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Preachers Cave Eleuthera ought to be at the top of your list of places to visit in the Bahamas if you enjoy history and adventure. The Eleutheran Adventurers, a group of Puritans fleeing religious persecution, originally sought safety in this cave following their shipwreck in 1648, giving it a special place in Bahamian history. Their ship encountered disaster while navigating the treacherous Devil’s Backbone reef, but these tenacious individuals survived and established a new life on these islands. Considering their early years inspires admiration for their bravery; despite having few resources and a terrain unsuitable for agriculture or raising cattle, they persisted and established the first permanent communities in The Bahamas.
These early immigrants’ descendants now reside in areas like Governor’s Harbour, Spanish Wells, and Harbour Island, where the Adventurers’ ideals of diligence and camaraderie have endured. Accessible by paved road or a short stroll from the shore, Preacher’s Cave is currently maintained by the Antiquities, Monuments & Museums Corporation. Michael Craton and Gail Saunders’ book Islanders in the Stream provides deep insights into the Bahamas’ past for readers who are interested in learning more about the islands’ larger history.
Safety Steps for Cruisers in The Bahamas
Safety must be considered both on and off the boat when navigating the stunning waterways of the Bahamas. Here are some crucial pointers for cruisers to remember:
⦁ Secure Docking: You can feel more at ease knowing that your yacht is in a marina with dependable security. As an alternative, think about anchoring close to other vessels.
⦁ Dinghy Security: When not in use, take your dinghy out of the water. This keeps it safe and deters theft.
⦁ Be Wary After Dark: After dusk, choose cabs rather than public transit (such as jitneys) and avoid going more than a block on foot alone.
⦁ Steer clear of dangerous locations: Large dining establishments, lodging facilities, and casinos are usually secure, but neighborhood taverns and nightclubs should be avoided.
⦁ Young Adult Safety Measures: Since they are frequently more likely to be targeted, teenagers and young adults should exercise extra caution.
⦁ Local Advice: Don’t be afraid to approach hotel management or dockmasters for safety advice. Locals frequently have useful information that can increase your safety.
A Closer Look at The Bahamas’ New VAT Tax
Visitors may observe that The Bahamas has implemented a Value Added Tax (VAT), which was put in place to simplify the tax code and eventually develop a more equitable method of collecting taxes. Tourist taxes and import fees used to be the main sources of funding for the government, but inefficiencies and tax fraud cost them about half of their potential income.
These days, almost all goods and services are subject to the 7.5% VAT tax. To compensate for this increased fee, other import tariffs have been lowered. There will be some price increases for both Bahamians and visitors, but the government wants to keep them small. Businesses will need to adapt to this change, even though the majority are now set up to collect VAT. In the end, even though some costs can be greater, the Bahamas is still a highly appealing and reasonably priced travel destination.
Great Harbour Cay Marina: A Top Hurricane Marina
One of the most hurricane-safe marinas in the Bahamas is Great Harbour Cay Marina. Tucked away in a “hole within a pond,” it’s the perfect place for boaters looking for excitement and safety. Significant improvements have recently been made to the marina, including new pilings and improved amenities including the dockmaster’s office and restrooms.
Additionally, guests can take use of the Beach Bar on the eastern coast, which is only a short stroll from the marina, and the Pool Bar & Grill, which is open every day for lunch and supper. On holidays and other special events, the Beach Bar, which is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, offers excellent cuisine and service in addition to exciting music.
Spotting the Osprey Another noteworthy aspect of the Bahamas is the osprey. Tag investigations have revealed that many of these amazing raptors, which are flourishing in the area, are Bahamian natives, while others come from as far away as New England. For those who enjoy the outdoors, seeing these birds is a fulfilling experience and a tribute to local conservation efforts.
Anchoring Tips for Cruisers Boaters can experience the natural beauty of the Bahamas by anchoring there, but it’s crucial to follow best practices. Nowadays, a lot of boats anchor with a solid chain with a snubber to reduce shock and noise. Strong, shock-absorbing support for your anchor can also be obtained by combining chain and nylon rode.
To prevent harming marine habitats, it is preferable to drop anchor in clear sand. Nylon and chains are strong materials that keep you safe and lessen their influence on the environment. The quantity of marine life found in sandy areas may surprise you, making it a worthwhile place to explore. You may have a low-impact and safe time in these stunning waters by using these environmentally responsible anchoring techniques.
Why Choose The Bahamas?
The Bahamas is a singular destination that blends rich history with contemporary conveniences. From the historical mystery of Preachers Cave in Eleuthera to the tranquil beauty of Great Harbour Cay Marina, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore Preacher’s Cave Eleuthera, a nature lover, or an enthusiastic sailor, The Bahamas provides affordable cruising costs, abundant fishing opportunities, and breathtaking natural scenery, making it an ideal escape.
