Bahamas - Nov 2012

Well I like cheap and clean, don't need TV and don't need glitz, its the Bahamas a place near a Bar and Beach (a new meaning to B&B) is good as far as I am concerned. The rich guys can stay at the Hilton,,,, not I unless someone else pays.:)
 
I'm very interested in this! I'm based out of Lancaster, PA (KLNS) and was thinking of doing this trip on my own but would much rather do it as a group. I'm also an avid scuba diver.

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I might be interested as well although I don't think I can commit until September (and my overhaul and annual woes are over). Any idea how much this is going to cost? I know my round trip from ATL to FLL will be about 11 hours total time.
 
Josh, there is no "fee". It is up to you as to how much you spend. Climb high and lean it out, sleep in a tent and bring Spam to eat= a "cheap" trip. Or... Come join us. You will have a great time. I did this with about 85 hr under my belt 3 yrs ago. Must Do trip!
 
Unfortunately tents won't work. Wish I could camp there. I suggest anyone thinking of this read the pilot guidebook to the carribean and also get the package from AOPA. There is no reason to pay for organizer but there are some things to get done. Up to date passport. Customs sticker. Radio station license. Check your insurance. If plane is owned by a group or other than you it has been recommended that you have a notarized letter authorizing use. Register for eAPIS. Most of this stuff is rarely used but better to be ready. I have actually had my plane searched when leaving and entering the USA. No more Dreadlocks.
 
For all those interested in the Bahamas... Here is a presentation that Paul and I did a few years ago on the last big organized Bahamas trip. There is a lot of information but it is easier than what is stated. Just pay attention to the stuff Paul said above like passport, customs sticker, radio license, life vest, etc.

You can download the Powerpoint here:
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/35100242/Flying to the Bahamas.pdf

Doug
 
If I remember correctly all the credit goes to Doug. I think all I did was proof read it. Well done and covers a lot.
 
Have you guys decided where you're staying yet? I think I should be able to go but want to get an idea if it is a $100/night kind of trip or a $500 per night kind of trip. We just got the engine back from overhaul and it should be nice and broken in by then.
 
Josh,
We have decided on a place yet since it depends on how many. Perfect timing though on the question.

OK gang, we need to start locking this down.

Dates: Nov 10-11 with preceding days for those that want to go early

Confirmed:
Eddie Smith
Doug Muse

Maybe:
Paul Werbin

We need to get more names on the confirmed list so we can get this locked down. Please respond to the thread or email me at doug dot muse at gmail dot com.

Thanks,
Doug
 
I know that because of my freelance work style I am unable to plan this far ahead but I will try like heck to join whenever a group plans a BAC trip to the islands.
My experience is that the out island trips are not too expensive. Room rates less than $200/ night is usually no problem. Adding in the Bahamas tourism subsidy of $300/ pilot towards the room, things are pretty reasonable. Food can be expensive, but occasionally throwing a grouper on the grill or walking somewhere for a burger makes it less costly. I tend to enjoy cooking so a room with a kitchen is worth something to me. Avgas in the Bahamas has been cheaper than in Florida lately. If you decide on Stella Maris, Treasure Cay, or Staniel Cay you should look into the packages with food. If you are really remote, like Blackpoint you probably should consider renting a boat for the week to do some island hopping.
Without a doubt Island hopping is one of the best reasons I have ever found to have a plane. Do it.
 
I have a friend who flies to the Bahamas all the time. He just went for the first time to Great Harbor Cay and said it was probably the best place he has ever been to in the Bahamas. There are townhouses located on the beach a stone's throw away from the end of the runway. I have checked it out and am going to go soon after I finish this trial in September.
 
This looks like a great destination! I have been to the Berry Islands, but missed this one. I found a good link http://www.consultresearch.com/GHC2.htm. It sounds like a good mix of developed properties and old Bahamas. Adding in how short a flight it is from Florida I think it sounds like a place to put on the list. Thanks for the tip.
 
This looks like a place I may consider for January. How's come we haven't heard about this place before? Looks really good. Tom
 
With 600 islands and 60 airports there are a lot of very cool places to explore. I am glad that we have a lot of group input for ideas. Note that the Berries are fairly north in the Bahamas chain and a January trip can bring some fairly cool weather.
 
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