Boating Around Long Island, Bahamas: Marinas, Cruising Routes & Coastal Highlights
INTRODUCTION
Long Island is one of The Bahamas' most rewarding islands for recreational boating, offering a diverse coastline that ranges from sheltered bays and calm western waters to dramatic Atlantic cliffs and offshore reefs. Its location between the Great Bahama Bank and the Atlantic Ocean makes it a popular stop for cruising yachts, private vessels, sailing enthusiasts, sportfishing boats, and island-hopping adventures.
Unlike heavily developed boating destinations, Long Island combines modern marina facilities with quiet anchorages, uncrowded waters, and easy access to nearby natural attractions. Visitors can explore hidden coves, snorkel coral reefs, visit Dean's Blue Hole by boat, or cruise toward Conception Island National Park.
If you're planning a broader itinerary, this guide complements the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide, which covers accommodations, beaches, attractions, transportation, and island experiences beyond boating.
WHY LONG ISLAND IS A FAVORITE BOATING DESTINATION
Long Island stretches for approximately 80 miles (130 km), creating a remarkably varied cruising environment.
The western coastline borders the shallow turquoise waters of the Great Bahama Bank, providing generally calmer conditions for cruising, anchoring, and island hopping. On the eastern side, the Atlantic coastline features deeper water, limestone cliffs, reefs, and excellent access for offshore fishing and diving. This contrast allows boaters to enjoy both protected cruising grounds and open-ocean adventures within a single destination.
FLYING FISH MARINA
Located in Clarence Town, Flying Fish Marina is Long Island's primary full-service marina and one of the island's main ports for visiting yachts.
The marina offers:
Its protected harbor makes it an excellent base for exploring both the Atlantic coast and the calmer western waters of Long Island.
STELLA MARIS MARINA
Located on the island's northeastern coast, the marina at Stella Maris Resort Club provides another convenient option for visiting boaters.
The marina is particularly useful for travelers staying at the resort or exploring:
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Atlantic reefs
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Offshore fishing grounds
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Sea caves
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Northern Long Island
Its smaller scale offers a quieter experience while still providing essential marina services.
POPULAR ANCHORAGES
Long Island offers numerous protected anchorages suitable for cruising yachts and private vessels.
Well-known locations include:
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Thompson Bay
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Salt Pond
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Dollar Harbour
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McKanns Cove
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Upper Channel Cay
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Lower Channel Cay
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Fowl Cay – The Bight
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Evas Cay
Many of these anchorages protect from prevailing winds while offering convenient access to nearby settlements and beaches.
SAILING CONDITIONS
Long Island is suitable for experienced sailors and recreational cruisers throughout much of the year.
Conditions vary considerably depending on which side of the island you're navigating:
West Coast
East Coast
Weather forecasts should always be checked before departing, particularly during hurricane season.
BEST BOATING EXPERIENCES
A boating holiday around Long Island offers access to experiences that are difficult to reach by road.
Popular excursions include:
Dean's Blue Hole
Approach one of the world's most famous marine blue holes from the sea and anchor nearby before swimming or snorkeling.
Conception Island National Park
Located a short boat ride from Long Island, this protected national park is renowned for its reefs, marine life, secluded beaches, and historic ruins.
Snorkeling Reefs
Numerous coral reefs fringe Long Island, providing opportunities to observe tropical fish, sea turtles, and healthy coral ecosystems.
Offshore Fishing
Long Island's deep Atlantic waters attract anglers targeting:
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Wahoo
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Tuna
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Mahi-mahi
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Marlin
The island is widely regarded as one of The Bahamas' premier sportfishing destinations.
BOATING REGULATIONS
International visitors arriving by private vessel must comply with Bahamian boating regulations.
Requirements generally include:
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Clearing Customs and Immigration at an official Port of Entry.
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Obtaining a cruising permit.
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Carrying valid passports for everyone on board.
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Presenting vessel registration documents.
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Following current fishing permit requirements if fishing from a foreign vessel.
Flying Fish Marina in Clarence Town serves as an official Port of Entry for many visiting yachts.
WHEN TO GO BOATING
The boating season generally runs throughout the year, although the most comfortable cruising conditions are typically found between:
November through May
These months often provide:
Summer remains popular but requires closer monitoring of tropical weather systems.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Primary Marina
Flying Fish Marina, Clarence Town
Additional Marina
Stella Maris Resort Club Marina
Suitable For
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Sailing
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Cruising
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Yacht charters
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Fishing boats
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Snorkeling excursions
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Island hopping
Nearest Airports
Skill Level
Intermediate to experienced offshore boaters, depending on weather and route.
FAQ SECTION
Is Long Island good for boating?
Yes. Long Island offers excellent cruising waters, marinas, anchorages, fishing grounds, and access to nearby islands.
What marina serves Long Island?
Flying Fish Marina in Clarence Town is the island's primary full-service marina.
Where can I anchor around Long Island?
Popular anchorages include Thompson Bay, Salt Pond, Dollar Harbour, McKanns Cove, and Fowl Cay.
Can I enter The Bahamas by private boat?
Yes. Visiting boaters must clear Customs and Immigration, obtain the required cruising permit, and meet entry requirements.
Are there boating trips to Conception Island?
Yes. Conception Island National Park is a popular excursion from Long Island for boating, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
What is the best season for boating?
November through May generally provides the most comfortable cruising conditions.
How long should I spend boating around Long Island?
Many cruisers spend several days exploring the island's marinas, anchorages, reefs, beaches, and nearby cays.
EXPLORE MORE LONG ISLAND GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
Long Island occupies a strategic position in the central Bahamas, bordered by the Great Bahama Bank to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Boaters can cruise between settlements such as Clarence Town, Salt Pond, Stella Maris, and Deadman's Cay while exploring offshore reefs, blue holes, secluded beaches, and nearby destinations including Conception Island National Park. These boating experiences complement Long Island's renowned fishing, diving, hiking, and cultural attractions, making the island one of The Bahamas' most versatile destinations for marine recreation.
CONCLUSION
Boating offers one of the best ways to experience Long Island's varied coastline, combining peaceful anchorages, full-service marinas, world-class fishing, reef snorkeling, and easy access to some of The Bahamas' most remarkable natural attractions. Whether arriving aboard your own yacht or joining a local excursion, the island provides memorable cruising opportunities for sailors, anglers, and families alike.
To discover even more about Long Island's beaches, accommodations, attractions, and travel planning, continue exploring the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide
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