Bahamas (Abaco's) anchoring

[rsmith]

Every time I’ve anchored it usually looks like this at 1 am

[madhatter1]

Okay, ordered the 70 LB Big Mac daddy. Go big or go home, right?

[madhatter1]

In terms of good holding what are the best anchorages to consider? I am reading some are a few inches of sand over rock and no anchor could be trusted if so. But I'm sure there are safe spots. Trying to target must see spots along the way. If good holding (and weather) we could stop for a night. Other spots that are iffy but reasonable I would like to be aware of for stopping a few hours during Island hops or day trips out of marinas or mooring fields we stay at. 100% noob here.

[madhatter1]

Going on the boat tomorrow

[Pascal]

Typically in the Bahamas the holding is very good except in cuts where the current prevents sand being deep enough. On the charts it’s squally marked scouted bottom or poor holding. Personally I try to avoid anchorages with current as it causes the boat to lay at odd angles to the wind. Also I don’t like having to wake up in the middle of the night to be sure the anchor resets when the current switches. Usually there are plenty of anchorages with no current nearby

[madhatter1]

Pascal, so what are considered favorable anchorages?

[Pascal]

Anything in the Lee of islands and cays typically on the west side unless a front is coming prompting everyone to move around

Also not to close to any opening that could let surge from swells affect you