
Frazer's Hog Cay Anchorage
A nearly all-weather anchorage sheltered by neighboring cays where strong tidal currents sweep crystal-clear waters.
Frazer's Hog Cay occupies a privileged position at the southern end of the Berry Islands, sheltered from prevailing easterly winds by Bird Cay and Whale Cay with their inshore sand banks. This natural protection creates one of the closest things to an all-weather anchorage found in this part of the Berries, making it a popular staging point for crossings to the Exumas or Nassau.
The three-mile southeastern shoreline forms a natural yacht harbor averaging 20 feet in depth, with vessels drawing up to 7 feet able to moor just offshore. Strong tidal currents sweep through the anchorage, keeping the water crystal-clear but requiring attention when setting the anchor.
Approach and Navigation
Frazer's Hog Cay is located adjacent to Chub Cay at the southern tip of the Berry Islands. The approach from the inside route is straightforward, following the chain south from Hoffman's Cay and the central Berries. From deep water, boats can enter via the gap between Bird Cay and Whale Cay.
The protected harbor along the southeast side of the cay offers deep water close to shore, making it accessible for most cruising vessels. Pay attention to the sand banks extending from neighboring cays when choosing your anchor position.
Holding and Protection
Bird Cay and Whale Cay with their inshore sand banks shelter Frazer's Hog Cay from the prevailing easterly winds, creating protection that is rare in this part of the Bahamas. The east side of Frazer's Hog Cay is considered as close to an all-weather anchorage as you can find in the southern Berries.
Holding is good in the sandy bottom, though strong tidal currents run through the anchorage and require attention when setting the anchor. Allow adequate scope and set the hook well before the current changes. The currents also mean the anchorage may not lie quietly in light winds.
What Was Here
Cruisers who visited in past years may remember the Berry Islands Club, a laid-back local establishment that catered to visiting boats with rooms, showers, laundry, fuel, and a popular bar and restaurant. Unfortunately, the Berry Islands Club was a victim of Hurricane Matthew and has not been rebuilt.
Today, Frazer's Hog Cay offers no facilities. Cruisers should arrive fully provisioned and self-sufficient. For supplies and services, Chub Cay Marina lies just a short dinghy or sail away.
A Quieter Alternative
Many seasoned cruisers prefer the Berries precisely because they remain less crowded than more popular Bahamas destinations. Frazer's Hog Cay embodies this appeal: when boats arrive, several vessels may be anchored, but the anchorage never feels crowded like high-traffic stops in the Exumas.
The anchorage makes an excellent staging point for the passage south to the Exumas or east to Nassau across the Great Bahama Bank. With its protected waters and good holding, it provides a comfortable spot to wait for a weather window.
Getting there
Frazer's Hog Cay lies at the southern tip of the Berry Islands, adjacent to Chub Cay. From the central Berries, follow the inside route south past Hoffman's Cay, Little Harbour Cay, and the Soldier Cay area. From Nassau, cross the Great Bahama Bank northwest to the Chub Cay area. The anchorage is accessible from deep water via gaps between the southern cays. Chub Cay Marina lies nearby for fuel, provisioning, and customs clearance.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Berry Islands Club still operating at Frazer's Hog Cay?
- No, unfortunately the Berry Islands Club was destroyed by Hurricane Matthew and has not been rebuilt. There are currently no facilities at Frazer's Hog Cay. For services, visit nearby Chub Cay Marina.
- How strong are the tidal currents at Frazer's Hog Cay?
- Tidal currents through the anchorage are strong and require attention when anchoring. Set adequate scope, ensure your anchor is well set before the current changes, and expect the boat to swing with the tide rather than the wind in light conditions.
- Why is Frazer's Hog Cay considered an all-weather anchorage?
- Bird Cay and Whale Cay to the east, along with their inshore sand banks, shelter Frazer's Hog Cay from the prevailing easterly trade winds. This geography provides protection that is rare in the exposed southern Berry Islands, though the anchorage is still affected by strong tidal currents.
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