Mangrove Cay

Approach and Anchoring

Mangrove Cay is oriented north to south but is too small to provide meaningful wind shadow from any direction. The anchorage is essentially an open roadstead where vessels anchor anywhere around the island depending on wind direction and preference. In settled weather, it is common to find boats positioned on multiple sides.

Approach carefully across the shallow bank, using GPS, charts, and visual piloting in good visibility. The waters surrounding the cay are typical bank depths of 8 to 12 feet, with no particular hazards apart from the normal coral heads scattered across the Little Bahama Bank.

Holding and Conditions

Holding at Mangrove Cay is good in sandy mud bottom. Anchors set readily and hold reliably in typical conditions. However, the lack of protection means this anchorage is best suited for settled weather or as a brief stop rather than an extended stay.

Expect some motion even in moderate trade winds, as the low-lying cay provides no wind break. The anchorage becomes untenable in strong winds from any direction or when frontal weather approaches. Cruisers should monitor forecasts carefully and be prepared to move to Great Sale Cay or another protected location if conditions deteriorate.

Island Character

Mangrove Cay lives up to its name with extensive mangrove growth around much of its perimeter. A tiny patch of beach exists on the southeast side, useful primarily for those with pets needing to stretch their legs. The island is otherwise undeveloped and uninhabited, with no facilities or services.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include various shorebirds and wading birds that frequent the mangrove fringes. The surrounding flats offer decent snorkeling when conditions permit, with the usual assortment of tropical fish and occasional larger visitors like stingrays and nurse sharks.

Passage Considerations

Mangrove Cay sits approximately 20 nautical miles east of West End and roughly 20 nautical miles west of Great Sale Cay, making it a natural midpoint for the bank crossing. Vessels departing West End can reach Mangrove Cay by midday, rest through the afternoon, and continue to Great Sale Cay or directly to the Abacos the following morning.

The anchorage particularly benefits slower vessels or those wishing to break the crossing into shorter segments. Cruisers with pets also appreciate the beach access mid-transit. For faster vessels in good conditions, many prefer to continue directly to Great Sale Cay's superior protection rather than stopping at Mangrove Cay.

Getting there

Mangrove Cay lies approximately 20 nautical miles east of West End across the Little Bahama Bank. Navigate the bank using GPS and visual piloting in good light, watching for scattered coral heads. The cay is visible from several miles in clear conditions. Anchor anywhere around the perimeter based on wind direction. Continue east toward Great Sale Cay and the Abacos or return west toward West End depending on your itinerary.

Frequently asked questions

Is Mangrove Cay worth stopping at or should I continue to Great Sale Cay?

For most cruisers in settled weather, continuing to Great Sale Cay makes sense given its superior protection. Mangrove Cay is useful for slower vessels wanting to break the crossing, those needing a pet walk stop, or when afternoon weather suggests stopping early.

How exposed is the Mangrove Cay anchorage?

Very exposed. The cay is too small and low to block wind or waves from any direction. This is a fair-weather anchorage suitable for overnight only in settled conditions. Plan to depart for better protection if weather deteriorates.

Can I walk around Mangrove Cay?

Walking is limited due to dense mangrove growth around most of the perimeter. A small beach on the southeast side provides the main going-ashore option, suitable for pet exercise but not extensive exploration.