blue holes are safe to explore. For those cruising in and about the Bahamian archipelago, consider these three established diving and snorkeling hot spots.
Dean’s Blue Hole Long Island
One of the deepest blue holes on earth, Dean’s Blue Hole plunges 663 feet beneath the water’s surface. Located in the bay west of Clarence Town on Long Island, the blue hole is framed by cliffs on one side and the Atlantic on the other. This natural alcove prevents prevailing winds from penetrating the hole’s perimeter, keeping the water inside calm and ideal for exploring.
The Crater Andros
Found off Small Hope Bay on the largest Bahamian island of Andros, the Crater is renowned as a refuge for local sea life.
Moray eels and rays regularly make their way along its coral walls, and turtles are spotted frequently. Less experienced divers should stick to the Crater’s shallow outer rim. It’s recommended that only expert divers venture down past the blue hole’s outer rim to spelunk its dark and mysterious cave system below.
Lost Blue Hole
New Providence
Located just a few miles from Nassau, the Lost Blue Hole sports a 100-foot diameter and a depth of 200 feet. Its sheltered walls shield the hole from waves and outside currents, providing crystal-clear visibility and a stable habitat for fish such as amberjacks, angelfish, snappers and yellowtails. Nurse sharks, reef sharks, rays, eels and sea turtles are also known to inhabit this tranquil pool.
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The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation
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