Whale Cay - Bird Cay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

Whale Cay and Bird Cay lie in the central Berry Islands chain, approximately five nautical miles south of Great Harbour Cay and eight miles north of Chub Cay. The anchorage sits in the lee of Whale Cay on its southern end, where the gap between the two islands creates a protected pocket.

Approach from the west through the Berry Islands passage, giving Whale Cay's southern point adequate clearance for underwater obstructions. The anchorage is small, so scout the area before committing. Depths run six to seven feet with tidal ranges of two-and-a-half to three feet. Read the water carefully and anchor in sand away from any rocky patches.

Holding and Protection

When it works, this anchorage works well. The sandy bottom provides good holding, and the shelter of Whale Cay blocks winds from the north and east. Boats tucked into the pocket enjoy calm conditions during settled easterly weather.

However, the anchorage is fundamentally exposed to the south, and conditions deteriorate rapidly when winds shift. Even moderate southerly winds build steep, confused seas that make the anchorage untenable. Additionally, surge can build through the gap between the cays during persistent easterlies. Monitor forecasts constantly and be prepared to relocate on short notice.

What's Ashore

Both Whale Cay and Bird Cay are private islands, and going ashore is not permitted without invitation. The visible estates and manicured grounds provide scenic backdrop but remain off-limits to visiting cruisers.

The abandoned lighthouse at Whale Cay's tip is visible from the anchorage, a reminder of when these waters saw regular commercial traffic. Today the cays are retreat destinations for their private owners, and cruisers should respect property boundaries while enjoying the anchorage.

Nearby Attractions

The Berry Islands offer excellent fishing, diving, and beach exploration for cruisers willing to work their way along the chain. Great Harbour Cay to the north provides the most services, with fuel, provisions, and marina facilities at Bullock's Harbour.

Chub Cay to the south offers a full-service marina and port of entry, making it a popular stop for boats transiting between the Abacos and Exumas. The surrounding waters teem with life, and the Berry Islands' reputation as the Fishbowl of the Bahamas is well-earned. Snorkeling, diving, and fishing opportunities abound throughout the chain.

Getting there

Whale Cay lies approximately five nautical miles south of Great Harbour Cay and eight miles north of Chub Cay in the Berry Islands chain. Approach from the west through the passage between the islands. The anchorage is on Whale Cay's southern end near Bird Cay. Navigate carefully and anchor in sandy patches in six to seven feet.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go ashore on Whale Cay or Bird Cay?

No. Both islands are privately owned and going ashore is not permitted without invitation. Enjoy the anchorage and scenic backdrop but respect property boundaries.

How quickly does the anchorage become untenable in south winds?

The anchorage deteriorates rapidly in southerly winds. Even moderate south winds build confused, steep seas that make the spot uncomfortable to dangerous. Monitor forecasts constantly and relocate before conditions shift.

What is the lighthouse at Whale Cay?

The abandoned lighthouse at Whale Cay's tip dates from an era when these waters carried more commercial traffic. It is no longer operational but provides a scenic landmark and photographic subject from the anchorage.