Hatchet Bay

Approach and Entrance

The entrance to Hatchet Bay appears intimidating but is more straightforward than it looks. The channel is approximately fifty feet wide, cut through cliffs twenty to thirty feet high, with controlling depth around ten feet. Approach from the southwest, identifying the entrance gap in the cliff face. Once through the short channel, the bay opens into a spacious enclosed basin.

First-time visitors often feel the entrance looks impossibly narrow, but the channel has ample width for cruising vessels. Proceed slowly, keeping centered in the channel, and you will find the transit easy in calm conditions. Avoid entering in heavy surge or swells from the west.

Holding and Anchoring

Hatchet Bay presents one consistent challenge: thick beds of turtle grass cover much of the bottom, causing anchors to skip or drag across the surface. The grass is dense enough that many anchors fail to penetrate to the sand beneath. Cruisers report mixed success depending on anchor type and technique.

The north and south ends of the bay offer the best anchoring areas, where sandy patches allow better holding. Set your anchor carefully, back down firmly, and dive on your anchor if conditions allow to verify a proper set. The bay itself ranges from seven to twenty-five feet deep, with the center being deepest and shallowing toward shore.

Protection and Weather

Once inside Hatchet Bay, you are completely protected from wind and sea regardless of direction. The cliffs and surrounding land create a natural fortress against weather. This all-around protection makes Hatchet Bay the preferred refuge for cruisers riding out frontal passages or tropical weather in northern Eleuthera.

The bay remains calm even when conditions outside are rough. Stay clear of the main channel leading to the government dock, as freight and ferry vessels use this area regularly. Position yourself with ample swinging room and secure holding, and you can ride out virtually any weather in comfort.

Ashore and Attractions

Hatchet Bay settlement wraps around the harbour, offering basic provisioning and a few local restaurants. The settlement maintains a working atmosphere, with fishing boats and freight traffic keeping the docks active. Dinghies can land at the government dock for shore access.

The famous Hatchet Bay Cave lies within walking distance, offering underground exploration through vast chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Bring flashlights and wear appropriate footwear, as the cave is undeveloped. The surrounding farmland, legacy of the dairy industry, provides pleasant walks through rare Bahamian agricultural landscape.

Getting there

Hatchet Bay lies on the west coast of central Eleuthera, approximately 15 nautical miles south of Royal Island and 20 miles north of Governor's Harbour. The approach waypoint is approximately 25 20.690N 76 29.609W, from which a course of 25 degrees true for about 0.3 miles leads to the entrance. The narrow entrance through the cliffs is visible from offshore. Enter only in calm conditions with good visibility.

Frequently asked questions

Is the entrance to Hatchet Bay difficult?

The entrance looks narrow at approximately fifty feet wide, but the channel has adequate depth and width for most cruising vessels. Enter slowly, stay centered, and proceed with confidence. Avoid entering in significant swell or surge from the west.

Why is anchoring difficult in Hatchet Bay?

Thick beds of turtle grass cover most of the bottom, preventing many anchors from reaching the sand beneath. Use a high-quality anchor, set carefully, and dive on your anchor to verify it has penetrated the grass. The north and south ends offer better sandy patches.

Can I visit Hatchet Bay Cave from the anchorage?

Yes, the cave is within walking distance of the settlement. Bring flashlights and wear sturdy footwear, as the cave is undeveloped. The underground chambers feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites.