On October 14, 1492, Christobal Colon (We use the name "Christopher Columbus" which is really the Anglicized version of his actual name...go figure) arrived at Conception Island. Frankly, I haven't a clue why he ever left. The place is gorgeous. But, I am getting ahead of myself (as usual).
First thing yesterday morning, Persephone left Calabash Bay for an easy sail over to Conception. As mentioned, Calabash was awful....not very pretty and had a gut twisting roll. The mast looked like an inverted pendulum as it rocked back and forth 10-15 degrees at deck level. The top of the mast was swinging in a 10 foot arc. I couldn't wait to get out of that place. In bed, you had to lay flat on your back, spread eagle, to keep from rolling around ! (The cruising guidebooks rave about how pretty Calabash is and how the roll/surge was "not that bad". WRONG.....if you haven't been, don't go...save yourself a sleepless night !!)
When the sails were set, the wind was light to moderate, but from the east; so it was a combination of sailing around the Cape of Santa Maria and motorsailing into the wind the 15 miles across to Conception. There are several reefs, coral heads and rocks surrounding the approach to the anchorage, many of which are uncharted. So, eyeball navigation is necessary to safely transit the approach. The water is so clear, you can see the bottom fifty (Yes, 50') feet below. The coral heads and reefs are dark brown against the turquoise water; so you zig-zag around them....The charts are marginal (hazards are mis-positioned or missing all together) so the electronic chart-plotter and onboard computer navigational system are worthless. There are no buoys, lights, marks or other nav-aids in this area of the Bahamas. So, navigation instruments are now eyeballs, binoculars and a pair of polarized sunglasses....pretty much what "Columbus" had 500+ years ago. Sure glad P-Girl has a ton of expensive electronics... they now make great night lights for the cabin.
Conception Island is uninhabited and has been left in it's natural state. There are a total of five boats here, all very spread out across the anchorage. The beach here is to die for....it is one of the prettiest beaches I have ever seen. It is crescent shaped about 2 miles long. The sand is brilliant white, and very fine....almost powdery. There are no rocks, trash or footprints on the beach. It was a bit overcast yesterday afternoon so photos would not do justice to the beauty of the island.....hopefully today will be better for photography.
There have been several mutton snappers under the boat this morning....but they don't seem interested in biting the lure....may have to get into the water with my spear and hunt dinner......probably would starve; but for the freezer !
s/v Persephone
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