South Hole Sound is located in the southwest corner of Little Cayman and is the primary anchorage for the island. Well-protected out of all directions but the south (and even moderately protected from that direction by a local reef), this is a popular area with cruising boaters who’s boats draw less than four feet. Facilities are relatively scarce.

South Hole Sound is approached from the south via a narrow, six-foot-deep entrance on the southwest side of South Hole Sound itself. From the south (coordinates N19 38.995 W80 04.719), set a course of around 22 degrees true to line yourself up with the opening in the reef, which is about a half-mile away . As you get closer, set yourself up for the opening, keeping an eye on your depth sounder and head on in.

Once inside, you will find varying depths of three to six feet. Depths shallow quickly to the east, and most cruising boaters do not pass beyond Owens Island and Blossom Point. There is a line of rocks just to the east of the entrance; keep and eye out for these. Most shoal-draft cruisers anchor out offshore of the local docks in three- to six-foot depths over a sand bottom. Do not attempt the inlet in severe weather, or when the wind is clocking out of the south.

See our “Local Notices to Mariners” blog for updates on the latest conditions and advisories for this area.