Don’t Rock Passage
Don’t Rock Passage
This is a popular shortcut in the Abacos between Green Turtle Cay and points to the SE. It can save a trip through the notoriously rough Whale Cay Passage. However, it has only 4 ft. MLW and is subject to breakers when a strong NE swell is running. In an E-SE swell it is usually passable.
The passage changes from year to year. I went through twice over the past weekend. I’ve attached a Google Earth picture with an estimate of the 3 foot contour and a recommended route. NOTE THIS IS FROM VISUAL OBSERVATION NOT HYDROGRAPHY. I estimate the contour based on paying attention to my depth finder and looking at the color of the water. The recommended course will have an honest 4 ft. MLW all the way through.
Many people go around the north side of Don’t Rock. This has shallowed substantially from what I remember a few years ago. Deepest water is definitely on the south side.
The sandbar to the E-NE of the Sandbank Cays seems to have grown slightly. It is easily avoided; note the dogleg in the recommended route.
When transiting this passage, or any in the Bahamas, here is what Pogo would say: “Son, use the natural-born eyebones what God give ya!”
Capt. Bob Knaus
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