Schooner Bay

A Modern Bahamian Village

Schooner Bay was conceived as a new urbanist community that draws on traditional Bahamian building patterns while incorporating contemporary sustainability practices. The village design emphasizes walkability, with homes clustered around the harbour rather than stretched along highways.

Solar power heating, geothermal cooling systems, composting programs, and rainwater harvesting demonstrate the community's environmental commitment. A hydroponic farm supplies fresh produce to residents and the village market, reducing dependence on imported food. The architectural vocabulary references historic Bahamian settlements with pastel colors, covered porches, and buildings scaled to pedestrian comfort.

Full-Service Marina

The Marina at Schooner Bay holds the distinction of being the southernmost safe harbour in the Abacos, making it a strategic stop for vessels heading south toward Eleuthera or the Berry Islands. The facility offers 40 slips with 14 available for transients, accommodating vessels up to 80 feet with an 8-foot approach depth at mean low water.

Services include 30 and 50 amp electrical connections, fuel (both diesel and gasoline), and fresh water. The harbour is open daily and monitors VHF Channels 16 and 77. The protected harbour provides excellent shelter in the prevailing easterlies, though cruisers should consult current weather before arrival.

Gateway to Legendary Fishing

Schooner Bay's southern location provides unmatched access to the fishing grounds around Hole in the Wall, where the Atlantic waters meet the Great Bahama Bank. These relatively undiscovered waters offer exceptional opportunities for both offshore game fishing and flats fishing on the extensive bonefish grounds to the west.

The marina serves as a comfortable base for multi-day fishing expeditions, with fuel and provisions available to support extended trips. Local captains familiar with the southern waters can arrange guided charters for visitors seeking to explore these productive and uncrowded fishing grounds.

Visiting by Charter

For sailors exploring the Abacos by charter catamaran or monohull, Schooner Bay offers a compelling destination at the southern end of the cruising ground. The village provides a change of pace from the busier cays to the north, with a chance to experience a modern take on Bahamian community living.

The approach from the Sea of Abaco is straightforward in good weather, though the inlet requires attention to conditions. Once inside, the protected harbour allows comfortable stays while exploring the surrounding beaches and waterways. The village market and restaurant provide options for those seeking a break from galley cooking.

Getting there

Schooner Bay is accessible by boat through the harbour entrance on the Atlantic side or by road from Marsh Harbour, approximately 25 miles to the north. The marina coordinates are N 26 degrees 09.529 minutes, W 077 degrees 10.633 minutes. Cruisers approaching from the Sea of Abaco should consult current charts and conditions for the inlet passage. By car, the drive from Marsh Harbour takes roughly 40 minutes on the paved Great Abaco Highway. The nearest commercial airport is Marsh Harbour International (MHH).

Frequently asked questions

Can transient boaters use the Schooner Bay marina?

Yes, the marina maintains 14 transient slips for visiting vessels up to 80 feet with an 8-foot draft. Contact the marina on VHF Channels 16 or 77 to confirm availability and arrange dockage.

What dining options are available at Schooner Bay?

The village includes a restaurant and market serving fresh food, much of it sourced from the on-site hydroponic farm. Hours may vary seasonally, so check current operations before arriving with specific dining plans.

Is Schooner Bay a good base for fishing near Hole in the Wall?

Yes, the marina's position as the southernmost harbour in the Abacos makes it an ideal base for accessing the fishing grounds around Hole in the Wall. Both offshore game fishing and flats fishing for bonefish are available in the surrounding waters.