Cat Island

Cat Island offers a chain of anchorages spaced for straightforward day sails along the coast. Only basic amenities are available at the main settlement at Arthur’s Town, so visiting boats generally arrive well provisioned and ready for independent cruising.

The Hermitage, near the highest point in the Bahamas, is a small hilltop monastery and one of Cat Island’s best‑known landmarks, with a short trail leading to Father Jerome's Cave which he used as a home during its construction.

The Healing pond is a shallow inland salt lake close to the coast, occasionally visited by cruisers interested in its locally reputed therapeutic waters.

Much of the offshore approach lies in deep water, but the shelf around the island is fringed by reefs and shoal patches. Several cuts and gaps in the surrounding reef systems carry strong tidal streams and can be rough.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Old Bight ★ 4.9 Strong holding in sandy bottom is reported by multiple visitors. The anchorage provides good protection from winds, even during squalls. Additionally, the nearby beach is described as clean and easily accessible for walking and dining options.
	Fernandez Bay ★ 4.6 Anchoring conditions are generally favorable with good holding in sand. The anchorage is quiet, offering opportunities for exploration and a welcoming resort atmosphere. Visitors note occasional swell issues, particularly in changing winds.
	Cat Island New Bight ★ 4.6 Sheltered anchorage offers good protection with sandy bottoms. Visitors enjoyed ample dining options and convenient access to stores, including a bakery. Wind conditions favor anchoring in east to northeast winds, though noise from nearby venues can occur at night.
	Bennett’s Harbor - Pompey Rock Anchorage ★ 4.6 The anchorage offers good holding on sand and provides easy access to beaches. Visitors report comfort in east winds, although swell can be an issue in some conditions. The local area features friendly residents and good dining options.
	Howe Bay ★ 4.4 Anchoring is feasible with good holding and swing room. The bay offers shelter from cold fronts, though south winds create a constant surge. Visitors appreciate the crystal clear water and opportunity for snorkeling.
	Orange Creek Settlement ★ 4.0 Conditions can vary significantly. The anchorage is generally calm in light winds, but may become rolly with swell from the southeast. The beach is often uncrowded and the local grocery store is stocked with reasonably priced supplies.
	Arthurs Town Anchorage ★ 4.0 Conditions were generally comfortable for anchoring, with reports of good holding. A slight roll was experienced with easterly winds. Notably, Da Smoke Pot offered a great dining experience for visitors.
	Hawks Nest Point ★ 3.7 Anchorage offers clear water and good holding with limited surge. Visitors report sightings of rays, sharks, and moray eels. The location provides shelter and easy access to nearby resort staff who are noted for their helpfulness.
	Half Moon Bay ★ 3.2 Half Moon Bay features a beautiful sandy anchorage with excellent sand holding. It experiences occasional rolling, especially in moderate winds. Visitors have reported issues with smoke from burning trash after cruise ships depart, making conditions uncomfortable at times.

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Marinas

Hawks Nest Marina ★ 4.7 Plenty of room for catamarans with protected conditions. The marina features solid fixed docks equipped with electrical service, and offers free bikes for easy access to the resort. Water is available at 45 cents per gallon, while laundry facilities are priced at $5 each for washing and drying.

Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Bahamas: