Great Harbour Cay Marina

Marina facilities and rates

The marina provides 65 slips with 30, 50, and 100 amp shore power and reverse osmosis water at each berth. Current dockage rates run $2.50 per foot daily, $12.00 per foot weekly, or $25.00 per foot monthly as of 2025. Electricity meters at $0.75 per kilowatt-hour and water at $0.50 per gallon, with complimentary wash-down water.

The fuel dock supplies gasoline and diesel along with motor oil and two-stroke oil. Operating hours run Monday through Saturday 7 AM to noon and 1 PM to 4 PM, with Sunday and holiday hours 7 AM to noon. All major credit cards accepted.

Hurricane protection

Great Harbour Cay's protected basin earns its hurricane hole reputation from geography. The natural harbor offers shelter from all directions, with depths suitable for riding out weather on anchor or at the dock. During active hurricane seasons, the marina coordinates with cruisers to maximize protection.

24-hour security cameras monitor the facility year-round. For cruisers planning extended Bahamas stays through summer months, this level of protection provides valuable peace of mind.

Island life and beaches

The marina serves as gateway to an island that feels genuinely remote. Nearly seven miles of white sand beach stretch along the Atlantic side, largely empty even in high season. Sugar Beach Lodge ruins offer exploration, and complimentary bikes from the marina let you cover ground without expense.

Bullock's Harbour provides local culture and provisions. The grocery store, convenience store, and on-site restaurant cover basics, while the marina organizes Monday potluck gatherings, Thursday pizza nights, and Friday evening grilling. Golf cart and car rentals expand your range for exploring the island's quieter corners.

Approach and Docking

The approach to Great Harbour Cay Marina begins from the west at waypoint 25 46.092N / 77 56.629W. From this position, set a course of 108 degrees true for approximately 4.8 nautical miles until reaching the harbour entrance. Depths along this track range from 6 to 10 feet, with careful attention needed during lower tides.

Follow the marked channel buoys into the harbour. Once the opening comes into view, make a gradual turn to starboard, following buoys 16, 18, and 19 until reaching the marina basin. The approach depth is approximately 7 feet with 9 feet at dockside. The harbour entrance passes through a narrow rock cut with deep water, so watch for outbound traffic and account for tidal current. Approach the fuel dock at high tide for best clearance.

Contact the marina on VHF channels 16 or 14, though WhatsApp at 242-451-2007 is the preferred communication method. These depths and waypoints are for general planning only; consult official charts and current Explorer Chartbooks before navigation.

Facilities and Services

The marina provides 65 slips with 30, 50, and 100 amp shore power and reverse osmosis water at each berth. Current rates run $2.50 per foot daily, $12.00 per foot weekly, or $25.00 per foot monthly. Electricity meters at $0.75 per kilowatt-hour and water at $0.50 per gallon, with complimentary wash-down water for vessel maintenance.

The fuel dock stocks diesel and gasoline along with motor oil and two-stroke oil. Operating hours run Monday through Saturday 7 AM to noon and 1 PM to 4 PM, with Sunday and holiday hours 7 AM to noon. All major credit cards accepted. Additional amenities include ice, showers, laundry, Wi-Fi internet access, and 24-hour security camera surveillance. Golf cart and car rentals expand your range for island exploration.

What's Ashore

Bullocks Harbour serves as the commercial heart of Great Harbour Cay, providing essential provisions and local character. Grocery options include Nad's Grocery, Dean's, and Roberts' stores for stocking the galley. Several restaurants serve the area including Beach Club Restaurant and Bar, The Tamboo Club, Water-Gate Restaurant, and Whitewater Restaurants.

Nearly seven miles of pristine white sand beach stretch along the Atlantic side, remaining largely empty even during peak season. The marina provides complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the island's quiet corners. Customs and immigration officers are stationed at the airport and visit the marina for vessel clearance. Contact immigration at 242-367-8112 to arrange formalities.

Tips and When to Visit

Great Harbour Cay earns its reputation as perhaps the finest hurricane hole in the Bahamas through its all-around protected geography. The natural harbour provides shelter from all directions, making it a preferred destination during active hurricane seasons. Cruisers planning extended Bahamas stays through summer months find valuable peace of mind here.

The island rewards visitors seeking genuine seclusion over developed tourist infrastructure. The community atmosphere shines through weekly gatherings including Monday potluck dinners, Thursday pizza nights, and Friday evening grilling sessions. Sugar Beach Lodge ruins offer exploration for the historically curious. For emergencies after 5 PM, General Manager Steven Johnson can be reached at 242-457-4216.

Getting there

Great Harbour Cay Marina lies in the northern Berry Islands, positioned between Freeport and Nassau. The island sits approximately 150 miles from South Florida, making it a longer crossing than Bimini but accessible for well-prepared cruisers. Short flights from South Florida or Nassau serve the island's airstrip. The marina can be reached at 242-451-2007 with WhatsApp preferred. Approach the harbor following local charts and contact the marina on VHF for current conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Great Harbour Cay called the best hurricane hole in the Bahamas?

The marina sits in a naturally protected harbor that provides shelter from all directions. The all-around protection from weather and surge makes it a preferred location for cruisers during hurricane season.

What are the current dockage rates at Great Harbour Cay Marina?

As of 2025, rates are $2.50 per foot daily, $12.00 per foot weekly, or $25.00 per foot monthly. Electricity runs $0.75 per kilowatt-hour and water $0.50 per gallon.

Is Great Harbour Cay secluded?

Yes. The island offers nearly seven miles of beaches that remain largely empty, genuine local culture in Bullock's Harbour, and an atmosphere that feels authentically remote compared to more developed Bahamian destinations.

What is the best way to contact Great Harbour Cay Marina?

WhatsApp is preferred at 242-451-2007. The marina also monitors VHF channels 16 and 14. For general inquiries, email info@greatharbourcaymarina.com.

What are the approach waypoints and depths for Great Harbour Cay?

The approach begins at waypoint 25 46.092N / 77 56.629W, setting a course of 108 degrees true for 4.8 miles. Depths range from 6 to 10 feet along the approach, with 7 feet at the marina entrance and 9 feet dockside. Always consult current charts and approach at higher tide stages.

Can I clear customs at Great Harbour Cay Marina?

Yes. Customs and immigration officers stationed at the airport visit the marina for vessel clearance. Contact immigration at 242-367-8112 to arrange your clearance.