Why Visit
Sailors can take it slow and anchor on the banks overnight if the weather is good. Eleuthera lies at nearest point some 30 miles northeast of Nassau and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands of the Bahamian chain. This island offers contrasts of craggy cliffs to pink sandy beaches and was settled in 1649 when about 100 people from the British Clergy arrived. At Spanish Wells pick up the pilot “Little Woody”, who may even bring you a carrot cake made by his wife, to help take you through the Devils Backbone to Dunmore Town and Harbour Island. Harbor Island is becoming the new ‘St Barts’ and if you mingle in the Rock House you may even spot a celebrity! Take a golf cart to explore. Dunmore Town was settled more than 200 years ago by the British and has colonial architecture with a Caribbean flare it was the first capital of the Bahamas. You will find old churches, art galleries, quaint shops, straw items and beautiful gardens. Ask for the House of Assembly - a local spot under the shady Christmas bedecked tree where you will find the community bulletin board and a bench to rest on. The 3 mile long beach is pink with particles of coral from Conch Shells. Some unusual dive tours can be arranged which includes a sunken train on the Devils Backbone or an underwater ride through Current Cut. Harbor Island Yacht Club and Marina, The Dunmore Beach Club and many more sophisticated accommodations and restaurants make this a very pleasant stop for a few days if you have the time to relax and enjoy. Note: Little San Salvador’s Half Moon Bay boasts the Best Beaches in the Bahamas and has been a delightful and memorable stop amongst cruises for many years but sadly is now privately owned by Holland America Line Westours and prohibits yachtsman from anchoring in any of the bays or the lagoon.
