How can I get from Exuma to Harbour Island by boat?

You can use Savvy Navvy boat app to calculate a route from Exuma to Harbour Island which is about 118.4 nautical miles and would take around 23 hr 40 min at 5 knots, Savvy Navvy will calculate a route specific for your boat, the time you want to leave and include weather forescasts, tides & currents and wind data into the route.

Can I plan routes with tides and weather from Exuma to Harbour Island using Savvy Navvy?

Yes, Savvy Navvy helps you plan routes with tide and weather data for a safer and efficient boating experience.

Exuma to Harbour Island by boat - Savvy Navvy smart routing

Exuma to Harbour Island

Pilotage Plan: Exuma, The Bahamas to Harbour Island, The Bahamas

Departure Point: Exuma, The Bahamas Coordinates: Longitude -76.8394, Latitude 24.7443 Destination Point: Harbour Island, The Bahamas Coordinates: Longitude -76.6389, Latitude 25.4943

Overview

This journey from Exuma to Harbour Island is a beautiful cruise through the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas, offering an exhilarating mix of tranquillity and adventure. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters who have a solid understanding of navigation and are well-prepared to face the potential hazards of open waters.

Trip Highlights

1. Shelter Bays & Points of Interest:

As you embark on your journey, you can enjoy these notable stopovers and bays, perfect for both shelter and exploration:

Stocking Island (near George Town): A popular stop with sandy beaches and great snorkeling opportunities. Just a short detour, this island also offers a few more sheltered areas should adverse weather hit.

Getaway Cay: Located towards the midway point of your journey, this tiny island offers beauty and tranquility, providing a perfect spot to drop anchor, stretch your legs on the beach, and enjoy a picnic.

Compass Cay: Known for its friendly nurse sharks and stunning crystal-clear waters, this stop promises unique experiences like swimming and interacting with these gentle creatures.

Spanish Wells: A charming fishing village that allows boater interactions with locals, dining opportunities, and a chance to stock up on provisions.

The Route

Departure from Exuma: Start your trip by plotting a course northwest towards George Town. Maintain a course that keeps you clear of the shallows and reefs; crucial navigational markers are abundant along this route. Your primary navigational aids will be the various buoys marking the channel. Make sure you consult your chart for the detailed positions of these aids.

Navigating the Waters:

Be alert for shallow banks and coral reefs as you leave Exuma. Keep your vessel well clear of unmarked shallows, maintaining a course deeper than 10 feet wherever possible.

Midpoint: As you approach Spanish Wells, be mindful of the rising tides. This area can have a strong current; consider consulting your tide tables to time your passage through any channels to minimize resistance.

Entering Harbour Island: Upon approaching Harbour Island, watch for the tides as they can create swift currents entering the bay. Use the visual landmarks alongside your chart; the lighthouse on Eleuthera will serve as a helpful reference point.

Navigational Aids & Regulations

While navigating, utilize the following aids:

Navigational Buoys: Pay attention to the distinct colors and configurations marking the channel; red right returning.

Charts and GPS: Keep your nautical charts updated, and regularly check your GPS and depth sounder.

Radar & AIS System: If your boat is equipped with radar, utilize it, especially in changing weather conditions. AIS will be beneficial for spotting other vessels in the water.

Regulations:

Always adhere to local speed limits while in the vicinity of islands or near populated areas.

Preserve marine life by avoiding areas that specifically mark fishing sanctuaries or conservation zones.

Safety Considerations

Monitor weather conditions closely, as tropical storms can develop quickly. Ideally, check forecasts via your boating weather apps regularly.

Carry a reliable communication device for emergencies, and ensure that your life jackets and other safety gear are in good order.

Boating Apps: In addition to traditional charts, consider using savvy navvy for a comprehensive navigational aid and safe routing suggestions throughout your journey.

Conclusion

This route is not only a journey through picturesque waters but also offers an enriching experience filled with cultural interactions and breathtaking scenery. By prioritizing safety and navigation, you can ensure a thrilling yet secure adventure from Exuma to Harbour Island, creating unforgettable memories in The Bahamas. Enjoy the adventure!