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 feedback from the noforeignland community:
Anchorages
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Between the Raggeds | 5.0 ★ |
Review summary: 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 | 4.9 ★ |
Review summary: Anchorages at Hog Cay provide excellent sand holding and are well-protected from easterly trades. The Hog Cay Yacht Club is noted for its vibrant community and social activities, including beach bonfires and potlucks. Visitors appreciate the numerous hiking trails and stunning views.
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House Bay | 4.8 ★ |
Review summary: 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 | 4.4 ★ |
Review summary: The anchorage offers calm conditions for catamarans, even in NE winds up to 25 knots. Monohulls may experience rolling in higher winds. Depth averages around 2 m, and the holding power is generally excellent, allowing for comfortable anchoring and exploration of nearby beaches.
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Flamingo Cay North Bight | 4.3 ★ |
Review summary: 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 ★ |
Review summary: 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 ★ |
Review summary: 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 ★ |
Review summary: 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 ★ |
Review summary: Excellent holding and shelter from the east winds enhance the experience at this anchorage. Visitors reported frequent sightings of bull sharks, impacting swimming activities. A nearby beach and hiking options are noted as highlights, though some found it slightly rolly.
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Jamaica Cay | 4.0 ★ |
Review summary: 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
There are currently too few reports for yacht clearance in this part of Bahamas. If you clear in here, please add any missing clearance markers and a short review to help others.
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/