Water is not only featured in the national flag of the Bahamas, but the presence of the soft azure waters of the Caribbean is the life-force of the island-nation, felt everywhere you go. On a trip to Nassau sponsored by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, I got my first glimpse into this important piece of the Bahamian national identity.
Flying over the island chain to the Nassau airport, I purposely chose a window seat so my first view of the famous waters would be from the air. True to its billing, the surrounding islands and crystal clear waters were stunning, even from a few thousand feet.
My first experience with the water world of the Bahamas came on my first full day in Nassau, thanks to a half day boat tour.
Since the legendary Bahamian waters are a chief draw for visitors, there is no limit in the options for boat charter companies. We used High Seas Bahamas, which was excellent, but there are many others that I am sure are of the same high caliber. Even though it was overcast and rainy, it was still an amazing afternoon.
I grew up inland and while my family certainly took a few vacations to ocean side areas, I didn’t really spend that much time in, on or around the water. But as a young adult, through a serious of fortunate opportunities, I soon came to the realization that I love the water.
Like Bubba from Forrest Gump with his shrimp recipes, I like it all when it comes to water activities: rafting, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, wading, tubing, motor boating – you name it, if it involves water (preferably the ocean) I’m there. For a water rat like myself, the Bahamas was like a trip to the promised land.
It’s not just the clear waters, swaying palms and sandy beaches that draw you in – many other islands in the Caribbean enjoy the same features. But the Bahamas, unlike most other of these small nations, enjoys a shear quantity of islands, grottoes, cays and phenomenal seas that no other place can even come close to matching.
Have you been to the Bahamas? What is your favorite island?
Why yes, as a matter of fact, I HAVE been to the Bahamas =)
I think my favorite island is still Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos, though the Exumas were amazing (sorry) and I’d still love to go to Andros!
I’ve never been but I’d absolutely love to go, I love the water.
Ugh, the water in the Bahamas is absolute perfection!
Bahamas? Where is that? :)
I do wish the weather was better, but it’s hard to have a bad time in the Bahamas. Heading back in January to Nassau and Harbor Island. Can’t wait!
Cheers.
Ahhh, this is exactly how I remember the water in the Bahamas … crystal clear blue. Just beautiful! — Michelle