I was just informed by Old Bay marina at West End on Grand Bahama island that they have a 3 night minimum (along with other charges). Our plans called for checking in at West End, then off early the next morning to anchor at Great Sale Cay…….. I definitly do not want to pay for 3 nights and only stay for 13 hours or so.
This will be my first time in the Bahamas by boat, and I am curious if anyone has any first hand information about places to anchor at or near West End. The guide books I have indicate two places indicated as "marginal", and I would like to go a bit more prepared.
Thanks for any help !
Jeff
s/v Manatee

Re: Old Bahama Bay Marina Question
We checked out anchorage spots off the north and west sides of West End in 2006 and were not happy with either with the winds we had so bit the bullet and went into a slip. I would say that either of these anchorages would be OK only in calm conditions. The northerly one especially seems to have poor holding and lots of hard things to hit if you drag.
This 3 night minimum seems strange as people often check in there and go on the next day. I would look for another choice for check in. We often go all the way to Green Turtle (or Treasure Cay, but long way to airport) and some stop at Spanish Cay.
Wayne Thomas
FLUKE KK Whaleback

Concerning the question about three night minimum at Old Bahama Bay at West End Bahamas.  We spent and paid for only one night, arriving Christmas Day 07.  Everyone was very friendly and efficient, even though they were working Christmas Day.  Called and made a reservation at their 800 number.
cheers,
Roger Arrowood
"Pelican"
Great Harbour N37

Regarding the Bahamas

Claiborne;
As many of us are waiting for a weather window to leave for West End on Grand Bahama Island, this might be of interest.
Our itinerary will take us to West End to check in with Customs, spend the night, and leave for the Abacos early the following morning. However, as I called to make a marina reservation at Old Bahama Bay (at West End), they informed me that they now have a Three Night minimum, and a mandatory water charge. In addition, their marina rate are approaching $2.00 per foot with a forty foot minimum.
It appears they know there is no place else to go on the first night out for those of us who cannot sail straight through, and, are taking full advantage of the situation. I know I do not want to spend in excess of $200 for a 13 hour stay.
Not sure of a solution, but wanted to let everyone know about my phone conversation with them.
Thanks !
Jeff
s/v Manatee

I was just informed by Old Bay marina at West End on Grand Bahama island that they have a 3 night minimum (along with other charges). Our plans called for checking in at West End, then off early the next morning to anchor at Great Sale Cay…….. I definitly do not want to pay for 3 nights and only stay for 13 hours or so.
This will be my first time in the Bahamas by boat, and I am curious if anyone has any first hand information about places to anchor at or near West End. The guide books I have indicate two places indicated as "marginal", and I would like to go a bit more prepared.
Thanks for any help !
Jeff
s/v Manatee

Re: Old Bahama Bay Marina Question
We checked out anchorage spots off the north and west sides of West End in 2006 and were not happy with either with the winds we had so bit the bullet and went into a slip. I would say that either of these anchorages would be OK only in calm conditions. The northerly one especially seems to have poor holding and lots of hard things to hit if you drag.
This 3 night minimum seems strange as people often check in there and go on the next day. I would look for another choice for check in. We often go all the way to Green Turtle (or Treasure Cay, but long way to airport) and some stop at Spanish Cay.
Wayne Thomas
FLUKE KK Whaleback