This is a new anchorage that is not in any of the cruising guides. It hasn’t been used since the old mail boats and customs house has been closed due to roads being built on the island about 50 years ago.

As a cruiser on S/V Mariah Blake and a homeowner on Cat Island Bahamas, we are encouraging anchoring at Port Howe Cat Island. The anchorage is protected by a reef and is a wonderful anchorage to ride out a Norther. The entrance to the reef is 24.08,773N and 75.21.347W. When you come thru the reef make a right and go approximately 1/2 mile East and anchor in 6-12 feet of water on a sandy bottom. There are a few ex-cruisers with permanent moorings here. This anchorage is safe in all weather. If there is a heavy blow from the south you might get a slight surge over the reef in high tide but is perfectly safe. We are working now on setting up some free moorings for cruisers to use.

You can bring your dinghy ashore any place on the beach. The ruins of the Deveau Estate are right there. The people of Port Howe are some of the friendliest in the Bahamas. There are a small bar and restaurant in the town. Rental cars and tours can be arranged by calling Donny Newbold 242 342 5041. There are many public wells in the town with good drinking water. It is well worth the visit to see this out of the way town.

Sincerely,

Jack McCormick