Leaving Emerald Bay Marina

Conception Island is a six square mile gem of an island located approximately forty-five miles east of Georgetown, Exumas. The entire island, including the extensive reefs which extend north and south of the island, is part of the Bahamian National Land and Sea Park. Five hundred twenty-three years ago, Christopher Columbus landed on this island. It was not the first island he visited. Most believe that honor goes to Sal Salvador, which lies 25 miles ENE of Conception. Samana Cay, 85 miles SE of Conception, has also been suggested as the initial landing place of the great explorer in the Americas. Anyway… On Conception Island in 1492 – Columbus; In 2015 – the Careys! It’s very cool that the island is still uninhabited and may look today much like it did over half a millennia ago when the famed Italian explorer anchored the Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria near the same spot.

The Admiral preparing to drop anchor just off this gorgeous beach

We eagerly pulled out of the Marina at Emerald Bay one month to the day that we entered. Although the facilities were extremely nice, the basin was dangerous in moderate to strong northeasterly winds. We were anxious to leave a few days before another strong cold front arrived. Around 8 a.m., we exited the channel for the almost due east 47 nautical-mile journey. We motorsailer into the winds, which at around 15 knots, were coming from the southeast. The day was comfortable enough and uneventful. When we dropped anchor at 1:30 in the afternoon, we put out 115’ of scope in 12’ of water. As we pulled into the west bay, we were stricken with the beauty of the island — and the fact that we had it all to ourselves. Amazing!

Snorkeling/Diving on the anchor

Two Thumbs Up! The anchor is beneath me and buried deeply.

Immediately after dropping anchor, I performed my much-enjoyed ritual of snorkeling out to make sure it was buried properly — and it was. Since I was in the water, I decided I should enjoy it for awhile. So I jumped off our bimini roof several times and dove off the sides while Cindy did her best to photograph me. We cooked burgers on the grill and enjoyed a relaxing evening at anchor watching the sun set behind us.

Jumping 12′ into the water below is a little scary for this old man, but I do it anyway. 🙂

My not-so-perfect form as I dive off the starboard hull

A beautiful way to end a beautiful afternoon on a beautiful island

Good night!