Staniel Cay & Big Majors Spot, Northern Exumas

Staniel Cay

Following a few busy days in Farmer’s Cay,and Super Bowl, aboard “Kaos” with Paul and Denise from “Orion” we departed Farmer’s for Black Point. As we neared Black Point, we were able to determine that the harbour was very full. Upon approach, we counted no less tha 40 boats at anchor, most awaiting the arrival of the next supply boat. We determined that the laundromat would be full, as would the dinghy dock and Lorraine’s Café. The decision was made to hit Black Point on our return and head straight for Staniel Cay, where we would await the arrival of our guests, Dave and Suzanne.

We anchored between the Yacht Club and “Thunderball” Cave, and spent much of the day washing the boat and catching up on emails etc., now that we once again had reasonable internet

The following day was spentpreparing for our guests arrival on the 8^th. Low tide that afternoon was about 1:30 pm, and Susann expressed an interest in snorkelling “Thunderball” Cave, the sight of filming of the James Bond movie “Thunderball”. Susann is claustrophobic with anything over her face, but wanted to see the schools of tropical fish within the cave.Low, slac tide is the best time to visit, since the cave entranceis accessible without diving under water, and one is not fighting ocean current. We took a small container of bread crumbs in with us and when Alan released them into the water, we were surronded by hundreds of beautiful fish. The top of the cave is open to the sunlight, which makes the waters and fish sparkle.

Although Susann did not stay long inside the cave, she did it and enjoyed nature at it’s best!

The following morning, Susann was awakened by the diesel engines of the fast approaching freight boat. Everywhere was abuzz with activity and the cruisers were excited that fresh fruits and veggies, would once again be available in the stores, for at least, a few hours.

Isle’s General Store, near the airport,  also known as the yellow store, announced on VHF 16 that produce had arrived, and they were open for business. We walked over, to find the dinghy dock crammed with dinks, and Miss Vivian’s store a hive of activity, with cruisers stuffing their bags with all the fresh foods they could carry. It was reminiscent of the fishermen cleaning their catch on the dock and throwing the skin and carcass’ to the waiting nurse sharks and rays, who were ready to fight and devour every morsel. Sixty some odd dollars later, we departed with everything on our list, except bananas. We were not fast enough and the case emptied within minutes.

Returning to the boat, docked at the Yacht Club, we awaited the arrival of Dave and Suzanne, and a late lunch at the restaurant.

It’s Alan’s birthday today. After a visit to “Thunderball Cave”, where Dave & Suzanne snorkeled and fed the fish, we headed to Big Major’s Spot, just a couple of miles away.

After securely setting the anchor, we headed off in the dinghy to feed and photograph the swimming pigs. As boats approach the beach, the adult pigs swim out, looking for treats. We had some old macadamia nuts and apple pieces, which they quickly devoured.

The piglets remained on shore, disappearing into the bushes until the adults returned to shore.

From pig beach, we moved to the party beach on Big Major’s Spot. Some generous cruisers have donated several picnic tables and built a bar, complete with indelible marker for visitors to sign their names.

A large fire pit has been built, surrounded with bench seating and complete with a fire extinguisher. Thanks to whoever, for their thoughtfulness and generosity.

Now it is up to us, visiting cruisers to enjoy and take care of the beach.

Back aboard “Kaos”, sunset was enjoyed over cocktails and Alan’s birthday celebrated with a steak & lobster dinner, followed by chocolate cake and cognacs under the stars.