Savannah Sound Anchorage

Anchorage Characteristics

Savannah Sound offers generally good protection in prevailing easterly and southerly winds. The waters between Windermere Island and the main island provide shelter from Atlantic swells, creating calm conditions for anchoring and sleeping aboard.

Holding varies across the sound, with sandy patches offering the best grip. Grassy areas are common and can make setting the anchor challenging. Depths range from very shallow flats unsuitable for keel boats to deeper channels carrying 8 to 12 feet. Consult current charts and approach with caution on first entry.

World-Class Bonefishing

The flats surrounding Savannah Sound rank among the finest bonefishing waters in the Bahamas. Extensive shallow areas support healthy bonefish populations that attract dedicated anglers year-round. The fish here have a reputation for being challenging, rewarding skilled fly fishers with memorable encounters.

Several local guides operate from the Savannah Sound area, offering half and full-day trips on the flats. Cruisers can arrange guided fishing from their anchored vessels, making Savannah Sound an ideal destination for combining sailing with world-class angling.

Dinghy Exploration

A dinghy opens up extensive exploration from a Savannah Sound anchorage. The shallow margins of the sound provide snorkeling opportunities over grass beds and sand flats, while the deeper channels offer swimming in crystal-clear water.

Access to Windermere Island is restricted to residents and guests, but the sound itself and the Eleuthera shoreline remain open for exploration. The settlement of Savannah Sound provides basic provisions and a connection to island culture.

Navigation and Approaches

Entry to Savannah Sound requires attention to depths and chart work. The sound connects to deeper water through passages that should be transited with good visibility and favorable tide conditions. Local knowledge is valuable, and first-time visitors should proceed cautiously.

Governor's Harbour to the north and Rock Sound to the south provide alternative anchorage options and access to airports, fuel, and more extensive provisioning. Savannah Sound works best as part of a broader Eleuthera cruising itinerary rather than a sole destination.

Getting there

Savannah Sound is located on Eleuthera's east coast, approximately midway along the island. Approach from the banks side via passages that should be transited with good visibility and appropriate tide conditions. Consult current charts and pilot guides for detailed waypoints. Governor's Harbour to the north and Rock Sound to the south provide alternative harbours with fuel, provisions, and airport access. The sound itself has limited facilities; provision elsewhere before anchoring.

Frequently asked questions

Is Savannah Sound a good anchorage in all conditions?

The sound offers good protection in prevailing easterly and southerly winds but is exposed to westerlies. Holding varies between good sandy patches and challenging grassy areas. Monitor forecasts and be prepared to relocate to Governor's Harbour or Rock Sound if conditions deteriorate.

Can I fish the bonefishing flats from my anchored boat?

Yes, several local guides operate from Savannah Sound and can pick up cruisers from their anchored vessels for guided bonefishing trips. The flats are also accessible by dinghy for those with experience sight-fishing for bonefish.

Are there facilities in Savannah Sound?

Facilities are limited. The settlement has basic provisions but no marina services. Fuel, extensive provisioning, and marina facilities are available in Governor's Harbour to the north or Rock Sound to the south. Plan to be self-sufficient while anchored in the sound.