Allans-Pensacola Cay

The Signing Tree Tradition

On the Atlantic-facing shore, a remarkable open-air gallery has evolved over decades. Cruisers repurpose flotsam washed ashore—buoys, flip-flops, plastic bins, driftwood—into whimsical installations bearing boat names, hailing ports, and personal messages. The result is a colorful, ever-changing memorial to the voyaging community.

Hurricane Dorian damaged much of the original collection in 2019, yet weathered signs remain and new contributions continue to appear. Adding your own creation has become an unofficial rite of passage for anyone anchoring here.

Anchorage and Navigation

The primary anchorage lies on the cay's western end, entered from the Sea of Abaco. Depths range from seven to eight feet over a sandy bottom with good holding and effective protection from prevailing easterly winds. The main hazard on approach is Allans Cay Rocks, which extend northwest from the Pensacola side; careful navigation around this shoal is essential.

The eastern portion of the anchorage is considerably shallower, so only the western third offers usable swinging room. In settled weather this is one of the most peaceful overnight stops in the Northern Abacos, though a strong norther can make conditions uncomfortable.

Beaches and Trails

A well-worn trail, cheerfully marked by plastic debris-turned-art, leads from the anchorage across the cay to a beautiful Atlantic beach. The hike takes roughly fifteen to twenty minutes and offers glimpses of native vegetation and the occasional osprey overhead.

Along the way, hikers pass the concrete foundation of a decommissioned U.S. missile-tracking station—an atmospheric relic now overgrown with sea grape. The ocean-side beach itself is ideal for shelling, photography, and solitude; swells can be strong, so swimming is best reserved for calm days.

Snorkeling and Wildlife

The clear waters around the anchorage support healthy populations of blue tang, barracuda, nurse sharks, and sea turtles. Snorkelers often spot sand dollars on the sandy patches and small coral heads closer to Umbrella Cay, a short dinghy ride away.

Cormorants and ospreys patrol overhead, and the lack of permanent inhabitants means marine life here is relatively undisturbed. Bring polarized sunglasses to spot stingrays gliding beneath your hull at anchor.

Getting there

Allans-Pensacola Cay is accessible only by boat. The most common approach is from Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay, roughly 22 nautical miles to the southeast via the protected Sea of Abaco. Charter yachts typically include this stop on northern Abacos itineraries. There are no ferry services to the cay; visitors arrive by private vessel or crewed charter. The nearest commercial airports are Treasure Cay (TCB) and Marsh Harbour (MHH), both with connections to Nassau, Fort Lauderdale, and other Florida gateways.

Frequently asked questions

Is there anywhere to buy supplies on Allans-Pensacola Cay?

No. The cay is completely uninhabited with no stores, restaurants, or facilities. Provision fully in Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay before heading north.

Can I swim at the Atlantic beach?

Swimming is possible on calm days, but the ocean side often has strong swells and currents. Most visitors swim and snorkel in the sheltered anchorage on the Sea of Abaco side instead.

What is the signing tree and can I add to it?

The signing tree is an informal tradition where cruisers attach driftwood plaques, buoys, and other flotsam bearing their boat names and messages. Contributions are welcome—just repurpose debris found on the beach rather than bringing plastic from elsewhere.