Nassau (Part 1)

We left the solitude of our anchorage in White Cay and traveled 40 - 45 miles toward big city of Nassau, where 75% of the Bahamian population resides. Throughout the southeastern journey we attempted to contact our friends on Release and ChrisJen, but unfortunately could not reach them. We eventually gave up anticipating that they had trekked further south and out of radio range.

That afternoon we found a pleasant anchorage west of Nassau and eased in to drop the hook. Two other sailboats were inside and we were delighted to hear the radio come alive with Mike from ChrisJen welcoming us into their bit of paradise. Both ChrisJen and Release had been enjoying several days in the anchorage. What luck that we should meet up with them.

Our anchorage, as it turns out, is on just off the main street headed into Nassau. We were able to catch a bus just up the street and for $1.25 ride one way into the city. Mike, Lou, the Captain and I did just that. Spending the day with so much exploring that I am opting to break our adventure into two posts.

Our morning started at the corner of Bay and George Street where we left the bus and headed up the street to the Columbus statue. Plenty of photos later and a near miss of having the camera run over in the street, we left the famed explorer behind and began our own expedition. First stop - the ice cream parlor.

Having consumed our fill we headed in-shore towards Fort Fincastle. One of three forts near the city, Fort Fincastle sits atop a hill with a great overlook of the harbor. Nearby is the Queen's Staircase. An escape route from the fort carved out of the rock heading towards the sea. The staircase is remarkable. The effort to remove the rock and allow passage was immense given the depth of the cavern.

By mid-day our feet were beginning to ache. The pedometer said we had logged many steps and it was time to find some air conditioned comfort. So off to Paradise Island we went.

The Admiral

2/5 - 2/6/2011