Big Majors to Little Farmer's Cay | 2.7 Hours | 17.4 Miles
Last evening's generator run proved that we were up and running, and as good as new. That meant that we could comfortably escape from all the mega yachts (and their toys) and the westerly wind exposure of Staniel Cay. We had no plans and no where to be, which was refreshing. We decided to raise anchor and join Kelly and Richard (Untethered) in the anchorage off Little Farmer's Cay. Shortly before 1:00 we dropped anchor in a new spot for us. In no time, Kelly and Richard had pulled up to our swim platform in their dinghy and asked if we'd like to join them for a walk around the island. We quickly closed up Crossroads and joined them. The two Selenes were left in our wake as we made our way to shore. We tied up at the dock in Little Harbour and watched the rays and turtles gliding through the water. A helpful direction sign was at the end of the dock right next to the welcome sign.
We did not need directions because our goal to walk the entire island. We took the main road until in stopped atop the Cay's highest point, 60-foot Dabra Hill. It was high enough to provide a gorgeous view over Whiteland Beach as we retraced our steps. The first place to lure us from the road was JR Woodcarving. JR had just harvested a few tamarind logs for future carvings. His incredibly detailed fish pieces were on display outside while smaller owls and parrots lined shelves in his shop.
We admired several trees in his yard that were loaded with fruit. The sapodilla gets rave reviews for its sweetness and is often known as the brown sugar fruit for its sweet brown flesh. We walked along South-side Beach and even followed a road to the dump before turning around. No worries, it is all part of the experience. A strange bird flew by which resembled a large hummingbird. We followed the curved road around the point and came to Ty's Sunset Bar & Grill. It was closed today (Monday), but we sat around, chatted, and enjoyed another beautiful day. We walked the airport runway all the way to North End Point. The beach was rocky and the falling tide exposed little arches eroded by wave action. We visited with a few fellow cruisers at the Yacht Club before crossing a small bridge over the inland creek.
Once again, we were admiring trees dripping with fruit when we were invited in for a closer look. Denzel gave us some Noni and Spanish Thyme before pulling a ripe pomegranate off a tree and sharing it. We all enjoyed a handful of the sweet arils fresh from the garden. Huge pods of tamarind seeds hung from low branches. Also an artist, he showed us his collection of paintings for sale. A final gift was a cup of his special health drink made from tamarind, ginger, and brown sugar. It tasted better than it looked and we all passed the same cup for a sample. Every islander we met today was over-the-top friendly and welcoming. What a special place. Our final steps of the day took us back to Little Harbour with enough time to visit Ocean Cabin for a beverage. A plumeria loaded with white blooms framed the outside deck. Hanging over the bar was the flag of Little Farmer's Cay. In colors shared with the Bahamian flag, an outline of the island, a starfish, a palm tree, and an anchor comprise the flag of the second smallest isolated community in the Bahamas (pop. 91).
Terry was a great host and took care of us at the bar while Ernestine fixed us a little early evening snack. The highlight of our time ashore was the opportunity to join our hosts in a group sing of the song Little Farmer's Cay, the island anthem. I hope you'll click on the image below and read the words. The lyrics totally capture the amazing spirit of this tiny island. We returned to our boats after dark and agreed what a wonderful day it had been. Therefore, we will make no plans for tomorrow and just see what happens.
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