Devil's Cay Anchorage

Approach and Navigation

Deep water surrounds Devil's Cay, making the approach uncomplicated from multiple directions. Boats traveling the inside route through the Berries can easily divert to Devil's Cay from the main channel. The ocean entry between White Cay and Devil's Cay is available for vessels unable to negotiate the shallower inside route, providing access from the Atlantic.

The cut between White Cay and Devil's Cay is nearly a quarter mile wide and well over 20 feet deep. However, once the rocks at the south end of White Cay are abeam, make a sharp turn to starboard. Do not attempt to cross the rocky bar in the narrow gap between Saddleback Cay and Devil's Cay.

Holding and Protection

The anchorage in the bite of Devil's Cay offers decent holding in sand but poor holding in grass patches. Choose your anchor position carefully, favoring sandy areas visible through the clear water. Depths of 7 to 10 feet are typical, with tidal range of 2.5 to 3 feet.

Protection is good when winds blow from the east, as the cay itself provides a lee. However, the anchorage becomes unstable if winds shift to the south, and there is no protection from westerly blows. This is a fair-weather anchorage best enjoyed when settled conditions are forecast.

Beaches and Wildlife

On the south side of Devil's Cay, a cruisers' beach features beach chairs, a welcome sign, and a small table left by previous visitors. From this beach, a path along the rocks leads around the inlet to the ocean side of the island, where the Atlantic waves meet pristine sand.

Sea turtles periodically nest in the cove on the island's northern side, making this an important wildlife habitat. The surrounding waters support healthy populations of reef fish, rays, and other marine life. The snorkeling in the small bays throughout this area is excellent, with clear water and abundant sea life.

Exploring the Area

Devil's Cay rewards exploration both above and below the water. The island itself is uninhabited, save for wildlife, and walking the beaches reveals the kind of unspoiled natural beauty that draws cruisers to the Berry Islands.

The neighboring cays create a scenic cruising ground with multiple anchorage options. Hoffman's Cay with its famous blue hole lies just to the north, while White Cay and the deeper cuts to the Atlantic are within easy reach. This area exemplifies what makes the Berry Islands special: remote, wild, breathtaking, and largely overlooked by those hurrying south to more crowded destinations.

Getting there

Devil's Cay lies in the central Berry Islands, approximately 10 nautical miles south of Great Harbour Cay. The inside route through the Berries passes close by, making it an easy detour from the main cruising corridor. Ocean entry is possible through the wide, deep cut between White Cay and Devil's Cay for boats arriving from the Atlantic. From Hoffman's Cay, the passage south is straightforward. Consult Explorer Charts for depths and waypoints around the surrounding rocks and shallows.

Frequently asked questions

Can I anchor overnight at Devil's Cay?

Yes, in settled easterly conditions the anchorage is comfortable for overnight stays. However, protection deteriorates quickly if winds shift to the south or west. This is best considered a fair-weather anchorage, and cruisers should have a contingency plan if conditions are expected to change.

Is Devil's Cay inhabited?

No, Devil's Cay is uninhabited. There are no facilities, stores, or services on the island. The only structures are informal beach amenities left by previous cruisers, such as chairs and a welcome sign on the south beach. Arrive fully self-sufficient.

When do sea turtles nest at Devil's Cay?

Sea turtles typically nest in the Bahamas between May and October, with peak activity in June and July. The cove on Devil's Cay's northern side is a known nesting area. If you observe turtles, keep your distance and avoid disturbing them, especially at night when females may be coming ashore to lay eggs.