Marsh Harbour is the largest town in Abaco, in fact, it is the third largest in the Bahamas, exceeded in size only by Nassau and Freeport. The population is about 5,000 and its businesses and shops offer visitors the best selection in Abaco from conch fritters and clothing to boat parts.
There is a brand new supermarket, Maxwell’s, which is the closest we would ever see to a Publix in Florida or Stop & Shop in Connecticut. The food selection has improved 100 percent and inventory doesn’t seem to be totally dependent on when the supply boat makes it’s weekly delivery from the states.
Good restaurants abound, many of which specialize in conch every which way, cracked lobster, Bahamian macaroni and cheese, peas & rice. Meal prices average about ten percent more than Florida or Connecticut.
Marsh Harbour is a port of entry for vessels coming to the Bahamas from foreign ports, as well as the mail boat which arrives from Nassau once a week. It includes an International Airport serving Nassau and a few Florida cities.
Taxicabs are readily available. Automobiles, bicycles and mini-bikes can be rented, making it possible to get around easily. Ferry Service is also available to most of the populated Out Islands.
VHF radio is the major vehicle for communication, including announcing restaurant specials, community activities, calling taxicabs and communicating with fellow cruisers. There is a daily cruisers network at 8:15 a.m. that communicates weather, community announcements, restaurant specials and “open mike” where questions or issues can be discussed. Unlike the US, Channel 16 is used for general purpose calling for everything “under the sun”.
Pictures are worth a thousand words, so below you will give you a thumbnail idea of Marsh Harbour….
