Little Darby Island Anchorage

The Bay Anchorage

The anchorage lies in the small bay between Little Darby Island and Big Darby Island to the west. Protection from easterly winds is reasonable, though exposure to other directions limits use to settled conditions or when a persistent east wind is forecast.

Holding is good where you can find suitable depth at the edge of the shallow bank that fills much of the bay. Much of the inner bay dries or nearly dries at low tide, so positioning is important. Vessels drawing up to 6.5 feet can find sufficient water inside with attention to the swinging room.

Two-Anchor Recommendation

The anchorage offers very limited swinging room due to the shallow bank filling much of the bay. Setting two anchors is strongly recommended to control swing and keep your vessel in adequate depth throughout tidal cycles.

The position at the edge of the bank means that swing into shallow water is the primary risk. A well-set Bahamian moor or fore-and-aft anchors will prevent this concern and allow for a restful overnight.

Position and Strategy

Little Darby Island lies approximately midway between Staniel Cay and Georgetown, making it a natural waypoint for cruisers transiting in either direction. The anchorage is far enough from Rudder Cut to avoid the surge that affects anchorages closer to the cut.

The private islands are not accessible to visitors, so the appeal is entirely the protected water and scenic setting. Both islands feature attractive vegetation and white sand beaches visible from the anchorage.

Getting there

Little Darby Island lies in the central Exumas, approximately 20 nautical miles south of Staniel Cay and 30 nm north of Georgetown. The bay between Little Darby and Big Darby is approached from the east with attention to the shallow bank that fills most of the interior. Enter with good visibility and favorable sun angle for reading depths. The island has a private airstrip.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go ashore at Little Darby Island?

Little Darby Island is private property with rental accommodations. Cruisers should not go ashore without invitation. The appeal of this anchorage is the protected water, not shore access.

Why are two anchors recommended?

The bay has very limited swinging room due to the shallow bank filling much of the interior. A single anchor allows dangerous swing into insufficient water. Two anchors control swing and keep your vessel safely positioned.

Is this anchorage suitable for all conditions?

No. Protection is reasonable only from easterly winds. The anchorage is exposed to west, north, and south, limiting use to settled conditions or confirmed easterly forecasts. In unsettled weather, seek better protection elsewhere.