284 Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas (242) 302-2800 Marina Village, Paradise Island • Crystal Court at Atlantis Marsh Harbour, Abaco • Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport
World class relaxation Just 165 miles off the Florida coast experience the ultimate “downtime” with pristine beaches, renowned fishing and diving in sapphire waters and an endless array of activities and amenities. Or just escape to any of our beautifully appointed oceanfront accommodations. Savor tantalizing cuisine framed by a magnificent view of the Sea of Abaco. With so many ways to unwind, you may never want to leave. If so, the opportunity to purchase your own Harbour Residence is now available.
Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas 877 533 4799 • AbacoBeachResort.com • 242 367 2158
Discover TREASURE CAY RESORT
Our Bahamian Out-Island is home to the quaint village of Treasure Cay and the laid-back resort of the same name. More than three miles of sleepy white sand beach anchor a genuine Caribbean paced experience; reminiscent of a truly relaxed way of life.
150-Slip Marina 18 Hole Championship Golf Course Three Restaurants/Bars 1, 2 or 3 Bedroom Full Function Suites Boat Rentals & Charters Scuba, Snorkeling, Fishing Direct Daily Flights from Florida *No surcharges on credit card fuel purchases.
1-800-327-1584 or 1-954-525-7711 242-365-8801 (locally) www.treasurecay.com
waterfront lifestyle Largest selection of unique waterfront properties in the Abacos. Visit our website at
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ElBOw Cay 242.366.0163 HOpE TOwN HBR. 242.366.0035
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TREaSuRE Cay GuaNa Cay
242.577.0298 242.359.6885
Head Office: Nassau, Bahamas | 242.322.2305 | info.Bahamas@SothebysRealty.com
Photo by Tuppy Weatherford
Insider’s
W
elcome to the Abacos! The top boating and sailing destination in the world. The Abaco’s are truly and Island Hoppers paradise, calm, turquoise seas and magnificent barrier reefs surround the charming island and its cays.
The Abacos offer a wide variety of activities…from snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, bone fishing and deep sea fishing in its beautiful waters, to bird watching, golfing, museum tours and historic landmark tours on the mainland …the possibilities here are endless! Marsh Harbour has a fabulous selection of hotels, restaurants and bars, along with several full-service marinas and charter boat rentals. While here consider stopping in to one of our local restaurants and sample some of our delicious Bahamian cuisine. Head north of Marsh Harbour to Treasure Cay, and you will find one of the most beautiful beaches, take a stroll or relax on the white, powder soft sand while you breathe in the fresh Ocean air and take in the beauty of the Island around you. If you prefer a change of scenery then head on south to Little Harbour, to Pete’s Pub and the Johnston Family Foundry. There are also the options of visiting Hole in the Wall Lighthouse or the Sawmill Sink Blue Hole. Once your taste for adventure on the mainland is satisfied, you can set out any of the lovely Cays—each a vacation destination of its own! From the Historical 89 ft. candy striped Lighthouse of Hope Town, Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden of Green Turtle Cay & Albury’s Sail Shop on Man-O-War to the less historical and more modern, Nipper’s Bar & Grill on Great Guana Cay. No matter where your adventurous spirit may lead you, The Abaco’s are guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime and have you coming back for more! Please enjoy your stay and be sure to keep Destination Abaco handy, as you will be glad you did. Ruth Saunders Editor
6
Destination Abaco
Guide
REAL ESTATE SALES RENTALS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT APPRAISALS
he Trusted Trusted Authority Authority in in TThe
BAHAMASREAL REALESTATE ESTATE BAHAMAS
Marsh harbour 242.367.5454 hope Town 242.366.0700 Green TurTle Cay 242.365.4191
www.HGChristie.com
In Every Issue
20
Visitors’ Services ................... 12 Calendar of Events................. 14 Ferry Schedule....................... 19 What to do............................ 30 Marina Information................. 49 Where to shop....................... 58 Where to dine........................ 68 Where to stay........................ 73 General Information............... 95
Features
Kayaking in Abaco.................. 20 Artists - Stephen Knowles....... 26 Cacique Award Winners.......... 56
26
Publisher Ruth Saunders Execuprint Ltd. Contributing Writers Canishka Alexander Kristen Pearce Samantha Evans Photography Jesse Weatherford Rhonda Pearce Blair Saunders Tuppy Weatherford Canishka Alexander Linda Huber Sales, Marketing and Research Anita Knowles Nicolette Russell Jack Hardy Art & Graphic Design Ruth Saunders Nicolette Russell Cover Credits Kim Roberts
Published bi-annually by Execuprint Ltd. For advertising rates and information: Tel (242) 367-3202/4 or 367-2107 US (305) 394-8274 Fax (242) 367-3201 http://www.destinationabaco.net Email: destinationabaco@gmail.com Destination Abaco is published by Execuprint Ltd. ŠCopyright 2013 by Execuprint Ltd. P.O.Box AB-20968, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the publisher is prohibited.
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Destination Abaco
to the beautiful and celebrated island, referred to as the Abacos. Your presence will be gracing the 2nd largest island in The Commonwealth of the Bahamas, which is also known as the boating capital of the world. This island has numerous activities to keep you engaged and filled with anticipation. You can experience scuba diving over colourful reefs or mysterious blue holes; sailing adventures of all sorts; bone (fly) or deep sea fishing, as well as getting a complete taste of the Abacos. Take an enjoyable tour of Hope Town and witness our beautiful candy striped lighthouse or travel south to one of the island’s national parks, where you can learn about the beautiful and interesting, Abaco Parrot. For those who prefer heritage and culture, there are homecoming celebrations; festivals with our ever popular Junkanoo performances; the annual ‘Roots Heritage Event,’ held in Green Turtle Cay, promoting its historic ties with Key West, Florida; Regatta Time in Abaco, which produces exciting sailing competitions between five of the major cays at the destination, and other highly attended events such as the Agricultural Expo and annual Christmas Festival. Each of these events has a taste of Bahamian culture in entertainment, food and a vibrant display of the history of the Abaco people. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the country are here and the local people are extremely inviting. In fact, you will find them approachable, wholesome and the nicest folks you will ever meet! While you are at it, you are sure to experience great shopping throughout the resort communities of the destination, along with an interesting range of eateries, all providing delicious and scrumptious Abaco cuisine, that will leave you satisfied and content! As a resident of Abaco, I can truly say that this island is family friendly, while it is also an interesting and pleasant place for couples or individuals seeking soft adventure or just interested in a warm weather vacation with engaging resort accommodations. Actually, information derived from our visitor feed-back, indicates that the Abacos as a destination has ‘something for everyone.’ Once again, I say welcome! We are always happy to accommodate you and we ask that you hasten your return.
10 Destination Abaco
Ms. Wynsome Ferguson Manager Abaco Tourist Office
Ahh...the Abacos
ver charms from $25
#284 Bay Street • 242.302.2800 Marina Village, Paradise Island • Harbour Bay Shopping Center Mall at Marathon • Palmdale • LPIA Departures Lounge • Southwest Plaza
Visitors’ Services For further information contact the local tourism office at 699-0152 or 367-3067
Airline & Charter Services
Abaco Air Ltd. ..........................367-2266 American Airlines / American Eagle US Reservations..........1-800-433-7300 Air Gate Aviation (MH)...............367-3636 Reservations................1-386-478-0600 Bahamas Express (MH)..............225-7931 US Reservations..........1-954-365-1540 Bahamasair Marsh Harbour Airport..........367-2095 Treasure Cay......................365-8601 Cherokee Air Ltd. Aviation...............................367-1900 Silver Airways Marsh Harbour Airport..........367-3415 Treasure Cay Airport.............365-8615 US Reservations......... 1-800-231-0856 Craig Air Center Marsh Harbour.....................367-3522 IBC (MH)..................................367-1336 Regional Air Marsh Harbour.....................367-0446 Sky Bahamas............................367-0996 Reservations.............. 1-242-377-8993 Western Air...............................367-3722
Banking & ATMs
Commonwealth Bank....... 367-2370 - ATM CIBC First Caribbean Int’l Bank Marsh Harbour........... 367-2166 - ATM Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour........... 367-2420 - ATM Treasure Cay............. 365-8119 - ATM Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd....... 367-2141 - ATM Fidelity/Western Union (MH)......367-3135
Directory Assistance
US & CANADA..... 1-(Area Code)-555-1212
Embassies/Consulates
United States Embassy.... 1-242-322-1181 ................................ 1-888-407-4747 Canadian Consulate......... 1-613-232-1724
Emergency Services ‘919’
Royal Bahamas Police Force.......367-2560
Fire Department (MH)
Long Distance Services
AT&T USA Direct............. 1-800-872-2881 Canada Operator............. 1-800-463-0501 MCI Customers................1-800-888-8000 Sprint Customers............. 1-800-389-2111 UK Operator.....................1-800-389-4444
Medical Services
Abaco Family Medicine...............367-2295 Abaco Medi-Center....................367-9999 Auskell Advance Medical............367-0020 Chiropractor - Dr. Lewis.............367-0020 Corbett Medical Center..............365-8288 Integrated Medical Center...........367-1304 Health Therapeutic Massage.......375-8416 Government Clinics Marsh Harbour......................367-2510 Cooper's Town......................365-0300 Green Turtle Cay...................365-4028 Hope Town...........................366-0108 Sandy Point..........................366-4010 Kidney Center...........................367-3310 Marsh Harbour Medical..............367-0050 Out Island Chiropractor.............367-2584 Agape Family Dental Centre.......367-4355 Diamente Dental Clinic..............367-4968
Travel Agencies
A & W Travel Agency .................367-2806
Visitors Info
Ministry of Tourism.....699-0152/367-3067 People-to-People.......................367-3067 Chamber of Commerce..............367-6279 Post Office................................367-2571 Administrator’s Office................699-0000 Time................................................ 917 Weather.................................VHF CH 68 Tours (Abaco Express)........ 242-646-7072
www.destinationabaco.net 12 Destination Abaco
367-2000
Fire Department (TC)................365-8919 Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc..........366-0282
July
For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 699-0152 or 367-3067
Calendar of Events
3rd - 11th
14 Destination Abaco
38th Annual Regatta Time In Abaco Contact (242) 367-2677
The Regatta Time sailing event is hosted between the American and Bahamian Independence celebrations linking both important commemorations. This event involves primarily American sloops brings dozens of sailing enthusiasts to the Abacos for a fun-filled and exciting racing series. The regatta is in its 38th year and is an important promotional event for Abacos.
4th & 18th
Junkanoo Summer Festival - Sea Spray Resort, Hope Town
A Bahamian Street Festival that captures several elements of our culture on a single stage for a dramatic one-night experience. This is repeated over several weeks of the summer. Authentic Bahamian cultural encounters; native music, food, dance, and arts and crafts are presented.
9th - 10th
Bahamas Independence Celebrations Contact (242) 367-2343
The Bahamas will celebrate 40 years as an independent nation. Events are planned across the Abacos in commemoration of this significant event in the life of our nation.
19th - 20th
Barefoot Man Concert Great Guana Cay Contact (242) 365-5111
The world famous Nippers Beach Bar & Grill on Great Guana Cay attracts hundreds of visitors and locals alike year after year. Adding to Nipper’s fun and partying
atmosphere is the Barefoot Man himself who performs in a free concert.
30th - Aug 1st
Black Wood Community Home Coming,Blackwood For further information (242) 367-3067
A local community ‘homecoming’ weekend of celebrations; the public is invited to join family and friends in food, drink and entertainment.
August 1st
2nd Junkanoo Summer Festival - Sea Spray Resort, Hope Town
A Bahamian Street Festival that captures several elements of our culture on a single stage for a dramatic one-night experience. This is repeated over several weeks of the summer. Authentic Bahamian cultural encounters; native music, food, dance, and arts and crafts are presented.
23rd - 25th
Moore’s Island Home-Coming Moore’s Island Contact (242) 367-3067
This event will encourage a return of indigenous folks and other visitors to share in community activities, food, drinks, worship and entertainment. Activities will add to the promotion and development of local culture and financial support to these communities.
October 12th
Abaco Open Water Swim Race, Marsh Harbour Contact (242) 367-3067
This swim race is a 5k triangular course located in the waterway of Marsh Harbour. Bahamian world-class swimmers, locals
For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 699-0152 or 367-3067
Calendar of Events
and visiting competitors swim for the gold or just for fun.
November 2nd
Guy Fawkes & Bonfire Celebrations Green Turtle Cay Contact (242) 367-3067
Featuring the historical Guy Fawkes Competition, where judging of the Best Guy and Dancing of the Guy will be the highlight of the night. Also included in the celebrations are native food, drinks, music and a Junkanoo parade. Hosted by the Island Roots Heritage Festival Committee.
23rd
Hope Town Big Hill Box Cart Derby, Hope Town Contact (242) 367-3067
Box carts of all descriptions are designed and constructed by local Elbow Cay contenders and other patrons in time to participate in the annual Big Hill Box Cart challenge and fun day. Participants can compete in the junior or senior category which officially begins at 12 noon at the Hope Town race site. Proceeds go towards youth sports development.
24th
Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights, Green Turtle Cay Contact (242)-367-3067
3rd Annual Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights will begin early evening at Settlement Point with a Thanksgiving Dinner and an exciting stage program ending with our Torchlight Procession. Come and see our quiet village transformed into a fairyland.
26th
Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Green Turtle Cay Contact (242) 36365-4395 or 365-4192 or 4120
Watch or participate in our Holiday Golf Cart Parade and Jingle Bell Trot. Mouthwatering native Bahamian soups are on the menu - Pea Soup and Dumpling and Conch Chowder and Johnny Cake to name a few. Share a mug of hot chocolate under the glow of Christmas lights. Don’t miss our spectacular fireworks display!
27th
Holiday Family Fair, Green Turtle Cay
Contact (242) 365-4395 or 365-4192 or 4120
Have an exciting fun-filled family day at the fair. Starting at noon on Settlement Point, the Gong Show, the Newlywed Game, bouncing castle, clowns, arts and crafts booths, bingo tent, and various interactive programs will fill the day. At 4 p.m. steak and chicken dinners can be purchased and for the kid in all of us - hamburgers, hot dogs and conch fritters will be available.
30th
15th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival, Hope Town Contact (242) 366-0095
This daytime event features paintings, jewelry & crafts from local and international artists. While viewing the fine and unique pieces that will be on display, satisfy your palate with fine wine, cheese and other gourmet items that will be available for purchase.
December 3rd
8th Annual Abaco Christmas Festival Marsh Harbour Contact 242) 367-3067
16 Destination Abaco
Lite the Boat Parade Green Turtle Cay Contact (242) 365-4395, 365-4120
Join us for the Lite the Nite Boat Parade. The route will take the boats from Black Sound, White Sound, Settlement Creek and ending at the Main Dock at Settlement Point. Santa and his elves will be at the Festival Site passing out gifts to the young people. Bunce, Hail’em gal and a Junkanoo rush will be performed as well as another late night of Bingo that night.
January 1st
New Year’s Day Junkanoo Green Turtle Cay Contact (242)-367-3067
Mid-morning community-based Junkanoo parade & food festival officially begins the New Year. It is an annual reunion and heritage event for hundreds of residents and visitors alike. Junkanoo is the celebrated street festival in the Bahamas; however, this Green Turtle event blends the traditional music and dance of Junkanoo with local variants making for unique entertainment.
24th - 26th
Art for the Parks Marsh Harbour
The Bahamas National Trust, Abaco Beach Resort, local Artists and corporate supporters come together to provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to Abaco to view and purchase the works of over 30 talented Bahamian artists on January 24, 25, 27, 2014. The event features artists who work in all mediums with a number of high-end jewelry and craft artisans participating. Saturday and Sunday features a variety of food, an interactive children’s crafts area and local musical talent. All funds raised at the event go to supporting the six Abaco National Parks and conservation education initiatives on Abaco. Contact BNT office in Marsh Harbour at 242-367-6310.
February TBA
Inaugural Wahoo Championship Marsh Harbour Contact (242)-367-2158
Making its first appearance in the Abacos chain of fishing tournaments is the Wahoo Champion where the only fish being sought after is the Wahoo. Co-ordinators anticipate this to be a family fun tournament where participants and their guests will be hosted to offshore and onshore activities.
6th
7th Annual Wine Tasting Event, Green Turtle Cay Contact (242) 367-3067
The wonderful evening under the stars is a fundraising event for the annual Island Roots Heritage Festival. The event begins at 6:30p.m. and continues throughout the evening until 10p.m. at the Green Turtle Club. Various selections of wines will be offered as
For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 699-0152 or 367-3067
10th
Contact (242)-367-2158
Calendar of Events
The Ministry of Tourism with business and service clubs of the Abacos hosts the annual Abaco Christmas Festival. General activities are a taste of Abaco’s finest cuisine, visit with Santa, free toys and games for all Tots, Arts & Crafts Bazaar, Choirs, Quartets, Soloists, Marching and Calypso Bands, Junkanoo Parades, all day Live Entertainment and spectacular fireworks.
Destination Abaco
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Calendar of Events
well as Bahamian entertainment and delicious hors d’oeuvres.
15th
Annual Man-O-War Craft & Trade Fair Man-O-War Cay Contact (242) 365-6049
Local crafts, general items, food and drinks are featured at this popular fair that directly benefits the Man-O-War School.
21st
Junior Junkanoo, Marsh Harbour
GROUP LTD CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING ESTATE SERVICES
nick sims
PRESIDENT & ENGINEER
Contact (242)-367-3067
Local schools are brought together to compete in The Bahamas’ most celebrated street festival, Junkanoo. Creating the music, the costumes and dance for this street festival are the youth of Abaco.
22nd
Senior Junkanoo, Marsh Harbour Contact (242) 367-3067
This is a celebration of Bahamian heritage and culture for hundreds of residents and visitors alike to enjoy. This competitive event evokes the passion of Bahamians in the traditional music, costumes and dance of our junkanoo celebration with local senior groups competing for supremacy on this unique Bahamian stage.
25th
People to People/ Winter Residents Reception, Marsh Harbour
DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION Planning, Management Execution of all Stages of Residental, Commercial Infrastructure or Renovation Projects
ENGINEERING DESIGN & CONSULTING Structual & Civil Engineering Licensed Professional Engineer
ESTATE SERVICES Property Management & Maintenance Abaco Shopping Center P.O.Box AB 20200 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas jnicksims@gmail.com
Contact (242) 367-3067
This event presents an opportunity for local People to People Volunteers, facilitated by the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Office, to meet and interact with visitors and Winter Residents in an annual get together. Bahamian music, food and other cultural expressions are highlighted.
18 Destination Abaco
242-577-7467 Tel/Fax: 242-367-sims
BETTER BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Ferry Schedules
TIPS on Traveling on the Ferries! ALL FERRIES LEAVE ON THE SCHEDULED TIMES *** Be at the ferry dock at least 10 mins before departure to allow time for parking and walking to the ferry dock. *** If taking luggage, be prepared to tote it the ferry boat allowing ample time to load the vessel. *** If travelling from Marsh Harbour to Treasure Cay Ferry Dock allow driving time of about 30 mins and another 10 mins to park and walk to the ferry dock. *** Taxi Cabs are available at both ferry docks for transportation to various destinations. *** If visiting for more than a week, inquire at the Albury’s Ferry office about a Frequent Travel Card (5 roundtrips/10 one ways) Charters are available if your travel time does not meet the schedule. For more information call Albury’s Ferry at 367-3147 Green Turtle Ferry at 365-4166
Destination Abaco
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by Kristen Pearce
Kayaking in Abaco 20 20
Destination DestinationAbaco Abaco
Kayaking and paddle boarding has become a popular pastime in Abaco in the recent years. Photo credits - Friends of the Environment Kim Roberts and Ricky Johnson
Destination Abaco
21
I
magine gliding almost effortlessly across the crystal clear waters. You can feel the gentle breeze on your face. Fish swim below you. Turtles surface on all sides of you. Each slow and steady stroke takes you closer to the beautiful horizon. It is no wonder that kayaking and paddle boarding through the pristine waters of Abaco is a new and favourite pastime for the locals and tourists alike. Not only is it a great form of exercises it also provides such a unique and intimate experience with the nature and beauty that Abaco has to offer. Since Abaco is a part of the Little Bahama Bank, the shallow waters that surround the island make it a perfect place for exploring the sapphire blue waters in a kayak or paddleboard. The crystal clear water also provides a unique view of all the ocean life. 22 Destination Abaco
Kayaking can be done almost anywhere. Adding a kayak or paddleboard to your days on the sea in Abaco can enhance the fun and beauty that can be found. Each beach, harbour, or sand bank located in Abaco is an excellent choice for a kayaking adventure. The waters that surround Hope Town, including the sank bank at Tahiti Beach, are very popular for kayaking, along with many of the harbours that are found on the small cays in the area. A day at the beach can become a beautiful and energetic adventure. But if you think the open waters are the only place to experience Abaco in a kayak, you’d be missing some of the greatest treasures that Abaco has to offer. Abaco is filled with inland creeks, water systems, rivers and hidden treasures that are open for exploration. There are many creeks and rivers
Great Spots for Kayaking Casuarina Point Snake Cay Creek Cherokee River Crossing Rocks Creek Cross Harbour Bustic Bight Water Cay Experience Kayaking with Abaco Paddle Board Brendal’s Dive Center Abaco Eco Kayak Adventures Blackfly Bonefish Club Schooner Bay The Abaco Club Lubber’s Landing
that are perfect for kayaking in South Abaco. The Snake Cay Creek is filled with beautiful amounts of sea life, including starfish, turtles, sharks, sea biscuits and many different fish. The creek is one of the best snorkeling creeks in the Abacos. There you will also find an amazing blue hole that is open for exploration. The Cherokee River is also a perfect place for kayaking. In this river, there is a beautiful mangrove canopy that is home to many birds, as well as a multitude of sea life. With easy access and such a short trip, the river is an amazing kayaking destination for any family. Casuarina is a quaint town in which a small creek can be found. The creek almost runs through the entire town and exits into a breathtaking sandbank, where white sand and crystal clear water cascades as far as the eye can see. Crossing Rocks Creek has a lot to offer its slightly more adventurous visitors. With three blue holes near the shore, and many fish to see along the
way, this creek makes a great place to explore. Cross Harbour offers a very pristine creek system that is home to many turtles and fish. There is even a beautiful beach, which is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon in the sun. There are also many hidden treasures in North Abaco that you do not want to miss. Just past the Abaco Lodge, on the Treasure Cay highway is Bustic Bight. A kayaking trip here can be quite enjoyable if you’re up for a slightly challenging trip. On this location, you can find quite a few small islands to explore and enjoy. On one of the islands can be found a small, reddish coloured beach, which is unusual because red sand isn’t commonly found in Abaco. It has been said that the red sand that can be found throughout the Bahamas is sand that has drifted across the ocean from the Sahara. Another island that can be found at this location is known as Dry Cay. Here you can find traces of an old pine tree farm. On the
24 Destination Abaco
south end of Dry Cay, there are tons of mangroves that are the habitat to hundreds of grey snapper. There is also a blue hole that can be explored. Water Cay can also be found off of the Treasure Cay highway. This spot is an interesting one to kayak because here you can see the remains of an old crawfish farm and also one of the few bridges on the island. Here, there are many creeks that can be explored, and you are sure to see tons of inquisitive turtles as well. Just before the Treasure Cay turn off, there is also a little creek that can be explored. With masses of canopy mangroves, there is plenty to look at and explore at this peaceful location. On top of these great locations, there are also many other spots perfect for kayaking all over the island. Looking for a kayaking adventure, but not sure where to start? There are many businesses and tour guides available throughout all of Abaco to help you rent a kayak or plan a guided trip. Abaco Eco Kayak Adventures
is based in Hope Town and provides kayak rentals and tours focusing on an educational experience of all of Abaco. Abaco Paddle Board is also located in Hope Town. Here you can rent paddleboards, surf boards, etc. and lessons, tours and picnics are also provided. Lubber’s Landing, just off of Hope Town, also provides kayak and paddleboard rentals for those wanting to explore the waters and sand banks that surround Hope Town. Located in Green Turtle Cay, Brendal’s Dive Center offers kayaking and paddleboard trips with scuba instruction or wild turtle encounters. Blackfly Bonefish Club provides a kayaking, fishing program. Their kayaking, fishing package includes airport pickup, a private room, Bahamian cuisine and a tour guide for your adventure. Schooner Bay Bahamas also provides kayaking and paddle boarding at their location, as well as their many other amenities. The Abaco Club on Winding Bay offers many features and amenities to
their members, including kayaking. Kayaking and paddle boarding has become a popular pastime in Abaco in the recent years. For the past few years in the fall, the Abaco Cancer Society and the Friends of the Environment joined forces to offer a Kayaking Challenge as a fundraiser, with 3 different courses ranging in length. Many locals and tourists alike have participated in this grand adventure. It is definitely a fun filled day for those who take part. These are just a few of the ways in which you can enjoy a kayaking or paddle boarding adventure in Abaco. But be sure to remember that wherever you are in Abaco, there is an opportunity to explore the island by kayak or paddleboard. And you do not want to miss this experience!
Abaco Cancer Society and Friends of the Environment join forces to offer a Kayaking Challenge in the fall. Join us in 2014!
Destination Abaco
25
Artist
Stephen Knowles
W
Photos and story by Caniskha Alexander
ood shavings carpet the floor of Stephen Knowles’ woodshed in Bahama Palm Shores giving way to a driveway nestled beneath canopy-like trees that are home to enchanting Bahama Parrots near evening time. Rows of work tables and shelves are dedicated to his display of home-grown handicrafts. An unassuming man, Mr. Knowles is an Abaco artisan and the author of authentically crafted creations that are a stroke of genius on his part. What may appear to be of no value to others - Mr. Knowles transforms into a masterpiece. At home in his shed, with an aged refrigerator humming gently in the background, his skillful hands craft bowls, 26 Destination Abaco
children’s tops and statuesque bases of lamps from any number of indigenous Bahamian wood like madeira, tamarind, brasiletto, horseflesh, lignum vitae, satin wood, yellow wood, mahoe wood or casuarina. His creative collection also includes fish billies, religious artifacts, sea horses, trivets and rolling pins. In search of wood and in preparation for his new products, he and his wife, Anita get their ice chest of sodas ready and choose a weekend to go into the woods looking for fallen branches or dead trees. With chain saw in hand, he can section out what he discovers and collect the wood he needs. Sometimes, if he passes someone’s house and they are cutting down a tree, he’ll ask if he
can have it. So that’s how he gets the initial wood, and after looking through the pile, he selects pieces for the bowls, cuts it up accordingly into “bowl blanks,” and separates the wood for the different things he wants to make. There’s wood for bowls, wood for tops and the list goes on. “I’ll pick a day, and I’ll make all bowls blanks, then I’ll pick another day and then I’ll make top blanks,” he outlined. “I call them blanks because it’s just the basic piece I’m going to make the product out of.” As a conservationist, Mr. Knowles initially pursued woodturning after growing native trees, and soon considered a way to use the wood. “So I wanted to show people that besides the tree, you can get something out of the wood,” he reasoned. “That’s where I get my inspiration because I want to show off our wood. “You know I use different woods, so every one is different,” he explained. “I make one that is bigger or smaller; it’s not like they’re on a production line.” Guided by photos of what he wants to create and with the support of Mrs. Knowles, he then develops his own signature designs. Mrs. Knowles occasionally joins him downstairs as he carves out a new creation because the woodshed is located directly beneath the couple’s home.
Moreover, he is quite fond of his popular spinning tops, which led him to make his bowls and billy clubs that are used beyond fishing outings. As an artisan, he prepares for various art shows that are specifically in Hope Town and at the Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) Art for the Parks. Over the past 25 years, he started out just working on the weekends, but now he has to work at night to have enough products for each of the art shows he attends and for when people stop by. A few times, he has thought about going into woodturning full time, but he still has a love for his appliance repairs at Abaco Hardware as an employee. He credited the late Ricky Johnson of Abaco Nature Tours for promoting his work to visitors on his bird watching tours in the area, and for even stopping by for a visit when he had time. To Mr. Knowles, he and Johnson’s work went hand in hand. He has also met Bahamian Artist Antonius Roberts, who has a few of his items in his collection, and Mr. Lionel Pinder, who is rumoured to have a special room full of Knowles’ products among other artisans’ work. Knowles also has a photo album chronicling his earlier work. Street signs for specific island landmarks like Hole in the Wall are among his most recent work. Mr. Knowles added that our visiDestination Abaco
27
tors like to see that things are made in The Bahamas, so he is mindful about inscribing his name, the type of wood used, the date it was created, and “Abaco, Bahamas” on the back of all of his products. Some items like the tops can take as little as a half an hour to make whereas his bowls take up to eight hours to complete. “I always get a good, positive reaction from those who see my work,” Knowles beamed. “Tourists like seeing products being made here and made from native wood.” He emphasized that the great need to keep displaying our native wood and to make different products. Futuristically, he would like to make coffee tables and entertainment consoles for televisions. “I’ll need bigger equipment to slice the wood up,” he quipped. Mr. Knowles has been mentoring a few young men as well by offering workshops to teach them how to make lamps and billies. “I am not a teacher as such, but these fellas want to come here, and I showed them.” A fair exchange because Mr. Knowles looked up to Mr. Roddie Pinder of Spanish Wells, who had a store in Nassau where he grew up. Frequently visiting his place, Mr. Pinder gave Mr. Knowles insight regarding the craft now he is returning the favour. Knowles happily encourages other artisans to produce native products at
28 Destination Abaco
reasonable prices, and to remember to grow trees for the next generation as he does, so that they do not kill off any species of trees. He hastily added that everyone should ensure that they have a red cedar or lignum vitae tree in their yards. Then off he goes to make three to four bowls at a time, the following day will be tops, and then the next day something else. The finished look on the bowls’ exterior is accomplished through sanding, and a coat of polyurethane is applied. On some of the bowls he uses an oil for the inside that is safe for food use. If there is a fault in the wood, the product is primed to take on a more rustic appearance. Mrs. Knowles knowingly acknowledges that one time he would have thrown it away. “I’d be like oh that’s a bad spot that’s no good, but now I bring out the bad spots,” Mr. Knowles agreed. However, holes or flaws are filled with crushed stones and elements comprised of turquoise, malachite and coal. “Before it was kind of like looking for the perfect piece of wood, but now I’m looking for the bad pieces to enhance the flaw in the wood,” he admitted.
Fox Town
Mount Hope Wood Cay Cedar Harbour
Crown Haven Little Abaco Island
LEGEND
Cooper’s Town Fire Road
Blackwood
Green Turtle Cay
Airports Settlements
Guana Cay
Treasure Cay
Inter Island Ferries Information
Man-O-War Cay
Clinic Telephone Internet
Elbow Cay Marsh Harbour
Lighthouse
Hope Town
Spring City
Port of Entry
Great Abaco Island Little Harbour Moore’s Island Cherokee Sound Casaurina Point Bahama Palm Shores Gorda Cay
Crossing Rocks
Sandy Point
About Abaco
Marsh Harbour, The Bahamas’ third-largest city and the commercial center of Abaco. Boating Capital of The Bahamas - Green Turtle Cay, Great Guana Cay, Man-O-War Cay and Elbow Cay are the five major inhabited cays in the Abaco chain. Population: 16,000+ Island Size: 120 miles long, 1/2 mile to 10 miles wide Area: 650 sq. miles Highest Point: 134.5 ft. Location: Lat. 26°25’N & Long. 77°10’W Distance from Nassau: 105 miles northeast from Nassau Distance from Florida: 175 miles, E ofWest Palm Beach
Hole-In-The-Wall
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what to do
What to do
Art Galleries
Bahama Dawn Design
Bahama Dawn Design is a working studio and gallery of fun things. It offers the finest in handmade products such as art quilts, table decor, silk paintings and so much more. Androsia and Bahama Handprint fabric are available. All crafts are handmade by Kim Roberts. Call 367-4648 or visit www.bahamadawn.com.
Blue Sky Gallery
The Blue Sky Gallery offers fine Bahamian art, prints, professional framing & photography by Tuppy Weatherford. Additionally, you will find the displayed artwork of Lou Lihou, Anne Ray, Fritz Keck, Beth Sweeting and Zyandric Jones. This gallery is located on Don MacKay Blvd. in Marsh Harbour. Call 367-0579.
Lovely Island Tings
Lovely Island Tings specializes in straw work. Fine items such as straw bags, wallets, handbags and hats as well as household items like mats, cushions and bath accessories can be found here. It is located on Queen Elizabeth Drive in Marsh Harbour. Call: 3674297/551-7453/367-3442.
Abaco Ceramics
Established in 1983, Abaco Ceramics continues to offer a wide range of beautifully hand-painted functional and decorative ceramics created in its workshop located on the road into Treasure Cay. Abaco Ceramics is open from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tel: 365-8489. www.abacoceramics.com 30 Destination Abaco
Abaco Island Artists
Works from Brigitte Bowyer Carey, Jo-Ann Bradley, Lillian Cash, Leanne Russell, Donna Spadafora, Marjolein Scott, Bob Zwickel, Tim Higgs, Donnie Wood, Jeep Byers, Zyandric Jones, Attila Feszt, Louis Schneider and Colyn Rees can be found at Mangoes Boutique and Palm Cottage in Marsh Harbour. These friends are loyal supporters of the Abaco Cancer Society’s Art Shows. The group believes in the artistic talent of The Bahamian youth and encourages and mentors aspiring local artists. For more information on Abaco’s artists, visit their Web site at abacoislandartists@gmail.com or call 367-3744.
Pete’s Pub & Gallery
Located in Little Harbour, the Johnstons produce bronze art in their foundry. Clients and visitors are welcome to tour the foundry, then visit the Gallery where the finished sculptures are available. It is open from November through August beginning at 11 a.m. For more information, call 577-5487 or 954-353-2465 www.petespubandgallery.com
Edna’s Handicraft
Edna’s Handicraft features works of art fashioned from material exclusive to Abaco’s environment. Located on Forest Drive in Marsh Harbour, Edna Kemp’s collection boasts sand-blasted vases, shell floral arrangements, beaded coconut, Abaco glass jewelry, hair accessories, and colossal mirrors delicately outlined in an exquisite display of native shells. Call: 554-9905.
what to do
Cultural Activities
38th Regatta Time In Abaco
Regatta Time In Abaco is a five-race series held each year incorporating the American and Bahamian Independence Day holidays. Its primary focus is to encourage cruising sailboats to compete. The races are held on the waters off different communities from Green Turtle Cay to Hope Town. The shore activities include street parties, Junkanoo and hosted parties at a different location each night for the 10day event. Check us out on Facebook. www.regattatimeinabaco.com
Homecomings
Every year various settlements or towns throughout Abaco host local homecomings. These homecomings
give residents, past and present, an opportunity to showcase their community spirit and give visitors a chance to enjoy the festivities. Some of the communities that stage such homecomings are Sandy Point, Blackwood, Cedar Harbour, Moore’s Island and Murphy Town.
