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: Anchoring provides excellent wind protection with a sandy bottom. Visitors report a calm experience even during gusty conditions, along with access to clean beaches and dining options nearby. Many enjoy long walks and the beautiful setting.
	Fernandez Bay	4.6 ★	Review summary: Multiple Reviews highlight excellent holding conditions in sand and a welcoming resort. The anchorage provides a quiet and beautiful setting, with nearby snorkeling, beaches, and kayak opportunities. Visitors should be cautious of potential swell disruption during south-easterly winds.
	Cat Island New Bight	4.4 ★	Review summary: Anchorage conditions are generally favorable with sand bottom and good holding. Notable dining options frequented by visitors include Hidden Treasures and Tingum Dem. Expect minimal noise concerns some nights but predominantly a peaceful setting for activities.
	Orange Creek Settlement	4.0 ★	Review summary: 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.
	Half Moon Bay	3.1 ★	Review summary: The anchorage offers calm conditions with good holding in various depths. Visitors reported a mix of experiences with swell and noise, particularly from nearby cruise ship activity and local burning practices. Snorkeling opportunities are noted, with some areas of the beach being less crowded.

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Marinas

Hawks Nest Marina

4.7 ★

Review summary: 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.

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

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