Manjack-Crab Cay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

The Manjack-Crab Cay anchorage lies approximately four nautical miles north of Green Turtle Cay in the Northern Abacos. Approach from the south through the Sea of Abaco, passing Green Turtle Cay and No Name Cay to starboard. The anchorage opens up in the bight between the southern tip of Manjack Cay and Crab Cay.

Enter the anchorage from the southwest, favoring the Crab Cay shore where depths are more generous. The northern end of the bay shoals rapidly and becomes grassy. First-time visitors should proceed slowly, reading the water and favoring the deeper blue tones closer to Crab Cay.

Holding and Protection

This anchorage is considered the best protected in the immediate area. Many cruisers ride out frontal weather here, with good shelter from northwest through southeast winds. The bay is surrounded by land on three sides, limiting fetch and wave action in most conditions.

Holding is excellent in sand close to Crab Cay, with depths around nine feet or more providing secure anchoring. The northern portion of the anchorage has a grassy bottom that can challenge anchor setting. Drop your hook in the sandy areas near Crab Cay shore for the most reliable hold, and ensure your anchor is well dug in before settling for the night.

What's Ashore

Manjack Cay is privately owned by former cruisers who welcome visitors to explore the island's beaches and nature trails. From the main beach, two well-marked trails lead into the interior. The direct route crosses to the Atlantic beach in about twenty minutes. The Art Trail climbs a gentle hill decorated with driftwood creations and contributions from visiting cruisers over the years.

The main draw is wildlife. Stingrays have been fed here for years and will approach waders in knee-deep water. Nurse sharks often patrol the shallows and are generally docile. A mangrove channel running the length of the island provides excellent dinghy exploration with frequent sea turtle sightings. Signs ask visitors to stay on marked trails and keep dogs leashed around the free-roaming chickens.

Nearby Attractions

Green Turtle Cay lies just four miles south, offering the historic Loyalist settlement of New Plymouth, excellent restaurants like the Green Turtle Club and Pineapples, and protected anchorages in Black Sound and White Sound. No Name Cay with its swimming pigs is a short dinghy ride away.

Powell Cay to the north provides additional anchorage options and pristine beaches. For those heading offshore, Great Sale Cay lies roughly fifteen miles to the northwest, serving as the traditional staging point for crossings to West End, Grand Bahama, or Florida.

Getting there

From Green Turtle Cay, head north through the Sea of Abaco, passing No Name Cay to starboard. The anchorage appears in the bight between Manjack and Crab Cay after approximately four nautical miles. Enter from the southwest, favoring the Crab Cay shore. From Treasure Cay, the passage is approximately seven nautical miles north-northeast. Consult Explorer Charts for detailed approaches and current cruising guides for local conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to swim with the stingrays at Manjack?

The stingrays are accustomed to humans and generally docile. Keep hands flat when feeding, bring fruits or vegetables rather than processed foods, and maintain awareness of their tail area. Nurse sharks in the area are also typically non-aggressive.

Where should I anchor for the best holding?

Anchor close to the Crab Cay shore in sandy bottom with nine feet or more of depth. The northern portion of the bay has grassy bottom that can challenge anchor setting. Read the water carefully and set your anchor securely.

Are there any facilities at Manjack Cay?

No. There are no restaurants, stores, fuel, water, or services at Manjack. Arrive fully provisioned and self-sufficient. Green Turtle Cay, four miles south, offers the nearest supplies and restaurants.