Little Ragged Cut, Ragged Island, Bahamas

 We braved the stronger winds for a snorkel just for some exercise....

Beautiful graceful ray.

 

We didn't stay in the water too long as the current was too strong.

 

Decided to take a walk on this barrier island instead.

 

Beautiful and desolate.

 

Back in the water, we stopped at a different reef. 

 

Still too much current but lots of life.

 

After dark, everyone gathered on the beach for a New Year's Eve bonfire.  Russ from Spirit had gone to great pains to set up the wood to light it.  (The stuffed monkey on top was not harmed!)

 

The gathering spot is looking pretty well outfitted with tables and lighting strung from bamboo poles.

 

Great bonfire!  We sat around an chatted for several hours.

 

Close to 9pm, Russ and a few others fired off some expired marine flares.  (There is virtually no way to get rid of them in the US - no one wants to take them - we've asked the US Coast Guard, West Marine, the Boy Scouts, the local hazardous waste folks - no one is willing!)

 

Fun to watch and a good demonstration in case we ever need to fire one in distress (although we don't think they are a really effective communication tool....)

So, Happy New Year!  We all wished each other the same as we departed for out boats.  I expect few stayed up until midnight though!