Adventures in the Exumas: From Shroud Cay to Pig Beach

Join us as we navigate the beautiful waters, explore hidden beauty, and encounter unexpected experiences on our sailing journey. From setting up camp at Shroud Key to the intriguing Pig Beach, each stop offers unique adventures and unforgettable sights.

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Setting Sail from Norman’s Cay

As we leave Norman’s Cay, the excitement is palpable. Our buddy boat is back there, needing to work on one of their engines. We’re anticipating a northern blow, which might push us all the way down to Foul Cay, a journey that will take around three and a half to four hours. The beauty of sailing is in the unpredictability, and every moment feels like a new adventure.

With my wife by my side, we’re navigating these waters with a mix of enthusiasm and caution. The charts are spread out, and it feels like we’re building the plane while flying it—no easy task when you’re trying to plan your route on the move. But that’s the thrill of sailing, and sometimes you just have to go with the flow. We stopped at Shroud Cay to help our friends with their engine heat issue.

Exploring Shroud Cay

Upon reaching Shroud Cay, we meet up with our friends Marty and his girlfriend Lonnie. The atmosphere is relaxed, with their young lab frolicking in the distance. The plan is to set up some shelter, dig our feet into the sand, and enjoy a little beach day. Shroud Cay is known for its beautiful dinghy path, where you can spot turtles and even visit the local washing machine—a fun little spot for all of us.

As we venture out, Marty gets ready for some kiting. He’s the pro among us, and we can’t help but cheer him on as he launches his kite into the air. Our dog, however, isn’t a fan of the water, which brings laughter as we coax her closer to the waves. The beach is stunning, and although the tide is a bit low, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

The Turtle Encounter

While exploring, we spot what we think is a turtle, but it turns out to be a rock! Yet, with a bit of patience, we do find some real turtles swimming around. Their grace in the water is mesmerizing, and we’re reminded of why this experience is on so many bucket lists. The colors of the water are vibrant—emerald greens and turquoise hues that simply can’t be captured on camera.

Setting Off to Foul Cay

After a delightful time at Shroud Key, we set our sights on Foul Cay. As we sail, the wind is directly on our bow, making it challenging to get any real speed. Later the wind angle did allows us to make some decent progress burning a smig less diesel. The waves are pounding, and while it’s a rough ride, we’re all in it together, buddy boating with our friends.

My wife expresses her frustrations about the weather. It seems like we’ve had too many days of running in rough conditions this year. Beautiful days are often followed by these challenging sails. But the thrill of the adventure keeps us going, and we maintain a steady pace, cutting through the waves at six knots.

Arriving at Foul Cay

Finally, we approach FoulCay, and the water begins to calm. The color shifts dramatically, and we can see the shoreline ahead. The excitement builds as we prepare to drop anchor. Today has been a rough sail, but the promise of a new destination lifts our spirits.

Discovering Pig Beach

Upon arrival, we find ourselves at Pig Beach. My wife had never planned to see the pigs, but now that we’re here, curiosity gets the best of her. We’re hiding from a two-day storm and taking the opportunity to explore this quirky destination. The skies are darkening, hinting at the rain to come, but we’re determined to make the most of our time here.

As we navigate the waters, our boat is covered in salt from the rough sail, a reminder of the journey we’ve just had. Our buddy boat had a minor mishap, heading to a different anchorage that wasn’t suitable for our deeper draft. But we’re all together now, ready to explore.

Exploring the Local Scene

The anchorage is bustling with boats of all sizes, and we’re eager to head into town. We drop off our trash and look for a bite to eat. The local spots are known for their unique flair, and we’re excited to see what’s on offer. Everyone seems to be out and about, enjoying the moment and exploring their surroundings.

A Culinary Adventure

Our first stop is Big Dogs, a local eatery. Unfortunately, it only accepts cash, and we’re a bit short on funds. We decide to explore further, eventually finding a pink and blue store that sells all sorts of groceries. The prices are steep, but we manage to buy a few essentials—potatoes, tomatoes, etc.

Every day brings new experiences, and this one is no exception. We laugh about the high prices and the challenges of island life, but it’s all part of the adventure. The liquor store is a quick stop, and we joke about sundowners being a necessity.

The Pig Encounter

After our shopping spree, it’s time to visit the famous swimming pigs of Pig Beach. We approach the area, and the pigs are just as charming as we imagined. My partner is hesitant to get too close, but the sight of the pigs is entertaining enough. They’re waiting for food, and it’s clear they’re accustomed to visitors.

Watching the pigs interact with their surroundings is a highlight. Some are shy, while others are bold and curious. It’s a quirky experience that adds a fun twist to our sailing adventure. The atmosphere is jovial, filled with laughter as we snap pictures and enjoy the moment.

Reflecting on the Journey

As we make our way back to the boat, the day wraps up with a sense of fulfillment. Our puppy, who had a bit of a scare while we were gone, greets us with excitement. The sounds of the anchorage fill the air, and we’re reminded of the vibrant life surrounding us.

This journey has been filled with ups and downs, but every moment has been worth it. From the tranquil waters of Shroud Cay to the lively Pig Beach, each stop has offered its own unique experience. The sea teaches us patience, resilience, and the joy of exploration.

As we settle in for the night, the anticipation of tomorrow’s adventures lingers in the air. Whether it’s facing challenges or enjoying unexpected delights, sailing continues to be a journey of discovery that we cherish wholeheartedly. Here’s to more adventures on the high seas!

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