Tent Bay
Tent Bay anchorage · Bathsheba Tent Bay
13°11.76'N 59°31.20'W
EXPOSED ATLANTIC COAST — Emergency Reference Entry
This anchorage is on the Atlantic windward coast of Barbados. It is NOT suitable for visiting yacht anchoring in normal conditions. Full Atlantic swell arrives directly — 1–3m swell common even in settled periods. This entry is for emergency reference and local knowledge documentation only. Visit by car from Bridgetown.
Depth
2–6m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
110m
Holding
Fair
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
110m
110m alarm — exposed east coast position. Very shallow inshore. Local fishing boats only understand this anchorage safely. Not recommended for visiting yachts. Emergency reference only.
About This Anchorage
Tent Bay is a small fishing shelter on the northeast coast of Barbados near Bathsheba — primarily used by local east coast fishing pirogues whose operators have lifetime knowledge of the rocks, shoals, and swell patterns of this coastline. For visiting yachts without local knowledge, the anchorage presents significant hazards — Atlantic swell exposure, very shallow depth close inshore, and rock hazards on the approach. The scenery of the northeast coast is extraordinary — the Scotland District hills rising steeply behind, the dramatic coastal formation, and the ferocious surf — but it is best appreciated from the land. The proximity to Bathsheba's village gives access to local food and the famous Soup Bowl viewpoint.
Protected From
W · SW · NW
Exposed To
E · NE · SE
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- No anchoring fee
- Permit required
- Yes
Restrictions: Customs cleared at Bridgetown required. EXPOSED EAST COAST — local knowledge essential. Fishing boat priority at all times.
Hazards
- !EXPOSED ATLANTIC COAST — regular swell; not safe for visiting yachts without local knowledge
- !Very shallow inshore — draught restrictions apply
- !Rock hazards on approach — local knowledge essential
- !No safe dinghy landing in normal surf conditions
Skipper's Tips
- →Do not attempt Tent Bay without a local guide — this coast is for local fishermen who know every rock
- →Visit Bathsheba and the northeast coast by car from Bridgetown — one of the most spectacular drives in the Caribbean
Facilities
No facilities at Tent Bay. Bathsheba village nearby by dinghy (if conditions allow landing) or car.
Nearest provisions: Bridgetown (12.5nm by sea) (12.5nm)
Best Months & Season
Apr
Reference/emergency only. Not suitable for visiting yachts.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
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