Crossing Bay

Approach and Entrance

Crossing Bay lies on the southwestern shore of Great Guana Cay, approximately three miles south of Gumelemi Cay and one mile north of Fishers Bay. The anchorage is open to the Sea of Abaco with straightforward access from the west.

Approach directly from the Sea of Abaco, watching for the communication tower near the settlement to orient yourself along the cay. Crossing Bay opens between two slight points of land, distinguishable in good light by the change in water color over the sandy bottom. Depths range from six to ten feet in the anchorage, shoaling toward shore.

Holding and Protection

The anchorage offers moderate protection from east through southeast winds, with Great Guana Cay's mass providing shelter during prevailing conditions. The fetch across the Sea of Abaco limits wave action in most weather, creating comfortable conditions for overnight stays.

Holding is reasonable over a sandy bottom with scattered grass patches. Set your anchor in visible sand for the best grip, backing down firmly to ensure a good bite. The bay is exposed to west and northwest winds; if strong westerlies develop, consider relocating to Settlement Harbour or another protected spot.

What's Ashore

Crossing Bay has no direct facilities, but the walk across the cay to the Atlantic beach takes only ten to fifteen minutes on sandy paths. This crossing gives the bay its name and provides access to miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline.

The settlement, Fishers Bay, Grabbers Beach Bar, and Nippers are all within walking or dinghy distance to the south. The grocery store in the settlement handles basic provisioning, while the restaurants serve everything from casual beachside fare to proper sit-down meals. The anchorage offers convenient access without requiring payment for mooring balls or fighting for space in more popular bights.

Nearby Attractions

Great Guana Cay's seven miles of Atlantic beach rank among the finest in the Bahamas, with clear water, clean sand, and far fewer visitors than you might expect. The crossing from this bay provides direct access to some of the most pristine sections.

For those seeking company, Grabbers and Nippers lie a short dinghy ride south. The settlement offers a chance to explore a working Bahamian community with its colorful cottages and friendly residents. From Crossing Bay, the entire Sea of Abaco cruising ground remains within easy reach for day trips to Hope Town, Man-O-War, or Treasure Cay.

Getting there

Crossing Bay lies on Great Guana Cay's southwestern shore, approximately eight nautical miles north of Marsh Harbour. From Marsh Harbour, exit through the channel and head north past Man-O-War Cay. The bay sits between Bakers Bay to the north and Fishers Bay to the south. Approach from the Sea of Abaco in six to ten feet of depth.

Frequently asked questions

Why choose Crossing Bay over Fishers Bay?

Crossing Bay offers a quieter alternative with less boat traffic and no beach bar activity nearby. If you value a peaceful night's sleep while maintaining easy access to Guana's attractions, Crossing Bay delivers without mooring fees or crowds.

How do I reach the Atlantic beach from Crossing Bay?

Dinghy to shore and follow the sandy paths across the narrow cay. The crossing takes ten to fifteen minutes on foot and leads directly to some of Great Guana Cay's most pristine Atlantic beach sections.

What protection does Crossing Bay offer?

The bay provides moderate protection from east through southeast winds, covering typical prevailing conditions. It is exposed to west and northwest winds. Relocate to Settlement Harbour or another protected spot if strong westerlies are forecast.