Black Sound

Approach and Entrance

Black Sound lies on the west-central shore of Green Turtle Cay, entered from the Sea of Abaco. The entrance channel is narrow and shallow, with controlling depth of approximately four to five feet at mean low water. Vessels drawing more than four feet should time entry for mid-tide or higher, proceeding slowly and reading the water carefully.

The channel is marked with private aids that may shift or go missing. First-time visitors should proceed with extreme caution, favoring the center of the channel and watching for shoal areas on both sides. Once through the entrance, the sound opens into a protected basin with depths of eight to twelve feet over a predominantly grassy bottom.

Holding and Protection

Black Sound provides excellent all-around protection, with land on three sides and the narrow entrance limiting fetch from the west. Many cruisers consider it the best hurricane hole on Green Turtle Cay, though the shallow entrance can trap vessels inside during low water.

Anchoring is discouraged due to poor holding in thick grass. Multiple mooring operators serve the sound, including Donny's Boat Rentals and Abaco Yacht Services. Mooring balls are the preferred option, and fees are reasonable. Always inspect mooring tackle before relying on any ball, and confirm availability with operators, especially during peak season or approaching weather.

What's Ashore

Several marinas line Black Sound, offering fuel, water, electricity, and basic services. Donny's Boat Rentals is the most established operation, providing moorings, dock space, and boat rentals for exploring the nearby cays. Abaco Yacht Services handles mechanical repairs and marine maintenance.

New Plymouth, the historic Loyalist settlement, lies a short dinghy ride south. Tie up at the public dock and explore cobblestone lanes, colonial-era cottages painted in tropical pastels, and the Albert Lowe Museum chronicling the island's heritage. Provisions, restaurants, and local boutiques round out the settlement's appeal.

Nearby Attractions

From Black Sound, the entire Northern Abacos opens up. No Name Cay with its famous swimming pigs lies just south, an easy dinghy excursion. Manjack Cay to the north offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and swimming with stingrays. The ocean beaches of Green Turtle Cay itself provide excellent shelling and surf.

White Sound on the eastern side of Green Turtle Cay offers an alternative anchorage with different wind protection. The Green Turtle Club and Pineapples Bar and Grill serve memorable meals in beautiful waterfront settings. For provisioning and more extensive services, Treasure Cay lies a short sail southwest.

Getting there

Black Sound lies on the west side of Green Turtle Cay, approximately five nautical miles northeast of Treasure Cay. Approach from the Sea of Abaco, entering the narrow channel carefully at mid-tide or higher. Albury's Ferry provides daily service from Marsh Harbour to New Plymouth for crew changes. Treasure Cay airport offers scheduled flights from Fort Lauderdale.

Frequently asked questions

Can I anchor in Black Sound?

Anchoring is not recommended due to poor holding in thick grass. Moorings are available from several operators including Donny's Boat Rentals and Abaco Yacht Services. Contact them on VHF for availability and pricing.

What is the entrance depth at Black Sound?

The entrance channel carries approximately four to five feet at mean low water. Vessels drawing more than four feet should enter on a rising tide, preferably at mid-tide or higher. Proceed slowly and watch for shifting shoals.

How do I get to New Plymouth from Black Sound?

New Plymouth lies a short dinghy ride south from Black Sound. Tie up at the public dinghy dock in the settlement and explore on foot. The walk around the village takes about an hour, with museums, shops, and restaurants along the way.