Hatchet Bay Harbour

The Narrow Entrance

The entrance to Hatchet Bay appears impossibly narrow as you approach, a slot carved through imposing limestone cliffs. At approximately 50 feet wide, the channel requires precise steering but has adequate depth for most cruising vessels. The bar at the entrance carries about 10 feet at mean low water, though conditions can vary.

Approach the entrance perpendicular to the cliff face, identifying the gap well in advance. Once committed, maintain a steady course through the passage. The channel opens quickly into the expansive harbour beyond. First-time visitors often express disbelief at how the narrow entrance gives way to such a spacious, protected basin.

Holding and Anchoring

Inside Hatchet Bay, depths range from 7 to 25 feet, with the deepest water in the centre of the basin. The western side of the bay is favoured for anchoring, where depths of 10 to 14 feet offer comfortable swinging room. The bottom presents challenges: dense turtle grass beds can cause anchors to drag or fail to set properly.

Successful anchoring requires finding sandy patches among the grass. Multiple sets may be necessary to ensure the anchor bites through to the sand below. Some cruisers report better results with a second anchor or switching to an anchor style designed for grass bottoms. Once properly set, the holding is secure enough to ride out significant weather.

Protection and Weather

Hatchet Bay's landlocked configuration provides virtually complete protection from wind and waves. The surrounding cliffs and hills block wind from all directions, and the narrow entrance prevents ocean swells from penetrating the harbour. During frontal passages that can make other Eleuthera anchorages uncomfortable, boats in Hatchet Bay barely notice the weather change.

This security has made Hatchet Bay a favourite destination during winter months when cold fronts sweep through the Bahamas. By dark, the harbour can host 30 or 40 boats sheltering from a blow. The community atmosphere during storm holds creates lasting friendships among cruisers who share the refuge.

Ashore Attractions

Alice Town lies near the harbour, offering basic provisions, friendly locals, and a glimpse of Eleuthera's agricultural heritage. The area was once home to a large dairy farm that supplied milk throughout the Bahamas; though the farm has closed, remnants of this history remain visible.

Hatchet Bay Cave, located nearby, is one of Eleuthera's most impressive natural attractions. The cave system extends deep into the limestone, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and Lucayan Indian petroglyphs. Guided tours illuminate the geological and historical significance of the caverns. The nearby Hatchet Bay Bluff Walk offers dramatic coastal views and birdwatching opportunities.

Getting there

Hatchet Bay lies on Eleuthera's banks side (west coast), just south of Gregory Town and approximately 35 miles south of Spanish Wells. The approach along the coast is straightforward; identify the narrow entrance well in advance and approach perpendicular to the cliff face. The entrance bar carries roughly 10 feet at low water. Inside, anchor on the western side in 10-14 feet, seeking sandy patches for best holding. Alice Town is accessible by dinghy for provisions.

Frequently asked questions

Is the entrance to Hatchet Bay dangerous?

The 50-foot-wide entrance looks intimidating but has adequate depth and width for most cruising vessels. Approach perpendicular to the cliff, maintain steady steering, and you will pass through quickly into the protected harbour. First-time visitors are often surprised by how manageable the entrance actually is.

Why is anchoring in Hatchet Bay difficult?

Dense turtle grass beds cover much of the bottom, causing anchors to drag or fail to penetrate to the sand below. Success requires finding sandy patches, possibly multiple sets, and patience. Some cruisers use anchor styles designed for grass or deploy a second anchor for security.

Is Hatchet Bay Cave worth visiting?

Yes, Hatchet Bay Cave is one of Eleuthera's premier natural attractions. The cave system features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, plus Lucayan Indian petroglyphs dating back centuries. Guided tours are available and recommended to appreciate the geological and historical significance.