Staniel Cay Yacht Club
The Exumas' legendary marina — gateway to swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, and barefoot island life.
Staniel Cay Yacht Club sits at the heart of the Exuma Cays, a legendary marina that has welcomed sailors for generations. The recently renovated facility offers 18 slips accommodating vessels from center consoles to mega-yachts up to 210 feet, with a dedicated fuel dock and 21 mooring balls in the protected harbour.
This is the basecamp for two of the Bahamas' most iconic experiences: Big Major Cay's swimming pigs and the underwater cathedral of Thunderball Grotto, both just minutes away by dinghy. The marina's restaurant, bar, and boutique accommodations make it a destination in its own right.
Marina facilities and services
The marina maintains 12-foot depth at low tide and can handle yachts up to 210 feet. Electric service includes 30, 50, and 100 amp options with single and three-phase configurations, billed at $1.20 per kilowatt-hour. Fresh water runs through an on-site reverse osmosis system at $0.40 per gallon — never mingled with rainwater.
The fuel dock operates daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with high-speed pumps for diesel and gasoline. Ice, rigged bait, and basic provisions are available. For those preferring to swing on a hook, 21 professionally anchored moorings sit just outside the marina.
Pig Beach and Thunderball Grotto
Big Major Cay — home to the famous swimming pigs — lies just a ten-minute dinghy ride from the marina. These photogenic pigs will wade out to greet arriving boats hoping for treats. Time your visit for morning before the tour boats arrive for a more intimate encounter.
Thunderball Grotto, the sea cave made famous by two James Bond films, is even closer. At slack low tide you can swim into the cavern through underwater entrances and surface inside a cathedral of light shafts and circling tropical fish. Snorkel gear from the marina's rental desk is all you need.
The yacht club experience
Beyond dockage, Staniel Cay Yacht Club operates a waterfront restaurant and bar serving fresh seafood and Bahamian classics. The property offers rental cottages for those wanting to linger ashore, and complimentary WiFi in the clubhouse keeps connected cruisers happy.
The community around the marina is small and welcoming — a handful of shops, a few local restaurants, and island hospitality that has made this a cruiser favourite for decades.
Getting there
Staniel Cay Yacht Club is approximately 75 nautical miles southeast of Nassau. Most cruisers approach via the Exuma Banks from Nassau or via Highbourne Cay if southbound through the cays. Staniel Cay Airport (TYM) offers daily scheduled flights from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale for those arriving by air — the marina can arrange ground transfers. Contact the marina ahead of arrival at VHF Channel 16 or by phone.
Frequently asked questions
- Does Staniel Cay Yacht Club have fuel?
- Yes. The dedicated fuel dock operates 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with high-speed pumps for both diesel and gasoline. Ice and bait are also available at the dock.
- How close is Pig Beach to Staniel Cay Yacht Club?
- Big Major Cay (Pig Beach) is approximately a ten-minute dinghy ride from the marina. The swimming pigs are most approachable in the early morning before tour boats arrive.
- Can I reserve a slip at Staniel Cay Yacht Club?
- Transient slips are normally available, but advance reservations are recommended during peak season. Contact the marina at VHF 16 or phone (242) 355-2024 the day before or early on arrival day to confirm availability.
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