Cave Cay

Approach and Anchoring

Good anchorages are found along the western shore of Cave Cay and in the waters west of Musha Cay. Approach from the Exuma Banks, navigating carefully among coral heads and sand bores common throughout this area.

Cave Cay Cut lies north of Musha Cay and provides a deep, wide passage to Exuma Sound. Many cruisers prefer this cut to nearby Galliot Cut because of reduced turbulence from a deeper rock sill. The marina entrance has 5.5 feet at mean low water and 9 feet at high water, with 11.5 feet inside the marina at low water.

Holding and Protection

Holding along the western shore is generally good in sand. The marina itself offers exceptional protection, with 360-degree shelter from surrounding 40-foot hills creating a hurricane-hole quality harbour.

The western shore anchorages provide adequate protection in prevailing easterly conditions. Vessels with drafts greater than 5.25 feet need the help of the tide to clear the entrance bump at the marina.

What's Ashore and Nearby

Cave Cay is a private island with limited public access. The marina facilities cater primarily to island guests and property owners. However, the deep-water harbour is notable as one of the few true deep-water marinas in the remote Exumas.

Nearby Musha Cay, owned by magician David Copperfield, operates as an exclusive private resort. The anchorage west of Musha Cay in Copperfield Bay offers sheltered deep water. Little Farmers Cay lies approximately 3 nm south with restaurant and yacht club facilities.

Practical Considerations

Cave Cay's position makes it a convenient waypoint for cruisers traveling between Staniel Cay and Georgetown. The transit can be done in a day with favorable conditions, but having intermediate anchorage options is prudent.

No public fuel or provisioning is available at Cave Cay. Plan fuel and provisions at Staniel Cay (approximately 12 nm north) or Georgetown (approximately 20 nm south). Cave Cay has a private 2,800-foot airstrip.

Getting there

Cave Cay lies approximately 12 nautical miles south of Staniel Cay and 20 nm north of Georgetown on the Exuma Banks. Approach from the banks following established routes. Cave Cay Cut provides passage to Exuma Sound. Consult Explorer Charts EX-20 and EX-21 for detailed navigation information.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Cave Cay marina open to the public?

The marina is primarily private, serving island guests and property owners. Cruisers typically use the western shore anchorages rather than the marina facilities.

Why do cruisers prefer Cave Cay Cut?

Cave Cay Cut has a deeper rock sill than nearby Galliot Cut, resulting in less turbulence when transiting between the Exuma Banks and Exuma Sound.

Where is the nearest fuel to Cave Cay?

The nearest fuel is at Staniel Cay Yacht Club (approximately 12 nm north) or in Georgetown (approximately 20 nm south). No public fuel is available at Cave Cay.