Sailing Route Guide

Sailing from Elbow Cay to Powell Cay: Distance & Time

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

Route Details

Direct Distance

37.1 NM

68.8 kilometers

Initial Bearing

307° NW

heading from Elbow Cay

Estimated Passage Time

7h 25m

at 5 knots

6h 11m

at 6 knots

5h 18m

at 7 knots

About This Route

Both destinations are part of the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas. This passage connects Elbow Cay, known for its a car-free island paradise crowned by one of the world's last hand-cranked kerosene lighthouses., with Powell Cay, where you can experience an uninhabited 294-acre sanctuary where cliff-nesting tropicbirds soar above pristine atlantic beaches and crystal-clear anchorages.. 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 Elbow Cay from Powell Cay by boat?
The direct sailing distance from Elbow Cay to Powell Cay is approximately 37.1 nautical miles (68.8 kilometers). Actual routes following marked channels may be slightly longer.
How long does it take to sail from Elbow Cay to Powell Cay?
At typical cruising catamaran speeds: 7h 25m at 5 knots, 6h 11m at 6 knots, or 5h 18m at 7 knots. Conditions, wind, and sea state will affect actual passage times.
What is the heading from Elbow Cay to Powell Cay?
The initial bearing from Elbow Cay to Powell Cay is approximately 307° (NW). Always use proper charts and navigation equipment when sailing.