Little Farmers Cay

Approach and Anchoring

Little Farmers Cay lies on the banks side of the southern Exuma Cays, easily reached from either north or south along the banks. Pay close attention to your charts, as deeper water tracks are surrounded by isolated coral heads and sand bores.

The best anchorage in settled easterly winds is on the west side of the island off the beach, northwest of the cay south of the airstrip. Good holding in sand in 2-4 meters (6-13 feet) with tidal range of approximately 0.8-1 meter. Take care not to anchor with your mast in line with airstrip approaches.

Holding and Protection

Holding is good in sand throughout the anchorage. Protection is solid from easterly through southerly winds, which predominate most of the cruising season.

The anchorage is exposed to westerly through northerly weather systems. When fronts approach from the west, monitor conditions carefully and be prepared to relocate. The shallow Exuma Bank creates short, choppy seas in strong westerly winds.

What's Ashore and Nearby

Ocean Cabin restaurant, operated by Terry Bain, is one of the most welcoming places in the Bahamas. Fresh Bahamian food, cold Kalik beer, and genuine local hospitality make this a highlight of any Exumas cruise.

Farmers Cay Yacht Club and Marina offers dock slips, shore power, moorings, restaurant, bar, laundry, ice, and rooms for short-term stays. The cay is quiet and relatively undeveloped, with attractive homes and lush vegetation creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

The annual Farmers Cay Festival on the first Friday of February celebrates Bahamian culture with music, food, and the famous Farmers Cay Regatta featuring traditional Bahamian sailing sloops racing through the cut. This popular event draws cruisers from throughout the Exumas.

Limited provisions are available on the cay. Plan major provisioning in Staniel Cay or Georgetown. Cell service is limited. Contact Ocean Cabin on VHF Channel 16 for restaurant hours and dock availability.

Getting there

Little Farmers Cay lies approximately 20 nautical miles south of Staniel Cay and 25 nm north of Georgetown on the banks side of the Exumas. Approach via the Exuma Banks, navigating carefully around isolated coral heads and sand bores. The cay has a small airstrip. Consult Explorer Charts EX-21 and EX-22 for detailed approaches.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Farmers Cay Festival?

The annual Farmers Cay Festival takes place on the first Friday of February, celebrating Bahamian culture with music, food, and the famous Farmers Cay Regatta where traditional Bahamian sailing sloops race through the cut.

Is there a restaurant at Little Farmers Cay?

Yes. Ocean Cabin, operated by Terry Bain, serves excellent Bahamian home cooking and is considered one of the most welcoming restaurants in the islands. The Farmers Cay Yacht Club also has a restaurant.

What marina services are available?

Farmers Cay Yacht Club offers dock slips, shore power, moorings, a full-service restaurant, bar, laundry, ice, and short-term accommodations.