There is much debate in the cruiser community about these rules and how they affect us. Our take--if we don't absolutely have to shore for food or fuel, we won't. While we have been cruising the island of Eleuthera since late February, we will not move the boat if we don't have to. We will only move if needed for a safe anchorage or if we decide to go home. It's my opinion that boats moving amongst the islands to get to North America expeditiously should go ahead and do it, but should not go ashore. But if they need fuel...gah, this is tough, folks!
There is talk that this curfew will be extended for another month as the confirmed cases (5 at this point) are now on two islands. That may be what pushes us to move on. Our plan had been to volunteer with rebuilding efforts in the Abacos in April, but given their damaged infrastructure they are discouraging visitors at this time to keep the virus away. We understand, but having this aspect of our trip go away is a bit heartbreaking, though not as heartbreaking as a virus impacting an already fragile island would be.
At this point, you may be wondering, "So what the heck will you guys do?" We don't know. We weigh spread of the virus, access to food/water/fuel/waste disposal, weather, and our general feeling of safety daily (ok, one anxious crew member weighs those things nearly constantly). We are currently anchored snugly in Hatchet Bay on Eleuthera, a 2-day (overnight) sail from U.S. waters. We have food and water (and rum and coffee!). And every day, we relook at the world and reassess our plan.
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