Old Bahama Bay Marina at sunset with sport fishing boats and cruisers docked along the piers and the West End beach visible beyond
West End, The Bahamas

Old Bahama Bay Marina

Blue Flag-certified gateway just 56 miles from Florida with night navigation

Old Bahama Bay Marina occupies the westernmost tip of Grand Bahama Island, placing it just 56 miles from the Florida coast and establishing it as the closest major Bahamian marina to the United States mainland. For boaters crossing the Gulf Stream, this proximity translates into shorter passages and more flexible weather windows.

The marina earned distinction as the first in the Bahamas to receive Blue Flag certification, an international eco-label recognizing environmental management, water quality, and sustainable practices. It remains the only port of entry on Grand Bahama that is safely navigable after dark, a significant advantage for vessels arriving on extended crossings.

Marina Facilities and Dockage

Sixty-three deep-water slips accommodate vessels up to 120 feet in length, with controlling depth of 8 feet at mean low tide throughout the approach and basin. High-speed fuel pumps dispense both 92-octane gasoline and diesel, keeping turnaround efficient for boats continuing onward.

A 30-foot minimum dockage fee applies, with nightly resort fees of $20 for vessel-based guests choosing not to book rooms ashore. Twenty-four-hour security monitoring provides continuous oversight, and the dockmaster maintains office hours from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Contact the marina on VHF Channel 16, switching to Channel 10 for coordination.

Customs and Immigration Services

On-site Bahamian Customs and Immigration officers process arriving vessels efficiently, with fees structured at $150 for boats to 30 feet and $300 for larger vessels, covering up to three passengers. Additional travelers pay $25 each. Cash payment is required for customs processing.

The Island Fast Pass pre-clearance program expedites arrival for eligible travelers, reducing paperwork and wait times. The ability to navigate safely into the marina after sunset distinguishes Old Bahama Bay from other Grand Bahama ports of entry, offering flexibility when crossing times extend beyond daylight hours.

Resort Amenities and Conservation

Beyond the docks, Old Bahama Bay Resort provides 2.5 miles of pristine beaches, a full gym and spa, tennis courts, and a private airstrip for guests arriving by small aircraft. The property maintains a secluded character distinct from the busier Freeport-Lucaya corridor.

Participation in the Shark-Free Marina Initiative prohibits landing, processing, or displaying sharks on-site, with catch-and-release strongly encouraged. This conservation stance complements the Blue Flag accreditation and reflects broader environmental stewardship practiced throughout the property.

Getting there

Old Bahama Bay Marina lies at the western tip of Grand Bahama Island in the village of West End. Approach waypoint coordinates are approximately 26 degrees 42.189 minutes North, 78 degrees 59.872 minutes West. The channel is navigable after dark, making this the only Grand Bahama port of entry accessible for night arrivals. Contact marina on VHF 16, switching to Channel 10. The resort maintains a private airstrip for small aircraft, while road connections to Freeport require approximately 45 minutes by vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Old Bahama Bay the preferred landfall from Florida?
At 56 miles from the Florida coast, Old Bahama Bay offers the shortest crossing to a full-service Bahamas marina with port of entry clearance. Night navigation capability provides additional flexibility.
What does Blue Flag certification mean?
Blue Flag is an international eco-certification recognizing marinas meeting strict standards for environmental management, water quality, safety, and sustainable operations. Old Bahama Bay was the first Bahamas marina to earn this designation.
Is the marina suitable for megayachts?
The marina accommodates vessels up to 120 feet with 8-foot draft. Larger megayachts may find Grand Bahama Yacht Club or Port Lucaya Marina in Freeport better suited to their size requirements.