North Abaco Boat Race
The North Abaco Summer Festival and Power Boat Race has been held at the Green Turtle Cay ferry dock for the past six years. Recently Abaco boats have competed in the races that had previously consisted of boats only from Grand Bahama. It is a popular three-day event, which draws food vendors and local partygoers as well as visitors from around The Bahamas.
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what to do Man-O-War Cay’s Independence Day
Every July locals and visitors participate in a variety of old-fashioned games and activities in celebration of Independence Day on Man-O-War Cay. Swimming events are held along with popular games where all participants are rewarded. A traditional cookout concludes the day’s events.
“Sojer” Day
Every other year residents of Man-OWar Cay celebrate their Heritage Day called Sojer Day – in recognition of the residents who are nicknamed “Sojers.” Throughout the day, locals acknowledge their history and rich heritage through food, skits, musical selections, artifacts, tours and booths that reflect the cay’s reputation as The Ba-
32 Destination Abaco
hamas’ boatbuilding capital. The next Sojer Day is scheduled for April, 2015.
Hope Town Box Cart Derby
Every November Hope Town becomes the venue of a major event called the Big Hill Box Cart Derby. The competition consists of junior and senior categories, and the selection of homemade box cars entered vary in design, size and colours. The event is a popular one drawing those with competitive spirits and scores of spectators. Food and beverage stands are set up. Earnings from the event assist in youth sports development in the community, particularly the Taylor Park Ballfield and the Abaco Junior Sailing Program.
Sandy Point Conch Fest
During the first weekend of June, the
what to do Sandy Point Development Association presents the annual Sandy Point Abaco Homecoming and Conchfest. The event highlights the Bahamian sloop sailing regattas and showcases cultural activities, games, food, drinks, and a church service. The Conchfest also includes performances by Bahamian musicians.
Junkanoo
The Junkanoo Parade, the traditional Bahamian dance with elaborate costumes, is held in Marsh Harbour for two nights in February and several weekends in June and July. Green Turtle Cay has an annual Junkanoo Parade on New Year’s Day. Sea Spray Resort also holds an annual competition in Dec. in Hope Town. Listen to
the sounds of the horns and whistles and feel the pulsating rhythms of the goatskin drums and cowbells. Join in a rushout with local groups like the Spring City Rockers, Supreme Dancers, Green Turtle Cay Rockers and the Treasure Cay Explorers.
Annual Christmas Festivals
The Christmas Festival is held the first weekend in December in Marsh Harbour. Treasure Cay the festival is celebrated on the second weekend in December. These events involve the community with a family day that offers lots of games, music, Bahamian food, various local talents and live entertainment. It showcases community spirit to bring in the Christmas cheer with visitors having a chance to enjoy
Customized plans designed to protect what took a lifetime to build. To learn more about how we can put our knowledge to work for you, contact Samuel Haven, Centre Director (242) 502-1385 or email samuel.haven@scotiabank.com www.scotiaprivateclientgroup.com/international
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what to do 6th Annual Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights, Fair and Boat Parade
the culture of the Bahamian people.
Island Roots Heritage Festival
Join us as we celebrate our connection with our sister city, Key West, Florida. It’s a festival full of delicious Bahamian treats, unique Bahamian crafts and fine art, informative speakers and displays, not to mention our fabulous Bahamian entertainment that will not disappoint you! The complete schedule of events for the weekend will be posted on the website the month before the festival and will be posted in the April Abaconian issue. For more information, please contact The Abaco Tourist Office at 367-3067. You can also visit www.islandrootsheritagefestival.com. See you there!
The event will begin early evening at Settlement Point with a Thanksgiving dinner and an exciting stage program ending with a torchlight procession. Come and see their quiet village transformed into a fairyland and experience the cart parade and jingle bell trot. Later, join them for the Lite the Nite Boat Parade. The route will take the boats from Black Sound, White Sound, and Settlement Creek to the Main Dock at Settlement Point. Bunce, Hail’em gal and a Junkanoo rush will be performed along with another late night of bingo. It is guaranteed to be three weekends of fun. Call Erin Albury at 365-4395 or Marilyn Saunders at 365-4120 for more information.
Managing National Parks –
Bahamas National National Trust Trust Bahamas
Preserving our Future
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The Bahamas National Trust is a non-profit membership organization with statutory responsibility for management of 26 national parks and protected areas. The BNT is a unique collaboration of the private, scientific and government sectors with notable conservation accomplishments over the past 50 years. ESTABLISHING the Inagua National Park in 1965 to protect one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of West Indian Flamingos. DESIGNATING the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park in 1986 as the first no-take marine fishery reserve in the wider Caribbean. CREATING the Abaco National Park in 1994 to protect the northern breeding habitat of the endangered Bahama Parrot. ANNOUNCING the Fowl Cays Land and Sea Park in 2009 as the newest national park in celebration of the BNT’s 50th Anniversary. WORKING with scientists to continue to monitor the breeding population of the endangered Bahama Parrot on Abaco.
DOUBLING the size of the national park system in 2002 to over 700,000 acres throughout the archipelago – an unprecedented conservation achievement. DEVELOPING award winning environmental education programmes for teachers and students in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The MANAGEMENT of 26 national parks is a huge responsibility. As we plan for the future, we ask for you to support our national parks by becoming a member of the BNT so that we can continue to protect and manage the biodiversity of The Bahamas for future generations of Bahamians.
For membership information contact us at:
Nassau: P.O. Box N-4105 | Ph: 242-393-1317 • Fax: 242-393-4978 Abaco National Park: Ph: 242-367- 6310 • Fax: 242-367-6309 www.bnt.bs • Email: bnt@bnt.bs
what to do 9th Annual Cancer Society Art Show and Auction
Held in Green Turtle Cay at the Green Turtle Cay Club, the 8th Annual Cancer Society Art Show and Auction will feature local art, jewelry, sculpture and much more. For more infomation email: abacocancersociety@gmail. com or call 367-3744.
Museums
The Albert Lowe Museum on Green
Junkanoo Summer Festival
Summertime on Abaco means Junkanoo Time. This festival, staged by the Ministry of Tourism throughout the summer months, highlights everything that is truly Bahamian. Local residents and visitors get to sample the flavour of the islands. In addition to the variety of Bahamian dishes and drinks, there are performances by the world famous Royal Bahamas Police Force Band and local Junkanoo and dance groups. Fire dancing, limbo, hair braiding and native crafts are also displayed.
Art For The Parks
The Bahamas National Trust, Abaco Beach Resort, local artists and corporate supporters have come together to provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to Abaco to view and purchase the works of more than 30 talented Bahamian artists on Jan. 24 - 26, 2014. The event features artists who work in all mediums with a number of high-end jewelry and craft artisans participating. Saturday and Sunday features a variety of food, an interactive children’s crafts area, and local musical talent. All funds raised at the event help to maintain the six Abaco National Parks and support conservation education initiatives on Abaco. Contact the Bahamas National Trust at bnt@bnt.bs, or call the BNT Office in Marsh Harbour at 367-6310.
Turtle Cay charts the history of Abaconians from the Loyalists of the 1780s through the modern-day development of Abaco. It also features handcrafted ship models and paintings by local artists. Once a home, this 150-year-old structure was transformed by artist Alton Lowe in memory of his father. Tel: (242) 365-4094 The Wyannie Malone Historical Museum in Hope Town exhibits the cay’s history from the 1780s to the present and is named after the Hope Town founder from South Carolina. The museum is packed with manuscripts, photographs and artifacts. Local pottery and ships’ china recovered by wreckers and household antiques are housed here. Extensive genealogy records are available for Bahamian families. Tel: 366-0293
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what to do Man-O-War’s Heritage Museum is
Abaco’s Lighthouses
Hole-In-The-Wall Lighthouse
was built in 1836, but with its original mechanism dismantled, the lighthouse now has an automated light. Some interested residents hope to restore the beauty of this once proud beacon of light to ships that sailed on our beautiful waters of the Atlantic.
located on the Queen’s Highway in the heart of the settlement. The recently opened museum holds artifacts, photos and family treasures of yesteryear. The building itself is one of the oldest on the island at 100 plus years. And like all older buildings, it has its challenges. Donations are being accepted for the roof restoration project. Visit www.mowmuseum.com to stay updated on the progress of the museum. You can also “like” them on Facebook.
Johnston’s Bronze Art Foundry
Using a 5000-year-old wax process, Pete Johnston has been specializing in bronze sculptures ever since it was introduced to him by his father, the late Randolph Johnston in 1952. Today both Pete’s and his father’s work are known worldwide and can be seen in such places as the Vatican’s Museum in Rome, Rawson Square in Nassau and many domestic and international art galleries. The foundry is still in operation and remains as the only bronze foundry in The Bahamas. It is tucked away in the unspoiled and secluded location of Little Harbour that also offers a family-owned pub and art gallery. Call them at (242) 577-5487 or 954-353-2465 pete@petespub.com 36 Destination Abaco
The Elbow Cay Lighthouse is probably the most recognizable landmark on Abaco. This 89-foot high candystriped edifice was built in 1863 and is one of two hand-wound keroseneburning lighthouses still operational in the world. It is worth viewing.
Beaches
There are many spectacular stretches of sand here, most notably Treasure Cay Beach’s stunning white sand that was voted one of the 10 best beaches in the world. Tahiti Beach, Hope Town, has soft white sand, seven-milelong Guana Cay Beach has a tall dune, Abaco Beach Resort’s sand is shaded beneath palm trees, and Sandy Point Beach has lots of shells. Casuarina Point Beach Crossing Rocks Beach Hope Town Beach Long Beach Manjack Beach Pelican Beach Villas Beach Sandy Point Public Beach Tahiti Beach on Elbow Cay Treasure Cay Beach
Eco-Adventures Mangroves
Due to the flat land and typically shallow waters, The Bahamas largely consists of wetland ecosystems, making them the most important ecosystem in the country. Wetlands, often referred to as swamps or marshes, are areas
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Bahama Woodstar Hummingbird ‘Calliphlox evelynae’, Photo Linda Huber
that are regularly flooded with salt or fresh water, even though they are sometimes permanently or temporarily dry due to tides or arid seasons. Wetlands can either be coastal or inland. Coastal wetlands are influenced by the tides. The plants found here are very salt tolerant and protect the coastline from storm surges and run off into the sea. Inland wetlands are cutoff from the sea and are more influenced by rainfall, rivers, or ground water. Mangroves are the trees that can be found in these wetland areas. Worldwide, there are over 50 species of mangroves, four of which can be found in The Bahamas. The Red Mangrove is the most water loving of them all and can be seen on the coasts of the salt water. Easily identified by its reddish colour and branching prop roots, the Red Mangrove has oval, green leaves that grow opposite each other, and yellow-cream flowers. The Black Mangrove often grows just behind the Red Mangrove, but it is also salt tolerant. It’s extended, horizontal roots easily identify it, from which grow vertical “breathing roots.” The Black Mangrove often has a blackened bark, longer and narrower leaves
and produces a small cluster of white flowers. The White Mangrove is the least salt tolerant, and therefore it prefers drier conditions and can be found growing more inland behind the Black Mangroves. The White Mangrove is easily distinguished from the other mangroves by its rounded, lighter green leaves and its pinkish stem, with two visible glands called nectarines, which are thought to prevent it from herbivorous attacks. The flower is very small, white, and bell shaped. The Buttonwood, also known as the Grey Mangrove, prefers much drier land and can be found further inland than the others; however, it is very salt resistant. The Buttonwood is found in two colour forms: green and silver. The flowers are “button-like” and develop into brown fruits. The leaves are alternate from one another and also have sugar secreting nectarines, which are thought to defend against herbivorous attack. All mangrove trees not only protect the island from erosion and coral reefs from pollution, they also serve as a nursery, shelter, and protection for many embryonic crab, lobster and fish. Destination Abaco
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what to do
Out Island Excursions
Bahamas Fast Ferries
From Sandy Point, one can take a trip to Nassau, the capital and most populated city of The Bahamas, in under fours hours on a state-of-the-art, airconditioned, high-speed ferry. The fast ferry runs Friday and Sunday most of the year. However, the schedule does vary throughout the year so be sure to check the schedule before planning your trip. Visit www.bahamasferries. com for more information and to book a trip.
Pinder’s Ferry Service
It is possible to take a ferry to Grand Bahama, the neighboring island, where the second most populated city is found, Freeport. Pinder’s Ferry
38 Destination Abaco
Service travels twice daily from Crown Haven, Abaco’s northernmost point, to McLean’s Town, Grand Bahama, which is 50 miles away. From there you can catch a bus or taxi to Freeport. For more information call (242) 365-2356.
Golfing
Treasure Cay Golf Course
The Treasure Cay Golf Course is an outstanding 18-hole championship course designed by Dick Wilson, one of America’s most renowned golf course architects. With several classic courses, the golf course consistently ranks in Golf Digest’s Top 100. With 186 acres and tropically landscaped, Treasure Cay golf course was the last Dick Wilson planned. After he died in 1968, his assistant, Joe Lee, completed the course and went on to become
what to do a famous golf course architect. At 6,985 yards from the blue tees and with 66 strategically placed sand bunkers, the Treasure Cay course presents an impressive challenge. With ocean winds, tight fairways, and a layout that makes you ponder every club selection, you certainly will want to play more than once! Whether you are single and looking for a partner to play with or have a partner already, the Treasure Cay Golf Course is perfect for you. Tee times are not necessary! During the winter season, homeowner tournaments are often held at bi-weekly intervals. Guests are welcome, as it can be a fun way of meeting new people. Very attractive golf packages are available to guests staying at Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina.
The Abaco Club on Winding Bay
The Abaco Club on Winding Bay features authentic links courses, meaning it has been built on land that is beside the sea and been shaped by wind. Therefore, the course has been designed and is maintained so that it is fast running and firm. Some would even call this course a tropical links, due to the tropical location next to a pristine two-mile beach and many dunes. Designed by Peter de Savary, Tom MacKenzie, and Donald Steel, this course is described as the envy of many seaside courses. Amenities at the Club include a clubhouse and infinity pool, European spa, deep sea and bonefishing, tennis, children’s activities and numerous water sports. The Club’s private plane and air terminal, as well as sport and leisure boats, are available to members and guests. The Club welcomes non-members to enjoy the private club once only. Exquisite cottages are Destination Abaco
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what to do
Par Yards
Food Pro Golf Bar Shop Pro
Designer
Holes
Tough Easy
Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club
72
7,327
X
X
X
Tom Fazio
4
15
Treasure Cay Resort and Marina
72
6,985
X
X
X
Dick Wilson
8
10
Great Guana Cay Tel: 365-5802
Treasure Cay Tel: 365-8045
The Abaco Club on 72 7,183 X X X Winding Bay
Cherokee Sound Tel: 866-605-8681 or 367-0077
available for rent. Estate lots and exquisite turn-key cottages are priced from $875,000 to $4 million. Nonresident membership is also available. For more information, please contact the Membership Department at (888) 303-2765 (US Toll Free) or (242-) 3670077 or email info@theabacoclub.com or visit www.theabacoclub.com.
Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club
The golf course at Baker’s Bay has been receiving enthusiastic reviews as one of the premium courses in the Caribbean. Designed by Tom Fazio, this Par 72 course plays 7,327 yards from the back tees and features dramatic water views from most of the holes. Baker’s Bay provides 244 custom home sites, 35 beachfront cottages, and 44 40 Destination Abaco
Tom MacKenzie 3 & 11 6 Donald Steel
boathouses. At Baker’s Bay you can experience an ocean front golf course, a private family beach club, a first-rate spa and fitness club, a private watercraft, and superlative dining. Baker’s Bay also provides a seaport village, equipped with a waterfront cantina, a Caribbean-style hotel, and many gift shops and boutiques. Visit www.bakersbayclub.com, call (242) 577-0635, or email info@bakersbayclub.com for more information.
Diving & Snorkeling Snorkeling Sites • Angelfish Reef • Blue Strip Reef • Crawfish Shallows • Elkhorn Park • Fowl Cay Reef • Hobias Head
what to do • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Hope Town Reef Jeanette’s Reef Meghan’s Mesa Mermaid Reef Pelican Park Pirate’s Cathedral Sandy Cay Reef Sanka Shoal Smugglers Rest Spanish Cannon Spiral Cavern The Pillars White Hole Wreckers Reef
Diving Operators
Abaco Sailing Adven........... 366-0722 Brendal’s Dive Ctr (GTC)..... 365-4411 Dive Abaco (MH)................ 367-2787 Dive Guana (GC)................ 365-5178 Dive Time (MOW).............. 365-6235 Spanish Cay (SC)............... 365-0083 Treasure Divers (TC)........... 365-8571 Froggies Out Island (HT).... 366-0431
Reef, Cave, Cavern, Wrecks, Walls & Blue Hole Diving
Much of the water that surrounds The Bahamas is less than 20 feet deep, making it home to numerous reef dive
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what to do sites.
