Strangers Cay Channel -Abacos Bahamas

[ScottieD]

We are newish to offshore sailing and looking to make our way back to the States from the Abacos. We would like to make the run straight to Charleston if we can get a weather window.

That said, we are considering leaving through Strangers Cay Channel. It looks pretty wide and deep on the charts. Anyone with experience going through there that can comment?

[MicHughV]

I've always gone out over the Little Bahama Bank, south of Walkers. Plenty of water depth, with no hidden surprises, and the Gulf Stream is right there, ready to whisk you north.

[ScottieD]

Thanks for the feedback. To be clear you mean between Walkers and Grand, correct? We will be going at sunrise, probably, and I was a bit worried about spotting the coral heads on the charts as we go out. Not a problem?

Ah, I think you mean exit the bank on the west side. That’s my other option. Just adds distance to Charleston but maybe the Gulf Stream makes up for that

[MicHughV]

I'm not familiar with the route you have planned to take nor do I know where you currently are.

I've always made my way to Mangrove Cay as my last stop, and then went on a nor-westerly course to pass over the Little Bahama Bank. This is some ways south/southwest of Walkers, but it is a simple no fuss route.

The guide books do show some offshore routes east of Walkers, but I have not done those.

The Gulf Stream is right adjacent to the Little Bahama Bank. One overnighter should put you on the latitude of Cape Canaveral. At this time, I start heading for the coast. A second overnighter will have you offshore the J'ville area. One more overnighter should get you to Charleston.

[ScottieD]

Thanks again for the feedback. We are at Manjack Cay looking at the weather window late this week/weekend.

We came in across the bank from memory rock and may just go out Matanilla Shoal. As you say, easy going across the bank

[MicHughV]

That's the route I always take....Memory Rock in.....Matanilla Shoal out...been doing it for years...simple...quick...no dangers....etc....

[MicHughV]

Manjack, eh, you've got a ways to go yet....I've come in...and out at Whale Cay before...another relatively simple route.
By this time of the year, the weather is reasonably settled...I don't anticipate any problems for you...