April 6th finally brought a stretch of good weather, so we picked up the hook at Thompson Bay and sailed north along the coast of Long Island, tucking into Calabash Bay for the evening. It was refreshing to be back in crystal-clear water—Thompson Bay had been very cloudy. We hopped in with our trusty Nemo underwater hull cleaner and gave the hull a good scrubbing.
The following morning, we were on the move again, leaving Long Island behind for Cat Island. We had hoped to stop at Conception Island, but with large waves in the forecast, we chose the protection of Cat Island instead. Our resident fisherwoman, Pamela, dropped the hand lines once we reached deeper water, but we’ve yet to catch anything—hopefully our luck will change soon.
Entering the bay at Cat Island was incredible. The water was forty feet deep and so clear you could see straight to the bottom. The bay is so expansive that even after entering, we still had another two hours before reaching the anchorage.
When we arrived, the wind was blowing out of the west—unusual for this area. Instead of anchoring close to shore, we set farther out, letting the westerly push us gently toward land. With only one other boat nearby, it felt a bit unsettling at first, so we let out extra chain just to be safe. The wind remained shifty, making each morning’s view out the cabin window a small surprise.
After settling in, we dropped the dinghy and headed ashore to stretch our sea legs and climb Mt. Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas at 206 feet. At the top sits the Hermitage, a small stone monastery built in the 1930s by Father Jerome, an architect-turned-priest who designed it as a place of quiet reflection. Its simplicity and solitude make it truly special.
On our way down, we spotted coconuts—something we’d been eager to try since arriving in the Bahamas. After a few attempts, I managed to climb the tree. The coconut wasn’t coming off without a fight, but with one final leap and a two-handed grip, it finally gave way. We were thrilled to enjoy our first fresh coconut.
A few days later, after picking up groceries, we found another tree loaded with coconuts. This time, Declan quickly climbed up and gathered a few more.
Cracking them open takes work. After a relentless beating with our machete—much to the likely dismay of our cutting board—they finally gave in. Fresh coconut water and meat made the effort well worth it. We may need to find a few recipes to make the most of this new treat.
Over the next few days, the anchorage filled with familiar boats from our Bluewater Cruising group. It’s been a gift to have friends nearby—to grab ice cream or share a meal. While we miss family and friends back home, this community out here makes a big difference.
We had hoped to make this a quick stop before heading back to Staniel Cay, but the weather had other plans. Surfing six-foot waves into the cut didn’t sound appealing, so we’ve decided to stay put a few extra days—now looking closer to a week.
This season’s weather has been steady and strong, with winds holding for days at a time. It feels like a gentle reminder from God to slow down—to release our plans and receive what He has for us in each place. Out here, we’re learning the journey isn’t measured in miles, but in moments: the laughter of our boys, the stillness of a quiet anchorage, and the trust that grows when we’re not in control. Maybe this is what it means to be anchored in faith—not that the winds die down, but that even when they don’t, we are held steady. And in that surrender, we find a deeper kind of wonder—one not rushed, but received.
We are enjoying keeping up with your updates! Memphis’ says Hi to Declan! Can’t wait to read about more adventures.…
Hi Jason and Pamela, I’m just catching up on your adventures. Yes, we had an unusual amount of cold weather…
Jason- Great to follow you and your wonderful family!! Be safe and enjoy
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