Swimming With The Fishes

Shroud Cay to Emerald Rock  |  2.75 Hours  |  17.4 Miles   

Our bumpy ride lasted for much of the night. Our bow was into the north wind and waves were hitting us broadside from the west. The rocking would start with the gentle impact of a single wave that was followed in succession by more waves that amplified the rocking motion. We were made keenly aware of every movable item on Crossroads. Shampoo in the shower -- place it on the floor. Soap dispenser by the sink -- move it into the sink. Picture frames on the shelf -- lay them face down. We listened as our dishes and provisions moved around in their cabinets. There was no sleeping on my side for it was not stable enough. Sometimes I really felt like Snoopy in the washing machine. Around 3:00 the power of sleep took over. This morning was a little calmer, but lifting the dinghy to the upper deck came with an added degree of difficulty because of the extra motion. By 9:30 we had bid adieu the Shroud Cay anchorage and were moving a short distance south, still in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. After we turned east the bright blue waters led us to our next anchorage. We dropped the hook not far from the namesake Emerald Rock.

We were excited for the opportunity to go snorkeling at this stop. It has been two long years since we've explored the area's reefs. We pulled the snorkel gear and my wetsuit out of storage and rigged up the all-important "step" to help get us back in the dinghy. At low tide we made the short ride over to the yellow buoy marking the Rangers Garden. Barry and I each had underwater cameras and went off in search of anything that was colorful and/or moved. This little reef had many different species of coral growing as both single stalks and and large clumps. We spotted several different Angel fish swimming in and out of crevices. Their bright blue coloration made them a favorite to follow around. Several other species were present, but at this time I cannot identify them. (I'll work on that.) Barry caught a shot of me in hot pursuit of something before he exited the water. We returned to Crossroads and completed our showers in time to leave for Happy Hour on the beach. Nine of us gathered for easy conversation as we watched the sun set beyond the anchorage.