Cat Island Bahamas (New Bight)

Cat Island is a quiet, lightly developed Out Island rather than a conventional cruise port. Calls are associated with New Bight, where ships normally remain offshore and passengers come ashore by tender. Beaches, the New Bight Fish Fry and Mount Alvernia are the most practical nearby attractions.

Independent with some planning or transport. New Bight can be explored on foot, but Cat Island is long, public transport is very limited and attractions outside the settlement require a taxi, arranged driver or organized excursion.

Getting from the Cruise Ship

• Arrival: Expect a tender operation rather than a walk-off cruise terminal. The precise landing point and last-tender time should be confirmed onboard.
• On foot: The beach, settlement and Fish Fry area are the easiest independent options. Roads are generally quiet, but pavements and shade are limited.
• By road: Taxis and local drivers may be limited when a ship visits. Arrange transport early, agree on the itinerary and confirm the return pickup before leaving New Bight.
• Facilities: Expect only basic visitor services. Carry water, sun protection and some cash rather than relying on extensive shops or organized terminal facilities.

Best Ways to Spend Your Time

Climb Mount Alvernia to The Hermitage

Cat Island’s signature sight stands above New Bight on the highest point in The Bahamas, 63 m (207 ft) above sea level. A short but steep rocky path and stone steps lead to The Hermitage, a small hand-built monastery created by Father Jerome. The summit provides broad views across the island and sea.

Allow about 1.5–2.5 hours from central New Bight, including the approach, climb and time at the summit. The ascent can be hot and uneven; closed shoes, water and reasonable mobility are advisable. A taxi to the trailhead reduces the road walking.

New Bight Beach and Fish Fry

For a relaxed call, remain near the landing area and combine time on New Bight Beach with a meal or drink at the local Fish Fry. This is the simplest independent option and avoids the risk of a long island transfer. Beach facilities can be modest, so confirm where changing rooms, restrooms or food are available on the day.

Allow 2–4 hours, depending on swimming conditions and meal service. The beach is exposed, with little natural shade in places.

Central Cat Island Scenic Drive

A half-day drive can combine Mount Alvernia, small settlements, quiet beaches and local churches or historic ruins around the central part of the island. This is a better way to appreciate Cat Island than attempting long walks along the main road.

Allow approximately 3–5 hours. An arranged driver or organized excursion is recommended because attractions are dispersed and roadside signage may be limited.

Southern Cat Island and Port Howe

With a longer call, a guided drive south may include the pink-tinged beach near Port Howe and the ruins of the Deveaux plantation estate. These sites are well beyond practical walking distance from New Bight and should be combined only with reliable round-trip transport.

Allow at least 4–5 hours and keep a generous return margin. This option is less suitable during a short or afternoon-only visit.

Fishing, Snorkelling or a Boat Trip

Cat Island is known for bonefishing, offshore fishing, reefs and largely undeveloped coastline. These activities require a local guide or boat operator and should be booked in advance or through the ship. Confirm the departure point and make sure the operator understands the ship’s tender schedule.

Self-Guided New Bight and Hermitage Walk

Difficulty: Moderate. The settlement section is easy, but the final climb is steep, rocky and exposed to the sun.

Approximate distance: 4–6 km (2.5–3.7 mi) round trip, depending on the tender landing point and route to the trailhead. Allow 2.5–3.5 hours including stops.

1. Tender landing: Confirm the return point and last-tender time before setting out.
2. New Bight waterfront: Follow the shoreline through the small settlement and note the location of the Fish Fry for the return.
3. Mount Alvernia access road: Turn inland toward the hill and communications tower. Ask locally if the trail entrance is not obvious.
4. Stone stations and hillside path: Follow the marked rocky route uphill, taking care on loose and uneven surfaces.
5. The Hermitage: Explore the compact chapel, bell tower and stone rooms, then enjoy the views from the summit.
6. Return to New Bight: Descend carefully and finish at the beach or Fish Fry before walking back to the tender landing.

There is little shade on much of the route. Avoid beginning the climb if heat, rain, footwear or remaining port time makes the return uncertain.

Practical Tips

• Confirm whether the call is operating and where tenders will land; weather and sea conditions can affect access.
• Do not depend on finding an available taxi after walking far from the landing area.
• Bring water, reef-conscious sun protection, a hat and sturdy shoes for Mount Alvernia.
• Swimming beaches may not have lifeguards, marked swimming zones or equipment rental. Assess conditions before entering the water.
• For distant beaches, Port Howe or the northern settlements, use prearranged transport and plan to return at least 60 minutes before the required tender time.