Sailing the Caribbean: Our Journey from Mayaguana Anchorage to the Dominican Republic

Embark on an extraordinary sailing adventure as we share our recent voyage from the Mayaguana Anchorage in the Bahamas through the Turks and Caicos Islands, finally reaching the shores of the Dominican Republic. This passage was filled with challenges, stunning views, and unforgettable moments that highlight both the thrills and realities of life aboard our 41ft sailboat, SV Agua Azul.

Go To Video

Navigating Rocky Waters and Preparing for the Open Sea

Our journey began at the Mayaguana Anchorage, a scenic yet somewhat rocky location. After tending to boat maintenance like refueling and mending our sail bag, we prepared for a move closer to shore where the swell was calmer and the wind angle more favorable for reaching Turks and Caicos. Managing tides and navigating through shallow, rock-strewn waters required careful attention, especially as clouds cast shifting shadows making depth perception tricky.

Our goal was to find smoother waters and better wind conditions before the long passage ahead. Sailing at approximately 3.5 knots, we carefully threaded through natural obstacles, with help from my wife and our spirited dog, keeping watch for grounding hazards. After anchoring near a small dock, we ventured into a quiet, laid-back fishing town where we experienced the local culture and hospitality, though the grocery stores were sparse and cash-only.

Encountering Rough Seas, Dolphins, and Storms

Leaving Bahamas was a wild ride. The sea was rough with swells around 6 feet and wind gusts that tested our skills. We encountered a thrilling storm with microburst winds powerful enough to soak us and cause damage to our bimini top. Despite the challenges, moments like dolphins playing alongside our bow reminded us why we love this adventurous lifestyle.

Navigating the narrow Pony Cut and avoiding coral bommies required constant vigilance. We faced heavy traffic including cargo ships and barges, adding an extra layer of complexity to the journey. As we moved closer to the Dominican Republic, we saw a distinct change in water color and landscape — lush mountains replacing flat island horizons.

Arrival in the Dominican Republic: A New Chapter

Reaching the DR marked the beginning of a new adventure. The environment here is dramatically different from the Bahamas — more tropical with a jungle-like atmosphere, dense greenery, and cooler mountain air. We anchored in Lupron, an area with mixed reviews due to water quality, yet providing unique cruising experiences with winding channels and abandoned resorts.

Life on board in the DR brought welcome comforts, including preparing fresh meals together in a calm anchorage. We made the most of local supplies and soaked in the natural beauty and the slower pace. The trip challenged us physically and mentally but also gifted us with breathtaking sunsets, quiet evenings, and the joy of discovering new horizons.

Life Lessons and Tips for Sailors

Our passage highlights several important lessons for sailors planning similar journeys:

Be prepared for maintenance needs. The salty sea air and relentless miles took a toll on our boat, resulting in repairs and rust treatment.
Plan for provisioning challenges. Remote islands like those in the Bahamas may offer limited food options; always carry extra supplies and cash.
Respect weather windows. Sailing with favorable wind angles and calm seas is key for comfortable passage.
Stay vigilant navigating shallow and rocky areas. Daylight cruising and local knowledge help avoid grounding or damage.
Embrace the community. Friendly locals and fellow cruisers enrich the experience and sometimes offer unexpected assistance.

Join Our Sailing Life and Discover More

As a couple of Army veterans turned full-time cruisers, we invite you to follow our journey on ChrisDoesWhat, where we share not only sailing adventures but also DIY projects, cooking recipes, and lifestyle insights from life on the water.

We hope our experiences inspire and inform fellow sailors and adventure seekers ready to embrace the boundless beauty and challenges of the Caribbean.