Hoping to head for Bimini in mid-May.
We are heading back down to Islamorada this Thursday, to stay and play for about two weeks between Key Largo and Sugarloaf Key. Please let us know if anyone around and we'll see if we can connect for a cocktail and a chat.
After this, we plan to come back again in May to head across to Bimini. If anyone is considering doing this around our dates, might be a good flotilla opportunity. We will be coming up from Islamorada (by boat) and will probably anchor in No Name Harbor while we wait for a weather window.
There has been some discussion about what to do to prepare for going to the Bahamas (Bimini), if you plan to trailer to Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area first. Here is what my homework has panned out:
To stage for Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale/Miami:
Check out:
Bill Birds Marina (State Park) at Haulover Park.
https://www.miamidade.gov/parks/bill-bird.asp
305-947-3525
This state park marina has boat launch, etc. and you can take a slip for $64 per day, if you need that to help get ready.
Boat Launch and Parking Rates
Weekdays:
$5 for cars
$13 for boat trailers
Fridays - Sundays and holidays:
$7 for cars
$17 for boat trailers
You can launch you boat and leave the vehicle and trailer right there, as long as you want, at the above rates. You have to pay in advance though. I gave them a call and asked what if I needed to stay longer and could not get back to pay. They said to just give them a call. This seems to be the best deal around. If anyone has other information, please post.
Because we will be coming up from Islamorada (by boat), we will probably anchor in No Name Harbor while we wait for a weather window. That is about 20 miles south of Bill Birds, but I understand it is super protected and lots of people use this as a staging anchorage.
Do share if you have any ideas.
BTW, ANYONE considering Bahamas should read restrictions carefully. COVID testing required and don't expect to do much off your boat (which we don't).
Best,
Bobby and May