Powell Cay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

Powell Cay lies approximately two nautical miles east of Coopers Town across the Sea of Abaco. From Manjack Cay or Green Turtle Cay to the south, approach from the southwest, giving the southern tip of the cay adequate clearance for scattered rocks.

The primary anchorage sits in the bight on the western shore, roughly midway along the cay's length. Approach from the west, reading the water carefully and favoring sandy patches visible through the clear water. Depths range from eight to twelve feet in the main anchorage, shoaling toward shore. Consult current charts for specific hazards and waypoints.

Holding and Protection

The western anchorage provides good protection from northeast through southeast winds, covering most prevailing conditions during the cruising season. The cay's modest elevation offers additional wind shadow for boats tucked close to shore.

Holding varies considerably across the anchorage. Sandy patches offer excellent grip once well set, but grassy and rocky areas can challenge even the most trusted anchor. Scout your spot visually, and consider a snorkel dive to inspect the bottom before committing. Set firmly with sufficient scope, as the anchorage can become uncomfortable in westerly shifts.

What's Ashore

Powell Cay is uninhabited with no facilities, services, or development. This is its appeal. A trail leads from the main beach up the small bluff in the northern section of the cay, the first real elevation you encounter traveling north in the Abacos. From the top, panoramic views stretch across the anchorage and Sea of Abaco.

The southern beaches offer excellent shelling, while the Atlantic side delivers world-class snorkeling when conditions allow. The extensive reef system hosts abundant fish, sea fans, and healthy coral formations. Bring everything you need and leave no trace when exploring this pristine environment.

Nearby Attractions

Coopers Town on Great Abaco lies just two miles west, offering provisioning, fuel, and the chance to experience a working Bahamian settlement off the tourist track. The ferry dock provides crew change options for those needing to reach Marsh Harbour or the airport.

Manjack Cay and Green Turtle Cay lie within easy sailing distance to the south, offering additional anchorages, swimming with stingrays, and the restaurants and services of New Plymouth. To the north, the remote cays stretching toward Grand Cay offer increasingly wild cruising grounds.

Getting there

Powell Cay lies two nautical miles east of Coopers Town across the Sea of Abaco. From Green Turtle Cay, sail northwest approximately four nautical miles. From Manjack Cay, head north-northeast for roughly the same distance. Approach the western anchorage from the southwest or west, favoring sandy bottom visible in clear water.

Frequently asked questions

Is Powell Cay inhabited?

No. Powell Cay is uninhabited with no facilities, stores, or services. Cruisers should arrive fully provisioned with water, food, and fuel. The nearest supplies are in Coopers Town, two miles west across the Sea of Abaco.

Where is the best snorkeling at Powell Cay?

The extensive reef system on the ocean side offers excellent snorkeling when Atlantic conditions permit. The reefs host abundant marine life with visibility often exceeding eighty feet. Access the reefs by dinghy from the western anchorage in calm conditions.

How challenging is the anchor holding at Powell Cay?

Holding varies across the anchorage. Scout for sandy patches, which offer excellent grip, and avoid grassy or rocky areas where anchors struggle to set. Consider a snorkel dive to inspect the bottom before committing, and set your anchor firmly.