Farmers Cay Expedition
Monday
We start this expedition in much the same way but this time we travel a further distance and require a little more sailing skill. Ideal for the experienced Hobie sailor or for those having taken part in the previous Brigantine Expedition. Our destination is Little Farmers Cay Yacht Club for a drink! The distance is about 28 miles. Today’s sail will take us 12 miles to Lignumvitae Cay. The route is up the Western side of the chain in the shallow flats of the Great Bahama Bank. Once again the water colours reveal the depth and our Hobies will need to watch for the very shallow bars, especially at low tide. The tide here has a range of about 3 feet (90cms) so not a great change.
Due to the narrowness of the cuts between the islands, strong currents can flow and care must be taken if sailing close to the passages. They can also be a lot of fun for the experienced sailor as can Exuma Sound and if you have the experience and wish to sail in the rougher waters of Exuma Sound that may be possible.
(This would depend on how rough and whether we feel you could handle it, The final decision on whether to allow the cats into Exuma Sound would be up to the expedition leader.)
Passing the numerous cays we carefully navigate our way to Lignumvitae Cay. We may stop on the way at Boysie Cays, Rat Cay or Pigeon Cay. Here we can regroup have some refreshments, perhaps a swim or schnorkel before continuing to Lignumvitae Cay. Here we have the choice of 2 locations, both on beautiful white sand beaches. Depending on the weather one may be more suitable than the other though both provide good protection from the prevailing Easterly Trade winds.
Tuesday
Tuesday may be passed exploring the waters and cays that surround Lignumvitae Cay, perhaps some informal racing around the Darby islands or schnorkelling coral reefs, hiking the small trails on the islands or just relaxing however you wish.
Wednesday
Wednesday we break camp and sail on North to Big Farmers Cay. Here we make camp on one of three possible locations:
- South Beach, a small bay facing Big Galliot Cay with an easy walk around to the windward coast and good schnorkelling nearby
- Halfway up Big farmers Cay, a long beach in a shallow bay more protected from strong Easterlies and more room to spread out.
- North Bay, a perfect half moon bay just across from Little Farmers Cay.
Thursday
Today we sail to our most northerly point for a morning expedition to find the legendary Oven Rock Cave. This huge cave has cavities above and below the water and features Stalactites and mites.
After lunch we sail back down the cays to Rudder Cut Cay where we make camp.
Friday
Dependant on weather we make an early or not so early start heading back toShoreline Beach and Rolleville. A stop for lunch on one of the cays and then onwards to arrive at Shoreline Beach in time for cocktails and a light snack.
Dinner at Shoreline Beach Bar ends our expedition.