Almost Paradise

South West Bay to Nassau  |  4.25 Hours  |  22.5 Miles   

It was a beautiful golden morning in the anchorage. The plan was to spend another day in South West Bay. After breakfast I went downstairs to stretch while Barry reviewed all the morning weather reports and called fellow cruisers to compare notes. I could overhear his conversations and knew before I finished that the plan had changed and we would be departing. A significant wind event is approaching in the next few days and we needed to seek protection form south and west winds. Our entrance into the heavenly Exumas would have to wait a few more days. We were going to make a run for Nassau. We pulled the anchor at 10:45 and motored clockwise around New Providence. We were well-protected from the waves generated by the east wind as we passed Gaulding Cay. The island is notable for its lone palm tree and its designation as a bird sanctuary. A significant chop greeted us upon turning east. 

The ride into Nassau Harbour was sporty, but not uncomfortable. Large resort complexes on the northern shore towered above the trees. Atlantis on Paradise Island became visible. We called for permission to enter the harbour and made the turn in front of the Nassau Harbour Lighthouse. The elements have taken a toll on the structure, but it still stands defiantly and proudly over the shallow water. Five cruise ships were tied up at the Nassau Cruise Port. The light blue-hulled Utopia of the Seas, operated by Royal Caribbean, is the second largest cruise ship in the world. She entered service on July 19, 2024, and has 18 decks and 2,834 staterooms. Passing by in close proximity, the only word that came to mind is massive.

We had identified a few anchorages and ranked them in order of preference. We traveled the length of the harbour and reviewed all three. After deciding Option 1 was not good for the current wind direction and Option 2 was full, we circled back under the bridges and dropped the hook at Option 3. The iconic Atlantis arch is in full view. The sun set over the vacant cruise ship dock. Tens of thousands of passengers are on their way to enjoy their Bahamas vacation. I wonder how the upcoming front will impact their itineraries. For us, we'll be here a few days waiting for the wind and waves to calm. Our setting is almost Paradise ... Island that is. We're knocking on heaven's door as Shroud Cay and the Exumas will be our next port of call.