The Aquarium - This site is located on the outside of the reef north of Shark Ledge and is frequented by friendly Caribbean Reef Sharks and Groupers. There are interesting coral structures to explore. Cuda Alley - This is a beautiful reef located at the north end of Guana Cay. There are beautiful coral formations, lots of fish and sometimes schools of barracudas hanging about. The reef has a huge ledge in it which leads to a beautiful cavern room that’s filled with silversides in the summer. Grouper Alley - Numerous tunnels cut through and beneath a monstrous coral head in 40-foot depths. Guppy Garden - These are two beautiful coral heads located near the maze off Scotland Cay. The maximum depth is 30 feet. The heads have lots of fish, corals and interesting crevasses to explore. Kristin’s Crannies - This is a beautiful coral head located near The Cathedral. This site has lots of fish, corals and very interesting crevasses and tunnels running
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through it. The Maze - This is a beautiful site near Scotland Cay. The reef structure here has six or more very long, wide tunnels running through it like a maze. The tunnels are quite large and well lit with many large openings in the overhead. The maximum depth is 30 feet. Sandy Cay - This site is located in the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park. It is a beautiful coral reef with lots of fish and the occasional Spotted Eagle Ray. The Skyscrapers - These are dive sites on the outside of the main reef at the north end of Guana Cay. These sites have a maximum depth of 60 feet. Each is unique with amazing coral structures that reach the surface from the bottom at 60 feet. Here you will find beautiful tunnels and caverns hidden behind some of the huge cliff- like formations. Black tip sharks, eagle rays, tarpon and other life are often seen on these reefs. Tarpon Reef - High-profile corals provide a home for a school of Tarpon and a huge
what to do Green Moray. The Tower Garden - This site is called “Fly Wheel” in the Cruising Guide. There are lots of Chubs and Yellowtail Snappers here. The site has interesting coral formations with nice well lit tunnels running through them. The Towers - The site is located outside the reef near The Tower Garden and is home to Caribbean Reef Sharks, Rays and Turtles. There are huge coral heads that come close to the surface from depths of 60 feet, plus tunnels and caverns. The Tunnels - This site is called “Tombstone” in the Cruising Guide. There is a memorial to Skeet Lachance’s son under one of the ledges. This is a nice coral head with lots of fish and coral. Twin Sisters - These are two round coral heads near The Tunnels. There are nice corals and colorful fish on these heads. It is a nice reef for beginners and snorkel divers. Wayne’s World -This is a tour of the outside of the barrier reef in 70 feet of water.
The Catacombs - A 20’ shallow sun-splattered cavern with abundant tropical fish. The Cathedral - This site is located in the reef on the north end of Scotland Cay. There are gigantic cavern rooms with formations resembling the inside of a cathedral. Large openings overhead allow light to stream through to the sandy bottom and shafts of sunlight dance on the ocean floor. Guana Coral Caverns - This cavern-filled reef is located on the north side of Guana Cay. Beautiful colorful coral gardens with many varieties of fish surround this horseshoe shaped reef. The reef features large numbers of caverns and tunnels. Some are well lit and are near the outside openings. Others are very dark and lead to well lit caverns with no visible openings large enough to get outside. Divers should go here with a guide and not go beyond where visible openings to the outside can be seen.
Dive Shops & Equipment
Diving on Abaco is definitely a must.
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Brendals Dive Center
Green Turtle Cay, 365-4411
Dive Abaco
Marsh Harbour, 367-2787
Dive Guana
Guana Cay, 365-5178
Dive Time
Man-O-War Cay, 365-6235
Froggies Adventure Hope Town, 366-0431
Treasure Divers
Treasure Cay, 365-8571
Certification
Training courses
Tanks
# Boats
Instructors
Blue Holes
Walls
8 8 8 8 8 8 4 3 50 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 2 1 50 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 2 2 75 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 2 1 35 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 2 3 80 8 8 8 -
You do not want to miss the magnificent, peaceful experience that the waters of Abaco have to offer. Equipment can either be brought along with you or rented from the local dive shops. Even the most experienced divers are advised to use local dive operators to help you explore the dive sites of Abaco. The many dive shops also provide instruction courses, from beginner to dive master certification. Some of the dive shops on Abaco include Dive Abaco, Abaco Dive Adventures, Froggies Out Island Adventures, Treasure Divers, Brendal’s Dive Center and Brigantine Bay Villas.
Bonefishing Guides
Are you an avid bone-fisherman? Or do you want to have a guide teach you the basics to bone-fishing? With miles of flats, many professional guides on hand, access to the world-renowned “marls,” and large numbers and sizes of bonefish, Abaco is the perfect place 44 Destination Abaco
Reefs & wrecks
Snorkeling
Shark Encounters
Dive Information
Night Dive
what to do
8 8 -
8 1 2 48 8 8
for bone-fishing. There are a number of bonefish lodges, tours, and guides across the island, some of which include Rickmon Bonefish Lodge, Pinder’s Bonefishing, Bonefish Heaven, Abaco Bones, Jr’s Bonefish, and Abaco Fly Fish.
Cherokee Sound
Dana Lowe.....................366-2275 Donnie Lowe..................366-2275 Lionel(Dee) Albury..........366-2018 Maxwell Sawyer..............366-3058 Marty Sawyer.................366-2115 Will Sawyer....................366-2177 Randy Sawyer................366-2284 Robin Albury..................366-0278
Coopers Town
Drexel McIntosh.............365-0132 Kirk McIntosh.................365-0150 O’Donald McIntosh.........365-0126
Fire Road
Ken Gardiner..................365-0266 Sheldon Gardiner............365-0117
Green Turtle Cay
Ronnie Sawyer...............365-4070
Photo by Jesse Weatherford
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Abaco Fly Fish................365-4261
Hope Town
Maitland Lowe...............366-0234 Tom Albury.....366-3141/477-5243
Marsh Harbour
Jay Sawyer....................367-3941 Danny Sawyer................367-3577 Buddy Pinder..................366-2163 Justin Sands...................359-6890 Sidney Albury................477-5996 Terrance Davis...............375-8550 Richard Albury...............577-0313 Jody Albury....................375-8068
Mount Hope
Herbert Thurston...........365-4205 Pedro Thurston..............365-2405
Sandy Point
Green Turtle Cay
Rick Sawyer...................365-4270 Eddie Bodie...................357-6784
Hope Town
Robert Lowe..................366-0266 Ira Key..........................366-0245 Truman Major................366-0101
Lubbers Quarters
Michael Schreiner...........366-3143
Treasure Cay
Clark Burrows................375-3543
Bareboat Boat Charters
Charter a live aboard boat that will help you experience beautiful Abaco and its surrounding cays.
F. Burrows......................366-4133 Kirk Bain........................475-1982 Rickmon’s............. 366-4233/4477 Nicholas Roberts.............366-4486 Pete’s Guest House.........366-4119 Patrick Roberts...............366-4285 Val Adderley...................366-4308
The Moorings (MH)........... 367-4000 Abaco Bah Charters(HT).... 366-0151 Abaco Multihull (HT).......... 366-0552 Abaco Gal (TC)................. 365-8571
Edmund Williams...........367-7123
Lucayan Nature Tours Reg Patterson
Carey McKenzie..............365-8313
Captain Plug’s Adventure
Spring City
Treasure Cay
Deep Sea Fishing Guides Casuarina Point
Junior Albury................ 366-3058
Tours
Want to travel the Seas of Abaco, visit the local beaches, catch some tropical fish, or go bar hopping on the cays? Stafford Patterson a.k.a. Captain Plug, the owner and operator of Sea Horse Destination Abaco
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what to do Boat Rentals, will guide and assist you, either on board one of his own boats or on your own. Stafford has over 40 years experience on the Sea of Abaco, and he guarantees you a fun time. Tel: 366-0023/577-0273
Abaco Wild Horses
In many of the Caribbean islands, wild Spanish horses can be found, Abaco being one of those islands. After Columbus’ second voyage, the Caribbean held important breeding stations for horses exported to North and South America. Shipwrecks were very common, allowing the horses to take up residence on the island, and in Abaco, over a dozen Spanish ships were wrecked. The Abaco wild horses, also known as Spanish Barbs have managed to survive through time, nature, and man. With just five horses left,
46 Destination Abaco
they are the most critically endangered breed of horses on the planet. The three mares and two stallions roam freely inside the 600-acre preserve. Personal tours to visit the horses can be scheduled from Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay by calling (242) 367-4805. Also, feel free to visit www. arkwild.org for more information or to make a donation to this non-government funded cause.
Abaco Neem
Native Bahamian, Nick Miaoulis founded Abaco Neem in 1993. After initially being interested in Neem for timber, he began to realize its health benefits and his vision became more focused on health care. Along with assistance from Albert Albury, Nick was able to establish the Abaco Neem Farm on 120 acres of land near Casuarina Point.
Photo by Jesse Weatherford
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Today there are 6,500 Neem trees on the farm, and Abaco Neem’s health care, body care, pet care, and home and garden products are sold all over The Bahamas. The farm is set up to provide tours for any who would like to visit. Please visit www.abaconeem. com to schedule your tour today. Tel: (242) 225-1745 or 367-4117.
Carleton Point at Treasure Cay
This spot was the founding settlement of Abaco and is located on the northeast peninsula of what is now Treasure Cay beach. Six hundred American Loyalists, built the settlement in 1783 migrating to The Bahamas because of their allegiance to Great Britain after the American Revolution. It was named Carleton Point after Sir Guy Carleton, a British military commander of North America stationed in New York. However, in 1785, a hurricane struck the settlement, and it was later deserted. Archaeologists have uncovered remains of the Loyalist settlement and in September 1983 a bronze plaque was officially unveiled to commemorate the site. Plans are to construct a national monument and tourist attraction here.
Cholera Graveyard
In the 1850s, a dark cloud covered the community of Hope Town when resi-
dents were exposed to the Cholera epidemic. This highly contagious and incurable disease spread rapidly through the community resulting in 100 lives being lost. Although grief stricken by the tragic lost, the community rallied together and assigned a burial site for their love ones. Today the graveyard remains in existence at its original site, but with no gravestones marking the graves. Preserving this part of their history allows visitors and locals to pay their respect to the lives lost. Visitors can pick up a booklet with information on the location and some historical facts at Vernon’s Grocery Store in Hope Town.
Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden
This garden, located not far from the Albert Lowe Museum in Green Turtle Cay, is the brainchild of Alton Lowe and was built with funds raised by the New Plymouth Historical Society. The garden is a monumental tribute to those who played a significant role in the history of Abaco - the Loyalists and their slaves, who despite hard times, survived and made a new life in The Bahamas. The garden contains 24 busts of prominent Bahamians (representing various Bahamian islands), surrounding the life-size bronze figures of two Destination Abaco
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Photo by Tuppy Weatherford
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girls, one black, and one white. One child holds a conch shell, an important Bahamian symbol, while the other holds the Union Jack, the flag of Great Britain. Artist James Mastin sculptured the busts and two large figures. The figures represent a new beginning in The Bahamas for the thousands of Loyalists of the American Revolution in 1783.
Monument to Fishermen
In October of 1988, the community of Cherokee Sound erected a monument dedicated to the Cherokee fishermen and their smacks (locally-made fishing boats). The people of this community once thrived from the fishing industry and distinguished themselves by carrying five sails rather than the usual seven on their fishing smacks. Scripted on the monument is information dating back from the mid 1800’s to the late 1950’s that includes the history of the fishing industry in that community, the names of the fishermen who drowned during a fishing trip, and the names of the smacks operating during that century.
Lumber Camp Ruins
There were six lumber camps in Abaco, starting at Wilson City in 1905, followed by Norman’s Castle, Cornwall 48 Destination Abaco
I, Cornwall II, Millville, Cross Harbour and Snake Cay. Lumber activities gave employment to Abaconians during some of the years from 1905 to 1965.
Birding
With more than 65 species of birds native to Abaco, it truly is a birdwatcher’s paradise and the only place in The Bahamas where you can find the green Abaco or “Bahama” Parrot, mainly in South Abaco near Hole-inthe-Wall. Other birds you’ll encounter are the Bahama Yellow-Throat Warbler, Cuban Emerald Hummingbird, Woodpecker, Red-Legged Thrush, Olive-Capped Warbler and Flamingos. Abaco National Park - This national park, comprising 22,500 acres in Southern Abaco near Hole-in-the -Wall, has been designated a preservation area by the Bahamas government and is managed by the Bahamas National Trust. Included are 5,000 acres of pine forest – the nesting area and habitat of about 1000 endangered Abaco Parrots. The parrots once lived on as many as seven islands in The Bahamas, but now only exist on Abaco. A similar species is found on Great Inagua. Black Sound Cay National Park, a two-acre mangrove reserve, was established in 1988. It is located on
what to do Green Turtle Cay. Although small in size, this national park is an important habitat for waterfowl and other avifauna which winter in the region. The Tilloo Cay Reserve, established in 1990, is an important nesting habitat for seabirds with an approximate size of 11 acres.
Brendals Dive Center & Adventure Watersports Dis & Dat Tours Dive Abaco Dive Guana Froggie’s Out Island Adventures Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina Water Sports
Water Sports
Boating & Sailing
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina (MH)...... 367-2158 192 Baker’s Bay Marina (GC)................ 365-5802 158 Bluff House Marina (GTC).............. 365-4247 38 Conch Inn Marina (MH)................. 367-4000 72 Green Turtle Club (GTC)................ 365-4271 40 Guana Hideaways Marina (GC)....... 365-5070 37 Harbour View Marina (MH)............. 367-2182 40 Hope Town Inn & Marina (HT)....... 366-0003 62 Leeward Yacht Club (GTC)............. 365-4191 26 Lighthouse Marina (HT)................. 366-0154 6 Mangoes Marina (MH)................... 367-4255 29 Man-O-War Marina (MOW)............. 365-6008 28 Marsh Harbour Marina (MH)........... 367-2700 62 Orchid Bay Marina (GC)................. 365-5175 66 Other Shore Club (GTC)................. 365-4226 15 Sea Spray Marina (HT).................. 366-0065 60 Spanish Cay Marina....................... 365-0083 40 Treasure Cay Marina (TC).............. 365-8250 150
Wi-Fi
Restaurant
Laundry
Groceries
Showers
Ice
Electricity
Water
Fuel
Marinas
With an entire chain of enchanting islands arrayed around a warm, calm sea, Abaco Islands are one of the world’s best cruising and sailing areas and have been The Bahamas’ boating capital since colonial times. Whether you’re a sailing purist willing to tack until the last gasp of wind or a powerboater who throttles up to ensure you’re at the anchorage by happy hour’s first call, this is truly a yachtsman’s heaven.
Slips
From “busy” Marsh Harbour to elegant Green Turtle Cay to the exclusive private island of Walker’s Cay, these islands offer rich, shallow reefs and encounters with friendly fish. Explore old wrecks and beautiful stands of elkhorn corals while snorkeling near many of the cays. Abaco Dive Adventures Abaco Paddleboard Abaco Eco Kayak Adventures
O O O O O - O O O - O O O - O - O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O O O O - O - - - - - - O O O O O O - O - O - O O O O - O O O - O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O - O - O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O Destination Abaco
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Photo by Dive Abaco
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Boating Information
The Cruiser’s Net, Abaco’s most popular radio information site - VHF 68 at 0815 Use the VHF to stay in touch. • Channel 16 - Calling Only • Channel 06 - Taxis • Channel 68 - Cruiser’s Net • Channel 83 - Medical and BASRA • Channel 72 - The Elbow Cay Rescue Squad, Emergencies only When you hear someone on VHF 16 answer “Go Over”, you can bet they are going to “their” channel. In fact, you know you’ve finally arrived when you know where “over” is.
Marina Information Customs Procedures
Upon entering The Bahamas, the captain of a vessel must take the vessel to an authorized port. The vessel must first clear customs prior to any crew coming ashore or the unloading or loading of any cargo. The boat’s Temporary Cruising Permit is for one year from date of entry and may be renewed for up to two further years if desired by written application to Bahamas Customs, Nassau, prior to expiration and payment of $500 50 Destination Abaco
per year. To leave your boat in The Bahamas permanently, you must pay an import duty of 10% for vessels of any size. Since there is no income tax in The Bahamas, there is usually a 35% duty, plus shipping costs, added to most consumer goods. If you experience anything contrary to this, call Comptroller of Customs in Nassau at 242-302-3302.
Immigration Procedures
No person is to land in The Bahamas from a foreign territory without permission of an immigration officer. All vessels must be landed at an authorised port of entry.
Radio Communications
When using VHF radios, use Channel 16 as the calling channel to initiate communications.
Weather Information
Daily forecasts are broadcast on VHF16 on the Crusiers Net. Bahamas Christian Network channel 55 broadcast between 7:00 - 7:15 am. The official hurricane season starts June 1 and ends on November 30. Information on tropical systems is available from many sources four - five
what to do The Official Gamefish Chart of the Bahamas Location
Blue Marlin
Offshore
White Marlin
Offshore
Sailfish
Offshore
Swordfish
Offshore
Dolphin
Offshore
Wahoo
Offshore/Reef
Kingfish
Offshore
Mackerel
Offshore
Allison Tuna
Offshore
Bluefin Tuna
Offshore
Blackfin Tuna
Offshore
Oceanic Bonito
Offshore
Bonefish
Flats
Permit
Flats
Tarpon
Flats
Amberjack
Reef
Grouper
Bottom/Reef
Snapper
Offshore/Reef
Barracuda
Any
Shark
Any Excellent
Jan.
Feb.
Good to Excellent
Mar.
Good
days before these weather conditions are experienced in The Bahamas. The Weather Channel, BCN television and Radio Abaco 93.5FM issue regular updates on any tropical disturbances. Additional information can be obtained via the internet.
Fishing Regulations Arriving by Boat
Visiting boaters must clear Customs and Immigration at one of the nearest designated 32 Ports of Entry. As you enter each port, fly the yellow quarantine flag and notify Customs of your arrival immediately. Only the captain is permitted to leave the boat until the vessel has been cleared. When Customs and Immigration Officials come to your vessel, everyone on board must have proof of citizenship and fill out an immigration card. U.S. citizens can present a passport and an official photo I.D., such as a driver’s 52 Destination Abaco
Apr.
May
Jun.
July
Occasional
Aug.
Sept.
