Norman's Pond

• Location: Northern Exuma
• Lat / Lon: N 24° 37.987' / W 076° 48.674'
• Depth: 16 to 20 feet
• Tide: 2.5'-3.0'
• Description:

  Norman's Pond is a saltwater lake located on the north end of Norman's Cay. The anchorage is accessed via a 2.75' deep narrow and very intricate channel leading in from South Table Bay off Exuma Sound. The anchorage offers excellent holding and protection from winds of all directions and is without a doubt the one of the best anchorages in the Exumas for foul weather. 

  For all its merits the entrance to the anchorage is very challenging and requires the ability to read the water and high degree of confidence in one's ability to self-extricate in the event of an accidental soft grounding. Most vessels will only be able to enter at high slack and it is imperative that one is certain of the state of the tide before making the approach. A difference of 30 minutes could mean the difference between an uneventful passage and several hours of lying on a heel waiting for the tide to come up. Fortunately with the exception of the rocks marking the entrance, the shallow areas are sand and grass, so the likelihood of serious damage is unlikely.

   

  N.B. When entering the anchorage to escape foul weather be prepared to stay longer than expected because a strong east wind following a cold front could make exiting through the narrow cut a problem. Be sure to have adequate fuel, water and food for several extra days in case you are caught. In an emergency it is possible to go ashore at the houses on the north end of the pond and walk back to the marina by road, but it is a very long walk.

  DISCLAIMER: Before committing to an anchorage, you should confirm that the location is not governed by a regulation that may conflict with your plans. An increasing number of states and municipalities are enacting laws that define where and how long you may anchor.