Bond's Cay Anchorage

Approach and Navigation

Bond's Cay lies in the central-southern Berry Islands, accessible via the inside route through the chain. The approach to the west side anchorage is straightforward, with depths adequate for most cruising vessels throughout the bay.

The gap between Bond's Cay and Little Whale Cay to the south offers an alternative anchorage area, though conditions depend on weather and swell direction. Consult Explorer Charts and approach with good light for reading the water around the scattered rocks and shallows.

Holding and Protection

Depths in the Bond's Cay anchorage range from 12 to 18 feet over a sandy bottom that provides decent holding when properly set. The sweeping bay offers some protection from easterly winds, with the cay itself blocking the worst of the prevailing trades.

However, Bond's Cay is best considered a day anchorage rather than an overnight stop. When weather and swells are kind, it makes an excellent place to pause for a swim and lunch before continuing along the Berry Islands chain. Overnight visitors should seek more protected anchorages if conditions are expected to deteriorate.

Beaches and Exploration

The center portion of Bond's Cay's west side features several small beaches scattered along the sweeping shoreline. These invite dinghy exploration and provide pleasant spots for beachcombing or a picnic ashore.

The surrounding waters offer typical Berry Islands clarity, with good snorkeling possible along the rocky edges of the coves. Marine life is abundant in these relatively untraveled waters, though facilities and services are nonexistent on this uninhabited cay.

Nearby Options

Little Whale Cay to the south offers additional anchorage possibilities, though landing is not permitted as it is a private resort. The west side of Little Whale Cay in front of the docks provides the best protection in silty sand, though vessels drawing more than 5.5 feet should anchor along the more exposed northwest side.

The Sisters Rocks-Bond's Cay area to the north offers another day anchorage option in 12 to 18 feet of water. This flexibility allows cruisers to choose the best position based on current conditions.

Getting there

Bond's Cay lies in the central-southern Berry Islands, approximately 5 nautical miles north of Chub Cay and accessible via the inside route through the chain. From Little Harbour Cay or Hoffman's Cay to the north, the passage south is straightforward in settled weather. The anchorage is best approached in good visibility for reading the water around scattered rocks. Nearby Little Whale Cay offers alternative anchorage but no landing privileges.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bond's Cay suitable for overnight anchoring?

Bond's Cay is best considered a day anchorage. When weather and swells cooperate, it makes an excellent stop for swimming and lunch. For overnight stays, more protected anchorages at Frazer's Hog Cay, Hoffman's Cay, or Chub Cay Marina may be preferable depending on conditions.

Can I land at Little Whale Cay near Bond's Cay?

No, Little Whale Cay is a private resort and landing is not permitted. However, the waters around Little Whale Cay offer additional anchorage options. Vessels drawing more than 5.5 feet should anchor along the northwest side rather than in front of the docks.

What beaches are there at Bond's Cay?

The center portion of Bond's Cay's west side features several small beaches along the sweeping shoreline. These are accessible by dinghy and offer pleasant spots for beachcombing, picnics, or simply enjoying the scenery.