Cambridge Cay Mooring Field

Approach and Mooring

Cambridge Cay's mooring field lies on the western side of the cay, approached from the banks. The field offers excellent protection from all directions, with the surrounding cays blocking wind and swell from virtually every quarter.

Moorings are first-come, first-served. Anchoring nearby may be possible in sand where it does not interfere with the mooring field, but the park's mooring balls are preferred. Consult Explorer Charts for current approach waypoints and depths.

Protection and Conditions

Cambridge Cay's geography provides superior all-around protection. The mooring field remains calm in conditions that would make more exposed anchorages uncomfortable, making it an excellent choice when weather is unsettled.

The clear, shallow waters characteristic of the banks make visual navigation straightforward in good light, though scattered coral heads require attention throughout the area.

Nearby Attractions

Rocky Dundas, with its dramatic limestone caves featuring stalactites and stalagmites, lies a short dinghy ride from Cambridge Cay. The caves are best explored at low tide when the entrances are most accessible.

The Sea Aquarium snorkelling site at O'Briens Cay is also easily reached, along with other excellent reef snorkelling throughout the surrounding no-take zone. Fowl Cay and Bell Island provide additional day-trip destinations within dinghy range.

Approach and Mooring

Cambridge Cay's mooring field lies on the western side of the cay at approximately 24 degrees 19.4 minutes North, 76 degrees 33.4 minutes West. The field is approached from the banks, with Conch Cut providing a reliable route from Exuma Sound for vessels entering from the east. The shallowest point on the Conch Cut approach is approximately 5.6 feet at mean low water near waypoint WP4; vessels drawing over 5 feet should time their passage for rising tide.

Moorings are operated by the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the park on VHF Channel 16 or Channel 9 for guidance. Two large buoys at the south end of the field are marked for vessels up to 150 feet, and a single mooring west of O'Briens Cay accommodates vessels to 135 feet. Payment is made via the mailbox on Mailbox Cay or online. Anchoring is permitted south and west of the mooring field only; do not anchor between the moorings and Cambridge Cay proper. This information is for orientation; consult official charts for navigation.

Protection and Conditions

Cambridge Cay's geography delivers excellent all-around protection, with surrounding cays blocking wind and swell from virtually every direction. The mooring field remains calm in conditions that would make more exposed anchorages uncomfortable, making it a strong choice when frontal passages are forecast or when seeking a restful night's sleep.

The clear, shallow waters characteristic of the banks make visual navigation straightforward in good light, though scattered coral heads require attention throughout the area. Tidal currents are moderate compared to more exposed cuts, but can leave dinghies stranded on flats at low water. Plan shore excursions around tide tables to avoid a long wade back to your tender.

Exploring Rocky Dundas and the Sea Aquarium

Rocky Dundas lies approximately 1.1 nautical miles north of the mooring field, an easy dinghy ride in calm conditions. The main attraction is a pair of large limestone caves featuring dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The best time to explore is at low tide when cave entrances are most accessible. Light filtering through openings above creates an ethereal atmosphere, with locals calling one particular shaft of illumination the finger of God when the sun is directly overhead.

The Sea Aquarium snorkelling site at O'Briens Cay is also a short dinghy ride away, famous for its clear waters and abundant fish life. Blue tangs, sergeant majors, angelfish, and larger species congregate around healthy coral formations. Additional snorkelling opportunities exist south of the Aquarium, including a sunken aircraft wreckage and elkhorn coral gardens. Bell Island and Fowl Cay provide further day-trip destinations within easy range.

Services and Practical Tips

Cambridge Cay has no facilities or services. The nearest fuel, water, groceries, and laundry are at Staniel Cay or Compass Cay, approximately 5 nautical miles south and outside the park boundaries. Plan to arrive self-sufficient and depart with your garbage; there is no trash disposal or pumpout station on site.

A hiking trail from the moorings leads across Cambridge Cay to a scenic eastern beach with views over Exuma Sound. The walk is short but rewarding, offering a different perspective from the banks-side mooring field. Cambridge Cay's position at the park's southern boundary makes it an ideal staging point for passages to Staniel Cay, where the famous swimming pigs and provisioning await. The quieter atmosphere here, compared to busier Warderick Wells, appeals to cruisers seeking tranquillity within the protected park environment.

Getting there

Cambridge Cay lies at the southern end of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, approximately 12 nautical miles south of Warderick Wells and 5 nm north of Staniel Cay. Most cruisers approach from the banks, often as a stop between Warderick Wells and the provisioning at Staniel Cay. The cay is also accessible from Exuma Sound via the cuts to the east.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cambridge Cay inside the Land and Sea Park?

Yes, Cambridge Cay is the southernmost cay within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park boundaries. All park rules apply: no fishing, no collecting, no anchoring except where permitted.

How far is Rocky Dundas from Cambridge Cay?

Rocky Dundas lies approximately one nautical mile north of Cambridge Cay, an easy dinghy ride. Plan your visit for low tide when the cave entrances are most accessible.

Can I provision at Cambridge Cay?

No. Cambridge Cay has no facilities or services. The nearest provisioning is at Staniel Cay, about 5 nm south and outside the park boundaries.

What is the best tide for visiting Rocky Dundas caves?

Low tide is optimal. The cave entrances are most accessible when water levels are low, allowing easier entry and better visibility inside. Plan your dinghy trip to arrive at Rocky Dundas during the low tide window for the best experience.

Can I anchor at Cambridge Cay instead of using a mooring?

Anchoring is permitted only south and west of the mooring field; anchoring between the moorings and Cambridge Cay proper is prohibited. If moorings are full, find a sand patch in the designated anchoring zone and set your hook carefully to avoid coral.

How do I pay for a mooring at Cambridge Cay?

Payment is made via the mailbox on Mailbox Cay or online through the Bahamas National Trust website. Include your vessel name, length, and dates on the payment envelope. Confirm current rates with the park on VHF Channel 9 or 16.