Jumping Through Hoops to the Bahamas

 On Sunday, February 28, 2022 we completed the last requirement needed to clear in to the Bahamas.  

1.  Bahamas Government "click2clear" document completed online ($300 Cruising Permit)

2.  Bahamas Government Health Visa completed and paid for online ($40 each)

3.  Negative PCR covid test results received (within 72 hour of check-in requirement)

4.  Weather window

In a light s/e breeze at 11:35 p.m. on February 28, 2022 we slipped out the channel adjacent to No Name Harbour, Key Biscayne and set sail for Bimini.

Our crossing was slightly bumpy as the wind clocked around to the west - northwest during the night but all in all it was a good passage.  

We sighted 7 cruise ships in the Miami area during the night. 

                                                                 First light over Bimini

Our approach and arrival at Bimini was considerably more exciting as the west wind we had so anxiously awaited to make the gulf stream crossing resulted in a rather rolly following sea.  As well the islands and surrounding area were engulfed in numerous squalls.

It was teaming down rain when we motored through the "visual piloting required" channel to enter in the lee of North Bimini.  We arrived very wet and tired on Monday, March 1st.  Barry went to shore to clear us in with Customs and Immigration at 10:30 a.m. (11 hours anchor to anchor; 71 1/2 hours since our pcr covid tests). 

We've arrived ...... finally !!