Zuri 3 Exuma, Bahamas 7-day voyage
We are just back from a voyage around Exuma with Andre and Magda on the Zuri 3, a 54’ Bali catamaran. First, our hosts: they could have not been more welcoming and friendly. Clearly, working very hard to make our trip everything we wanted and more. Our group was treated to a side of the Bahamas none of us knew existed. All of us had been to Nassau, but we didn’t know much of the island chain is uninhabited and spectacularly beautiful with white powder sand beaches and gin-clear water with nary a man-made structure in sight. Each was stunned by this remote isolated natural beauty. Andre presented us new post card anchorages daily.
Further, interactions with local wildlife were part of their mission. Several wonderful snorkel excursions that included an aircraft wreckage once owned by notorious Pablo Escobar and the aptly named “Aquarium.” We also fed iguanas, wild pigs (that actually swim), and sharks (that we swam with). Yes, real live wild nurse sharks. Magda passionately teaching us the magic of these stunning creatures. A cruise down the local lazy river led us to a day at a beach all to ourselves. Where else are you going to get all of that?
Speaking of Magda, she also worked diligently to put 5 pounds on each guest with delicious meals and stunning presentations – breakfast, lunch, and dinner. She was quick to point out that she’s not a chef. Maybe, but she is very good cook with an eye for detail. Favorites of our week were the poke bowl, lobster night, tuna steaks, and her nachos – for which everyone asked for a recipe. However, IMO, Magda is missing an opportunity by not introducing her food. It’s great! Celebrate it! By telling us all about the meal as we are seated, i.e. “tonight is grilled lobster basted in garlic butter accompanied by an Israeli couscous and roasted vegetable medley with thyme and rosemary.”
Now, the Zuri 3 herself. She’s a big boat with lots of fantastic features. Most notable is the ability to raise the rear of the saloon making a complete open design. Further, I’d say she has the most seating options of any catamaran her size we’ve seen. She has comfortable well thought out, if a bit tight, cabins and heads. Sadly, due lack of favorable winds, we were not able to experience her under sail.
Andre and Magda also do an amazing job of following your preference sheets and advising you on what and how to pack. Listen to them. We all over packed.
All in all, issues were minor and we had a wonderful week with Andre, Magda, and the Zuri 3. Their passion alone is more than enough to earn our recommendation without reservation for charter in the Bahamas. You won’t be disappointed.
Michele, Eric, Pam, George, Terri, and Ken