Sailing Route Guide

Sailing from Cherokee Sound Beach to Elbow Cay: Distance & Time

Plan your passage between these two popular Abacos destinations with accurate distance and timing estimates.

Route Details

Direct Distance

15.8 NM

29.3 kilometers

Initial Bearing

19° N

heading from Cherokee Sound Beach

Estimated Passage Time

3h 10m

at 5 knots

2h 38m

at 6 knots

2h 15m

at 7 knots

About This Route

Both Cherokee Sound Beach and Elbow Cay are located in the Central Abacos. This passage connects Cherokee Sound Beach, known for its a timeless loyalist village beach anchored by the bahamas' longest wooden dock, perfect for wading and sunsets., with Elbow Cay, where you can experience a car-free island paradise crowned by one of the world's last hand-cranked kerosene lighthouses.. The Sea of Abaco provides protected waters for most of this route, making it a comfortable sail in typical conditions.

Important: Distances are approximate direct (straight-line) measurements for trip-planning only. Actual sailing routes follow channels and marked passages and will be longer. Do not use for navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Cherokee Sound Beach from Elbow Cay by boat?
The direct sailing distance from Cherokee Sound Beach to Elbow Cay is approximately 15.8 nautical miles (29.3 kilometers). Actual routes following marked channels may be slightly longer.
How long does it take to sail from Cherokee Sound Beach to Elbow Cay?
At typical cruising catamaran speeds: 3h 10m at 5 knots, 2h 38m at 6 knots, or 2h 15m at 7 knots. Conditions, wind, and sea state will affect actual passage times.
What is the heading from Cherokee Sound Beach to Elbow Cay?
The initial bearing from Cherokee Sound Beach to Elbow Cay is approximately 19° (N). Always use proper charts and navigation equipment when sailing.