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Allen-Leaf Cay Central

Lat / Lon: N 24° 44.924' / W 076° 50.284'
Description:
Allen and Leaf Cays are known for the iguanas that inhabit these islands. Dayboats from as far as Nassau bring visitors to feed the iguanas grapes with long "toothpicks". It's quite the spectacle. There is plenty of depth, even for deep keel boats, coming in from the south and all the way North until you reach the sandbar, which is just North as you pass the ruins on Leaf Cay to your starboard. Approximately 15-20 boats can fit tightly in the anchorage. For photos of the island and anchorage: https://www.facebook.com/100063618668322/posts/335044948626125/

3.67

(3)

3.67 out of 5 stars

Holding:

4.33

Holding was excellent in sandy bottom, but beware of reversing currents. Many boats spin on their anchors when current and wind are not aligned. Ensure plenty of room between boats.

Wind Protection:

3.67

Current Flow:

1.67

Wake Protection:

2.50

Scenic Beauty:

3.67

Ease of Shopping:

1.00

Shore Access:

4.00

Excellent anchorage to all the beaches. Visit the ruins and iguanas - but be careful as it is reported they do bite and they are quite aggressive.

Pet Friendly:

3.00

Cell Service:

4.00

WiFi:

2.50

Review for Allen-Leaf Cay Central

Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 29, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Overall Rating:

4

Holding:

5

Wind Protection:

4

Current Flow:

3

Wake Protection:

3

Scenic Beauty:

4

Ease of Shopping:

1

Shore Access:

2

Pet Friendly:

3

Cell Service:

4

WiFi:

4

Stayed here two nights with 8 other boats. The tour boats came in every morning to see the iguanas, but otherwise really protected anchorage. Certainly a current, but we held solid in sand. Good protection from all but north wind and even then looks to be protected somewhat.

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Review for Allen-Leaf Cay Central

Reviewed by: Doug Snyder on Feb 14, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 37'
Draft: 4.2'

Overall Rating:

4

Holding:

4

Wind Protection:

3

Current Flow:

1

Scenic Beauty:

4

Ease of Shopping:

1

Shore Access:

5

Cell Service:

4

This anchorage was great when the wind was from the South to the SW. Once the wind shifted out of the West, and especially with a northern component, I and most other boats were rocking uncomfortably in the swell. In stronger winds from the west through the north I found it more comfortable on the east side of Leaf Cay.

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Review for Allen-Leaf Cay Central

Reviewed by: Jason Spitz, Breathe, on Feb 3, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Overall Rating:

3

Holding:

4

Wind Protection:

4

Current Flow:

1

Wake Protection:

2

Scenic Beauty:

3

Ease of Shopping:

1

Shore Access:

5

Pet Friendly:

3

Cell Service:

4

WiFi:

1

The highlight of Allen's and Leaf Cay are the Iguanas. This is a fine first or last stop in the Exumas crossing from/to Nassau. The iguanas are somewhat aggressive here and the tourist boats frequent, often speeding through the anchorage. Their is a strong current that dominates boats even with winds of 20+. Boats swing widely during opposing current and wind. Please anchor with enough distance. During our visit, there were 18 boats in this area and it was very tight. Late arrivals well after dark circled around for almost an hour before moving to the northern anchorage. Pets may not be brought ashore here. It is a nice area to kayak with multiple landing areas.

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