At Bahamas4u.com, we help travellers find the best ways to explore the islands of the Bahamas. ❤️ One name that often comes up is Cat Cay. Many spot it on maps near Bimini and wonder if you can visit it. How do you get there? Is there a ferry? In this guide, we will explain exactly what Cat Cay is, whether you can visit it, and why it draws attention from travellers and boaters alike.
What is Cat Cay
Cat Cay consists of two islands: North Cat Cay and South Cat Cay. (Further down you have Ocean Cay, but let’s not talk about that island here) The island lies about 10 miles south of Bimini, right where the Great Bahama Bank drops into deeper water.
North Cat Cay is a private island, home to the Cat Cay Yacht Club. (Check the residents on sale! 🤯) It is one of the most exclusive yacht and sport fishing clubs in the Bahamas. South Cat Cay is still under development (for 94m!) and is also private.
This is not a resort island or a place where cruise ships or public ferries dock. This exclusivity is part of what makes Cat Cay so fascinating to many travellers.
A Bit of History
Cat Cay was once used by pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard. It later became British crown land. In the 20th century, it evolved into a private yacht club and became famous for sport fishing. The first tuna tower, now standard on sport fishing boats worldwide, was built here. Over the years, Cat Cay earned a reputation as a legendary fishing destination, attracting well known anglers and yacht owners.
Can you visit Cat Cay?
This is the question most readers are asking. The short answer: visiting Cat Cay is not simple.
It is a private island, and only members of the yacht club or their invited guests can land there. There is no public ferry, and no day trip or package tour available to visit Cat Cay.
However, there are a few ways you can see it or get close to it:
- By yacht: Many private yachts from Florida visit Cat Cay. If you are invited by a member, this is the easiest way to go ashore.
- By charter boat: You can charter a boat from Bimini or Florida to explore the waters around Cat Cay. Some charters can anchor nearby, but you cannot dock or land unless authorised.
- By plane: There is a private airstrip on North Cat Cay. Flights land only with prior approval.
In short, unless you have a personal connection to the yacht club, you will likely explore Cat Cay from the water, not from the land.
Why Cat Cay is Special
Cat Cay stands out because it is private, steeped in history, and one of the original sport fishing hotspots in the region. It attracts people because it’s difficult to get to, so buying a multi-million-dollar mansion on the island might be the best choice to get there! 😂(ps. Bimini is easy to get to and eventually… quite similar! )