Abaco

I write about the Abacos frequently.  I need to explain that when I refer to “the Abacos” I am talking about group of islands in the northern Bahamas. There are two main islands – Great Abaco and Little Abaco.  There is a ring of smaller islands on the eastern side of Great and Little Abaco.  These are all considered part of the Abacos.  Walker’s Cay at the top of the Abaco chain is about 125 miles to the east of Fort Pierce, Florida.  Hole in the Wall is at the south end about 50 miles north of Nassau. 

The Abacos are not what my friends think of when we tell them we are going to the Bahamas.  The Abacos are a gentler community than Nassau or Freeport.  Each island has its own distinct personality.  The commonality between the islands is the friendliness.  Everyone speaks while passing by on a morning or evening walk.  No one is too busy not to stop and help if needed. 

Some of these surrounding islands we have visited are Great Guana Cay, Elbow Cay, Man O War Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Lubbers Quarters.   There are close to 100 smaller cays–some named and some not–that are perfect for exploring.   

Boat Harbour Marina at Abaco Beach Resort is probably the largest marina in Abaco.  It has its own beach which not every marina can claim. There are a few other marinas which are also very nice:  Conch Inn & Marina, Mangoes, Harbour View and across the harbour is Marsh Harbour Marina.  On our last trip Marsh Harbour Marina was our home base.  The Jib Room at the marina is a friendly entertaining restaurant.  Steve rode his bike over to Marsh Harbour Marina.  Jason, the dock master, remembered him and said he had heard us calling over the VHF when we came into Boat Harbour.  Although there are several small islands, the communities are close-knit and friendly and remember customers from 4 years ago.  This attitude is why we can’t get enough of these islands. 

This map will help a little better to understand the Abacos.  Can you find Whale Cay that we had to go around after we left Green Turtle Cay? 

Joy

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