Gettin’ Real in Hope Town

Our expected path when we departed Marsh Harbour was toward Tilloo Cay on the southern tip of Elbow Cay.  Marsh Harbour had been a good provisioning and storm-weathering stop, but it was rather disappointing otherwise, so we were feeling an upswing in mood when we pulled anchor.  We crossed the waters to the mouth of Hope Town Harbour under sail only, dropping them as we moved into the shallow waters between islands to turn further south.  As we made our turn we noted that the boat in front of us was doing donuts.  And the boat looked familiar.  The girls’ new boat bestie and her parents had just come out to test some recently completed motor work, but their presence and especially their donuts were our herald!  We decided to alter course and spend the night right there in Hope Town.

It was a Sunday so the town was closed, minus a walk up window-style eatery and a liquor store.  Of course.  But the town immediately took us in, charming us with its narrow streets lined by a complete painter’s palette of old island homes.  We were so enamored that we elected to stay through the next morning to explore the town when it was working.

One of our favorite finds was Vernon’s which is listed as a grocery store but appears to serve more as the town bakery.  While jogging Monday morning I noted a line of locals outside the door and figured they must know something, so we returned later in the morning to buy a hot, fresh-from-the-oven loaf of coconut bread which was devoured shortly after purchase!  On the door we found some stickers which added to the love we had developed for Hope Town.  Who knew Hope Town could so eloquently live up to its name?  Here’s to a beautiful town, Vernon’s bread, and some beautiful sentiments!

A few more images from a wonderful 24 hours!