Freeport (Bahamas) - General Info
Description:
This big commercial port is geared to dealing primarily with commercial vessels, so visiting yachts might find it more convenient to clear in at nearby Lucaya, to the east, Sunrise or Xanadu Marinas.
Be very street-wise here. The crime rate is high (not only for theft), so take care where you walk, especially at night, and secure all your property as best you can. Locking your boat securely at night and when away from it is a must, as is locking your dinghy and outboard when tied to the boat and ashore at a dinghy dock.
Position:
26° 30.85’N, 78° 46.70’W (harbor entrance)
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Related to following destinations: Bahamas, Freeport (Bahamas), Grand Bahama Island
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We stayed in Freeport in May 2018. First, we tried to get to the Sunrise Marina, which was impossible for us even with high tide. They charge 1,50 $/ft. The channel is very narrow and shoaled at the entrance. I wouldn’t recommend trying entering the channel unless your draft is less than 1.5 meter (5 feet). We could enter the Bell Channel, which had a minimum draft of 2.5 meters (8 feet) at high tide.
We stayed at the Grand Bahama Yacht Club, which costs 2.20 $/ft plus 10 dollars for electricity per night. We switched to the Flamingo Bay Marina, which is just around the corner, where they only charge 0.50 $/ft. They have got a pool, warm showers and friendly staff. Just send an e-mail in advance as they don’t have a lot of slips. You could even just anchor somewhere a bit further in. We met a cruising couple who stayed on anchor here for a week, without problems.
From Bahamas Chatter – Old Bahama Bay:
Although Hurricane Matthew hit Grand Bahama with a wallop, Old Bahama Bay Marina is able to accommodate travelling yachts. Electricity at the slips is not yet restored, but there is fuel, water, an excellent restaurant, and dockage at the reduced rate of $1/ft. The dockmaster brings Customs forms right to your slip, so clearing in is easy.