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Travel Report

The Abacos IslandsBoating Mecca of the Bahamas

Boaties, yachties, cruisers, sailors… call them what you will, people who love to navigate the world by water will

adore The Abacos. A 120-mile-long chain of islands, this region has always been the boating capital of the Bahamas, and some say it’s the boating capital of the world. There are scads of little knolls and atolls, coves, beaches and sandy escapes to explore there, but even if you don’t have a boat, you can live like the yachtie set if you stay at Marsh Harbour’s Abaco Beach Resort & Marina. In fact, they often have specials that also include free use of a boat! Boasting the largest marina in the region, Abaco Beach Resort also has beautiful accommodations, ranging from oceanfront suites to stand-alone cottages, as well as its own private beach, pool, and fine dining room on site. The vibe there is laid back and relaxed – more sandals than stilettos – but that doesn’t mean the clientele isn’t well-heeled. Many VIPs and celebs drop in for dinner or drinks. Docked in front of my room

during my stay was Winning Drive, the yacht owned by the Baltimore Ravens’ owner. But beyond enjoying time at the resort, the lifestyle there is all about island hopping. Their concierge will be happy to hook you up with a rental or charter, or you can also take a public ferry to surrounding islands. Each island has its own flavour and attractions, like Man-O-War Cay for wooden boat building and a shop that sells cool items made from old sailcloth. (Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn stopped in there.) There are also lots of snorkeling and diving sites throughout the area full of stingrays and sea turtles, and one island has a sculpture foundry to explore. Island bar-hopping is also a popular pastime there. Must stops are Cracker P’s on Landlubber’s Quarters or Pete’s Pub on Great Abaco for the region’s potent signature rum punch called Goombay Smash. And everyone flocks to Great Guyana Cay on Sunday afternoons to enjoy Nipper’s famous pig roast BBQ and their spectacular seven-mile beach. Visit: www.abacobeachresort.com.

SUSAN CAMPBELL

Abaco Beach Resort & Marina