Lynyard Cay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

Lynyard Cay lies approximately fifteen nautical miles south of Marsh Harbour, marking the end of the protected Sea of Abaco. The approach from the north passes through the beautiful waters surrounding Elbow Cay, Tilloo Cay, and the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park.

The anchorage area lies along the western shore of Lynyard Cay, approached directly from the Sea of Abaco. There are no channels or entrance concerns; simply select your spot along the lee shore. Depths vary from six to twenty feet, giving options for vessels with different drafts.

Holding and Protection

The western shore offers good protection from east through southeast winds, covering the prevailing conditions during most of the cruising season. The bottom is primarily sand with good holding once the anchor is set. Depths gradually shoal toward the beach.

The anchorage is exposed to northerly and westerly winds. If forecasts call for winds from these directions, consider relocating north to Little Harbour's inner moorings (if draft permits) or back to Elbow Cay. The best anchoring is found along the middle section of the cay, where a few private homes mark the shoreline.

What's Ashore

Lynyard Cay is completely undeveloped with no facilities whatsoever. Two beaches await exploration: the calm Sea of Abaco side and the Atlantic-facing shore known for sea glass scattered along the tide line. Interior trails are rough and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear.

The real draw is the short dinghy ride to Little Harbour, home to Pete's Pub and the Johnston Art Foundry. The only working bronze foundry in the Bahamas, the Johnstons have produced internationally recognized sculptures since the 1950s. Pete's serves fresh seafood amid the sculptures, making it a must-stop for any Southern Abacos cruise.

Nearby Attractions

The Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park lies a few miles north of Lynyard Cay, protecting over 2,100 acres of coral reef, undersea caves, and marine habitat. Sandy Cay Reef provides excellent snorkeling en route from Hope Town or Marsh Harbour.

For those continuing south, Little Harbour Cut provides access to the Atlantic for vessels heading to the Exumas or beyond. This cut requires local knowledge and favorable conditions. Most cruisers return north to the central Abacos, using Lynyard as a turnaround point before retracing the Sea of Abaco.

Getting there

From Marsh Harbour, Lynyard Cay lies approximately fifteen nautical miles to the south. The route passes Elbow Cay, Tilloo Cay, and the Pelican Cays. Approach the western shore of Lynyard directly from the Sea of Abaco, selecting your spot based on draft and conditions. From Little Harbour, vessels with sufficient draft can approach from the Atlantic through the cut in settled conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Why anchor at Lynyard Cay instead of inside Little Harbour?

Little Harbour's inner anchorage is now moorings only, and the entrance carries only four to seven feet depending on tide. Deeper-draft vessels anchor at Lynyard Cay and dinghy two miles to Pete's Pub for dining and exploration.

Is there anywhere to eat at Lynyard Cay?

No, Lynyard Cay is completely undeveloped. The nearest food is Pete's Pub at Little Harbour, a two-mile dinghy ride across the cut. Plan to arrive fully provisioned and self-sufficient.

What is the sea glass beach at Lynyard Cay?

The Atlantic-facing beach on the east side of the cay is known for sea glass, smoothed fragments of bottles and vessels worn by decades of surf. It's a popular beachcombing destination accessible by a rough trail from the Sea of Abaco side.