ENTERING THE EXUMA CAYS LAND AND SEA PARK

Shroud Cay

Entering the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park was a big surprise! Kyle had a couple secret stops planned for us. Shroud Cay was the first.

He navigated just off the coast of an island, dropped anchor and hurried us into the dinghy. We were at high tide and had already encountered depths of 2-foot (below our keel) on the depth-sounder.

Soon we discovered a small sign indicating we were entering the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park! The winding inland waterway we progressed on could best be described as a crystal-clear, natural lazy river.

The kids were on the prowl for wildlife.

Sea turtle

Stingray

The water brought us to the other side of the island (the ocean side) to a place referred to as the “Water Slide” (or Washing Machine). Toward the ocean there’s a sandbar. At low tide no water can come through. At high tide, the water begins to flow through again—flowing down the sand bar to give the water slide effect.

Kyle hiked up to the highest point and got this photo of the “Water Slide.”

There were beaches and bluffs GALORE!

My inner-climber couldn’t resist.

Kyle joined in on the bouldering too.

The kids swam, snorkeled and played—Shroud was their new favorite Bahama.

After bouldering, I challenged everyone to swim across the channel. Somehow, I was nominated to test the waters. I made the crossing safely so after a brief, very uncoordinated happy-dance I headed back over so the kids could give it a try.

Within a few minutes, we set off together around a big boulder, but by that time the tides had turned. The current had increased so much that I immediately noticed it’s strength and directed the kids to swim back. It took my best effort to get Zion and Orli back to shore and we were only 10-15 feet out.

The changing tide was our signal to head out. The kids nearly revolted as they begged us to stay at Shroud!

Further exploration of the pristine Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park—up next!