So we got our Butts Kicked!

Moving on....next stop....er well where is our next stop?  We had planned to go from Chub Cay to Spanish Wells but we are doing something we vowed to avoid.  We are on a schedule as we are picking up friends for a week in Georgetown, Exumas  Sure - a couple of months ago getting to Georgetown by January 13 was not an issue.  But with the weather we have had, we lost a day here a day there...then several days in Bimini.  And here we are on a schedule to get to Georgetown by Saturday.  So looking at how we can shave off a day here and there.  The best option looks like Nassau.  Damn - we didn't want to go there, but from Nassau we can make it to the northern Exumas then work our way south.

So Nassau it is.  Should be fine.  Only 35 miles - forecast 15-20 on the beam.  Hmm, I prefer a forecast of 10-15.......but its only 35 miles.  How bad can it get?

So the wind is supposed to build in the afternoon - lets make an early start.  We push off at 6:30am.  Wind a little fresh, 15 or so on the beam.  We sail full main, reefed jib.  Making 8 kts, waves are a bit rolly, but life is good. Then we get out of the lee of Chub Cay.  Winds build a bit, waves start to grow - we have made 10 miles, only 25 to go.  Winds build, waves grow.  Time to pull in the jib.  Another hour  crap, time to reef the main.  Don't you just know that when you finally submit to reefing the main, you are actually 30 minutes late doing it?  Of course we were - we were starting to round up in gusts and as we rounded up our rear quarter was being hit by one of those 10 ft waves.  it got quite uncomfortable quickly.  I have seen 10 ft waves many times, but these were literally at 2 seconds period, with te bigger ones always coming in pairs.  Yes - this is literally getting your butt kicked!  We hung on for the next 3 hours and took Mr. Toads wild ride.

As we approached the west end of Nassau, we decided to swing wide and get on a lee shore to drop sails.  Then we came back into it and worked our way into West Bay. 

West Bay Anchrage

Getting in there was a rolly ride, but we were glad to see the anchorage.  its funny how folks describe the story differently....I think Larry posted on facebook "Made it to Nassau - good sail".  I recall Janet saying, "if you want to do that again - I'm flying".

But - the sunset was magnificent!  and, although I didn't want to visit Nassau, I have to say this is a very nice anchorage.  The shoreline is a gated community, but we have not had a problem getting on the beach with Salty.

Salty likes the beach, but did not like the sail over here - he spent it hibernating in the bathroom! and was well ready to get his paws on shore!