North To Cat Island

Thompson Bay to Old Bight  |  9.5 Hours  |  64.8 Miles   

Today was moving day. The strong easterly wind and waves had finally settled, making for more comfortable travel. All of the remaining half dozen boats in our Thompson Bay anchorage were scattering to various points, including George Town, Lee Stocking Island, and our destination of Cat Island. Our anchor which held so well during the blow was buried in the sand, but came up cleanly. We were underway before the sun rose over the ridge line of island. After we turned past Indian Head Point and began to parallel the Long Island shoreline, a lone dolphin joined us. We were heading north through some skinny water and noted the many small towns we drove through on our car tour. Once we cleared the Cape Santa Maria Resort at the top of the island, we entered into the deep open ocean water marked by a color change to dark blue. The ocean swells that concerned us did approach four feet, but with an eight second period were easily handled by the stabilizers. Our ride was never uncomfortable and the windows I washed yesterday were never wet by sea spray. A few hours later the sight of land and light blue waters signaled our arrival at Cat Island.     

The chart plotter was a cluttered mess with nine boats converging on the Hawks Nest Point waypoint at the same time. Everyone played nicely together as we crossed the shallow light blue waters to the anchorage. We take advantage of every opportunity possible to gaze across these beautiful waters.  

We anchored among five other boats in the anchorage, but were soon joined by 12 more. We lowered our dinghy and then retired our weather-beaten Bahamas courtesy flag in favor of a crisp new one. Word quickly spread inviting everyone to shore for sundowners. We met four other couples (all with teenagers) and shared stories while watching the sun lower in the sky.

The swirling clouds were the highlight of tonight's show, transitioning from yellow to pink. At near darkness we all dispersed and returned to our boats. Tomorrow will be spent exploring this new-to-us area.