Spanish Wells

We are so impressed with Spanish Wells.  It is completely different from any place in the Bahamas we have visited previously.  The houses and yards are all well maintained as are all the boats.  The pride of the place by everyone is very evident.  There are no drunks or beggars sitting around.  .  This is a small, insular community and their economy is not based on tourism.  Perhaps peer pressure keeps folks from making some bad choices. Not sure what the difference is but it works.  As always, the people we've met are very friendly.  In fact, we were given rides in both directions when we took the infamous propane tank to be filled.  We go to pick it up this morning, hopefully full this time!!  We plan to stay here through yet another frontal passage (the backdrop for this entire trip) and get the bikes to shore for more exploring.

This sign is on the sandbar at the harbor entrance.  Alcohol has only recently come to
Spanish Wells.

Our mooring ball, which we were lucky to get, is just off the government dock.
That means every large vessel goes there to offload and load cargo.  They are passing very close to
our stern so we pray for no equipment failures of their engines or thrusters!!

No need for zoom here.  That is how close the fast-cat ferry passes our stern.

The west end approach is well marked with buoys.  Another unusual thing
for the small islands we've visited.

This is a typical house.  Neat, freshly painted and in good shape.
This one is facing the deep water.

This is a cotton plant.  We've seen several.  It was only one plant growing in this
garden.  Not sure if it will yield enough to make a garment but there must be a reason.

This was from the top of the hill looking towards the harbor.

The industry here is fishing.  The waterfront is lined with dozens of
well maintained boats.  Not a derelict or rust bucket in the bunch.

Lots of houses had gardens.  Spanish Wells has it's own source of water so
many things can more easily be grown here.  We'll be stocking up
on fresh produce for sure!

Coconuts are all over as well.

A great view of the deep water off the north side of the island.

Another view of the waterfront.

Typical transportation on the island is the golf cart. Our rides were both
in one.