The Raggeds & Jumentos Islands
Last updated: 28 January 2026
Overview
The Raggeds and Jumentos Islands are remote and sparsely developed, with only a few all-weather anchorages and almost no shore facilities, so cruisers coming here need to be self‑sufficient and well provisioned. Many are attracted by the quiet anchorages, good spearfishing and snorkeling, informal cruiser gatherings, and the sense of isolation that is harder to find in better‑known Bahamian chains.
Attractions
Flamingo Cay Cave is of particular interest to visiting sailors and is accessible by dinghy; it is known for its unique rock formations.
Double Breasted Cay is a popular stop, with hikes, a cave, a kitesurf spot, and great snorkeling all close by.
The informal Hog Cay Yacht Club beach bar, towards the southern end of the chain, is the home of regular cruiser gatherings, adding a low‑key social focus to an otherwise remote cruising ground.
Notes for mariners
Protection in the Raggeds and Jumentos is mostly from the east, and many anchorages become exposed when winter cold fronts cause the wind to turn.
Places to stay
Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:
Anchorages
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Between the Raggeds
★
5.0
A depth of about 10 feet is typical, providing room for numerous boats. Wind conditions are generally settled even in higher easterlies. Visitors appreciate the beautiful scenery, calm waters, and opportunities for beach activities and exploration.
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Hog Cay
★
5.0
Protection from wind enhances the appeal of the anchorage, with excellent sand holding noted by multiple visitors. The active cruiser community fosters social opportunities at the Yacht Club, complemented by enjoyable trails and beautiful beaches. Minimal shark sightings contribute to a relaxing experience.
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House Bay
★
4.8
Sheltered from easterly winds, the anchorage offers excellent holding with a sandy bottom. Multiple visitors reported comfort levels during strong winds, and the nearby beach is noted for shallow waters, making it suitable for families.
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Double Breasted Cay
★
4.5
Winds can contribute to a rolly experience, particularly above 15 knots from the NE. Protection is generally good and anchors have held well. Several visitors appreciated the scenery and nearby beaches.
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Flamingo Cay North Bight
★
4.3
This anchorage provides good shelter in strong southerly winds with notable holding power. Visitors reported calm conditions at low wind levels and a lovely beach, though the area can be rolly during moderate northeast winds.
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Buenavista Cay
★
4.3
The anchorage features a large bay with deep water and offers good protection from east winds. Snorkeling opportunities are highlighted, as is the scenic beach. However, anchors may struggle due to rocky areas and limited sand spots.
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Spanish Well Bay
★
4.2
Anchorage is characterized by a sandy bottom with a rapid depth drop near the beach. Visitors report skin rashes from swimming in the area. The holding is noted as excellent, but the site can experience a noticeable swell from the south.
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Johnson Cay
★
4.1
Dinghy access is straightforward with mostly deep water near the shoreline. While the setting features beautiful sandy beaches, swell may intrude even during moderate winds. The anchorage can be a mixed experience due to rolling and discomfort under certain conditions.
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Flamingo Cay - Two Palms
★
4.1
Calm conditions generally prevail at this anchorage, with good protection from northeast winds. Visitors noted strong holding in sand, clean beaches, and a scenic cave. However, frequent bull sharks may present caution for swimming activities.
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Jamaica Cay
★
4.0
The anchorage features limited space, accommodating only 2-3 boats in sandy areas. Visitors enjoyed the tranquil beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and local fishing. Strong winds have been noted, along with tidal currents affecting comfort during certain conditions.
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Yacht clearance links
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
- Noonsite: Verified clearance procedures, processes and fees.
- https://www.noonsite.com/place/bahamas/
There are currently too few reports on yacht clearance for this part of Bahamas. If you clear in here, please add any missing clearance markers and a short review to help others.