This might come as a shock to you, but sometimes we editors take a break from the taxing work of writing about all things boat-related. (Sidenote: It's pretty typical that, upon describing what I do for a living I'm asked, "And that's a real job?".) In January, I had the great fortune of taking off from work to enjoy a sunny and relaxing week in the Exumas. My home base was in Staniel Cay, but much of the week was spent bopping from island to island, taking in the lovely scenery. And one of my absolute favorite spots was Compass Cay.

According to the marina's Web site, "Boats with up to [a] six-and-a-half foot draft can enter the harbor...following the channels marked with buoys and a range. Tucker [the marina's longtime owner] will cheerfully guide the first time voyager into the harbor, where depths range from ten to 16 feet." The marina accomodates boats up to 150-feet plus, has 30,50, and 100 amp electrical service, laundry, shower facilities, a terrific little marina store, and more. For those who want to just pop over for a quick trip, there's a small tie-up fee.

As beautiful as the area is, to my mind, the marina's main attraction is the veritable fish tank that's just under the dock, where the water is filled with grouper, snapppers, bonefish, and a whole heap of nursesharks. Don't believe me? Take a look. Here are a few snaps from my terrific afternoon at Compass Cay.

Above: Nurse Sharks at the docks.

 Above: Dock art work.

Above: A shot of the beach. (We were the only ones there.)