Graham's Harbour Anchorage

Approach and Anchoring

Graham's Harbour lies at the northern end of San Salvador, requiring passage through reef-studded waters to reach the anchorage area. The approach demands careful navigation among numerous coral heads, ideally undertaken in good light with a skilled bow watch.

A local guide familiar with the harbour is recommended for first-time visitors. The bay contains multiple potential anchoring spots, but all require threading through coral formations. Consult Explorer Charts and current cruising guides for detailed information, and never attempt entry in poor visibility or rough conditions.

Protection and Conditions

Like all San Salvador anchorages, Graham's Harbour does not offer complete protection from swell and surge. The reef-studded nature of the bay provides some breaking of waves, but ocean conditions affect anchored vessels to varying degrees depending on wind direction and sea state.

The harbour is more sheltered than open roadstead anchorages along San Salvador's coast, but cruisers should maintain realistic expectations about comfort levels. Monitor weather carefully and be prepared to relocate if conditions deteriorate beyond acceptable limits.

Cay Exploration

A half-day boat trip exploring Graham's Harbour's cays is considered the natural-history highlight of a San Salvador visit. Green Cay in the northwest provides challenging landing conditions but easy walking once ashore. White Cay near the outer reef features rougher waters but a fine beach on the leeward side.

Gaulin Cay and Cato Cay lie closer to the mainland and are easier to access. The reef off Gaulin Cay offers particularly good snorkeling opportunities. Each cay presents different character and rewards, making exploration of the entire harbour a multi-day proposition for those with time to spare.

Wildlife and Snorkeling

Graham's Harbour supports diverse birdlife, with the cays providing nesting habitat for various seabird species. Birdwatchers will find the area rewarding, particularly during nesting seasons when activity peaks.

The reef systems throughout the harbour offer excellent snorkeling in the typically clear San Salvador waters. Visibility often exceeds 100 feet, revealing healthy coral formations and diverse marine life. The relatively remote location means these reefs see less diving pressure than sites near Riding Rock, preserving their pristine character.

Getting there

Graham's Harbour is located at the northern end of San Salvador, accessible by carefully navigating among reefs and coral heads from the western or eastern approaches. A local guide is recommended for first-time visitors. Plan your approach for excellent light conditions to spot coral heads, and proceed slowly with a bow watch posted.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a local guide for Graham's Harbour?

A local guide is highly recommended for first-time visitors due to the numerous reefs and coral heads throughout the harbour. Even experienced cruisers should proceed with extreme caution, using current charts and good light conditions.

Which cay is best for snorkeling?

The reef off Gaulin Cay offers particularly good snorkeling. However, reef systems throughout Graham's Harbour provide excellent underwater exploration in the typically clear San Salvador waters, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet.

Are there any facilities at Graham's Harbour?

No facilities exist at Graham's Harbour. Arrive fully provisioned with water, fuel, and supplies. The nearest services are at Cockburn Town and Riding Rock Marina on San Salvador's western coast.