The Far Out Islands
Last updated: 29 January 2026
Overview
The Far Out Islands are notably remote even by Bahamian standards, and this distance from busier hubs is a key part of their appeal for yachts seeking long, undisturbed stays at anchor and access to notable wildlife areas. Visiting boats generally arrive set up for independent cruising.
Attractions
Conception Island Lagoon is accessible at high tide by dinghy. Wildlife here includes turtles, nurse sharks and egrets.
Notes for mariners
Conception Island and its lagoon sit within a national park where marine life and shoreline habitats are protected. Anchoring is restricted.
Places to stay
Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:
Anchorages
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West Plana Cay | 4.8 ★ |
Review summary: The anchorage at West Plana Cay provides strong holding for anchoring. Its beautiful sandy beach and transparent waters are noteworthy, offering a serene environment for those arriving by night. Weather conditions are crucial, as the area is best enjoyed in settled weather without northeast winds.
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Conception Island | 4.6 ★ |
Review summary: Anchoring at Conception Island offers good shelter, particularly from easterly winds. Visitors can enjoy excellent holding in sandy bottoms and stunning beaches. While the northern part of the island can accumulate debris, the wildlife and aquatic life, like sharks and dolphins, enhance the experience.
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Conception Island South | 4.0 ★ |
Review summary: Anchoring in the Conception Island South area tends to experience rolling motion, especially during east winds as noted by multiple Reviews. While some visitors reported great conditions with calm seas under 10 knots and no bugs, others highlighted issues with bugs and crowding near shore.
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Abraham Bay Reef East | 3.7 ★ |
Review summary: Visitors find the anchoring at Abraham Bay Reef East to be reliable, even with minimal scope, as anchors remain well-buried. However, the site experiences rolling at high tide, which can affect comfort. Settlement nearby is noted for its cleanliness and well-kept appearance.
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Marinas
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Riding Rock Marina | 3.0 ★ |
Review summary: Visiting Riding Rock Marina requires aligning two white rhombuses for entry. The marina provides stationary fuel service, and diesel is available for $7.25 per gallon. A notable surge occurs in westerly weather, necessitating ample fenders and extra mooring lines for stability.
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Yacht clearance
This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Bahamas.
Ports of entry offices
| San Salvador Customs & Immigration | 4.0 ★ |
Review summary: San Salvador Customs & Immigration processes clearances with Click2Clear paperwork. The procedure is generally quick and efficient, as reflected by multiple positive experiences. However, the duration of stay granted could be limited, with one review noting a 60-day allowance.
Place marker mentions: prearrival requirements and opening hours.
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Useful yacht clearance links
- Bahamas Customs: Arrival, cruising permits and forms for private pleasure vessels
- https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/visitor-info/marine-vessel-declarations-cruising-permits/
- Bahamas Customs: Explains process including Click2Clear
- https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/imports-and-exports/about-ecas/
- Bahamas Customs: Pleasure vessel FAQs (obligation to clear, repeat visits and related small‑craft questions).
- https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/resources/faqs/
- The Bahamas Out Islands Promotion Board: Overview of the entry procedure, documents required and fees
- https://www.myoutislands.com/plan-your-trip-to-bahamas/boating-regulations
- Bahamas Immigration: Inward Passenger & Crew Manifest
- https://www.oldbahamabayresorts.com/media/pdfs/immigrationform.pdf