Bimini Bay to Alice Town, North Bimini by boat

Pilotage Plan: Bimini Bay to Alice Town, North Bimini, The Bahamas

Overview
This trip from Bimini Bay to Alice Town takes you on a short but delightful journey through the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. It’s a suitable route for experienced boaters looking for a leisurely cruise with the possibility to explore some charming local attractions. While the trip is fairly straightforward, sailors should remain vigilant about shifting weather conditions and keep an eye on navigation markers.

Departure: Bimini Bay
Starting from Bimini Bay, check your vessel fuel levels, equipment, and safety gear before heading out. The bay itself offers a well-protected anchorage, making it a safe point to adjust your plans based on local weather forecasts. The area is rich in marine life, and it’s not uncommon to see dolphins playing in the water, especially in the early morning.

Navigational Route
The distance from Bimini Bay to Alice Town is approximately 5 nautical miles. The route is relatively straightforward:

1. Heading Out:Leave Bimini Bay heading east-southeast toward Alice Town. Ensure you’re following the navigational buoys that guide small crafts through the shallow waters.
2. Important Navigational Aids:
   Bimini Entrance Light(Fl G 4s 15ft 8M) will be on your port side as you make the passage to keep track of your position relative to the deeper waters.

• Watch for the Bimini Sandbar, which is just off the channel. Knowledge of local tides is essential here, as it can shift, becoming exposed at low tide.

1. Challenges & Hazards:Remain alert for fishing boats and marine traffic along this route, particularly as you approach Alice Town. Avoid speeding and maintain a lookout for small craft and swimmers, especially near the Shoal.

Points of Interest:

• As you navigate, keep an eye out for the Bimini Biological Field Station, a research facility focused on marine ecology. Although not a stopover location, it is a fascinating part of local conservation efforts.
• When nearing Alice Town, consider a brief stop at the Bimini Museum, offering insight into the rich history of the area, including the island's connection to Ernest Hemingway.

Shelter Bays:
While this trip is fairly short, inclement weather can always pose a threat. Should conditions worsen, your best option is:
Bailey Town:A nearby point on South Bimini offers some shelter and a chance to hunker down until the weather clears. The bay is less trafficked and great for safe anchoring.

Local Regulations:
As you enjoy your trip, be aware of local regulations concerning marine life conservation, especially those protecting endangered species like the Nassau grouper. Additionally, ensure you are adhering to the speed limits in and near moored vessels or areas with an increased number of water sport enthusiasts.

Additional Considerations:

• Consider downloading reliable apps like savvy navvyand Navionicsfor up-to-date maps and local weather conditions to assist in your navigation and planning.
• It's advisable to have a backup GPS and paper charts onboard for redundancy in case of equipment failure.

Conclusion
This route from Bimini Bay to Alice Town epitomizes the idyllic cruising experience of the Bahamas. While the journey is relatively short and can be completed in under an hour in good conditions, it offers ample opportunities for appreciation of the natural beauty and local culture. Keep your vessel well-equipped, stay informed about weather changes, and enjoy the enchanting seascape that surrounds you. Happy cruising!