Fair
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
None
license or voter’s card. Before leaving The Bahamas, be sure to surrender your copy of the immigration card at the last Bahamian port you visit. If you have a firearm on board, you must declare it on arrival with Customs. You must provide the serial number and manufacturer, plus an exact count of ammunition. You are allowed to have a firearm on your boat, but you cannot take it off unless you have a permit from the Bahamian police ahead of time. Weapons must be under lock and key at all times. Any infraction of this law is dealt with severely.
Entry Fees
Cruising fees of $150 for boats up to 35 feet in length and $300 for boats over 35 feet, will be valid for two entries during a 90-day period. This covers a vessel with four persons or fewer. The fee covers the cruising permit, fishing permit, Customs and Immigra-
what to do tion charges and the $25 per person departure tax for up to four persons. Each additional person above four is charged a $25 departure tax (for each additional person above four departing Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. If you plan to stay longer than 12 months, special arrangements must be made with Bahamas Customs and Immigration. Regular hours for Bahamas Customs and Immigration Officers are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Officers are on-call during holidays and weekends. There is no overtime charge.
Permits
You can receive fishing permits from Customs officials at any of our 32 ports of entry. Fishing gear is restricted to hook and line and you’re allowed to fish six rods at a time.
54 Destination Abaco
Marine Vessel Limits
Lobster or Crawfish - Limit of no more than 10 tails at any given time. Annual closed season is April 1 to July 31. Minimum size limits are 3-3/8 inch carapace length or six inches tail length. Egg -bearing female crawfish are protected. Conch - Limit at any given time is no more than 6 per vessel. Harvesting and possession of conch without a well formed lip is prohibited. Wahoo/Dolphin/Kingfish/Tuna - Migratory species shall not exceed 18 fish per vessel at any time. Demersal Species - Demersal species (grouper, snappers, etc.) - No more than 60 pounds or 20 scale fish. Stone Crabs - The minimum harvestable claw is four inches. Harvesting of females is prohibited. The season is closed from June 1 to October 15. Turtles - Illegal to import. No vessel shall have onboard marine turtles. Spearfishing - Hawaiian sling is the only approved spearfishing device. You are not
what to do allowed to use scuba gear or an air compressor to harvest fish, conch, crawfish or other marine animals. Spearfishing is not allowed within one mile of the coast of New Providence, within one mile of the south coast of Freeport, Grand Bahama and within 200 yards of the coast of all the Out Islands. Spearing or taking marine animals by any means is prohibited within national sea parks.
People to-People
Bahamians love meeting new people and making friends. When you join our complimentary People-to-People program, you’ll be paired with a Bahamian ambassador who will show you our culture and way of life in a memorable, one-of-a-kind vacation experience. It’s the perfect way to really get to know our islands. Make the most of your visit to The Bahamas by joining our free People-to-People program. Enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal. Share stories. Go sightseeing. Meet Bahamian children. Listen to rake and scrape. Our program does more than introduce you to our culture. It lets you experience The Bahamas through the eyes of a Bahamian.
Fun Run/ Walks
Several times in the year, the people of Abaco get together for 5K running challenges. The challenge is to run or walk 5 kilometres, all to raise funds, with the aid of sponsors. There were several 5K events that took place in on Abaco in 2011. The Anglican Church hosted a 5K in October. Also the Christian Counseling Center hosted a 5K and optional 10K in November of 2011. With the help of sponsors and an entrance fee, each challenge was a success to raise money for their organizations. Both of the associations hope to host the same event annually for years to come. Destination Abaco
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T
David and Phoebe Gale
he 15th Annual Cacique Awards was a black-tie event held at the Rain Forest Theatre on Sunday Janaury 27th, 2013 in New Providence. Bahamians were honored from islands covering the length and breadth of the Bahamas, with two of them being Abaconians. They were David and Phoebe Gale and Malcolm Spicer. David and Phoebe Gale moved to The Bahamas in 1954 and later become Bahamian citizens. They are known on Abaco as hoteliers, having opened some of Abaco’s first hotels but later opened Island Marine renting small boats and cottages to visitors on the island. The couple created the Bahamas Lighthouse Preservation Soci56 Destination Abaco
Malcolm Spicer
ety through which they worked to preserve the last three kerosene-fuelled lighthouses and engaged heavily in community service, starting the Abaco division of Bahamas Air, Sea Rescue Association (BASRA). David Gale also had several articles published in a variety of magazines including Skin Diver, Southern Boating, Sail, Sea History, and Abaco Life. As a result of these numerous contributions to the tourism industry, they won the prestigious Clement Maynard Lifetime Achievement Award over sixteen other nominees. This was an extremely great win for the Gale’s who had a very accomplished and outstanding group of nominees to compete against.
M
alcolm Spicer won the Cacique Award for Sports, Leisure and Events. Spicer, a former educator, is the founder of several sports associations in the areas of soccer and darts. Since 1997, Mr. Spicer has acted as President of the Abaco Football Association (soccer), for which he wrote the rules, constitution and by-laws. He founded the Darts Association, where he served as Secretary since 1986. He has been President of the World Darts Federation, Americas Region since 2000 and Secretary General of the Caribbean Darts Association since 1990. He has been responsible for planning and coordinating all six World Darts Federation Americas Cup International Tournaments and in 2010, arranged for the 18th Caribbean Cup and 5th Americas’ Cup which was hosted on Abaco. It was as a result of his great success that he was asked to help host the prestigious Latin American Region’s International World Series Little League Tournament. As Chairman of the Bahamas International Little League World Series Tournament Organizing Committee, he was responsible for co-ordinating the whole
event. The Tournament took place in the Summer of 2011. It was an amazing event that put Abaco on the list of destinations for sports tournaments.
C
andace Key, a resident of Hope Town was nominated for creating the Abaco, Reef Etiquette Brochure but did not receive a Cacique Award. She has served 35 years as a dedicated educator at Hope Town Primary School, having taught four generations of students to develop a strong respect for the environment. She was nominated by the school Principal, Justin Higgs, and is excited to be a part of what she said is the most important of all Cacique Awards, commemorating fifty years of tourism and forty years of independence. In 2010, the Hope Town Primary School was recognized by the UNESCO for being a leader in international environmental stewardship. In November of 2012, the new Media Center added to the school was named the Candace Key Media Center. All of these persons awarded and nominated have made the community of Abaco proud and are worthy of being commemorated. Written by Samantha Evans Destination Abaco
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shopping
Shopping
Abaco Souvenirs
Abaco Ceramics (TC) ..........365-8489 Abaco Island Artist (MH)......367-3744 Abaco Seaglass (MH)...........477-5871 Abaco Treasures (MH) ........367-3460 Albury’s Sail Shop (MOW) ...365-6014 B’s Sunrise (MH).................367-4822 Bahama Dawn (MH)............367-4648 Bahamas Outfitters (MH).....367-3312 Blue Sky Gallery (MH)..........367-0579 Buds n Blooms (MH)............367-2837 Ebb Tide (HT) ....................366-0088 El Mercado (HT)..................366-0661 Fantasy Boutique (HT).........366-0537 Golden Reef (GTC)..............365-4511 Gone Conchin’ (GC).............365-5215 Hope Town Harbour Lodge... 366-0095
58 Destination Abaco
Iggy Biggy (HT) .................366-0354 Iggy Biggy (MH) ................367-3596 Java Coffee Shoppe (MH).....367-5523 Joe’s Studio (MOW) ............365-6082 Kemp’s Souvenirs (HT) .......366-0423 Lighthouse Marina (HT).......366-0154 Monkey’s Uncle (MH)...........367-3223 Native Creations (GTC) .......365-4206 Nippers Gift Shop (GC)........365-5143 Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH).....577-5487 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) ...367-4405 Sea Spray Marina (HT)........366-0065 Sunset Souvenirs (MH) .......367-2658 Sun Dried T’s (HT)..............366-0616 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) .........367-2158 The Crazy Crab (HT) ..........366-0537 The Harbour Shoppe (TC)....365-8757
shopping The Painted Fish (MOW)......365-6013 Triple J Gift Shop (TC).........365-8761 Tropical Souvenirs (MH).......367-2431
Bakeries
Da Best Yet Bakery (MH).....367-3616 Florence’s Café (TC)............458-7358 Island Bakery (MH).............367-2129 Java Coffee Shop (MH)........367-5523 Lola’s Bakery (GTC).............365-6073 McIntosh Bakery (GTC)........365-4625 Simply The Best (TC)...........365-8258 Vernon’s Groceries (HT).......366-0037
Beauty Salons & Supplies
Abaco Beauty Shop (MH).....367-2386 Bahama Waves (MOW)........365-6310 Hubert’s Cut & Curls (GTC)..365-4100 Restoration Salon (MH)........367-5882 Shear Dynamics (MH)..........367-3844 Snazzie’s (MH)....................367-4781
The Hair Stylist (MH) .........367-4246 The Chopping Block (HT).....366-0052
Books & Magazines
Abaco Treasures (MH).........367-3460 Bellevue Business (MH).......367-2701 Ebb Tide (HT).....................366-0088 Educational Depot (MH).......367-5757 Fruit of the Vine Christian Bookstore (MH) .................................367-3288 Joe’s Studio (MOW).............365-6082 Kemp’s Souvenir (HT)..........366-0423 Lighthouse Marina (HT).......366-0154
Bicycles, Scooters
Brendal’s Dive Center (GTC).365-4411 Jack’s Bikes (HT).................366-0635 Rental Wheels (MH) ...........367-4643 Sun Dried T’s (HT)..............366-0616 Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC)..365-4147 Wendal’s Bicycle Rent (TC)...365-8687
Destination Abaco
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shopping Boat Rentals & Charters
Abaco Dorado Rentals (MH).367-1035 Blue Wave Rentals (MH)......367-3910 Captain Plug’s Adven. (HT)..366-0023 Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals (HT).366-0380 Concept Boat Rentals (MH) .367-5570 Conch Pearl Rentals (MOW).365-6059 Dive Guana (GC).................365-5178 Donnie’s Boat Rentals (GTC).365-4119 Florida Yacht Charters (MH).367-4853 Island Marine Rentals (HT) .366-0282 J.I.C. Boat Rentals (TC) ......365-8582 John H Rentals (US)..... 772-287-6842 Man-O-War Marina (MOW)...365-6008 Rainbow Rentals (MH) ........367-4602 Reef Boat Rentals (GTC)......365-4145 Roberts Hardware (GTC)......365-4122 Sea Horse Boat Rent (MH) ..367-2513 Sunset Marine (GTC)...........365-4634
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The Moorings (MH).............367-4000 Treasure Divers (TC)............365-8571 Waterways Rentals (MOW)...365-6143
Boutiques
Bahamas Outfitters (MH).....367-3312 Bluff House Boutique (GTC).365-4200 B’s Sunrise(MH)..................367-4822 Corner Value (MH) .............367-2250 Fantasy Boutique (HT).........366-0537 Golden Reef (GTC)..............365-4511 Green Turtle Club Boutique..365-4271 His & Her Jeans (MH)......... 367-2011 Iggy Biggy (MH) ................367-3596 Iggy Biggy (HT)..................366-0354 Island Gal Boutique (MH).....367-0283 Laura’s Boutique (GTC)........365-4287 Lighthouse Marina (HT).......366-0154 Mangoes Boutique (MH)......367-2366 Nippers Gift Shop (GGC)......365-5111 Orchid Bay Marina (GGC).....365-5175
shopping Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH).....367-4405 Sun Dried T’s (HT)..............366-0616 Wally’s Boutique (MH).........367-2074
Cameras & Film
Abaco Photos (MH).............367-0707 Computer Creations (MH)....367-2004 Snap Shop (MH)..................367-3020 Wally’s Studio (MH) ............367-2722
Car Parts & Asses.
A.I.D. (MH).........................367-2077 CarQuest (MH)....................367-2452 K & S Auto (MH).................367-2655 Quality Star Auto (MH)........367-2979
Car Rentals
A & P Auto Rentals (MH)......367-2655 Bargain Car Rentals (MH).....367-0500 Cornish Car Rentals (TC) ....365-8623 Rental Wheels (MH) ...........367-4643
Sea Star Car Rentals (MH) ..367-4887 Triple J Car Rentals (TC)......365-8761
Crystal Treasures
Abaco Treasures (MH) ........367-3460 Corner Value (MH) .............367-2250 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) ...367-4405
Dental Offices
Agape Dental (MH) ....... 367-4355/54 Diamante Dental (MH) . ......367-4968
Florists
Buds & Blooms (MH) ..........367-2837 Flowers Etc (MH) ...............367-1246 Pinewoods Nursery (MH) ... 367-2674
Freight/Courier
Abaco Shipping (MH)...........367-2091 Dean’s Shipping (MH)..........367-2653 FedEx (MH)........................367-4339
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shopping IE Imports (MH)..................367-3622 G & G Shipping (MH)...........367-0329 GWS Express (MH)..............367-2722 UPS (MH)...........................367-3136 Tropical Shipping (MH)........367-0225
Furniture & Accessories
Fine Living (MH) ................367-0329 Furniture Plus (MH).............367-7587 Palm Cottage (MH)..............367-2300 Wood You (MH)...................367-9663
Golf Cart Rentals
Albury’s Property Man (GC)..365-5175 Blue Marlin Rentals (TC) .....365-8687 Cash’s Cart Rentals (TC) .....365-8771 C & D Rentals (GTC) . .........365-4311 Chris Cart Rentals (TC)........365-8053 Cruising Cart Rentals (GTC).367-4065 Claridge Cart Rentals (TC)....365-8248
62 Destination Abaco
D & P Cart Rentals (GTC) . ..365-4655 Elbow Cay Cart (HT) ..........366-0530 Hope Town Cart (HT)..........366-0064 Island Cart Rentals (HT) .....366-0448 JR Cart Rentals (HT)............366-0361 Kool Kart Rentals (GTC).......365-4176 Ria-Mar Cart Rental (MOW).. 365-6024 Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC) .365-4147 South Beach Rental (GTC)...365-4375 T & A Cart Rentals (GTC) ....365-4259 T & N Cart Rentals (HT).......366-0069
Grocery Stores
A & A Food Store (MH) ......367-3606 Abaco Groceries (MH)..........367-5308 Albury’s Harbour St (MOW) .365-6004 Cherokee Food Fair.............366-2022 Curry’s Food Store (GTC) ....365-4171 Golden Harvest (TC) . .........365-8350 Guana Harbour Groc (GC)....365-5067 Harbour View Grocery (HT).. 366-0033
shopping Lowe’s Grocery (GTC) .........365-4243 LVA Convience(HT)..............366-0056 MOW Grocery (MOW) .........365-6016 Maxwells (MH)....................367-2601 Roberts Food Store (GTC)….365-4284 Roderick’s Food Store (MH) .367-3237 Save-A-Lot (MH) ................367-2020 Sid’s Grocery (GTC) ............365-4055 Vernon’s Grocery (HT).........366-0037 24/7 Shell (MH) .................367-5064
Hardware & Paint Stores
Abaco Hardware (MH) ........367-2170 AID (MH)............................367-2077 Standard Hardware (MH) ....367-2660 MOW Hardware (MOW) ......365-6011 Imports Unlimited (HT)........366-0136 New Plymouth Hard. (GTC)..365-4305 Roberts Hardware (GTC)......365-4122 The Paint Place (MH)...........367-2271 Treasure Cay Home (TC)......365-8258
Ice Cream
Island Family Rest (MH)....... 367-3778 Island Treats (MOW)........... 365-6501 Jamie’s Place (MH).............. 367-2880 Munchies (HT).................... 366-0423 Sugar Shack (HT)................ 366-0788
Insurance
Abaco Insurance (MH.......... 367-2549 British American (MH).......... 367-5601 Colina Imperial (MH)........... 367-3432 Family Guardian (MH).......... 367-3264 Insurance Manag(MH)......... 367-4204 J.S. Johnson (MH) .............. 367-2688 Van Stratton Ins. (MH)......... 367-2222
Internet Services/WiFi
Bahamas WiMAX (MH)......... 367-3717 Batelco (MH)....................... 367-2200 Out Island Internet (MH)..... 367-3006
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shopping Jewelry
Abaco Treasures (MH)......... 367-3460 Bahamas Outfitters (MH)..... 367-3312 Ebb Tide (HT)..................... 366-0088 El Mercado (HT).................. 366-0661 Golden Reef (GTC).............. 365-4511 Iggy Biggy (MH).................. 367-3596 Iggy Biggy (HT) ................. 366-0354 Jewels, Gems & More (MH) .367-2418 John Bull (MH).................... 367-2473 Mangoes Boutique (MH)...... 367-2366 Native Creations (GTC) ....... 365-4206 Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH)..... 366-3503 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH)..... 367-4405 Silver Moon Designs (MH).... 477-5871 Sun Dried T’s (HT).............. 366-0616 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) ......... 367-2158 Tropical Treasures (MH) ......367-5576
Kayak Rentals
Abaco Adventures (TC)........ 365-8749
Abaco Dive Adven (MH)....... 367-2213 Abaco Gal (TC)................... 365-8571 Brendal’s Dive Center (GTC).365-4411
Legal Services
Alexiou, Knowles (MH)......... 367-2010 Frederik F. Gottlieb (MH)...... 367-3120 Higgs & Johnson (MH)......... 367-3215 L.C. Hull Chambers (MH) .... 367-2030 The Firm (MH).................... 367-3572
Marine Stores
Abaco Ace Hardware (MH)... 367-2927 Abaco Marine Props (MH).... 367-4276 Abaco Outboards (MH) ....... 367-2452 Abaco Yacht Services (GTC).365-4033 Boat Harbour Marina (MH.... 367-2158 Black Sound Marina (GTC) .. 365-4531 Edwin’s Boat Yard (MOW).... 365-6007 Island Boy Marine (MH)....... 367-3228 Lighthouse Marina (HT)....... 366-0154 Master Marine (MH)............. 367-4760
Store Hours: 8am - 6pm • Monday through Saturday
Phone: (242) 367-0212/0213 • Fax: (242) 367-0214
Don MacKay Blvd. Next to Texaco Quality Star Auto Gas Station email: qsa@coralwave.com
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shopping M-O-W Marina (MOW)......... 365-6013 M-O-W Hardware (MOW)..... 365-6011 National Marine (MH) ......... 367-2326 The Outboard Shop (MH)..... 367-2703 Roberts Marine (GTC).......... 365-4249 Standard Hardware (MH)..... 367-2660
Party Supplies
Home Fabrics (MH).............. 367-6003
Pet Veterinarians
Caribbean Veterinary (MH)... 367-3551 Island Veterinary (MH)......... 367-0062 Pinewoods Nursery (MH)..... 367-2674
Pharmacies
Abaco Island Pharmacy(MH)367-2544 The Chemist Shoppe (MH) .. 367-3106
Perfumes
Abaco Treasures (MH) ........ 367-3460 John Bull Ltd (MH) ............. 367-2473
Physicians/Clinics
Abaco Family Med (MH)....... 367-2295 Auskell Medical Clinic (MH).. 367-0020 Corbett Clinic (TC)............... 365-8288 Government Clinic (MH)....... 367-0633 Integrated Medical (MH)...... 367-1304 M.H.Medical Center (MH)..... 367-0049
Printing Services
Abaco Print Shop (MH)........ 367-3201 Computer Creations (MH).... 367-2004
Sandals & Shoes
Abaco Shoe Gallery (MH)..... 367-5510 Brass & Leather (MH) ......... 367-3643 Golden Reef (GTC).............. 365-4511 Iggy Biggy (HT) ................. 366-0354 Iggy Biggy (MH) ................ 367-3596 Sun Dried T’s (HT).............. 366-0616 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) ......... 367-2158
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shopping Service Stations
24/7 Shell (MH) ................. 367-5064 K & S Auto Service (MH)...... 367-2655 MH Auto Parts (MH)............ 367-2111 Quality Star/Texaco (MH) . .. 367-2978 TC Fuel Station (TC)............ 365-8869
The Bahamas is best known for its duty-free shopping, which means that you can save up to 50% off U.S. prices on some popular items including perfume, jewelry, watches, china, cameras and more. Here you will find local artisans selling their hand-made wares like straw bags and hats, wood carvings, jewelry, souvenirs & gift items, t-shirts and more. Here is where your bargaining skills come in handy.
