Best Marinas in Abaco (With Maps): Boaters’ Complete Guide
The Abaco Islands are one of the most beloved boating regions in the world—a paradise of calm waters, accessible cays, and short hops between picturesque harbors. Sailors, sportfishermen, and yacht owners return year after year for the clear navigation channels, strong boating culture, and welcoming marina communities found throughout the Sea of Abaco. Whether you're island-hopping for a few days or planning an extended cruising adventure, knowing the best marinas and their services is essential for a smooth journey.
This complete guide highlights the top marinas in Abaco and what every boater should know before docking: slip fees, available amenities, approach details, fuel options, and insider docking tips. While marina availability may evolve seasonally or after storms, the marinas listed here represent the core hubs of the Abaco boating network.
1. Marsh Harbour Marina Cluster: The Heart of Abaco Boating
Marsh Harbour, located on Great Abaco, is the main boating gateway to the northern Bahamas. Its central location, protected harbor, and wide service offerings make it a natural hub for provisioning, maintenance, and overnight docking.
Key Marinas Include:
Fees & Services
Slip fees vary by season but typically range from $1.75–$3.50 per foot per night, with discounts for long-term stays. Most marinas offer:
Approach Notes
Marsh Harbour is accessible via a well-marked channel from the Sea of Abaco. Depths are generally reliable, but boaters should monitor for shifting sands after storms. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak cruising season.
Docking Tips
Reserve ahead during winter and spring. If the wind is strong from the east, docking may require additional fenders due to chop inside the harbor.
2. Hope Town Inn & Marina (Elbow Cay)
One of the most picturesque marinas in the Bahamas, the Hope Town Inn & Marina sits directly across from the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse. The protected harbor and beautiful surroundings make it a favorite for sailors exploring the cays.
Fees & Services
Expect slip fees of $2.25–$3.00 per foot. The marina offers:
Approach Notes
The approach to Hope Town Harbour is narrow and shallow at low tide. Drafts over 5 feet should time entry carefully. Inside the harbor, conditions are calm and well-sheltered.
Docking Tips
Use the marina’s water taxi for easy access to town, as the mooring field and dinghy docks can be congested during peak season.
3. Lighthouse Marina (Hope Town)
Located at the base of the Hope Town Lighthouse, Lighthouse Marina is a smaller, quieter alternative to the main Hope Town Inn & Marina.
Fees & Services
Slip rates average $2.25–$2.75 per foot. Amenities include:
Approach Notes
Same channel as Hope Town Inn & Marina; use caution with tides.
Docking Tips
This marina is excellent for short stays and sailors wanting close access to lighthouse tours.
4. Treasure Cay Marina
One of the prettiest marinas on Great Abaco, Treasure Cay offers a clean, quiet harbor with easy access to the world-famous Treasure Cay Beach.
Fees & Services
Slip fees typically run from $1.95–$2.75 per foot. The marina includes:
Approach Notes
Treasure Cay’s entrance channel is straightforward but can shoal after major storms. Updated charts and visual navigation are recommended.
Docking Tips
For beach lovers, this marina is the perfect base. Arrive early to secure a slip during holiday weeks.
5. Orchid Bay Marina (Great Guana Cay)
Located on Great Guana Cay, Orchid Bay Marina is a popular stop for boaters seeking access to both the lively beachfront area and peaceful anchorage opportunities.
Fees & Services
Fees average $2.00–$2.75 per foot. Services include:
Approach Notes
A well-marked channel leads into the marina. Depth is suitable for most vessels, though yachts over 80 feet should confirm availability in advance.
Docking Tips
This marina is perfect for boaters wanting to visit Guana’s long Atlantic beaches and enjoy local nightlife.
6. Green Turtle Club Marina (Green Turtle Cay)
One of Abaco’s most iconic marinas, Green Turtle Club offers charming surroundings and hospitality rooted in decades of boating tradition.
Fees & Services
Slip fees usually range from $2.00–$3.00 per foot. Amenities include:
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Gasoline & diesel
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30/50 amp power
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Water
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Restaurant and bar
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Lodging at the resort
Approach Notes
There are two approaches to Green Turtle Cay: the Settlement Creek channel and the White Sound entrance. Settlement Creek is narrow and shallow; White Sound is preferred for most boats, especially during low tide.
Docking Tips
White Sound provides excellent protection against wind and swell. Call ahead for slip guidance during busy months.
7. Bluff House Beach Resort & Marina (Green Turtle Cay)
Located in White Sound opposite Green Turtle Club, Bluff House offers deep-water slips and top-tier amenities.
Fees & Services
Expect fees between $2.25–$3.25 per foot. The marina offers:
Approach Notes
Enter via White Sound’s main channel. Depth is generally reliable for vessels up to 100 feet.
Docking Tips
The marina’s beachside setting makes it a great destination for overnight stays rather than just refueling.
General Tips for Boating in Abaco
Fuel Planning
Not all marinas have continuous fuel availability after storms or supply delays. Always call ahead.
Tides & Depth
Shallow areas are common—especially near Elbow Cay, Treasure Cay, and Man-O-War. Use the tide to your advantage.
Weather Awareness
The Sea of Abaco is protected, but strong winds from the northeast can still create chop. Morning crossings are typically calmer.
Reservation Strategy
During holiday and regatta weeks, every slip in the region may be filled. Secure bookings early.
Provisioning
Marsh Harbour remains the best place for groceries, marine supplies, and hardware.
Conclusion
From full-service marinas in Marsh Harbour to quiet slips tucked away in the cays, Abaco offers some of the best boating infrastructure in the Bahamas. Whether you’re cruising on a yacht, sailing from island to island, or stopping for fuel and provisions, the region’s marinas combine convenience, character, and natural beauty.