The Berry Islands

The Berry Islands form a compact chain of small, sparsely populated islands north of Nassau. Many visitors use the islands as a quiet stopover between Nassau and Grand Bahama. There are a few marinas here, and many boats anchor in sheltered bays along the chain.

The Berry Islands offer a mix of natural attractions. Sea Turtle Haven, a channel in the southern mangroves, is a popular stop for a dinghy trip to visit the resident turtle population. Hoffman’s Cay Blue Hole is a 600 ft wide blue hole with a 20 ft high cliff where crews can jump or dive into the water. The Great Harbour Cay Resort Ruins offer a glimpse into a long-abandoned 1950s resort and remain a curiosity for many visitors.

Many parts of the Berry Islands waters are shallow, and access may be limited for deeper‑draft boats.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	White Cay Anchorage	5.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at White Cay Anchorage is favored for its protection from certain wind directions and calm conditions. Visitors find good holding in the sandy bottom, allowing for a secure stay. Some swell is noted with specific wind patterns, which should be anticipated.
	Hoffmans	5.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Hoffmans offers excellent conditions with protection and space for several boats. Visitors find good holding and calm waters ideal for anchoring even in higher winds. Easy access to beaches and snorkeling spots enhances the experience, with turtles frequently spotted near the anchorage.
	Little Harbour Cay	4.8 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Little Harbour Cay offers good protection and holding in sandy patches, ideal for sheltering from easterly winds. Visitors appreciate the access to cruisers beach and the blue hole, which are easily reachable by a short dinghy ride.
	Bay Of The Five Pirates, Great Harbour Bay	4.7 ★	Review summary: Offering great protection from various wind directions, Bay Of The Five Pirates is a favored anchorage. Visitors have reported good holding capacity even in challenging conditions, supporting up to 3-4 boats. Situated conveniently close to amenities like showers and food.
	Soldier Cay	4.5 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Soldier Cay provides good holding and protection from several wind directions, although it can be somewhat rolly especially in easterly breezes. Visitors enjoy clear water, little swell, and the presence of diverse marine life including sharks, making it a lively and engaging stop.
	Hawksnest Cay	4.4 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Hawksnest Cay provides good holding and protection from south to northwest winds. It features beautiful clear waters and long sandy beaches. Visitors enjoy the opportunity for exploration, such as swimming at Shark Creek, where marine life sightings are common.
	Whale Cay	4.3 ★	Review summary: Whale Cay anchorage features clear water and soft sand, offering a pleasant environment for visitors. The location provides good protection from north and northeast winds. Its quiet atmosphere, with minimal land activity, enhances the experience of visiting this scenic anchorage.
	Bonds Cay	4.2 ★	Review summary: Access to Bonds Cay requires navigating shallow waters, so timing entry with high tide is recommended. The anchorage offers calm conditions and plenty of space for several boats. Anchoring in sandy patches provides good holding grounds, enhancing the overall experience.
	White Cay Anchorage	4.2 ★	Review summary: Anchoring overnight at White Cay Anchorage is favored due to good holding, although fluctuating depths require careful spot selection. Strong currents add interest, with room for boats to align in various directions. Visitors often use it as a brief stop before moving on elsewhere.
	North Frazer's Hog	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at North Frazer's Hog is common for visitors seeking wind protection. Adequate holding is noted in 7-8 feet of water, providing a reliable spot for mooring. While some experience flies onshore, it does not deter from the anchorage's use.

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Marinas

	Great Harbour Cay Marina	5.0 ★	Review summary: Visitors frequently mention the Great Harbour Cay Marina as a well-protected and friendly facility with a hospitable atmosphere. The presence of friendly, helpful staff and community activities such as potluck meals add to the marina's appeal. Free bicycle rentals and clean amenities enhance the experience.
	Chub Cay Marina	4.5 ★	Review summary: Access to Chub Cay Marina requires staying at the marina due to its private club status. The marina is characterized by modern amenities, including floating docks, a helpful staff, and a resort atmosphere. It features an onsite grocery store and clean drinking water.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Bahamas.

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