Port Royal

Day 33: The winds are blowing from the north and we can see lots of whitecaps in the Gulf Stream. Wind against current creates a standing wave that is often described as washing-machine-like. There is no comfortable heading in these conditions. We were reminded of this yesterday as we dinghied the short distance between South and North Bimini. The ride to this point had been windy with some swell, but otherwise fine. Entering North Bimini's main channel the tide was at full flood and being opposed by a fresh breeze. Short, steep, little white caps engulfed us. I didn't have to confer with Bicki on retreating, the decision was obvious as she was soaking wet.

South Bimini Island is a work in progress. Port Royal, on its SW side, features several miles of canals and lots of 'interesting' homes. Their state of decay goes from none to total. There's not a lot of protection from hurricane winds, and it shows. Having already walked both canals we decided to see what Port Royal looks looks like by dinghy. In a word it looked better; still pretty funky though. It's like a place where houses go to die. Boats too, apparently, as the canals were filled with sunken derelicts. Based on the number of 'For Sale by Owner' signs some dreams have died here too. My description of the place is colored by my belief that a home should last forever. Perhaps that's the wrong context; maybe these places are made to last only until the next hurricane. 0nm today and 672nm under the keel. DBH