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Scuba/Diving Gear
Above & Below (MH)........... 367-0350 Abaco Dive (MH)................. 367-2213 Brendal’s Dive Shop (GTC)... 365-4411 Dive Abaco (MH)................. 367-2787 Dive Guana (GC)................. 365-5178 Dive Time (MOW)............... 365-6235 Froggies Out Island (HT) .... 366-0431 Treasure Dive Shop (TC)...... 365-8571
Wines & Spirits
A & K Liquors (MH) ............ 367-2179 Bristol Wines (MH) ............. 367-2180 Burns House (MH) . ............ 367-3712 Down Through St (GTC)...... 365-4287 Fig Tree Wines (GC) ........... 365-5058 HT Wines & Spirits (HT)....... 366-0525 Lighthouse Liquors (HT) ..... 366-0567 Plymouth Rock Liquor(GTC).365-4234 Spanky’s Liquor Store (TC) . 365-8385 Tupp’s Liquor Store (MH)..... 367-2936
shopping
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waterfront dining
outdoor seating
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entertainment
Angler’s Restaurant at Abaco Beach Resort 367-2158 Abaco Pizza 367-4333 Ambassador Inn 367-2022 Bayview Restaurant 367-3738 Conchy Joe’s Rest & Bar 375-9115 Curly Tails 367-4444 Delphi Club 366-2222 Dis We Style 367-4244 Golden Grouper 367-2301 Island Family Restaurant 367-3778 Jamie’s Place 367-2880 Jib Room 367-2700 JuNovia’s Restaurant 367-1271 Kentucky Fried Chicken 367-2615 Mangoes Restaurant 367-2366 Mother Merle’s 367-2770 Native Hut 367-0977 Pete’s Pub & Gallery 577-5487 Pop’s Place 367-3796 Rumrunners Snack Shack 367-4005 Snappas Bar & Grill 367-2278 Wally’s 367-2074
meals served
Marsh Harbour South/North Abaco
telephone
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Treasure Cay Airport Snack Shop Coco Beach Bar & Grill Treasure Sands Club Touch of Class Spinnaker Restaurant Abaco Inn 68 Destination Abaco
365-8654 365-8470 365-9385 365-8195 365-8469 366-0133
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***Meals Served - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Credit Cards - Visa and Mastercard Prices shown indicate cost of menu items actual prices may vary, $=$10, $$=$11-$20, $$$=$21-$30 and up***
Hope Town Boat House at Sea Spray Capt’n Jacks Cracker P’s FireFly Sunset Resort Harbour’s Edge Hope Town Inn & Marina Hope Town Harbour Lodge Hope Town Coffee House Munchies On Da Beach Sugar Shack
366-0065 366-0247 366-3139 366-0145 366-0087 366-0003 366-0095 366-0760 366-0423 366-0558 366-0788
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Guana Cay The Market Place (Baker’s) Guana Grabbers Nippers Bar & Grill Sun Setters - Orchid Bay
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Green Turtle Cay Jolly Roger Bar & Bistro GT Club & Marina Harvey’s Bar & Grill Lizard Bar & Grill McIntosh Restaurant Miss Emily’s Blue Bee New Plymouth Inn Plymouth Rock Café Sundowners
365-4247 365-4271 365-4389 365-4191 365-4625 365-4181 365-4161 365-4234 365-4060
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MARSH HARBOUR Rainbow Rentals
The Medi-Center
Fine Living
Dundas & Murphy Town
British American Financial
The Abaconian Newspaper
Integrated Medical
Bahamas National Trust
Abaco Island Pharmacy
Abaco Chamber of Commerce
The Chemist Shoppe Sims Group Ltd
Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire & Rescue
Destination Abaco The Paint Place The Abaco Print Shop
Abaco Family Medicine
Friends of the Environment
Dundas & Murphy Town Administration Offices National Insurance Business License Abaco Tourist Office Ministry of Education Court House
Treasure Cay Auto Care Corner Palm Cottage & Wood You Home Fabrics Computer Creations Abaco Vacation Planner
The Kidney Center
Presbyterian Church
Bahamasair - Sky Bahamas American Airlines
Pharmacy Methodist Church
Bargain Car Rentals
R Island Boy Marine Store
Damianos
Tupp’s Liquor Monkey’s Uncle
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour
Shear Dynamics Hair Salon
Living Easy Property Rentals
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where to stay
Marsh Harbour ...T he Gateway to Adventure!
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he third city of The Bahamas, and the capital of Abaco, Marsh Harbour is moving at a rapid pace. Indeed, it is a characteristic of any location with city status, and Marsh Harbour is living up to its reputation. Home to a population of more than 6,000 people, Marsh Harbour borders on two main highways, one of which leads to North Abaco and Little Abaco called the S.C. Bootle Highway, while the the Ernest Dean Highway heads toward South Abaco. It also serves as a gateway that branches off to various cays that can be reached by ferry service. Visitors to the island generally arrive at the Marsh Harbour International Airport, which will soon be replaced by a more modern, upgraded facility and renamed the Leonard M. Thompson International Airport. As a centralized hub of activity, the streets of Marsh Harbour are lined with restaurants, full-service marinas, and resorts and hotels. This grand city offers every service imaginable from postal and banking services to car and bicycle rentals; a variety of grocery
By Canishka Alexander
and clothing stores; office supplies and services; gas stations; souvenir shops; and travel agencies. In recent years, there have been improvements to the architectural infrastructure of the island with the addition of a Kidney Center, a Abaco Community Health Facility that is still under construction, and the introduction of numerous medical centers to meet the needs of those living on the island. There are also many churches interspersed throughout the community that visitors can attend. Of course, visitors also travel to Marsh Harbour simply for relaxation, or to set the tone for an outdoor adventure or a day out at sea. Activities abound in our underwater playground with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, kayaking, or perhaps a bit more of a deep-sea adventure while cruising our fishing grounds, or going island hopping. So whether our guests visit our shores for a brief stay to escape, or for a once in a lifetime experience to celebrate a special occasion, Marsh Harbour welcomes all of its visitors for a true taste of the “real� Bahamas. Destination Abaco
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where to stay
Where to stay Abaco Beach Resort............ 367-2158
Abaco Beach Resort at Boat Harbour offers an ideal vacation for every type of traveler looking for an escape under the Caribbean sun. Guests staying at the resort can relax in the spacious rooms and suites decorated with island-style décor highlighting the laidback Bahamian lifestyle. Each room boasts a private terrace or balcony with spectacular views of the marina and the Sea of Ab-
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aco. The resort offers beautifully appointed one-bedroom suites, two-bedroom villas, or one, two and three-bedroom condominiums. Guests will always find something to do while staying at Abaco Beach Resort. A few notable amenities for the adventurous guests include outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and eco-tours or simply lounging by the resort’s pools. www.abacobeachresort.com Abaco Vacation Planner............................... 367-3529 From Vacation Rentals or Leases to Property Management and Real Estate Listings, this company handles many of the island’s finest properties. For over 10 years the staff has helped plan perfect island vacations from start to finsh. All of their homes are privately owned and ready to rent with varied amenities and locations to suit your needs. Their concierge staff is standing by
where to stay to assist with the finest of details. Relax... Explore... Discover... The Islands of Abaco in The Bahamas and let them do the planning for you. Lydia Weatherford - Bodamer Owner/Operator www.abacovacationplanner.com
to the cays. All rooms feature two double beds with en suite bath, cable TV, air conditioning, coffee maker, refrigerator, terrace overlooking private garden, full maid service and fresh water swimming pool. www.conchinn.com
Abaco Lodge............................. 367-5909 Ambassador Inn........................ 367-2022 Bustick Bight Resort.................. 367-5995
Cat Island Experience................ 367-3414 Condo Rentals........................... 357-6719 D’s Guest House........................ 367-3980 Family Affair.............................. 422-1960
Conch Inn Hotel................. 367-4000
The Conch Inn Hotel is a short taxi ride from Marsh Harbour Airport and is convenient to downtown shopping and ferries
Living Easy.......................... 367-2202
“Beat the heat and make a splash!” When
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where to stay you need time to relax, slow down and cool off, our crystal clear waters are a perfect choice. We will help you find a perfect vacation spot and go above and beyond to make your trip to “Paradise” Abaco amazing. With several homes to choose from, each on the water or near the water, individually decorated, some with pools and most with dock slips. www.livingeasyabaco.com Lofty Fig Villas.......................... 367-2681 Island Breezes Motel................. 367-3776 Pelican Beach Villas................... 367-3600 Regattas of Abaco..................... 367-0148 The Crossing............................. 577-0277 Villas at Palmetto Beach..............262-820-1900 Sandy Point Oeisha’s Resort ........................ 366-4139 Pete & Gay’s Resort................... 366-4119 Spanish Cay Spanish Cay Resort................... 365-0083
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Places To Stay in Abaco! Boutique shopping. Underwater cave explorations. Bonefishing adventures. Here on The Island Of Abaco, every day is exciting. And when you’re ready for a good night’s sleep, there’s a variety of accommodations to select from - no matter your budget or preference. Cherokee Lee Pinder................................ 366-2053 Cherokee Cottages.................... 366-2075 The Abaco Club on Winding Bay............... 1-888-303-2765 or 1-242-367-0077 Casuarina Point Sea Grape/Coco Plum............. 367-3202/4 Channel Cay Private Island............................ 367 3262 Lubbers Quarters Lubbers Landing....................... 577-2000 Moonrise Cottage....... 367-3454/477-5871
where to stay
Green Turtle Cay
Rediscovering Green Turtle Cay...
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daring and heroic history shrouds the Albert Lowe Museum, which was officially opened on November 6, 1976. A native of Green Turtle Cay, prominent Bahamian artist, Alton R. Lowe named the museum in honour of his father, who was a well-known craftsman of ship models, a sailor, fisherman and farmer. As The Bahamas’ oldest historical museum, and the most popular attraction on the cay, the museum was established to preserve Abaco’s unique history and development tracing back to the time of the Loyalists hence covering a period of more than 300 years. Located in a Victorianera family home outfitted with colonial dormers, a steep roof and wraparound porch, the building showcases alluring displays of model ships carved by Albert Lowe, historical artifacts, photographs, paintings, writings and other exhibits. The
By Canishka Alexander
original outside kitchen and latrine are still intact. Lowe has also highlighted occupations like sponging and fishing that have supported Abaconians over the years. During the 9th Annual Island Roots Heritage Festival this year, Lowe set up a new photo exhibit called “Abaco Cultural Reflections” in the cellar of the museum where he unveiled more remarkable discoveries equal to
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where to stay
those salvaged goods that were collected from shipwrecked vessels. Elaborate signs announced dates and events to be remembered including: the Museum Opening in 1976; the First Green Turtle Island Roots Festival in 1977; Key West Roots Festival in 1977; Hope Town Bicentennial in 1985; and the Sculpture Garden Opening in 1987. The Bahamas’ close relationship to the United States was overwhelmingly evident particularly through family ties that connect Bahamians to Key West, Fla., and of course, a love of the sea. On nearby shelves, there were bottles, and prehistoric Lucayan artifacts that had been recovered from the museum’s latrine and at Carleton Point between the 1780s to the 1900s. Women’s attire hung lazily from hangers against a netted background, there were fishing equipment and ship models, household tools, and outdated telecommunication devices. In his discussion, Lowe highlighted that the Albert Lowe Museum was originally a home that was owned by the Roberts Family in 1925. At one time, Neville Chamberlain, the former British Prime Minister; E. Willis Bethel, United States Consul; and Rupert 78 Destination Abaco
Roberts, Super Value’s President, all resided there at different times; the building was also used as a public library and a wireless station.
where to stay
Where to stay Barefoot Homes..................458-8483
Don’t just go on vacation; create unforgettable memories. The unspoiled island of Green Turtle Cay is the perfect playground for families, fishermen, divers and those who want to escape. Barefoot Homes rents the island’s most attractive private homes and provides unparalleled service from a passionate and intuitive team. Barefoot Homes provides personal concierge services. Luxury homes accommodate 2 to 14 people, and multiple homes are available for larger groups. Resort amenities and marinas are available. Fantastic prices, superior service, exceptional memories… call 1-242-577-4092 BarefootHomesBahamas.com
clubhouse situated on an 80-foot bluff high above the Sea of Abaco, offering 360-degree views of the Sea of Abaco, the Atlantic Ocean and the out-lying cays. The new owners’ top priority is to make customer service first class at Bluff House… where every guest will always be treated as a very special Guest of the House. For updates on the progress at Bluff House, visit the Bluff House website at www.bluffhouse.com Green Turtle Club & Marina........ 365-4271 Other Shore Club Marina .......... 365-4226 Coco Bay Cottages..............561-202-8149 Island Property Mang................ 365-4047 Ocean Blue Properties............... 365-4636 Roberts Cottages....................... 365-4105 New Plymouth Inn..................... 365-4161
Bluff House......................... 365-4200 The historic Bluff House on Green Turtle Cay is under new ownership! Steeped in history, Bluff House was the first and is now the one of oldest resort in the Bahamas’ Out Islands. Whilst being respectful of the nostalgia and the charm that surrounds Bluff House, the new owners are embarking this season on high end luxury hotel suite renovations, infusing each hotel room with an alluring British Colonial vibe, dark mahogany furniture mixed with luxurious bedding and billowing white curtains. They also plan to bring back the much beloved Beach Club Bar & Restaurant on the Sea of Abaco featuring the island’s only private beach and home to the once famous Sunday Champagne Brunch. Other items on the new owners’ long-term ‘To Do’ list include bringing back the much loved, fine dining in a brand new main Destination Abaco
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where to stay
Treasure Cay
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A Diamond in the Rough!
reasure Cay is one of those diamonds in the rough that is still being shaped and molded into a beautiful gem. It is a small coastal community on the east coast of the island of Abaco in the Bahamas. The beaches of Treasure Cay have clear pristine waters where people love to visit to swim and engage in sporting activities. It is considered one of the best in the Caribbean and stretches 3.5 miles of powdery white sand surrounded by turquoise breathe taking waters. Its beaches are a well kept secret, and known locally to be superb. The big crescent beach has been voted by National Geographic to be one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches and called the best beach in the Bahamas by Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine. Treasure Cay also has a 5-star golf course which has attracted PGA greats for decades. For great eats, evening fun or weekend excitement, you can enjoy goodies from the local bakery, visit the Tipsy Seagull Bar on the marina and Cocoa Beach Bar on the big beach, The Spinnaker Restaurant, Treasure Cay Resort, Bahama Beach Club condo development or the Treasure Sands Club. There are boats that can be chartered for a great bone fishing experience. Treasure Cay was established in
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By Samantha Evans
1783 when over a thousand Americans from New York fled the revolution and settled there. They pioneered the development of the wooden boatbuilding economy, which is a known tradition of the island to this day. Currently, there are about 2,000 people living in a little over a thousand private homes in the area. They are a multi-cultural mix of Bahamians, Americans, Canadians, and Europeans. Although modern developments have been performed in the island, it still remains to be scenic because great care and consideration remains top priority of the residents here. The Treasure Sands Club and the Bahama Beach Club are two great places to relax and dine in Treasure Cay. The Treasure Sands Club is a beautiful, sophisticated, elegant venue with gorgeous views of the Treasure Cay Beach. They are open from 12 noon to serve lunch and dinner which has a Mediterranean influence. They serve fresh seafood caught from the local waters and use local organic fruits and vegetables grown on the island. They have an exclusive wine list and are located in the northern end of Treasure Cay. The Bahama Beach Club is also located on the Treasure Cay Beach, 140 miles north of Nassau and 165 miles east of West Palm Beach, Florida. They provide two, three, four,
where to stay and five bedroom luxury beachfront condominiums which are fully stocked with all basic and upscale amenities such an electric kitchen, laundry, aircondition, and cable television which make this resort a great place for vacationers. They provide activities such as an 18 holes championship golf course, 150 slip marina, tennis, scuba and snorkeling, deep sea and bone fishing, island hopping, and much more. If you get sick while on your vacation, Corbett Medical Center is able to manage your ailments. The managing physician is Dr. Jim Hull who provides general medicine and family care services. They provide regular medical
services to residents in the northern Abaco area and Treasure Cay on a regular basis. If you are looking for a little weekend or holiday fun, you can check out one of the Regattas which are now held annually in Treasure Cay including the Remote Control Laser Regatta held this past March and Regatta Time Sailing Competition held in July which attracts many tourists and Bahamians from across the Bahama Islands. Treasure, is still being developed with more resorts and homes being built to accommodate the growing population of Abaco and persons from around the world who love this beautiful island so much that they chose to now call it home.
