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 feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Old Bight	5.0 ★	Review summary: Offering excellent protection from winds, Old Bight is a favored anchorage for its solid holding in sandy bottoms. Visitors appreciate the beautiful stretch of walkable beach, adding to the location's appeal for extended stays.
	Fernandez Bay	4.5 ★	Review summary: Anchoring in Fernandez Bay offers excellent holding in sand despite rolly conditions with northern or southern swells. The large anchorage accommodates two dozen boats, providing ample space even during easterly winds. A nearby resort enhances the experience, with amenities like kayak rentals available on shore.
	Cat Island New Bight	4.1 ★	Review summary: Access is favorable for anchoring with a sandy bottom providing good holding for vessels. The anchorage is spacious and offers good protection from the east, while visitors can enjoy numerous local restaurants and activities like hiking to the Hermitage.
	Orange Creek Settlement	4.0 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Orange Creek Settlement offers visitors a peaceful environment when winds shift from west to north. Light northwest to northeast winds can cause some rolling due to ocean swell. The beach nearby provides a scenic and often solitary spot for relaxation.
	Half Moon Bay	3.1 ★	Review summary: Anchoring at Half Moon Bay provides a setting with generally good holding and a modest roll, especially when winds are light and from the south. Proximity to beaches and snorkeling opportunities makes it appealing for those seeking natural beauty and marine activities.

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Marinas

Hawks Nest Marina

4.7 ★

Review summary: Staying at Hawks Nest Marina offers ample protection and accommodating facilities, including spacious docks with 30 and 50 amp service. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of laundry facilities and free bikes to explore nearby attractions, making for a pleasant marina experience.

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

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