Wardewick Wells is the headquarters of the Exuma Land and Sea Park, a protected area of outstanding natural beauty, including a line of cays about 20 miles long and the ocean 4 miles either side. “Take only photos – Leave only footprints” is their motto. In 2013 we had to put our name on a waiting list to secure a mooring in the northern channel at Wardewick Wells, but at the end of our “year afloat” this was the location that we rated most highly. We weren’t optimistic we would be able to get a mooring, but as sailed north on we thought we would call the Park on the radio and at least ask. We were delighted to find that they did have space available and after a three hour trip from Big Major we turned into the narrow channel along which the mooring balls are aligned. It was dead low tide and we saw depths of 7 feet entering the channel, but the current was light, so picking up the mooring was easy. Sometimes going back to places isn’t great as they don’t live up to your memories. Today, the weather is overcast and the light is poor, but I would still argue that this is one of the most beautiful marine locations that I have ever been to. I love it here! The channel, once you are in it is maybe 12 feet deep, but only 100 feet wide, and on either side are sand bores that partially dry at low tide. As the water goes from deep to shallow the color changes from deep blue to turquoise to almost pink with the sand. It’s gorgeous!
We went for a walk on Wardewick Wells cay this afternoon and saw numerous lizards, two snakes and some interesting birds (including clapper rail). We’ll spend two or possibly three nights here and hopefully the skies will clear and allow some decent photography. The snorkeling is also excellent, but again, better with good light.
Wardewick Wells panorama - the northern mooring field runs along the deeper channel (darker blue) with park headquarters on the left.
Wardewick Wells panorama from Boo Boo hill - you can see the "sound" (deep) side and the "banks" (shallow) side.
Boo Boo hill where passing cruisers leave bits of wood engraved with their boat names.
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