Episode 61 - Shocking Find! Recently Sunk Sailboat with Debris Still Floating!

Today’s leg of our Bahamian Great Loop side trip was a short but memorable one, covering just 4.2 nautical miles. Our average speed was 5.8 knots, making this a smooth, under-one-hour journey through the stunning shallow waters between Shroud Cay and Hawksbill Cay. For navigation, we relied heavily on Aqua Maps and the Explorer Charts, which provided invaluable detail and suggested routing. If you’re venturing into Bahamian waters, I highly recommend Aqua Maps as an essential tool – the precision and information on these charts make navigating even shallow or challenging areas much more manageable. Hawksbill Cay, a part of the protected Bahamas Land and Sea Park, is a true gem of the Exumas. This uninhabited cay offers visitors pristine beaches, crystal-clear snorkeling spots, and scenic hiking trails. Mooring is available here, but anchoring within the mooring field is strictly prohibited to protect the seabed. It’s a haven for those looking to enjoy nature undisturbed by development. Exploring Hawksbill Cay by dinghy offers an intimate way to uncover the beauty of this uninhabited island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. The crystal-clear shallows reveal colorful marine life below, with fish, rays, and even sea turtles often swimming alongside. A must-do is navigating through the island’s mangrove channels, where calm waters shelter juvenile fish, crabs, and unique birds in a peaceful setting. Secluded beaches await along the shore, offering perfect spots for a private picnic or simply soaking in the sun. Some even have trails leading to the island’s interior. One of the highlights of Hawksbill Cay is the well-preserved ruins of a Loyalist settlement dating back to the late 18th century. This site, once home to the Russel family from 1785 to 1830, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. As you explore, you’ll come across stone walls, remains of houses, and numerous outbuildings that paint a picture of life on the island over 200 years ago. The ruins are among the best-preserved in the Bahamas and provide a unique opportunity to connect with the area’s rich history. Whether you’re here to soak in the sun, snorkel the vibrant coral reefs, or walk through history, Hawksbill Cay is a must-visit for anyone cruising the Exumas. Music from #Uppbeat License code: ERVOULEZDWGODMRE