Nassau to Norman's Cay | 7 Hours | 42.5 Miles
We were more than ready to depart Nassau Harbour for bluer destinations. The sun made a brief appearance behind the twin bridges before rising into a heavy cloud bank. Moments later it emerged below a dramatic upward beam. The cruise ships began filing into the Cruise Ship Port. Raising the anchor took a bit longer than planned, but we were soon on our way. Upon exiting the harbour, we passed Fort Montague to the south. The four-cannon limestone fort was built in 1741 by the British to defend their interests against Spain.
Large estate homes lined the edge of the Paradise Island Golf Course. On the south side of New Providence more moderate -- and interesting -- structures occupied the waterfront. A spotted oleander caterpillar moth was discovered hitching a ride with us. We watched as an impressive rain cloud moved across our path. Eventually we did get a little deck wash, but it was over quickly.
By mid-morning, the day had turned absolutely beautiful. Our path took across the shallow Yellow Bank. There was no wind and the water was smooth. Everything on the white sand bottom below 20 feet of water was perfectly visible. I sat on the bow and watched as we passed by various species of coral -- branch, fan, and brain. Larger coral heads supported their own micro-ecosystem with schools of fish darting in and out of crevices. Also interesting was how the mind searches for patterns and symmetry. Sea stars were easily identified. As we neared Norman's Cay we saw that another Selene was already in the anchorage. We followed our old tracks in and anchored near Cyndy and Doug on Southern Abode. A lone dolphin cruised through the anchorage while I spent a few hours reading.
We've waited two years to take in a view like this. Absence does make the heart grow fonder. We are fortunate to be back in our happy place.
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