The Bahamas, tax haven but also archipelago!
It is true that the Bahamas can boast of a solid banking secrecy, as well as a taxation system that can be described as "friendly"
However, the Bahamas are much more than that for yachtsmen.
This abundance of low islands and madreporic cays is bathed in water of an almost unreal transparency and limpidity! The colors vary from deep turquoise to deep blue. Their diversity is such that they would make a Pantone color chart stunned, that is to say. A kaleidoscopic enchantmenteuros!
This solid Bahamian originality gives the whole territory an almost hypnotic charm.
Moreover, as if to corroborate it, David Copperfield has an island there, certainly private, but not deprived of all
From peaceful islands to tourist stopover
Because of its geographical position, the Bahamas is like a passageway on the road to Mexico and Central America.
The Lucayan people who had occupied them for centuries suddenly saw their destiny fall into horror after the "visit" of Christopher Columbus. These peaceful islanders then witnessed a succession of tragic episodes, until their complete disappearance.
At present, the Bahamas derive their main resources from tourism. The wise sailor will be careful not to deduce that these islands are not very popular.
Indeed, only a few dozen of them are inhabited out of the 700 islands in the archipelago. With two thirds of the population concentrated on New Providence, it is often lonely to anchor on the islands, with the exception, of course, of "popular" places like Stocking Island, opposite Georgetown.
Huge sand and coral banks separated by deep sea
Apart from the example of the first yachtsman in history, Mr. Columbus, the Bahamas are rarely reached via San Salvador Island. Americans arrive from the north and Europeans from the south. After leaving the Dominican Republic, the classic route leads to Great Inagua (unless one has made the detour via the Turks and Caicos).
We will stop in Matthew Town to accomplish the formalities of entry, which are well facilitated by the kindness of the attendants.
It is also very convenient to get there the necessary ingredients to get internet and telephone. The port is very small and it is not usual to enter it. Also, passing ships anchor outside. This can be uncomfortable, especially with north to northeast winds and swells.
After clearing entry formalities, a few miles north, the beautiful Man of War Bay invites you to get acquainted with Bahamian customs and traditions.
Cruising Permit
How much does it cost? The "cruising permit", valid for three months, includes a fishing permit (including lobsters within the authorized periods). It costs 300 dollars. Plus 40 dollars for the immigration services. Beforehand, go through the "covid" box by "buying" negative test results, then pay about 50 dollars per person for a health insurance.
A wide variety of itinerary choices
There is something for every taste, which will undoubtedly guide the choice of destinations, because, of course, you can't find "everything, everywhere".
Thus, when sailing between islands, one will have to decide between moving in deep water or zigzagging between the coral massifs more or less rare in less than three meters of water. Ocean lovers will be delighted to discover, without too much trouble, a mahi-mahi or a "yellow fin tuna" at the end of their line. While the flat water lovers will certainly enjoy fishing, with indolence, but also with a little stress, at the rhythm of their mood in shallow waters. You can even allow yourself to anchor several times a day for a swim or a snack.
There are many places of interest along the way to New Providence. Each island has its own special features that will enhance your cruise. Examining nautical guides or traveler's blogs will help you choose the right places to stop, taking into account the weather and your affinities.
The climate of the Bahamas is mild all year round. It is one of the major elements of the attractiveness of the archipelago. It is barely cool in winter and not too hot in summer. On the other hand, its only major drawback is that it is subject to the risk of hurricanes in the period from June to September. Some marinas are declared "hurricane holes". However, it is important to keep in mind that nobody knows in advance the damage that can be caused by winds exceeding 150 knots
