Green Cay (Tongue of the Ocean)

Approach and Anchoring

Approach Green Cay from the east across the Tongue of the Ocean, watching the sounder as depths shift rapidly from unreadable blue water to 100 feet, then quickly to 20 feet as you climb onto the bank. The transition can be startling for first-time visitors.

Anchor on the west side of the cay in approximately 18 feet over nice deep sand. The bottom is clean with scattered sponges and sea fans but no coral heads to foul ground tackle. Set the hook firmly; the sand provides excellent holding once the anchor bites.

Holding and Protection

The west-side anchorage delivers very calm conditions when winds blow from the typical easterly quadrant. Green Cay itself blocks ocean swell, creating a placid pocket ideal for swimming and kayaking.

In westerly or northerly wind shifts, protection diminishes. Because the anchorage sits at the edge of deep water, fetch can build quickly. Monitor forecasts and plan departures accordingly. Reef sharks frequent the area but pose no threat to anchored vessels or swimmers exercising normal caution.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Green Cay offer outstanding snorkeling in exceptional visibility. Depths range from knee-deep flats to 24 feet along sandy slopes, with healthy sponge gardens and sea fans decorating the bottom. Marine life is abundant and unafraid.

Just offshore, the Tongue of the Ocean drops into the abyss, making this a convenient base for bluewater diving excursions. The US Navy's AUTEC testing range occupies surrounding waters; respect restricted-area boundaries marked on charts and avoid interfering with naval operations.

Solitude and Wildlife

Green Cay sees few visiting vessels, offering a genuine off-the-beaten-path Bahamas experience. The island supports diverse birdlife and vegetation, and the beaches invite beachcombing in splendid isolation.

Provisions are nonexistent here. Arrive fully stocked with water, food, and fuel. The nearest resupply lies back at Fresh Creek or Andros Town, a considerable sail to the north. Treat Green Cay as a wilderness anchorage where self-sufficiency is paramount.

Getting there

Green Cay lies approximately 20 nautical miles south of Fresh Creek along the edge of the Tongue of the Ocean. Cruisers typically approach from the east, crossing the deep trench and climbing onto the bank near the cay. Watch for rapid depth changes and navigate in good light. No services exist on the cay; provision fully before departure. Consult Explorer Charts and AUTEC restricted-area notices for current navigation guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Is Green Cay inhabited?

No. Green Cay is uninhabited with no facilities, provisions, or services. Cruisers must be entirely self-sufficient in food, water, and fuel. The solitude is part of the appeal for those seeking a true wilderness anchorage.

Are there sharks at Green Cay?

Reef sharks frequent the waters around Green Cay, particularly near the drop-off into the Tongue of the Ocean. They are generally not aggressive toward humans exercising normal caution. Avoid spearfishing or carrying bleeding fish, which can attract sharks.

What is AUTEC and does it affect anchoring?

AUTEC is the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center, a US Navy facility that conducts acoustic testing in the Tongue of the Ocean. Restricted areas are marked on nautical charts. Respect these boundaries and avoid interfering with any naval operations you may observe.