Gumelemi Cay - Bakers Bay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

Gumelemi Cay lies at the northwestern tip of Great Guana Cay, easily identified by the small wooden tower on the otherwise uninhabited island. Approaching from the Sea of Abaco, the anchorage area is open and straightforward from the west or southeast.

Avoid approaching from the northwest end of Guana Cay due to multiple reefs and islands jutting out around Gumelemi. From the south, pass the Scotland Cay ferry channel and continue north along the Guana Cay shore until the anchorage opens up. Depths range from seven to twelve feet throughout the area with good visibility for reading the bottom.

Holding and Protection

Both anchorage spots offer very good holding in deep sand, a welcome change from the grassy bottoms that plague many Abaco anchorages. Anchor in depths of seven to twelve feet with adequate scope and expect your ground tackle to set quickly and firmly.

Protection is reasonable from the northeast through east, covering prevailing conditions. However, the anchorage is open to the south and southeast, where fetch across the Sea of Abaco can build uncomfortable chop. In frontal passages with shifting winds, consider relocating to Fishers Bay or Settlement Harbour farther south on Guana Cay.

Marina Traffic and Wakes

The active Bakers Bay Marina generates constant boat traffic through the anchorage area. Vessels range from tender boats and jet skis to large sportfishers and megayachts, with activity beginning at first light and continuing well into evening.

The wakes can be significant and persistent. Boats anchored northwest of the marina entrance experience the most traffic, while the spot south of Gumelemi sees somewhat less but is not immune. If you're sensitive to rolling or cooking aboard, time your activities around peak traffic or choose an alternative anchorage.

Nearby Attractions

While the Bakers Bay development itself is private and restricted to members and guests, Great Guana Cay offers plenty for visiting cruisers. Seven miles of spectacular Atlantic beach stretch along the eastern shore, accessible by dinghy from various points along the cay.

Fishers Bay and Settlement Harbour to the south provide access to Grabbers Beach Bar, Nippers, and the small settlement's grocery store and restaurants. The anchorage serves as a convenient overnight stop for boats transiting between Treasure Cay and the central Abacos, with easy access to both directions.

Getting there

From Treasure Cay, sail southeast approximately six nautical miles to Gumelemi Cay at Great Guana Cay's northern tip. From Marsh Harbour, head north approximately ten miles, passing Scotland Cay and approaching along the western shore of Guana. Anchor south of Gumelemi Cay or northwest of the Bakers Bay Marina entrance in seven to twelve feet.

Frequently asked questions

How bad is the wake traffic at Bakers Bay?

Wake traffic is constant and can be significant. Boats of all sizes transit the area from early morning until late evening. If you're sensitive to rolling, time cooking and sleeping around traffic peaks, or consider anchoring in Fishers Bay instead.

Can I visit Bakers Bay resort or marina?

Bakers Bay is a private development restricted to members and registered guests. The marina requires pre-registration and is not open to transient vessels. Cruisers should plan activities around Great Guana Cay's public beaches and the settlement to the south.

Is the holding really that good?

Yes. Unlike many Abaco anchorages with challenging grassy bottoms, the Gumelemi Cay area features deep sand that sets anchors quickly and holds firmly. This makes it popular despite the traffic and exposure issues.