North Bimini Backside

Approach and Positioning

The anchorage lies along the eastern shore of North Bimini, facing the shallow expanse of the Great Bahama Bank. Approach from the bank side, sounding your way toward the cay in good visibility. Depths of eight feet or more can be found within a few hundred meters of the shoreline, but you may need to search among the turtle grass patches to find clean sand.

Position your boat to balance protection from the cay with adequate swinging room. This is an open roadstead on the bank side; do not expect marina-like shelter, but in west or southwest conditions the cay blocks the ocean swell effectively.

Holding and Protection

The bottom is sand with areas of turtle grass. Holding is generally good in the sand patches, but grass can make setting the anchor tricky. Take your time to ensure the anchor is well dug in before settling.

Protection is from the south, west, and southwest only. The anchorage is fully exposed to east and north winds, and under those conditions swell wraps around the cay making it uncomfortable. This is a fair-weather shelter that works when Gulf Stream swells are the problem; it is not a cold front refuge.

Passage Planning

Cruisers use North Bimini Backside as a staging spot for Gulf Stream crossings. After arriving from Florida, it offers a chance to rest in calm water before moving into Alice Town or continuing south. Departing eastbound, it positions you for an early-morning run onto the bank toward the Berry Islands or Great Harbour Cay.

Monitor weather carefully and be ready to relocate if winds shift. The Seaplane Basin is the alternative when conditions require all-around protection.

Getting there

North Bimini Backside is reached from the Great Bahama Bank, approaching the eastern shore of North Bimini and anchoring in sand patches among the turtle grass. It lies roughly a mile north of Alice Town Harbour by water. Approach in good light to pick your spot visually.

Frequently asked questions

When should you use North Bimini Backside anchorage?

Use it when southerly to westerly swells make the Gulf Stream side uncomfortable. It is a practical shelter for passage-makers staging for or recovering from a Gulf Stream crossing. Avoid it in east or north winds.

Is North Bimini Backside good for overnight?

In settled west-wind conditions it is acceptable overnight, but monitor forecasts closely. If winds shift east or north, relocate to the Seaplane Basin or Alice Town Harbour for better protection.

What is the bottom like at North Bimini Backside?

Sandy with patches of turtle grass. Look for clear sand to set your anchor; the grass can prevent a solid set. Take time to ensure good holding before committing.