Harbour Island Anchorage

Approach and Navigation

Most cruisers reach Harbour Island from Spanish Wells via the Devil's Backbone, a challenging passage through coral heads and shifting shoals. Hiring a local pilot is strongly recommended for first-time transits; experienced pilots such as Bandit and Little Woody can be arranged through marinas in Spanish Wells. The passage requires good light, calm conditions, and careful attention to tidal timing.

Alternatively, approach from the south through the channel between Eleuthera and Harbour Island, where depths range from 13 to 19 feet. This route avoids the Devil's Backbone but requires weaving around shallow bars and reef heads. Proceed only in good visibility and consult current charts for the latest depths.

Holding and Protection

Anchorage is available off the marinas in depths of 7 to 10 feet, with the southern passage offering 6 to 7 feet and the northern passage somewhat shallower at 4 to 6 feet. Holding varies by location; set with care and check your swing room, as patches of grass and rock can affect anchor performance.

The anchorage offers reasonable protection from prevailing easterly winds, sheltered by Harbour Island itself. Westerly winds and frontal passages can create uncomfortable conditions, so monitor forecasts and consider relocating to more protected waters during unsettled weather.

Dunmore Town and Pink Sands Beach

Dunmore Town rewards exploration on foot or by golf cart. The settlement's grid of narrow streets, laid out by Lord Dunmore in the late 1700s, features colonial architecture painted in tropical pastels. Boutiques, galleries, and restaurants line Bay Street, offering locally made crafts, fresh seafood, and island cocktails.

Pink Sands Beach stretches for 2.5 miles along Harbour Island's Atlantic coast. The distinctive blush hue comes from microscopic foraminifera, single-celled organisms with red shells that mix with white sand to create the famous pink tint. The beach is hard-packed and perfect for walking, swimming, and watching spectacular Atlantic sunrises.

Marina and Services

Harbour Island offers marina facilities including Valentines Resort & Marina, which provides slips, fuel, water, and shore power. Reservations are recommended during the winter season. Additional moorings may be available; inquire locally upon arrival.

The island has grocery stores, restaurants, and basic marine supplies. For major repairs or extensive provisioning, Spanish Wells offers more comprehensive services. Water taxis connect Harbour Island to mainland Eleuthera, providing access to the North Eleuthera Airport and car rental options.

Getting there

Harbour Island is accessible by boat from Spanish Wells via the Devil's Backbone passage (pilot recommended) or from the south through the channel separating Harbour Island from Eleuthera. Water taxis run between Harbour Island and mainland Eleuthera, connecting to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). Most cruisers stage from Spanish Wells or Royal Island before making the crossing. The Devil's Backbone should only be attempted in good light, calm conditions, and ideally near slack tide.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a pilot for the Devil's Backbone?

A local pilot is strongly recommended for your first transit of the Devil's Backbone. The passage winds through coral heads and shifting shoals with little margin for error. Pilots charge approximately $100 one-way and can be arranged in Spanish Wells.

What makes Pink Sands Beach pink?

The pink colour comes from foraminifera, microscopic organisms with brilliant red shells. When these tiny shells mix with white sand, they create the distinctive blush hue that makes Pink Sands Beach famous. The colour is most vivid when the sand is wet.

Is there a marina at Harbour Island?

Yes, Valentines Resort & Marina offers slips, fuel, water, and shore power. Reservations are recommended during the busy winter season. Additional mooring options may be available; inquire with the marina or locals upon arrival.