We found yet another amazing island to visit while cruising in the Bahamas. Cat Island has so much to offer. It is part of what is considered the out islands. With a little over 1500 people living on it and with few boats making it this far away it has kept a pristine and secluded feel to it. We could tell that the locals weren’t annoyed with tourists and instead were very welcoming. The generosity and friendliness made Cat Island very special, when walking so many would offer us rides. If you want the real Bahamian experience make sure to add this island to your itinerary. Our time here flew by way too quickly but here are 6 highlights that you should check out.

The islands in the Bahamas don’t offer much elevation compared to Cat Island. The tallest point in the Bahamas is definitely worth the climb. It is located near New Bight which has a great anchorage. At 63m or 207 feet high Mount Alvernia offers a 360 degree view like no others. Rolly hills, lush island, the dark blue Atlantic Ocean contrasted by the turquoise banks surrounding you as you reach its summit. It is also home to the Hermitage which is a small monastery built by Monsignor John Hawes also known as Fra Jerome. If you are up to it, there is a little path which leads to the cave where it is said he lived while building the monastery in 1939.

This was such a unique experience. Located in the southern part of Cat Island the Healing Pond is the Bahamas version of the Dead Sea. It is in fact a salt pond which locals claim has healing properties. Swimming in it is so easy since you float effortlessly. Actually trying to bring your feet down is challenging since the extra high salt content makes them float back up. Go heal yourself in this magical environment. Although you will feel so salty afterwards that the shower is very welcomed once back on the boat, even the ocean feels like you are rinsing off the salt.

There are so many amazing coral heads scattered all over the bank on the protected West side of Cat Island. Even if the wind is blowing you can still get out which is a true pleasure. We found rich coral heads across from McQueens Bluff in the South in 10-18 feet of water with such an astounding diversity of sea sponges and soft corals. Across from Ben’s Bluff area or Industrous Hill I had my mind blown at how many fish I saw. There were big ones like spadefish, different snappers and groupers, triggerfish, plenty of jacks and so many more in 20-25 feet of water. By Fernandez Bay there is a little arch between Fernandez Cays which offers a great swim through in less than 10 feet of water. We easily could have spent months here hopping from one coral head to another. Unfortunately the wind wasn’t cooperating for us to snorkel the exposed East side.

Make sure to take your dinghy here at high tide because you will get stranded or will need to pull it. We know from experience while having to pull our two kids through it which was still worth the adventure. There are so many little creeks through the mangroves in crystal clear water. The mangrove eventually opens up to a sand bar and yet another stunning beach. Doing it by paddle board would be a great experience too.

We splurged in New Bight on Cat Island. Olive’s Bakery has amazing pineapple pastries and cinnamon roll bread, which makes the best French toasts (her suggestion). The Blue Bird restaurant is a favourite. It has the simplest menu with only two options: chicken or pork and it comes with potato salad and Peas N Rice. Simple, plentiful, affordable and exquisite. Hidden Treasures also has great food and very refreshing Pina Coladas but be aware that they are not for the light weight unless specified.

It is hard to pick a favourite beach on Cat Island because there are miles of them. Orange Creek is personally one of the nicest ones. It went on forever and I didn’t even get to walk all of it. Soft sand, layered rocks on one side and the inviting blue water makes this beach the perfect place to stroll on or swim at. Plus right next to it is the mouth of the mangroves which are worth exploring with a huge number of sea turtles. 

Overall Cat Island has everything and more. With slightly over two weeks spent sailing here we still have so much to explore. Renting a car will allow you to see more of the island, especially inland as well as the South-eastern side which isn’t as accessible by boat and requires very settled weather to anchor.

Anne Alexandra Fortin

Cory and Alex share their adventure with weekly videos on their YouTube channel “Wildly Intrepid Sailing” and share stories on their website www.wildlyintrepid.com . Their dream is to travel the world and to live without any regrets.