Bimini 2016 +/-

[veedubtek]

For a good future reference and planning tool, gimme 3 +'s and 3 - 's about this year's trip. Particularly if it helps new people in the future know what to expect.

Mine.

+ This just fantastic group of individuals. I mean seriously. Friends met last trip felt like family. New friends met this trip weren't far behind.

+ The split group crossings seemed a whole lot smoother than last year. Better water played a part, but it was less of a cluster.

+ Dolphins. Dam. Good job Bruce.


- Didn't make it across like we planned (skis), but happy I was smart enough to turn around and not be a stubborn asshole like usual.

- VRBO house rental. It was nice in theory. Considerably cheaper too. But, they don't spray for bugs down there and you're just too far away to spend late nights in the pool with everyone.

- Honeymoon harbor Friday was polluted. Not only was there 15 or so various boats, but resorts world had a big ferry full of people shuttled down there. Hope that doesn't begin happening more often.


All in all, another epic week. 12 hr journey home almost complete, and we're already planning next year's trip.

 

[Majorsmackdown]

Ok - I'll play along...

+
1. the destination was as fun as the great folks we met and hung out with
2. bimini sands was nicer than I expected, and nicer than our condo in hawaii (and cockroach free), and had an excellent marina
3. by having friendly help from veterans of the bimini fling to show us around we really got to see things and go places we might not have on our own

-
1. it was hot - especially for us northerners
2. bugs didn't seem to care that we used repellent
3. island food was either expensive or hard to get to or both (easier if you go by boat to the north side perhaps)

 

[Bruce]

+
1. A great group of boaters who were mentally prepared for the crossing and handled rougher water than many had ever seen before without fear.

2 Lot and lots of new friendships for everyone in my crew.

3. The Dolphins were awesome. We found them last year but really enjoyed being in the water with then this year.

-
1. The hours spent at Bahamas customs and immigration.

2. The hour+ spent waiting for a phone operator at US Customs.

3. The water never calmed down to typical Bimini levels while we were there. Although this had us more prepared for the big water coming home.

 

[Glen]

+ 1. Groups leadership!

+2. Groups attitude!

+3. Bimini adventuring (+1, +2)

-1. Did/could not bring my wife/kids (this time!)

-2. Need to wait a year until next group trip (I find a buddy boat or two and I may go back in a few months)

-3. Did not have my registration with me & customs had me a little nervous for a bit.