Mayaguana Port - General Info
Description:
Of all the Out Islands, this is the most “out” as well as the least developed and visited. It lies at the eastern extremity of the Bahamas, halfway between South Florida and Puerto Rico, approximately 450 nautical miles southeast of Palm Beach. Mayaguana does not see a great deal of yachting traffic, but it is a good place to break a passage on the way to the eastern Caribbean.
Note: Mayaguana is not a port of entry.
There are three settlements; Pirate’s Well on the north coast, Abraham’s Bay on the south coast (the largest settlement), and Betsy’s Bay on the west coast. Abraham’s Bay is the official Port of Entry for this island. There are no more than a few hundred permanent residents on the island.
Currently, it is a quiet eco-tourism destination.
Cruiser Highlights:
Scuba diving in pristine waters with reef and shipwrecks; Bonefish on the north coast; interesting fauna including the Bahamian Hutia, flamingos, Bartsch’s iguanas, plovers, terns, osprey and nesting sea turtles; large stands of lignum vitae and other hardwoods; annual regatta festival (All Mayaguana Regatta) in June; Conchfest in early August; fresh seafood (conch, grouper, spiny lobster, snappers and tuna); remote and little-known.
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
Care is needed when approaching the island as Abraham’s Bay is full of coral heads and yachts should exercise caution when anchoring. This bay is more easily approached from the west.
Position:
22° 18.74’N, 73° 03.36’W (Abraham’s Bay)
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Related to following destinations: Bahamas, Mayaguana, Mayaguana Port
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As of early February 2023, it is not possible to clear in at Mayaguana. The most convenient port of entry for boats arriving from Turks and Caicos, not wanting to go southwest to Great Inagua, is probably Clarence Town on the southeast side of Long Island. I left a detailed comment on the Clarence Town port page describing our (positive) experience.
Mar 19, 2019 11:07 PM
On the way to or from Mayaguana you should definitely stop on one of the beautiful Plana Cays! If the wind blows less 25 knots you can anchor safe and easy in some wonderful places …