Where to stay Abaco Estate Services........ 365-8752 Looking to explore the elegant island of Abaco, let Abaco Estate Services help you to discover the true treasures of a Bahamas vacation getaway. We can help you plan that fun-filled Abaco family vacation or that romantic island retreat. Abaco is a worldrenowned vacation destination for travelers seeking to enjoy a slice of tropical island charm. www.abacoestateservices.com
nearby. www.bahamabeachclub.com Pineapple Point...................800-545-0395 Treasure Hunt Villa..............845-651-3298 Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina ........ 365-8578/365-8801
Bahama Beach Club............ 365-8500
Bahama Beach Club offers a variety of luxurious, sophisticated, exquisitely detailed, decorator-appointed beachfront condominiums for rent. All our spacious, luxury condo rentals include fully-equipped kitchens, cable TV, FREE & Unlimited inroom Long Distance calling to the USA & Canada, FREE high speed wireless internet, laundry, and daily housekeeping service. Restaurants, dining, and groceries are
Accommodation includes standard rooms, deluxe rooms and 1, 2 or 3 bedroom suites. The suites offer full, complete kitchens, a living area with private balcony and multiple bathrooms. Fine dining is savored at the 250-seat Spinnaker Restaurant overlooking the marina or one may order lunch at the Coco Beach Bar located directly on the beach. There are several locations to “wet your whistle” from the Spinnaker Lounge to the Coco Beach Bar and the Tipsy Seagull Bar. The Tipsy Seagull is renowned as the local “hot spot” that features weekly live entertainment and dancing ‘til the wee hours. www.treasurecay.com Destination Abaco
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where to stay
Hope Town Wyannie Malone Historical Museum
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A Living Legacy
ertainly, Hope Town is among Abaco’s most preferred and popular destinations to visit. Located on Elbow Cay, Hope Town sports a generous amount of businesses and attractions with visits to historic sites, unparalleled beaches, and the enjoyment of world-class sailing, snorkeling, diving and fishing. The charming settlement and its antiquated architecture still depicts a time when British Loyalists sought refuge after the American Revolution. Settling first in Carleton Point then on to Marsh Harbour, the settlers eventually made their way to Hope Town. In 1785, the settlement of Hope Town was founded by a widow from South Carolina named Wyannie Malone. Wyannie along with her four children laid the foundation for a legacy that lives on throughout the Bahamas and its cays to parts of Florida and beyond. It is this same legacy that led to the establishment of a museum called the Wyannie Malone Historical Museum. Established in 1977, the Wyannie Malone Historical Museum opened its doors for the first time that year to
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By Canishka Alexander
residents and visitors on Hope Town. The Museum is awash in relics of the past because of generous individuals, who have donated their time and artifacts of furniture and photos to expand the Museum’s collection. Inside the Museum, there is vivid documentation of the lives of fishermen, wreckers, and pirates who made good use of Hope Town’s well-protected harbour. Even though some residents engaged in fishing and farming to take care of their families, it was the salvaging of cargo from shipwrecks that kept them afloat as well. Of course, one cannot help but notice the prominent, towering red and white-striped structure of the Hope Town Lighthouse, which was built in 1862, and one of the last operational kerosene-fueled lighthouses in the world. The construction of lighthouses in The Bahamas also served to bring salvaging to a halt. The residents soon began to rely on the production of goods such as pineapples, sisal, sponges and lumber for export to the United States. The building of schooners became popular, but short-lived around
where to stay the time of World War I. Although Hope Town never rose to a center for shipping, the community did receive mail and freight service in the 1920s, and a wireless station. The community also received electrical service and telephones. Still, it wasn’t until after World War II that Hope Town was viewed as a tourist destination by yachtsman, and tourists who purchased land and built homes. Even now, the community of Hope Town is intertwined with the modern and old-fashioned flair, with many historical monuments intact for visitors and residents to appreciate. Today, the Museum has become an integral part in helping to organize Hope Town’s annual events. One of those events is Heritage Day, which ushers in a full day of food, fun, art
and leisurely activities, and the event also provides valuable information regarding Hope Town’s history and heritage. Heritage Day is traditionally held on the first Saturday in March, and is used to raise funds for the Museum. The Museum is also responsible for maintaining the Byrle Patterson Memorial Garden. In November of 1985, a Bicentennial Celebration was held for the cay’s visitors and descendants of Wyannie Malone travelled from international and domestic locations to celebrate the settlement of Hope Town in 1785. From that gathering, the Museum now boasts of having more Bahamian genealogical information than any other location except the Archives in Nassau thanks to Jinny and Mac McAleer and Mr. Oreste Lombardi of Weatherford, Texas, who began their 12-year re-
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where to stay search into the genealogy of Wyannie Malone. The Museum went through a series of relocations – moving from the “Wee House” to a vacant house owned by Jack Malone, a resident of Nassau. The year 1991 saw the Wyannie Malone Historical Society incorporated as “a not for profit society” under the Bahamas Company Act of 1990, and the Museum received the “American Express Preservation Award for 1991.” In 1994, the Society relocated the Museum to a property that was purchased on Gillam Street. Standing resolutely against the tests of time and life’s seasons, the Museum endured substantial damage by Hurricane Floyd in 1999, so a decision was made to construct the first of two buildings. Work began in March
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2000 and continued over the next five months. A year later, the building was completed. The second building was constructed in August 2003 with continued work added to the building’s interior, the Genealogy center, library and displays. The Wyannie Malone Historical Museum is located just off the upper public dock, next to the Post Office and Hope Town Government Clinic.
shopping
Paradise - This custom designed 4 bed, 3 bath luxury estate with 2 bed, 1 bath guest house stretches from Atlantic Ocean to White Sound & Sea of Abaco. Perched on high dune complete with pool & dock. $4.7 M USD
Breezy Palms - This 5 bed, 5.5 bath beachfront house Turtle Run - Luxurious 5 bed, 5 bath waterfront home consists of 3 structures joined by decks with private pool. w/ pool and dock slip in Marnie’s Landing. This perfectly Features include a spacious kitchen and each pod has a maintained, turnkey island home is a great investment. $3.39 M USD kitchenette and sitting room. $3.5 M USD
Donald Seas - Beautiful 3B, 2B home w/gazebo leading to private dock on White Sound. Features include wraparound covered verandah & great views of the Sea of Abaco. Offered with add’l waterfront lot. $1.9 M USD
Barefoot Bay - This 6 bed, 4.5 bath home offers amazing views of Tilloo Cut and Tahiti Beach. Expansive decks connect main house and two adjoining private quarters. Great for large families! $1.875 M USD
Town Break - Newly redecorated with high end furnishings, this fabulous ocean front 6 bed, 4 bath home is located in Hope Town village on a secluded beach. Great Rental History! $1.45 M BSD
Fresca - Situated in a brand new development, this spacious 4 bed, 4 bath home features hardwood floor & private pool. Decks allow you to enjoy Atlantic views & breezes. Short walk to beach or On Da Beach Bar & Grill, and quick golf cart ride from Hope Town village. Sleeps 8. Starting at $3,000/wk plus tax
A Tranquil Landing - Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath home overlooking the Hope Town Harbour with amazing views and spectacular sunsets! Private dock and gazebo. Convenient to everything. Sleeps 6. Starting at $2,700/wk plus tax
Atlantic Horizons - This oceanfront 3 bed, 3 bath home in Tahiti Beach w/360 degree views is perched on edge of Atlantic Ocean with bountiful decks (shade & sun), a freshwater pool and elevated vistas of the chain of islands & cays. Sleeps 6. Starting at $3,500/wk plus tax
Specializing in Residential & Commercial Real Estate throughout The Abacos Local 242.366.0216 • US 561.208.8369 • realestate@hopetown.com
HOPE TOWN HIDEAWAYS
Queen’s Highway, Hope Town, Elbow Cay, Abaco, The Bahamas
Hope Town • Marsh Harbour • Guana Cay • Lubbers Quarters • Treasure Cay • Man-O-War Cay • Green Turtle Cay • Tilloo Cay Destination Abaco
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Where to stay
Abaco Inn........................... 366-0133
Guests can enjoy either a bungalow style room or a luxury villa suite with living room and kitchenette. Whatever accommodation you choose, you can take pleasure in the island-themed dĂŠcor rooms with A/C, ceiling fans and en-suite bathrooms. www.abacoinn.com Crystal Waters & Villas . ......321-452-0164
The Abaco Inn has a total of 22 rooms situated either on the bay side of the Sea of Abaco or on the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms are nestled between the sand dunes and the coconut palms only steps from 2 different beaches and the fresh water pool. All rooms have a view of the stunning aqua blue water of the Bahamas!
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Elbow Cay Properties......... 366-0035 You can spend your days on the beach enjoying the turquoise waters and sunshine or experience the thrills of diving, snorkeling, fishing or surfing. Rent a boat and enjoy some island hopping or stroll the quaint streets of 18th century Hope Town. All this just 150 miles from the Florida Coast! Elbow Cay Properties can help you find the perfect home for your vacation. Browse through our listing of homes and chat with
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us online if you have questions. Many of our homes are booked months in advance, so please make your reservations early! www.elbowcayproperties.com FireFly Resort..................... 366-0145
the case, a Sea of Abaco waterfront home would be the choice for you! Hope Town harbourfront home rentals offer the exciting boat action of an active harbour as well as the traditional lighting of the kerosene lighthouse each evening at dusk. Book your waterfront island home with Hope Town Hideaways today and get the best that Abaco has to offer! www.hopetown.com Hope Town Inn & Marina... 366-0003 Hope Town Inn & Marina, formerly known
Looking for that island getaway that you will never forget? Firefly Sunset Resort is the perfect destination! We have a total of 7 villas ranging from two to four bedrooms, all with a relaxing and breathtaking view of the Sea of Abaco. All villas are equipped with full kitchens, cable television, Internet access, and many other amenities. Firefly Resort has its own man-made reef that lies just off the beach that many beautiful fish inhabit and two of our own resident turtles inhabit, which can be seen by snorkeling off the shore, or taking one of our free-touse kayaks. Firefly Bar and Grill is located right on site, offering decadent lunch and dinner menus that will have you raving for days to come. With everything Hope Town has to offer just a short golf cart ride away, Firefly Sunset Resort is the perfect destination for all! www.fireflysunsetresort.com Hope Town Hideaways....... 366-0224 Whether you are a beach, harbour or Sea of Abaco enthusiast, Hope Town Hideaways has a perfect rental home for you! Book your beach house and swim and snorkel in the backyard and enjoy sunrise beach walks. Perhaps you would prefer to swim with the dolphins, fish off the dock and keep your boat in the backyard. If this is
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as Hope Town Marina and Club Soleil Resort, is located on the western side of the Hope Town Harbour near the famous red and white striped lighthouse which was built in 1864. It is the most prominent landmark in The Bahamas and is a short stroll from our property. Each of our newly renovated rooms, tropically furnished to delight our guests, include every luxury with private balconies overlooking the harbor. Our resort is the perfect place to enjoy the best fishing, diving, sailing, and beaches in the Bahamas, or simply relax by our pool and do nothing at all‌ www.hopetownmarina.com Hope Town Harbour Lodge .366-0095 Your relaxed vacation mood begins the moment you step into one of our historic Lodge rooms. The inviting rooms feature a tropical-coloured and co-ordinated dÊcor throughout. The rooms on all three floors have split system air conditioners and decorator ceiling fans that allow you to ad-
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just the temperature to your own comfort level. Brightly-coloured, Caribbean theme, attractively-decorated bathrooms feature showers, bath condiments. Most rooms include studio refrigerators. Kick back and enjoy the famous tropical weather and the Bahama breezes. www.hopetownharbourlodge.com
vast pristine beach where gentle sea turtles still return to nest each year. Just minutes away, the Loyalist settlement of Hope Town is prized for its pristine beaches, picturesque harbour and candy-striped lighthouse. Today, this friendly seaside village retains much of its original 18th-century appeal.
Sea Spray Resort ............... 366-0065
Hope Town Villas....................... 366-0266 Sea Glass.................................. 366-0290 Sea Gull Cottages . ................... 366-0266 Tanny Key.........................366-0053/0140
Sea Spray’s seven villas provide the best of both worlds – the ability to wrap yourself in privacy while enjoying the beautiful ocean or harbour view each villa offers while still being within a short walk of all the resort’s amenities. Spend endless hours relaxing in your private hammock or join new friends for a poolside lunch or drinks at our Garbonzo Reef Bar, the choice is yours. Sea Spray offers seven unique villas, ranging from a large three-bedroom, two - bath villa with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sea of Abaco to a romantic one-bedroom, one-bath bungalow located at the top of a short bluff at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Each villa is decorated in beautiful tropical colors and includes a full-service kitchen. www.seasprayresort.com Turtle Hill . ......................... 366-0557 Turtle Hill is on the outskirts of Hope Town, Elbow Cay, on the beautiful Abaco Island. These Out Island luxury rental villas are poised above the Atlantic around an everinviting swimming pool, just steps from a Destination Abaco
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Guana Cay T hrives and Wows Patrons
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uana Cay is one of the most progressive Cays on the island of Abaco and this is mainly due to the extensive night life activities, restaurants, the Bakers Bay Golf and Ocean Club development and the many second home owners who call Abaco home. Great Guana Cay sits on the east side of the island of Abaco and is the longest of all the Cays. The beautiful waters surrounding this cay provide much opportunity for visitors and second home owners to dive, snorkel, swim, or just sit out in the sun and enjoy the sweet whispers of the island’s breezes. The island is equipped with a post office, school, an administrative building, grocery store, medical center and numerous restaurants. The general mode of transportation on the island is golf carts which makes it easy to maneuver through the narrow streets. There are many restaurants on Guana Cay including Nippers, Grabbers and now the Sunsetters Restaurant at Orchid Bay. At Nippers, they have an extensive menu mainly featuring Bahamian cuisine with special events such as the Barefoot Man Concert and the Pirate Party held throughout the year. On Friday nights, visitors
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enjoy Chicken-in-the-bag or Conchin-the-bag, which is served with fries wrapped in foil and on Sundays they feast on the Pig Roast Buffet which is served with delicious Bahamian style side dishes. The buffet is open from 12:30-4:00p.m. Grabbers Restaurant is presently undergoing renovations to make it more accommodating to a multitude of guests and to provide them with more exciting activities to engage in during their visit. Its rentals, equipped with all amenities, have one and two bedroom. Grabbers, named after the first Abaco Island drink has a rich history that dates all the way back to the 1700s when the pirates of the Caribbean sought refuge and leisure on the then unpopulated islands of Abaco. It has become a hot spot for more than just vacations. It is now a sought after location for weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, anniversary celebrations, business incentive trips, and engagement parties. The newest Restaurant on Guana Cay is Sunsetters Restaurant at Orchid Bay which opened its doors at the end of March 2013. The restaurant is open from 11a.m. to 8p.m. and specializes in Bahamian Cuisine. During the day they serve meals such as fish, chicken
where to stay and conch burgers and full entrees at night time. The reviews from guests have been excellent from the service received to the scrumptiousness of the food ordered. The restaurant is comfortable and tastefully furnished with a seating capacity of approximately 60. Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club was attracted to the Bahamas by Prime Minister Perry G. Christie during his first term in 2002 to 2007 and when he visited the environmentally sensitive resort on Guana Cay in November last year, he was most impressed to see what they had accomplished in the first ten years of operation. Baker’s Bay is a family operation where employees and management work together to create memories for residents and staff. The development itself reflects authentic Bahamian architecture, arts and a lifestyle which mirrors these idyllic and luxurious surroundings. To date, this resort has had an impact of $385 million with a staff compliment of 406. The developers are now planning expansions for the
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next ten years and are currently in dialogue with the Government regarding the same which will benefit the resort and the wider Abaco community. This project is seen as a viable one already; with the resort attracting an investment pool of $2 billion dollars over the lifetime of this project. The projected initiatives that will be launched over the next ten years are projected to contribute some $450 million dollars to the Public Treasury by way of import duty, stamp, and property taxes. This resort is so lavish and environmentally sound that it is expected to reach well beyond the borders of the Bahamas, as homeowners, yachtsmen and visitors spread the word of all of the amenities and unique activities this luxury resort community has to offer.
Guana Cay Dolphin Beach Resort................ 365-5137 Abaco Sea Fan....................603-664-2608 Ocean Frontier Hideaway...................1-888-541-1616 Frangipani Cottage..............772-336-7023
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jb@bahamasvisitorsguide.com 242.677.5715 or 242.473.2043 Destination Abaco
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Man-O-War Cay Man-O-War’s Time-Honoured Tradition
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lthough other islands are known for their contributions to all aspects of boating , not many can boast of being the “Boat Building Capital of The Bahamas” like Abaco’s Man-O-War Cay. For its residents, boat building began in the 1880s on Man-O-War Cay, and has steadily become a time-honoured tradition that has been passed down through generations. Abaco Pine, which was grown and harvested locally, was the preferred material for crafting fishing and sailing vessels. Man-O-War once had many boat yards lining the harbour, and each time a boat was under construction, at least 20 people were employed. Even for those with small yards, this simply meant that smaller boats were constructed. Residents avidly recall “Abaco Dinghies” being the backbone of the fishing and commercial industry of The Bahamas, propelling Man-OWar-Cay toward becoming the premier boat building center. When the Abaco Pine became harder to procure, boat builders soon moved on to using other types of wood as well as fiberglass material 92 Destination Abaco
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to coat the frame of the wooden boat and create a mold to make the outer shell for other boats. For the past 40-50 years, the tradition of boat building lives on at Albury Brothers Boat Builders Factory and Joe’s Studio as these men continue to construct seaworthy vessels that brave the high seas. Most popular are the sailing dinghies and speed boat models as well as the half model boats. Truly, each type of boat is aesthetically pleasing to behold, and are in high demand by collectors around the world. Yet, the art of traditional boat building appears to be dying out. Nevertheless, the Man-O-War Heritage Museum is intent on preserving and sharing the heritage of their community. With a goal to maintain its boat building heritage, the MOW Museum also provides valuable information for those wanting to trace their roots, and to gain a greater appreciation toward others for documenting their heritage. The history of Man-O-War Cay begins in 1798 with Benjamin Archer and Elizabeth Pinder, who settled there
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and travelled back and forth to Marsh Harbour to farm. In 1820, a ship from Harbour Island was shipwrecked, and one of the crew members, 16-yearold Benjamin Albury, fell in love with Eleanor Archer. A year later Benjamin Albury known as Pappy Ben and Eleanor Archer nicknamed Mammy Nellie is married. Man-O-War’s history weaves an historic path that extends to the establishment of the Methodist Church; the shipwreck of the U.S.S. Adirondack; the building of the Man-O-War School; arrival of second-homeowners; the visit of Governor Sir Robert Neville;
the introduction of telecommunications electricity, phones, a library and ferry service; the visit of Governor General Sir Milo Butler in 1974, and Their Excellencies Sir Arthur and Lady Foulkes in 2011; the onslaught of hurricanes; and their successful participation in the George Town Regatta. On April 13, Man-O-War Cay residents and visitors celebrated their third biennial Heritage Day called “Sojer Day,” which is named after the residents who are called “Sojers.” Sojer Day focuses on the past and future of a determined people, who have made worthy contributions. This year, the theme was: “Celebrating Our Boat Building Heritage.”
Man-O-War
Island Home Rentals................. 365-6048 Waterways Rentals.................... 365-6143
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G
etting married in The Bahamas could not be easier. Just call the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Office to assist with your personal arrangements. To qualify to get married in The Bahamas, you must have been in The Bahamas for a minimum of one day. If either party has been divorced, the original final decree divorce papers must be produced. If either party is unmarried, being a citizen or resident of a country other than the USA, a declaration certifying this fact must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths.
The following documents are required: 1. Birth Certificate 2. Passport 3. Notarized Affidavit stating that you have never been married 4. Divorce papers if you have been married before With Tourism assistance we can help you with: • A personal wedding consultant • Marriage License • Administrator or minister of religion to conduct ceremony • Licensed marriage officer • Wedding Cake • Photographer & Videographer • Wedding Location
Visit these Websites while planning your wedding on Abaco Abaco Beach Resort - www.abacobeachresort.com Regattas of Abaco - www.regattasofabaco.com The Abaco Club at Winding Bay - www.theabacoclub.com Schooners Landing - www.schoonerslanding.com Hope Town Harbour Lodge - www.hopetownlodge.com Abaco Inn - www.abacoinn.com Hope Town Hideaways - www.hopetownhideaways.com Sea Spray Resort - www.seasprayresort.com Treasure Cay Resort - www.treasurecay.com Bahama Beach Club - www.bahamabeach.com Bluff House Beach Resort - www.bluffhouse.com Green Turtle Club - www.greenturtleclub.com Melinda Pinder - Buds-n-Bloom - www.budsnbloomsbahamas.com Astin Bethel - Flowers Etc - flowersetcbahamas242.com Patrice Cooper - P & F Party Rentals - www.pfpartyrentals.com
Call Abaco Tourist Office Tel: (242) 699-0152 or 367-3067
General Information ATM’s
Visitors to Abaco can get cash 24 hours a day in Marsh Harbour. ATMs operated by Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank (Bah)Ltd., Commonwealth Bank, First Caribbean Int’l Bank in Marsh Harbour provide convenient banking services 24 hours a day.
Banking Hours
Commonwealth Bank is located in Marsh Harbour by the traffic light. Hours of operations are Monday Thursday 9:00am - 3:30pm, Fridays 9:30am - 4:30pm. Telephone - 367-2370 First Carib. Int’l Bank is located in Marsh Harbour, Green Turtle Cay and Man-O-War Cay. Hours of operation for Marsh Harbour are 9:30am3:00pm Monday-Thursday’s and Friday 9:30am-4:30pm. Green Turtle Office is operated two days a week - Mondays and Thursdays. Telephone in MH - 367-2166 Royal Bank of Canada Monday - Thursday 9:30am-3:00pm and Fridays 9:30am-4:30pm. Marsh Harbour - 367-2420 ATM Treasure Cay - 365-8119 ATM Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd is located in the Abaco Shopping Center in Marsh Harbour and a branch in Cooper’s Town which is operated on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30am-2:30pm. The Marsh Harbour Branch hours are from 9:30am-3:00pm Monday-Thursday and Friday’s 9:30am-4:30pm. Telephone (MH) 367-2141 Fidelity/Western Union 367-3135 Open 9:00am-4:00pm - Mon-Friday
Customs - For visitors arriving by plane Bahamas Customs
Baggage declaration by temporary visitors is oral, but the baggage is
subject to customs inspections. In the case there are dutiable articles, the visitor will be required to complete a baggage claim form. Each adult is allowed 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or one pound of tobacco and one quart of spirits free of customs duty in addition to personal effects. In addition, purchases up to a value of one hundred dollars ($100) are permitted by all arriving passengers. Household effects such as china, furniture, linens and appliances with valid invoices and used household effects are subject to assessment by customs officers.
US Customs
Residents of the US may take home merchandise valued up to $600 retail duty free. This exemption applies to each family member, even infants. Family members living in the same household may pool exemptions to reduce the duty on an expensive item or carry in more items. All items must accompany the traveller to be eligible for exemption and must be for personal use or gifts and not for sale. The $600 exemption may only be claimed if you have been out of the US for 48 hours and may only be claimed every 30 days. Purchases of up to $1,000 more than the $600 allowance will be taxed at a flat rate of 10 percent, based on the fair retail value in The Bahamas. Separate from the $600 exception, you may also mail gift packages of $100 value or less duty-free. They must be marked ‘Unsolicited Gift’ and you may send as many as you wish, but not more than one $100 gift package to the same person on the same day. Goods shipped for personal use may be mailed into the US duty and tax-free if the total value is not more than $200. This exemption Destination Abaco
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does not apply to perfume, alcoholic beverages, or to cigars and cigarettes. If you do not meet the 48-hour and 30-day time requirements, you may take in $25 worth of items for your own personal or household use free of duty. This exemption may not be pooled. Exemption limit of 10 cigars (not Cuban), 50 cigarettes, 4 ounces of liquor or 4 oz of cologne, may be included. If you spend more than $25 you must pay duty on the entire amount. REMEMBER: If you are carrying more than $10,000 in US or foreign currency, coins, traveller’s checks, etc. into the US, it MUST be reported to Customs. Please contact US Customs at 242-377-8461 if you have questions on importing any items.
Canadian Customs
Canadian residents including minors may claim $50 (Can.) exemption after an absence of 24 hours or more. This exemption, which excludes tobacco and alcohol, may be claimed numerous times annually by verbal declaration. After 48 hours absence any number of times a year, $200 exemption may be claimed. This merchandise, which must accompany the traveller, can include 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 2 lbs of tobacco and 40 ounces of liquor. A $500 (Can.) exemption can be claimed after an absence of seven (7) days or more. This exemption may be claimed any number of times per year regardless of any $200 exemption claimed on a previous trip, but the two may not be combined at any time. The declaration for this exemption must be written. The allowance for liquor and tobacco is the same as for the $200 exemption. All duty-free items must be for personal or household use or as gifts. Children who are literate and can understand the declaration may
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claim exemption. Persons must be over 16 years of age to import tobacco and spirits. Amounts are in Canadian dollars. Illegal Items. Strict laws and penalties apply for possession of dangerous drugs and firearms. Any drugs considered dangerous, including marijuana, bring stiff fines and even jail terms if found in the possession of unauthorized persons.
Churches
Call to confirm services and times. Evening services may vary due to the time change.
ASSEMBLIES OF GOD
1st Assembly of God (MH).. 367-2130 Church of God (GTC).......... 365-4505 Church of God (MOW)........ 365-6088 Church of God of Prop.(DT).367-4719 Church of God (MH)........... 367-2740 Full Gospel Assembly (TC).. 365-8097
ANGLICAN
St. Simon by The Sea (TC).. 365-8466 St. John’s the Baptist (MH).. 367-2518
BAPTIST
Calvary Baptist Church (MH).367-2105 Grace Baptist Church (DT).. 367-2926 Unity Baptist Church (TC)... 365-8371 Zion Baptist Church (MT).... 367-3563
BRETHREN
Bethany Gospel (MH)......... 367-4472 International Creole (MH)... 367-3784 Island Outreach (MOW)...... 365-6458 Gospel Chapel (MOW)........ 365-6038 New Life Chapel (MOW)..... 365-6458 Marsh Harbour Gospel (MH).367-2204 New Plymouth Gospel(GTC).365-4198
METHODIST
Aldersgate Methodist (MH).. 367-2009 St. Andrew’s Methodist (MH).367-2007 St. James Methodist (HT)... 366-0400 Epworth Chapel (Cherokee).366-2249
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
New Vision Ministries (MH). 367-3324 Church of Latter Rain (DT).. 367-3871 Friendship Tabernacle (DT). 475-1055 Purpose Ministry (MH)........ 367-4867
PRESBYTERIAN
Kirk of the Pines (MH)........ 367-3643
ROMAN CATHOLIC
St. Francis de Sales (MH).... 367-2714
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST
Seventh Day Adventist (MH).367-4501
Communications
Radio Abaco, 93.5 FM, is the local broadcast with local and national programming and advertising 24 hour broadcasting. Cruisers Net is available on VHF 16 each morning at 8:15am for updates on weather and events in Abaco.
Currency
If you come across a $3 bill, it’s okay. Bahamian paper money comes in various bills such as $1, $3, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. There is also an extra Bahamian coin, the 15-cent, which is square with rounded corners and decorated with a hibiscus.
Department of Marine Resources
Personal Bag Limit The subsidiary laws of The Bahamas allows all persons travelling by commercial airlines to carry the following fisheries resources when leaving The Bahamas as personal baggage: No more than six fish in total - Kingfish, Wahoo & Dolphin, Ten (10) pounds - Crawfish or Conch OR Twenty (20) pounds of Demersal Snappers, Grouper, Stone Crab claws, Jacks, Hog Fish, etc. For more information contact Department of Marine Resources at 242.699.0202.
Exchange Rates
The Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. A small exchange may be applicable when converting traveller’s cheques for local currency.
Immigration
Upon your arrival in The Bahamas you are given an immigration card to fill out. The officer at the Port of Entry will keep the top section and return the bottom section to you. You must return that portion to the ticket agent upon departure. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom or colonies do not need a passport for a visit that does not extend beyond 3 weeks, provided that you have proper identification, birth certificate, picture identification and a return ticket.
Postage
The post office in Marsh Harbour is situated in the Dove Plaza downtown on Don MacKay Blvd and provides air mailing service to anywhere in the world, also regular surface mail. Postcards are 50 cents to the US, UK and Canada. Airmail letters (one-half ounce) 65 cents for US and Canada, 70 cents for Europe. Other services available include FedEx, United Postal Service and DHL. Each town has its own post office.
Public Holidays
New Year’s Day 1st January Majority Rule Day 10th January Good Friday 18th April Easter Monday 21st April Labour Day 6th June Whit Monday 9th June Independence Day 10th July Emancipation Day 4th August Discovery Day 12th October Christmas Day 25th December Boxing Day 26th December If a holiday falls closer to the end of the week the holiday is celebrated on the Friday of that week or Monday if it falls near the beginning of the week.
Service Groups
Organized clubs of business and professional persons active in public services. Destination Abaco
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PILOT CLUB
Dedicated to helping prevent brainrelated disorders - “Brain Minders”. Tel: 242.367.4571 Meets every 3rd Tuesday in the month at Central Abaco Primary School at 6:00p.m.
KIWANIS CLUB
Dedicated to serving the children of the world. ‘Young Children - Priority One’ meets every other Tuesday at Central Abaco Primary School at 6:30pm. Tel 242.367-3680
ROTARY CLUB
Committed to immunizing all the world’s children against polio. ‘Polio Plus’ meets at Great Abaco Beach Resort every Tuesday night at 6:00p.m. Tel: 425.7797
TOASTMASTERS
Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org
FRIENDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Friends of the Environment is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve and protect Abaco’s marine and terrestrial environments in order to achieve sustainable living for the people and wildlife of Abaco. FRIENDS main method of achieving this mission is through environmental education and has provided over 6,000 experiences for local children to date, getting them out of the classroom and into the environment. Additionally FRIENDS hosts events throughout the year for all to enjoy and participate in such as the lionfish derby, reef balls, film festivals, science fairs and much more! There is a way for everyone to get involved! www.friendsoftheenvironment.org or 98 Destination Abaco
call 367-2721.
ABACO CANCER SOCIETY
The Abaco Branch of the Cancer Society exists to educate the public on matters relating to cancer and to support those undergoing treatment for the disease. It meets the first Tuesday of each month at Forest Heights Academy 242.367.3744 abacocancersociety@gmail.com www.abacocancersociety.com
SCURVY FEW MOTORCYCLE CLUB is the only charter motorcycle
club in The Bahamas and is based in Marsh Harbour. Its big event of the year is its Toys-For-Tots drive which distributes over 1000 toys to all communities within the Abacos. Their members also participate in the Big Hill Box Cart Derby in Hope Town and do a number of rides throughout the island during the year. The club has a number of items for sale at some of the better gift shops in Marsh Harbour including T-shirts, hats, beer cozies, patches and stickers. The proceeds are used in many ways during the year including donations to a number of worthy causes along with the ToysFor-Tots. If you are lost while walking around the marina district, the club has a couple of “You-Are-Here” maps beside Snappas and near Sand Dollar Shoppe to help you find out where you are. www.scuryfew.org
Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club was formed in Marsh Harbour 25 years ago by yachtsman Charlie Murphy, who was then a regular visitor to the Abacos. Anyone interested in learning more about the yacht club can check out its website: www.RMHYC.com.
Taxes
There is no sales tax in The Bahamas. However, there are other forms of taxes that may occur on your trip there. There is a hotel room tax of 12% -
15% that will be added to your bill at the time of check out. There is a $5 - $25 agency charge for airline tickets booked through a travel agent.
Taxi Fares
Taxis are available and are found mostly at the airports and the ferry docks in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay. Taxi drivers are willing to wait for individuals to shop and would love to take you sightseeing. Fares vary within the Marsh Harbour area and to the North and South of Abaco. Waiting time is $40.00 per hour additional 1/2 hr is $20.00. Children under the age of five are free. Fare from the Marsh Harbour airport to Albury’s Ferry Dock is $15 for 2 persons and each additional person is $3.
Telephones
Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) provides 100% digital switching system that allows communication with over 100 countires. Other services are fax, telex, cellular and satellite. Sim and Phone cards are available. Roaming features are available and will be billed through your home carrier. Batelnet and Cable Bahamas are the two major internet providers in Abaco. Wireless internet services are also available.
Temperatures January February March April May June July August September October November December
High 77º 77º 79º 81º 84º 87º 89º 89º 88º 85º 82º 78º
Low 64º 65º 66º 69º 72º 76º 77º 77º 76º 74º 71º 66º
We enjoy a tropical temperature year round. Water temperature ranges from the low 80s in the summer to the mid-70s in the winter. What to wear How to pack for your trip to The Bahamas depends on the time of year, where you plan to stay and what you plan to do. Summer wear is appropriate for day and evening. Bathing suits are not acceptable in any of the communities, only in pool areas and beaches. In the evening, depending on your choice of restaurant and activities, you may dress casually.
Traffic Rules
Drive on the left side. Remember to keep to the left. Wearing seat belts is mandatory. If you are walking where there is no sidewalk, face oncoming traffic.
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