As mentioned earlier, a visit to Conception Island has been on our wish list for a few years. We hung around the central Exumas looking for a good 3 or 4 day weather window that would allow us time to explore this beautiful island. Our patience finally paid off as we motor sailed in a light southerly breeze across Exumas Sound. The 50 mile trip would put us in position for an overnight stopover at Calabash before continuing on to our destination. Conception Island is a national park, the stunningly beautiful uninhabited island is surrounded by beautiful beaches and several good snorkeling areas. It's imperative to keep a close eye on the weather as there is zero protection from any west component wind and any strong easterly can make for a tough trip to or from the Island. The final 17 mile leg of our trip was a little sportier than expected as we beat into short steep waves. We hoped that the island would be as beautiful as everyone says, making the effort worthwhile.

However, before we even got there things started going in our favour, the wind shifted a little as per the forecast ensuring the anchorage would be well protected and Bev got a fish.
Ever since the tuna we caught early on Lady Luck has not been on our side until now. It's not the biggest Mahi we've caught to date but he did put up a good fight and will provide us with 5 or 6 meals.
We had chosen to motor sail rather then sail because we knew our time at the island would be limited and we wanted to maximize out time there. Shortly before noon we dropped the hook in crystal clear water off a gorgeous mile long crescent beach. Once our fish was cleaned and in the freezer it was time to explore and relax. The next 2 days were spent enjoying all Conception has to offer as the anchorage gradually started to fill up. One highlight was a kayak trip to a small deserted beach where we had a very relaxing lunch of FRESH fish sandwiches. There are numerous reefs around the island so obviously snorkeling was on the agenda. As we drifted over a reef preparing to go over the side Bev was checking the bottom with our lookey bucket for a nice coral head to dive on. As she was describing the various fish a shark swam right under the bucket, needless to say, our trip was aborted and a beach walk seemed like a great idea.
The island is a nesting area for Long Tailed Tropic birds, the birds themselves are white, about the size of a large pigeon but their black Vee shaped tail is longer then their bodies. Each morning they put on an air show over the anchorage with their morning aerobatics.

Sadly after two days we knew we had to get moving before the wind shifted so the decision was made to head to Cat Island. I have to say the only down side to our visit was the number of boats in the anchorage. Usually there's only a handful of boats; however, it was obvious we weren't the only ones waiting for a good window and by the time we left there were 30 boats plus as well as a 220' mega yacht in the anchorage. We set off in a light breeze which filled into a beautiful 12 knot breeze and we had a fantastic sail to Cat Island in virtually flat seas. Only downside, no fish.

The weather this winter has great, steady easterly winds and virtually no rain; however, over the next couple of weeks it will be very unsettled as front after front passes through. For now we'll spend a couple of days in Cat riding out a blow and figure out where to go after that.

Today's picture is of Bev with her latest catch.