Man-O-War Cay - Facts

Description: 

Man-O-War Cay is an island just east of Marsh Harbour in the Bahama Abaco island chain.

Leaving the Carolinas during the American Revolution, Man-O-War Cay was settled around 1780 by loyalist descendants. Long before the steamship and airplane linked the Bahamas outer islands with modern centers of world trade, the Island was self-sufficient through boat building, fishing, and farming - all of which continue today.

There are a large number of holiday homes on the Island, and it's well worth visiting some of the local craftsmen who continue their hard-earned trade today.

The village is very nice, clean and everything is meticulously maintained. When you go ashore, it is advisable to dress properly as the locals are all very religious.

Entrance Notes and Cautions:

It is easier to enter this natural harbor through the southern entrance as the northern entrance is shallow.

Hurricane Dorian Update:

Man-O-War Cay suffered a direct hit with many losing their homes, roofs, businesses, and livelihoods. Luckily, there was no loss of life. All docks were destroyed and every boat sunk, plus 90% of structures were damaged to severely damaged.

The call is now out for the boating community to come and help rebuild. Wanted are skilled and dedicated boat owners who can sail to the island and live aboard their boats during the rebuilding phase. Those with special skills, such as plumbing, electrical, carpentry, roofing, mechanics or operation of heavy equipment, are particularly welcome.

Volunteers must be self-sufficient and prepared to work, with good physical stamina and no medical conditions. Services are limited but there are stores, fuel and water available for volunteers.

Contact Beth Browne (beth@bethbrownebooks.com), co-ordinator of volunteers.

Detailed guidelines for boat owners who want to help can be found at this BW Sailing article.

Position:

26°35'21"N, 77° 00'13"W (S entrance to harbor)