Leeward Going Through
Leeward Channel · Leeward Cut · Leeward anchorage
21°48.90'N 72°08.16'W
Depth
2–5m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
70m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
70m
70m for good holding on sand in 2–5m. The 0.6–0.9m tidal range combined with tidal current through Leeward Cut means your swinging radius changes significantly with the tide — the anchor alarm is especially important here. Tidal current can run to 3kt through the cut; anchored vessels will range significantly on the rode. Increase alarm to 90m if staying overnight through a full tidal cycle.
About This Anchorage
Leeward Going Through is the natural channel between the northeast tip of Providenciales and Little Water Cay — one of the main passages between the north Atlantic coast and the shallow Caicos Banks. The cut is used by ferries to North Caicos and Middle Caicos, local fishing boats, and charter vessels. The anchorage on the west side of the channel approach serves vessels transiting between the north Provo anchorages and the Caicos Banks or Pine Cay and Water Cay to the northeast. Leeward Marina, just west of the cut, provides fuel and basic provisions. Little Water Cay (also called Iguana Island) is a DECR protected nature reserve — home to the rare TCI rock iguana (Cyclura carinata); the island is accessible by dinghy with a guide and is one of the best wildlife encounters in TCI. Strong tidal currents through the cut — time transits near slack water.
Protected From
W · SW · S · SE
Exposed To
N · NE · E
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free anchoring west of channel in sand
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit details
- TCI cruising permit required. DECR permit for Little Water Cay nature reserve landing — arrange through operators at Leeward Marina.
Restrictions: Do not anchor in the cut itself — active ferry and commercial traffic; Little Water Cay (Iguana Island) is a DECR nature reserve — landing requires DECR permit and guide; strong tidal currents through cut — transit at slack water.
Hazards
- !Strong tidal currents through Leeward Cut — up to 3kt on spring tides; anchor alarm essential; transit at slack water only
- !Ferry traffic through the cut — local ferries to North Caicos operate on schedule; maintain clear channel
- !Shallow banks immediately off the channel — extreme shoaling; stay in charted water
- !Tidal range 0.6–0.9m changes swinging circle significantly over the tidal cycle
- !Exposed to NE — easterly trade conditions can create short chop in anchorage
Skipper's Tips
- →Time your transit of Leeward Going Through for slack water — the currents run hard and can push an underpowered vessel onto the shallows
- →Visit Little Water Cay (Iguana Island) by dinghy — the TCI rock iguanas are extraordinary and nearly approachable; a memorable wildlife encounter
- →Leeward Marina is a good fuel and water stop before heading out to Pine Cay and Water Cay to the northeast
- →Tidal current in the cut can help eastbound passages — ride the ebb east into the open Atlantic approach
- →Check the ferry schedule before anchoring near the channel — local ferries to North/Middle Caicos run several times daily
Facilities
Leeward Marina has fuel, water, and a small restaurant/bar. Basic provisions available. Leeward Going Through development area has additional restaurants within walking distance.
Nearest provisions: Leeward Marina (on-site) (0.2nm)
Best Months & Season
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May
November–May. Strong tidal currents make this anchorage more technical than it appears — study tide tables before arrival. Good stopover for vessels transiting between north Provo and the outer Caicos cays.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 70m
In TCI waters, the 0.6–0.9m tidal range means your depth at anchor changes significantly overnight. Drag toward coral reef can cause serious damage. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously so you can sleep with confidence.
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