Lynyard Cay

A Quiet Corner of the Abacos

Positioned roughly 15 nautical miles south of Marsh Harbour, Lynyard Cay serves as the natural terminus of the protected Sea of Abaco cruising ground. The cay's western shoreline provides a lee-side anchorage with good sand-bottom holding, sheltered from the Atlantic swells that break along the eastern reef. Cruisers often use it as an overnight stop before or after transiting Little Harbour Cut to the open ocean.

Despite its proximity to popular destinations, the cay sees relatively light traffic compared to Hope Town or Man-O-War Cay. This undeveloped status makes it a favorite among sailors who value quiet evenings, bioluminescent waters on moonless nights, and uncrowded beaches.

Beaches and Snorkeling

The Sea of Abaco side features a gentle beach with powdery white sand, fire rings left by previous visitors, and a picnic table tucked among the dune vegetation. The Atlantic-facing beach offers more rugged scenery and is known for sea glass scattered along the tide line—remnants of vessels and bottles worn smooth by decades of surf.

Snorkeling is rewarding when conditions allow, with patch reefs harboring colorful fish, rays, and occasional sea turtles. For more extensive reef exploration, the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park lies just a few miles to the north, protecting over 2,100 acres of coral habitat and undersea caves.

Gateway to Little Harbour

A two-mile dinghy ride across the cut brings visitors to Little Harbour, home to the Johnston family's bronze foundry and the legendary Pete's Pub. Established in the 1950s by Canadian artist Randolph Johnston, the foundry remains the only working bronze sculpture studio in The Bahamas, with pieces displayed in collections worldwide—including the Vatican.

Pete's Pub serves fresh Bahamian seafood in an open-air setting surrounded by sculpture, making it a memorable lunch stop. Nearby trails lead to the ruins of the 1889 Little Harbour Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cays and Atlantic horizon.

Practical Considerations

Lynyard Cay has no shore facilities—no fuel, water, electricity, or provisions. Cruisers should arrive self-sufficient and prepared to anchor out. The western anchorage offers protection from east through southeast winds but is exposed to northerly or westerly blows; check forecasts before settling in for the night.

Sharp coral rock lines the interior trails, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring beyond the beaches. Depths in the anchorage area suit vessels with drafts under six feet comfortably, though deeper-draft boats can find swinging room with careful positioning.

Getting there

Lynyard Cay is accessible only by boat. Most visitors arrive aboard private yachts or chartered catamarans departing from Marsh Harbour, approximately 15 nautical miles to the north. The route south through the Sea of Abaco passes Elbow Cay, Tilloo Cay, and the Pelican Cays before reaching Lynyard. From Little Harbour, experienced boaters can transit the cut to approach from the Atlantic side in settled conditions. There is no ferry service or airstrip on the cay itself; the nearest commercial airport is Marsh Harbour International (MHH).

Frequently asked questions

Is there anywhere to eat or buy supplies on Lynyard Cay?

No. Lynyard Cay is completely undeveloped with no restaurants, shops, or services. Visitors should provision fully before arriving. For dining, take your dinghy two miles across to Pete's Pub at Little Harbour, which serves fresh seafood and cold drinks.

Can I anchor inside Little Harbour instead of at Lynyard Cay?

Anchoring inside Little Harbour is now prohibited; the harbor uses mooring balls and is best suited for boats with drafts under five feet. Many cruisers prefer anchoring in the deeper water off Lynyard Cay and using a dinghy to visit Little Harbour's attractions.

What is the best time of year to visit Lynyard Cay?

The dry season from November through May offers the most settled weather, lighter winds, and excellent underwater visibility for snorkeling. Summer and fall bring higher humidity and the potential for tropical weather, though the anchorage can still be enjoyable between systems.