Rudder Cut Cay
Discover underwater art and celebrity island mystique
Rudder Cut Cay occupies a unique position in the central Exumas as both a functional gateway and an artistic destination. This uninhabited island serves as the location for the private airstrip serving nearby Musha Cay, the exclusive resort owned by illusionist David Copperfield. But beneath the surface of the surrounding waters lies an unexpected treasure: an underwater sculpture installation featuring a mermaid resting beside a grand piano, created by renowned artist Jason DeCaires Taylor.
For cruisers and snorkelers, Rudder Cut Cay offers the rare opportunity to experience art in an aquatic gallery. The sculpture, installed in 2011, has become colonized by marine life, blurring the lines between human creation and natural reef. The island itself remains off-limits to visitors, with the sculptures and beaches providing the main attractions for those passing through these waters.
The Underwater Sculpture
The mermaid sculpture off Rudder Cut Cay depicts a female figure lying on the seafloor near a baby grand piano with an open lid. Created by Jason DeCaires Taylor, known for underwater sculpture installations worldwide, this piece was commissioned by David Copperfield and installed in 2011. The sculpture rests in clear shallow water, easily visible to snorkelers. Over the years, coral growth and marine colonization have transformed the artwork, adding natural textures that enhance its otherworldly appearance.
The Beach and Sea Cave
Rudder Cut Cay features a long white sand beach along its eastern shore, one of the finest stretches in the central Exumas. While the island itself is private property, the beach below the high-tide line remains public under Bahamian law. At the northern end of the beach, a small sea cave opens to reveal a mini beach inside, large enough for two people. This hidden grotto provides a magical discovery for those who venture beyond the main beach area.
Connection to Musha Cay
Rudder Cut Cay is one of eleven islands purchased by David Copperfield in 2006, forming the archipelago known as the Islands of Copperfield Bay. The airstrip here serves as the primary arrival point for guests flying to Musha Cay resort. While the island infrastructure remains private, the artistic installations in the surrounding waters demonstrate Copperfield's vision of creating magical experiences even in underwater realms. The mermaid sculpture fits naturally with the illusions and surprises for which he is famous.
Visiting Considerations
Cruisers can anchor in the area and snorkel to view the underwater sculpture, though the island itself is private property with occasional security patrols. The mermaid installation lies off the southwestern coast and requires local knowledge or GPS coordinates to locate. Calm conditions are necessary for the best viewing experience. The sculpture's relatively shallow depth makes it accessible to snorkelers, though scuba equipment allows for extended viewing and better photography.
Getting there
Rudder Cut Cay is accessible only by boat, located in the central Exumas between Staniel Cay and Great Exuma. The underwater sculpture lies off the southwestern shore and requires local knowledge or specific coordinates to locate. Anchor in sand with good holding and dinghy or swim to the sculpture site. The beach is accessible below the high-tide line under Bahamian law, though the island interior is private property.
Frequently asked questions
- Can anyone view the underwater mermaid sculpture?
- Yes, the underwater sculpture is accessible to snorkelers and divers who anchor nearby and swim to the site. The sculpture lies in the water rather than on private land. However, precise location coordinates help, as the site is not marked and requires local knowledge to find.
- Is Rudder Cut Cay open to visitors?
- The island itself is private property belonging to David Copperfield and is not open to public visitors. However, under Bahamian law, beaches below the high-tide line are public. The underwater sculpture and the beach area can be visited while respecting property boundaries.
- How deep is the mermaid sculpture?
- The sculpture rests in relatively shallow water, accessible to snorkelers. Exact depth varies but is generally in the fifteen to twenty-five foot range. Clear water conditions typical of the Exumas provide excellent visibility for viewing from the surface.