Long Island

Long Island is relatively well populated, with a string of settlements spread along its length and a noticeable difference in character between the east and west coasts. The western anchorages are easily reached from George Town and often used as stopping points by boats continuing south toward the Raggeds, while Clarence Town on the Atlantic side serves as the main harbor and service hub for passages linking Long Island with Acklins, the Far Out Islands, and routes farther afield.

Dean’s Blue Hole, in the bay west of Clarence Town, is among the world’s deepest known blue holes and a major freediving venue. It is regularly used for training and freedive events such as Vertical Blue.

Hamilton’s Cave is currently the largest known cave system in The Bahamas and is visited on guided tours arranged with the landowner near the settlement of Hamilton. The caverns feature extensive stalactite and stalagmite formations and support several bat species.

Red Shrimp Cave is a small, underground pool reached by a short path behind the derelict St Mary The Virgin church, where swimmers share the water with tiny red shrimp and bats

Harbors with fuel and basic supplies are limited (see the map for details), so most crews arrive well stocked and treat the few service points as top‑ups rather than full‑service stops. Routes to and from nearby island groups encounter exposed deep‑water legs, shallow bank passages and cuts where sea state, and tide height are critical.

Places to stay

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

Anchorages

	Dollar Cay Harbour	4.8 ★	Review summary: Depth readings can vary considerably; for example, measurements of 0.8m and 2.3m were reported in the same area. The anchorage features good holding in sandy bottom, with depths of 4-5m noted. Many visitors experienced the natural beauty and wildlife presence.
	Millers Bay	4.7 ★	Review summary: Access to this anchorage provides calm conditions for anchoring with easterly winds. Several visitors enjoyed activities such as snorkeling and paddleboarding. The nearby Chez Pierre restaurant is highlighted, though planning ahead for dinner is recommended.
	Thompson Bay	4.4 ★	Review summary: The anchorage features great holding and protection, allowing for calm conditions during strong winds. Multiple reviews mention abundant room for various vessels. Some dinghy docks remain under repair, presenting a challenge for shore access.
	Gordon’s Beach	4.2 ★	Review summary: Calm anchorage with a sandy bottom and good holding, suitable for various wind conditions. The restaurant offers friendly service and dining options. Visitors noted a beautiful beach, but there can be significant swells at times.
	Calabash Bay	4.1 ★	Review summary: The anchorage features a sandy bottom and beautiful surroundings, providing access to a beach and a restaurant/bar. Visitors reported potential discomfort from swell under certain wind conditions, particularly from the north. Happy hour events are available at the resort.
	Clarence Town East	3.9 ★	Review summary: Anchorage conditions vary. Some visitors reported rolls and swell, mainly from northeast winds, while others experienced manageable conditions. Check-in procedures with customs are straightforward, and the anchorage accommodates several boats with adequate holding in sand.
	Clarence Town	3.7 ★	Review summary: The anchorage is calm and well protected from the south to north, with a good sandy bottom that holds well. Visitors report comfort even in strong winds, along with convenient access to customs at the Marina for clearance needs.
	Galliot cay south	3.0 ★	Review summary: Access to a lovely beach and a restaurant with decent prices adds appeal. Strong wind gusts were noted, contributing to uncomfortable conditions due to swell. Excellent holding was experienced, although mosquitoes affected enjoyment for some visitors.

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Marinas

	Flying Fish Marina	4.0 ★	Review summary: The marina offers helpful staff and a small customs office for clearance procedures. Reports indicate issues with dinghy parking and varying experiences with friendliness among employees. Amenities include a restaurant with excellent food and a store for essentials.
	Stella Maris Marina	3.0 ★	Review summary: Approach marks are lacking, presenting challenges as noted by several visitors. Facilities are limited, with reports of no toilets or showers, and there are issues with insects. Water and power are operational but conditions warrant caution when planning a stay.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

Seafarer Marine Supply

5.0 ★

Review summary: The store is well-stocked with a variety of marine supplies, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment. Staff members are helpful and the pricing is viewed positively. Visitors have noted additional unexpected offerings, including items for pets.

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

Useful yacht clearance links