
Staniel Cay Yacht Club Marina
The legendary Exuma Cays hub where swimming pigs meet superyacht service, offering 18 slips and 21 moorings in crystalline waters.
Staniel Cay Yacht Club Marina has earned its reputation as the most iconic marina in the Exuma Cays, serving as the gateway to the legendary swimming pigs of Big Major Cay and the pristine waters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Nestled in a naturally protected harbour, the newly renovated facility accommodates vessels ranging from center consoles to megayachts up to 185 feet with drafts to 12 feet at low tide.
What makes Staniel Cay Yacht Club irreplaceable is its combination of world-class marina services with authentic Bahamian character. The independent fuel dock features high-speed pumps for efficient refueling, while 21 moorings extend capacity beyond the 18 fixed slips. The on-site restaurant, provisions store, and legendary bar create a cruiser community atmosphere that draws yachts back season after season.
Marina Slips and Moorings
The marina features 18 secure slips configured to accommodate everything from modest runabouts to substantial megayachts reaching 185 feet in length. Even at low tide, the dock maintains 12-foot depth, providing reliable access for deep-draft sailing yachts and motor vessels. Bellingham-style floating docks ensure gentle rises and falls with the tide.
Beyond the fixed slips, Staniel Cay Yacht Club operates 21 moorings in close proximity to the marina. Mooring reservations require direct contact with the marina office, as online booking is not available for these positions. Together, the slips and moorings accommodate the substantial cruising traffic that converges on Staniel Cay during peak season.
Fuel Dock and Utilities
The independent fuel dock stands apart from the main marina, featuring high-speed pumps that minimize refueling time for vessels of all sizes. Both diesel and gasoline are available, making Staniel Cay a critical fuel stop for cruisers transiting between Nassau and the southern Bahamas.
Electrical service includes 30, 50, and 100 amp configurations at metered rates. Fresh reverse-osmosis water, ice, and bait complete the essential provisions. The marina monitors VHF channel 16 for arriving vessels and can be reached directly at (242) 355-2024.
Restaurant, Bar, and Provisions
The Staniel Cay Yacht Club restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fresh Bahamian seafood and American comfort food. The open-air bar overlooking the harbour has achieved legendary status among cruisers, with sundowner gatherings and live music creating unforgettable evenings under tropical skies.
The on-site provisions store stocks essential groceries, beverages, and sundries for vessel provisioning. While selection is limited compared to Nassau, the convenience of dockside shopping makes Staniel Cay practical for extended cruises through the Exuma Cays.
Swimming Pigs and Local Attractions
Staniel Cay Yacht Club serves as the primary launching point for visits to the famous swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, located just minutes away by dinghy or tender. The pigs have become one of the Bahamas' most photographed attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.
Other nearby attractions include Thunderball Grotto, the underwater cave system featured in James Bond films, and the nurse sharks of Compass Cay. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park lies a few hours north by boat, offering pristine marine protected waters for snorkeling and diving.
Getting there
Staniel Cay Yacht Club Marina is located in the central Exuma Cays at coordinates 24.172 N, 76.445 W. Approaching from Nassau, follow the Exuma Sound route south past Highbourne Cay and Norman's Cay. The marina entrance is clearly visible on the western shore of Staniel Cay. Monitor VHF channel 16 for approach instructions. Staniel Cay Airport (TYM) provides air access with daily flights from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I reserve a mooring at Staniel Cay Yacht Club?
- Mooring reservations cannot be made online. Contact the marina directly at (242) 355-2024 or (954) 833-2100, or email marina@stanielcay.com for mooring availability and pricing.
- Is fuel available at Staniel Cay Yacht Club?
- Yes. The marina operates an independent fuel dock with high-speed pumps dispensing both diesel and gasoline. This makes Staniel Cay a critical refueling stop for vessels transiting the Exuma Cays.
- How far are the swimming pigs from the marina?
- The famous swimming pigs of Big Major Cay are located approximately 10-15 minutes by dinghy or tender from Staniel Cay Yacht Club Marina. Local tour operators also offer guided excursions.
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