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When RumShopRyan and I visit the islands, our mission is to explore and experience as much as possible with a little R&R in between. We could not have accomplished our mission in the TCI if it wasn’t for Caribbean Cruisin’ and their ferry to North Caicos and Middle Caicos.

Island Hopping Day

We got a jump start on our explorations by grabbing the 6:30am ferry. Luckily Caribbean Cruisin’ was only a minute drive from our hotel, Blue Haven Resort.  As you may have guessed, it doesn’t take long for Ryan to do his hair so there was no need to wake up exceptionally early. We slept every minute permitted to make sure we were well rested for the adventurous day ahead.

During our time in Turks and Caicos the weather was a bit chilly and windy. When we arrived at the dock I was relieved to see that the ferry was covered and I wasn’t going to freeze on our 25 minute ride to North Caicos.

The locals use the ferry for transportation to and from work. As we piled in the boat, waiting to leave the dock, I really enjoyed watching how everyone conversed with each other. Sadly that’s not something you see back in the states. Usually people will do their best to not even make eye-contact with you on public transportation. The early morning camaraderie on the boat was refreshing.

The ferry started up and off we went on our early morning voyage to North Caicos. Have you ever been on a boat in the dark–not being able to see where you are going–only feeling the motion of the vessel? It’s pretty trippy. You feel every zig, every zag, every bump on the waves. The ferry ride was an adventure in itself.

Dawn started to break and we could finally see the natural resort-free landscape. The ferry arrived at Sandy Point on North Caicos, launching us on the second part of our island hopping adventure.

North Caicos

Renting a car is a must when exploring North and Middle Caicos. When doing so, be ready for a little adjustment. We had no idea that the steering wheel was going to be on the right side of the car.  Again, pretty trippy.

They say there is a first time for everything and this was definitely a first for Ryan.  It’s a good thing he is able to adapt quickly, although the turn signal did get him a few times. He kept turning on the windshield wipers instead. They too are reversed.

North Caicos Car Rental Turks and Caicos

With the conditions that some of the roads are in on North and Middle Caicos, a jeep would have been a better choice. It sometimes felt as if our little Toyota was going to bottom out on the rocky terrain.

It was a soggy day on the two desolate islands but we managed to see quite a bit. Come rain or shine these two castaways will always make the best of the day.

Our first stop on North Caicos was Three Marys Cay to take a few pictures. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sun rise. Three Marys Cay is a hard to reach area with some very ragged roads, but the scenery is well worth the effort.

Three Marys Cay North Caicos Turks and Caicos Sunrise

Three Marys Cay North Caicos Turks and Caicos

After a couple more photo stops it was time for a delicious breakfast at Miss B’s. Definitely a stop worth making for some good Conch Fritters and other local cuisine.

Middle Caicos

With full bellies we continued down the road and across a bridge to Middle Caicos. We thought North Caicos was quiet, but Middle Caicos is nearly asleep. Such unspoiled peaceful island beauty. We explored an indian cave and spent some time soaking up the dramatic landscape of Mudjin Harbour, home of Dragon Cay.

Indian Cave Middle Caicos Mudjin Harbor Turks and Caicos

Indian Cave Middle Caicos Turks and Caicos

The wind was powerful and the waves were relentless as they smashed themselves on the rocks of Dragon Cay. On a calm day, it’s possible to walk out to the little rock island. We were not fortunate enough to do that. The wind was blowing so hard that the sand on the beach was exfoliating my legs. Ouch!

Mudjin Harbor Middle Caicos Turks and Caicos Dragon Cay

Middle Caicos Mudjin Harbor Dragon Cay Turks and Caicos

Mudjin Harbor Dragons Cay MIddle Caicos Turks and Caicos

On our way back to North Caicos we stopped at the Barracuda Beach Bar and Grill to grab a bite and a beverage before heading back to the ferry. The Barracuda is a little tiki bar behind Pelican Beach Hotel. If you want a no frills, real island living experience then this is the hotel for you.

Pelican Beach Hotel Barracuda Beach Bar and Grill Turks and Caicos North Caicos

Pelican Beach Hotel Pelican Beach North Caicos Barracuda Beach Bar and Grill Turks and Caicos

Pelican Beach is a breathtaking stretch of sand. One of our favorite moments of the day was taking a stroll down the beach to a big rock that was hanging over the shoreline.

Pelican Beach North Caicos Turks and Caicos

After our walk we loaded up and hopped on the 4:00pm ferry back to Provo. What a fantastic day of island hopping.

North Caicos Middle Caicos Turks and Caicos Ferry

It was a long, wet, and windy day. We looked a bit weathered on the way back but it was worth it. We saw some great sights, met a few friendly locals and made lasting memories all thanks to the ferry at Caribbean Cruisin’.

Ferry Caribbean Cruisin North Caicos Middle Caicos Turks and Caicos

Let us know if you’ve had the chance to explore North and Middle Caicos. We would love to hear about your experience!

-Castaway Crystal

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About the Author: Castaway Crystal

I'm a beach bunny hopping from island to island with camera in hand. I love experiencing all the Caribbean has to offer and sharing it with you! Conch fritter connoisseur, animal and nature lover, and RumShopRyan’s salty first mate. To learn more, visit our About Us Page.