Press Release
Effective From Feb 13th, 2024 (Until Further Notice)
The Moriah Harbour Cay National Park was designated in 2002 and is managed by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT). The BNT is a Bahamian non-profit organization mandated by law to conserve and protect the national parks of The Bahamas. The western boundary of Moriah Harbour Cay National Park runs from the Cottage on Great Exuma just west of Crab Cay, approximately 3.5 nautical miles into Exuma Sound. The park’s Eastern boundary runs from Forbes Hill Beach just east of Pigeon Cay, approximately three (3) nautical miles to sea. A map of the park boundaries can be found on the Moriah Harbour Cay National Park webpage.
While you are within the boundaries of this beautiful park, please enjoy yourself, but do obey the park rules and regulations. The BNT is in the process of zoning the park for specified uses. Until further notice, the following rules and regulations apply to all areas within the park.
No extractive fishing of any kind is allowed, including spearfishing, netting, trapping and hook and line.
For the safety of people and wildlife, the shallow water flats, mangrove creeks of Moriah Harbour Cay and Man O War Cay, and the reefs and sandbanks between Stocking Island and Fowl Cay are no wake zones. Vessels should operate in these areas at no more than 3 knots at all times.
While ashore, dogs should be kept on a leash no longer than 6 ft, including the Eastern end of Stocking Island, Fowl Cay, Moriah Harbour Cay, Red Shank Cay, Pigeon Cay, and the Man O War Cay Sand Bar. This is to protect vulnerable bird and reptile species.
Music should not be played loudly to avoid disturbing others and wildlife.
All Bahamian laws apply within the park boundaries, including fisheries regulations, seasons, and environmental health regulations, which prohibit the discharge of pollutants.
There are currently no designated anchorages in Moriah Harbour Cay National Park. Vessels equipped as liveaboards are asked to immediately move from within the park boundaries with the following exception. Until park rules and zoning are finalized, temporary anchorage (up to 72 hours) is allowed in the Master Harbour area and south of the Man O Cay Sand Bar north of Rolle Town.
Please use good judgment to avoid obstruction or interference with other vessels in high-traffic areas. Holding tank use is mandatory within the park’s boundaries.
Small vessels are allowed to access and anchor on sandy shorelines.
The Bahamas National Trust appreciates your support as we work to protect the seagrass, coral reefs, and other sensitive habitats within Moriah Harbour Cay National Park. The park does have amenities for visitors to use.
Help us protect fragile reefs and seagrass using the yellow buoys provided at snorkelling sites or carefully anchoring in the sand. Hiking trails, Basil’s Classroom, and cabanas on Stocking Island and Fowl Cay are free for you to use at your own risk.
Garbage should be disposed of properly. Your assistance with litter and debris collection is greatly appreciated. Please respect wildlife by leaving animals and plants in their habitat.
Please report any sightings of persons violating park regulations or conducting illegal activities by contacting our park office at 242-822-8688 by phone or WhatsApp between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm or The Bahamas National Trust Enforcement Hotline at 242-396-0188 after 5pm.
To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, conserving wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website:www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Your visit, membership, or donation can make a substantial difference in preserving the natural beauty of The Bahamas for future generations.
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For inquiries about The Moriah Harbour Cay National Park email the Park Office at mhcnp@bnt.bs or via phone or Whatsapp at 242-822-8688 between the hours of 9am-5pm.
About the BNT:
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) was created by an Act of Parliament in 1959 to build and manage the national park system of The Bahamas. Possibly the only non-governmental organization in the world charged with such a responsibility, the BNT works daily to conserve and protect the natural resources of The Bahamas through science, stewardship and education for present and future generations. There are currently 33 National Parks managed by the BNT with more than 2 million acres of marine and terrestrial areas protected.
Editor’s Note:
Moorings:
The moorings are currently reservation-only and may be reserved online https://bnt.bs/mhcnpmoorings/
DAILY MOORINGS FEES (Including 10% VAT)
Up to 39’ — $30
40-49' — $40
50-59’ — $50
60’ is the maximum length allowed on the moorings.
Pumpout:
Currently, the Programme Coordinator is asking all vessels to use their holding tanks while in the park boundary whether in the mooring field or in temporary designated anchorage areas.
The Elizabeth Harbour Conservation Partnership is working with local authorities and businesses to restore pumpout operations and proper waste treatment facilities to Elizabeth Harbour.