Saint Francis Resort & Marina

Marina and Moorings

The protected cove provides 22 slips accommodating vessels from 40 to 75 feet, with water and electrical hookups at each berth. Numerous moorings handle boats up to 45 feet with 6-foot draft, offering an alternative to anchoring in the main Elizabeth Harbour.

The marina enforces a two-night minimum stay for dock reservations and a 40-foot minimum charge. The approach requires attention to tide and draft, with arrivals and departures recommended at high tide for vessels drawing more than 3.5 feet. Weekly and monthly mooring rates encourage extended stays.

PADI Dive Operations

Saint Francis operates as a PADI resort with daily dive excursions departing from the marina dock. The dive team leads trips to Exuma's most spectacular sites, including vibrant coral walls, swim-through formations, and encounters with sharks, rays, and reef fish.

Certification courses from Open Water to advanced specialties are available, along with snorkeling tours for non-divers. Private charters can be arranged for groups seeking customized underwater adventures. All equipment rental is available on-site.

Resort Amenities

Eight oceanfront bungalows provide simple but comfortable accommodations for marina guests preferring to sleep ashore or visitors arriving without boats. The property maintains a deliberately rustic, laid-back atmosphere that appeals to travelers seeking authenticity over luxury.

The resort restaurant and bar serves three meals daily with an emphasis on fresh local seafood and Bahamian cuisine. Two miles of pristine white-sand beach stretch along the island's edge, and kayaks are available for exploring Stocking Island's blue holes and hidden coves.

Stocking Island and George Town

Stocking Island separates Elizabeth Harbour from the open Atlantic, providing natural protection for the famous cruising anchorage. The island remains largely undeveloped, with Saint Francis and a few other establishments representing the only infrastructure on miles of beaches.

George Town and its provisions lie a short water taxi ride across the harbour, accessible via the resort's regular shuttle service. The combination allows guests to enjoy remote island tranquility while maintaining access to the vibrant cruising community that makes Elizabeth Harbour a winter destination for hundreds of boats.

Getting there

Saint Francis Resort & Marina is located on Stocking Island at coordinates 23.51702N, 75.75197W. Access is exclusively by water, with the resort offering water taxi service from George Town. Cruisers entering Elizabeth Harbour should contact the marina on VHF 16 for approach guidance, as the channel to the protected cove requires attention to depth and tide. Exuma International Airport is approximately 30 minutes from George Town by car.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the approach tricky at Saint Francis Marina?

The protected cove has shallow sections requiring attention to tide and draft. Vessels drawing more than 3.5 feet should time arrivals and departures for high tide. Contact the marina for current conditions and guidance.

Is Saint Francis really a hurricane hole?

Yes. The marina sits in a well-protected cove referred to locally as Hurricane Hole, providing natural shelter that has protected vessels during storms. The location makes it popular for longer-term boat storage.

Can I stay at the resort without a boat?

Yes. Saint Francis operates eight oceanfront bungalows for guests arriving via water taxi or charter. The resort functions as an all-inclusive with meals, diving, and beach access included in packages.