White Cay Anchorage

Approach and Entrance

White Cay lies in the northern Berry Islands chain, roughly midway between Great Harbour Cay and Great Stirrup Cay. The anchorage sits on the western, bank side of the cay, accessible from the main Berry Islands passage.

The cut between White Cay and Devils Cay provides an alternative approach from the ocean side, with depths exceeding twenty feet through the nearly quarter-mile-wide passage. When transiting the cut, make a sharp turn to starboard once the rocks at the south end of White Cay are abeam to avoid shallow areas beyond. Consult current charts for detailed guidance.

Holding and Protection

The anchorage offers depths of twelve to eighteen feet, suitable for vessels of various drafts. The bottom is mixed sand and grass, with better holding in sandy patches. Scout your spot and set your anchor firmly, backing down to ensure a good bite.

Protection is reasonable from north and east winds, but the anchorage is fully exposed to the south. When southerly weather threatens, conditions deteriorate quickly as seas build into the open gap. Have an exit strategy ready and consider relocating to Great Harbour Cay or another protected spot before conditions shift.

What's Ashore

White Cay and Devils Cay are uninhabited, offering pristine beaches and natural exploration without facilities or services. The beaches provide excellent shelling, and the clear water around the cays delivers good snorkeling in settled conditions.

Cruise ship traffic in the area has increased with Norwegian Cruise Line's development of nearby Great Stirrup Cay. While White Cay itself remains undeveloped, cruisers may encounter increased boat traffic and day-trippers in the general area. Early morning visits offer the best chance for solitude.

Nearby Attractions

Great Stirrup Cay to the north serves as Norwegian Cruise Line's private island, while Great Harbour Cay to the south offers full services including fuel, provisions, and marina facilities at Bullock's Harbour. Cruisers transiting the Berry Islands often use White Cay as a lunch stop or brief overnight between these larger destinations.

The fishing throughout this section of the Berry Islands is excellent, with the chain living up to its reputation as the Fishbowl of the Bahamas. Reef fish, pelagics, and bottom dwellers all abound in these productive waters.

Getting there

White Cay lies approximately four nautical miles north of Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands chain. Approach from the main Berry Islands passage on the west side, or transit the cut between White Cay and Devils Cay from the ocean side. Turn sharply to starboard once past the rocks at White Cay's south end when using the cut.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly does the anchorage deteriorate in south winds?

The anchorage is fully exposed to south winds, and conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Monitor forecasts closely and relocate before southerly weather develops. Great Harbour Cay to the south offers better protection options.

Is the Devils Cay passage navigable?

Yes. The cut between White Cay and Devils Cay runs nearly a quarter mile wide with over twenty feet of depth. Make a sharp starboard turn once past the rocks at White Cay's south end. Consult current charts for specific guidance.

Will I encounter cruise ship traffic at White Cay?

While White Cay itself is uninhabited, nearby Great Stirrup Cay serves as Norwegian Cruise Line's private island. You may encounter increased boat traffic and tenders in the general area when cruise ships are present.