s99part5 » Page 2 of 3

One could spend a week or two at Shroud exploring all of the creeks and old encampments. Someday, we want to return there and do it justice. Leaving Shroud on the morning of February second, we opted to head for Staniel Cay, a really special place. This meant passing Little Pigeon Cay, Elbow Cay, Hawksbill Cay, Warderick Wells and a dozen other inviting spots that we intended to visit on the return leg. In my opinion, if every you want to visit the Exumas, Staniel is the place to go. There is an airstrip on the island and flights from Nassau by small plane can be easily arranged. The one way charter is about $250 for up to 4 people.

Even though there are a dozen good anchorages in the Staniel area, we felt the urge to make a few phone calls and eat out. So, after another beautiful day cruise of about 35 miles we docked at the Staniel Cay Yatch Club Marina.

In addition to the airport, the town of Staniel has two marinas, two restaurants, two small groceries, three bars, and a general store. One big attraction was Thunderball Cave. It is in a hollowed out small cay lying about a half mile off from the Marina. Thunderball Cave was used in filming "Thunderball" (James Bond) and "Splash". Dinghy out and entrance to the cave is accomplished by snorkelling. At high tide, you must dive down a foot or so and swim into the opening of the dome pit. At low tide, it is easily entered without diving. Inside of the cave, there are openings in the top of the dome where sun light filters through creating a cascade of glittering colors. Hundreds of tropical fish schooling in and around the cave are always eager for a handout. Surrounding the cay is a very nice coral garden that supports a variety of somewhat larger fish. It is a popular spot, but the visitors have not spoiled it and we rate it highly.

After two days at the dock, we moved off to anchor a few miles north at Big Majors Cay where we discovered "Pig Beach". Years ago, farm pigs were introduced to this island and then later abandoned. As you dinghy up to the beach, they will swim out to greet you. In our first encounter, never having seen a pig at sea before, you're not sure what their intent or capabilities are. Later, however, it was clear that they were just looking for a hand out. We had a lot of fun with this oddity.