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Boating in Abaco

By: Morgan Engle 

Right off the east coast of Florida lies the island of Great Abaco and its diverse cays.  At a distance of about 250 miles off Florida’s coast, the Abacos consist of a mainland and a chain of outer cays.  Many visitors come here for the sun, water, fishing and especially for the boating. An island boating excursion to Abaco will broaden your horizons and recharge your batteries.

The main town on Abaco is Marsh Harbour.  This is where you can usually find lower prices, and a better selection of groceries and supplies.  Many of the outer cays will not have the items you may need or desire, so it’s best to stock up in Marsh Harbour.  Fuel also tends to be a bit cheaper as well. I

n marsh Harbour there are several different marinas that are ready to accommodate you.  The Marsh Harbour Marina is a favourite with its laid-back atmosphere, great food, and friendly, knowledgeable staff, while the Conch in Marina is one of the largest marinas.  Other marinas to consider would be Mangoes Marina, Harbour View Marina, and Boat Harbour Marina which is located on the Eastern side of Marsh Harbour and can accommodate very large vessels.

The island of Elbow Cay is located east of Marsh Harbour, and is most recognized for its village of Hope Town.  The candy-striped lighthouse is the most recognizable feature of the island.  Hope Town has two marians: Lighthouse Marina, which is located at the base of the lighthouse at the entrance of the harbour, and a little further south is the Hope Town Marina which, in addition to slips, also rents mooring balls.  Further south on Elbow Cay is White Sound where Sea Spray Marina is located.  Currently, Sea Spray Marina is the only marina with a restaurant and bar, but both Sea Spray Marina and Lighthouse Marina offer fuel.  

Man-O-War Cay Has a protected Harbour with a great boat-building heritage as a back drop.  The Man-O-War Marina can accommodate vessels with larger drafts.

Great Guana Cay has a spectacular beach and great snorkeling off the sand with their large barrier reef system.  Great Guana Cay has a deep-water marina called Orchid Bay.

Further to the north lies Green Tuttle Cay and its town of New Plymouth.  This quaint, old world town boosts many shops.  The two marinas on Green Turtle are the Black Sound Marina and The Green Turtle Club, which is full service.

Unless you prefer to sit back and relax, boating in Abaco never brings a dull moment.  With so many different islands and coves to explore, your boating trip will be full of fun and provide you with many wonderful memories.  The waters of Abaco welcome you, so what are you waiting for?