Are you planning a sailing trip in Eleuthera? We help with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help! Eleuthera is the fourth-largest island on the Bahamas. The chain of islands is among the most significant and iconic parts of the region with its countless pineapple fields and beaches covered with pink sand. Its eastern coast faces the Atlantic Ocean and the western coast is opposite the Great Bahama Bank. The island is very narrow and long at the same time; it is 4-kilometre-wide on average and has a length of 180 kilometres. It has marvellous beaches and is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise and blue waters. Its name means ‘freedom’ in Greek. Let us explore and experience this freedom!

This article gives you an overview of the following topics:

The-weather of Eleuthera
Ports and islands around Eleuthera
Sail in Eleuthera! Eleuthera sailing adventures
Sailing in Eleuthera : a week sailing itinerary
7 Days Eleuthera sailing adventure (longer)
Marine gas near Eleuthera

The weather of Eleuthera

Eleuthera has a subtropical climate, characterised by moderate warm weather during the entire year. The average annual temperature is 28° Celsius; this means 21° Celsius in the winter and 27° Celsius in the summer. The temperature rarely drops below 16° Celsius or above 32° Celsius. The dominant wind blows from the northeast in the winter and from the southeast in the summer, freshening up the air a bit. The velocity of the wind is an average of 15 km/h during the entire year. Most of the precipitation falls in the summer months. At the end of the summer – during the period between June and November – tropical cyclones (hurricanes) may be a threat.

The strong wind (with a blast of over 90 km/h) and the seawater that rises, as a result, may cause heavy damage. The weather is usually pleasant in Eleuthera during the whole year, meaning that sailing is also enjoyable in all seasons. We should definitely avoid the hurricane season though, as storms may be very challenging. Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Eleuthera

Ports and islands around Eleuthera

There are many ports and anchorages here; sailors can choose from more than 20 designated spots for anchoring and a dozen for mooring. It is important to note, however, that sailing on the Eleuthera is not always easy. There are parts with shallow waters and corals as well as tidal waves, making navigation more difficult. The landscape is beautiful though, and the locals are very hospitable, so it is definitely worth taking the risk!

Spanish Wells

Spanish Wells is located on St. Georges Cay, west of the northern corner of Eleuthera. Its port is constituted by a long channel bordered by two small islands. It is protected well and is only open for the winds coming from the eastern direction. There is a great port and a hurricane hole in the west where boats are tied to mangrove trees. There are six anchoring buoys on the eastern side. We can find Spanish Wells Yacht Haven & Marina here which is a full-service yacht marina with 40 berths; besides the basic services, they also have a bicycle rental. The downtown is within walking distance. We can anchor at Royal Island Harbour in the west, which provides ideal anchorages for vessels with a larger draft. The only disadvantage is that they have no amenities or services.

Governor’s Harbour

Governor’s Harbour is located in the centre of Eleuthera; it is the capital of the island. It is a beautiful place with a sight of marvellous Victorian architecture. Governor’s Harbour also has a small and narrow peninsula, Cupid’s Cay, which is a great place to anchor. The average depth of water near the shore is 3-4 metres; the sea bottom is ideal for securing our boat firmly. The area is well-protected; the only disturbance may be caused by the western winds from time to time. French Leave Marina is the most important yacht marina, located in the southeastern corner of the town. They offer boat slips for both larger megayachts and smaller boats. They also have electricity and water in every dock. One of the most popular events in town is the summer regatta, a spectacular and exciting event both for competitors and spectators.

Palmetto Point

Palmetto Point can be found on the app. 10 kilometres from Governor’s Harbour. It consists of two parts: North Palmetto and South Palmetto. It has become the most popular holiday resort on the island during the past years. Visitors can expect friendly people, as well as dozens of services and restaurants. One of the best anchorages is located in Pau Pau Bay – the sea is peaceful, and we can secure our boat safely in the designated spots. The only disadvantage of the bay is its lack of complete protection from the southern and southeastern winds. There is also a yacht marina in the centre of the island called Runaway Bay Marina. The channel leading to the bay is 3 metres deep; they offer fresh water and electricity in the dock.

Rock Sound

Rock Sound is a large bay located south of Governor’s Harbour. It is a very friendly town with amazing shops and a wide variety of services. There are great anchorages in the area; however, none of them are completely protected. There are also two small free dinghy docks and an awesome beach near Wild Orchid. Davis Harbour Marina, which is the closest yacht marina, can be found in the southern part of the island. There are 24 anchorages here, and the depth of water is app. 2.5 metres. They offer shower cabins, laundry, freshwater, ice, fuel and even boat maintenance on the dock.

Harbour Island

Harbour Island lies in the northern part of the archipelago and is a perfect place for those looking for diversity. There are great hiking opportunities in the district of the old dockyard. We can find a ruinous fort here that was built under the leadership of the legendary pirate Charles Wayne. The area near the beach is full of marvellous caves, the largest of which was converted to a prison in the 18th century. Today, it is one of the most popular spots to visit. Another reason that the tiny island is popular among visitors is the unique beaches covered with pink sand. There are two yacht ports on the island: Harbour Island Club & Marina and Valentines Marina. Both of them is a well-equipped port with fuel docks.

Hatchet Bay

Hatchet Bay, located at Alice Town, is app. 20 kilometres further from Harbour Island. This is among the best anchorages on the western shores. Gaining entrance to the bay may seem scary at first, as the channel looks very narrow. In fact, it is fairly wide, and the depth of water is also ideal, so most boats can navigate through without difficulties. Thanks to the stone dam at the port, the bay is well-protected. Anchorages are free of charge; the best ones are located on the southwestern side. There are also two dingy docks near Alice Town. It is a perfect place for a nice walk on the beach, and they have grocery stores, restaurants and provide boat maintenance as well. Eleuthera boat rentals

May 7, 2024

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Eleuthera sailing adventures

The weather of Eleuthera