Guana Bay

About This Anchorage

Guana Bay is a small bay on the northeastern side of Sint Maarten, facing the open Atlantic swell from the northeast. It is protected from southwesterly conditions only — the opposite of the typical NE trade wind pattern. As a result it is suitable mainly as a day stop when sea conditions happen to be calm (typical in October–November before hurricane season ends, or during brief weather windows in the winter season). The beach is attractive and usually completely empty given the exposure — a genuine off-the-beaten-track spot for sailors willing to accept the exposure. No facilities whatsoever. Dutch side — customs clearance rules apply. The bay is used occasionally by local Sint Maarten boats seeking shelter from a SW blow or as a brief stop on the way around the island.

Hazards

• !Fully exposed to NE — untenable in typical NE trade winds; significant swell; day stop only in calm conditions
• !No facilities — fully self-sufficient
• !Remote feel — no nearby assistance if weather deteriorates
• !Dutch customs clearance required

Skipper's Tips

• →Only visit Guana Bay on a calm day with a settled forecast — this is not a place to be caught by an afternoon trade wind squall
• →Best in early morning before the trade wind builds — snorkel, swim, and depart before noon
• →Empty beach gives a sense of isolation unusual for a busy island like Sint Maarten — worth the trip in calm conditions
• →Not a destination for most Caribbean cruising itineraries — visit if passing and conditions allow

Nearby Anchorages