Calabash Bay

Approach and Anchoring

Calabash Bay is accessible through several reef passages along the western shore of Galliot Cay. The most popular anchorage lies in the northern portion near Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort, where protection is marginally better than in the rest of the bay. A narrow channel of adequate depth leads to the anchoring area, though some boats end up in surprisingly shallow water.

Navigate carefully with good light and favor sandy patches visible through the clear water. The bay is wide open to the south and west, so have a backup plan if winds shift to those quadrants. Consult current Explorer Charts and cruising guides for detailed approach waypoints and reef passage locations.

Holding and Protection

The bottom is predominantly sand, providing good holding for most anchor types. Protection is adequate from northeast through east-southeast winds when anchored close to the resort area. However, northerly or northeast Atlantic swells refract around Cape Santa Maria and create an uncomfortable surge that can make the anchorage untenable.

When winds approach twenty knots from any direction, the bay can develop a pronounced roll. Cruisers planning an overnight stay should monitor weather carefully and be prepared to relocate to Joe's Sound or Thompson Bay if conditions deteriorate. In settled easterly weather, Calabash Bay is one of the most beautiful anchorages in the southern Bahamas.

What's Ashore

The Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort welcomes visiting cruisers to its excellent restaurant, bar, and small provisions store. The resort's stretch of beach consistently ranks among the finest in the Caribbean, with over four miles of deserted white sand extending along the cape. Swimming, beachcombing, and kayaking are all excellent.

The western flats of Calabash Bay are renowned for bonefishing, with wading anglers regularly spotting tailing fish in the shallow water. The resort can arrange guided fishing trips, diving excursions, and tours of the island. For a more rustic experience, nearby Joe's Sound offers all-weather protection and a chance to explore the mangrove channels.

Nearby Attractions

A short sail or motor south brings you to Joe's Sound, one of the best-protected hurricane holes on Long Island. The entrance is challenging but the reward is complete shelter from all wind directions. Newton Cay's mangrove channels lie within easy exploring distance by dinghy.

Ashore, the Columbus Monument at the northern tip of the island commemorates the explorer's 1492 landfall. The northern section of Long Island offers some of the best diving, fishing, and cave exploration in the Out Islands, all within reach of the Calabash Bay anchorage.

Getting there

Calabash Bay lies at the northern tip of Long Island, approximately 25 miles north of Thompson Bay. Most cruisers approach from the west after crossing from the Exumas or sailing south from Cat Island. Several reef passages provide access to the bay; enter with good overhead light to read the water. The Cape Santa Maria marina can accommodate sailboats with drafts over six feet near high tide under the right conditions, though most cruisers anchor out and dinghy to the resort beach.

Frequently asked questions

Can I anchor overnight at Calabash Bay?

Yes, in settled easterly weather Calabash Bay is a beautiful overnight anchorage. However, northerly or northeast Atlantic swells create uncomfortable surge conditions, and the bay is wide open to south and west winds. Monitor forecasts carefully and have Joe's Sound or Thompson Bay as backup options.

Is the Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort open to cruisers?

Yes, the resort welcomes visiting sailors to its restaurant, bar, and provisions store. The Activity Centre can arrange fishing, diving, sailing, and other excursions. The resort beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the Bahamas and is open for cruisers to enjoy.

How do I reach Joe's Sound from Calabash Bay?

Joe's Sound lies approximately five miles south of Cape Santa Maria, accessible by a short sail or motor along the coast. The entrance is narrow, unmarked, and requires good light and careful navigation. Once inside, Joe's Sound offers excellent all-weather protection.