Current Cut is a narrow swath of water that runs between Current Island and North Eleuthera Island about 10 miles south of Spanish Wells and 12 miles southeast of Harbour Island. Current Cut has its name and a reputation for a reason. Tidal currents here can reach velocities of upwards of 10 knots during the strongest tides, making navigation challenging not only inside the cut, but also on approach from either opposite side (east or west). If you are unsure of your piloting abilities, or if your boat is underpowered (auxiliary sailboats), you may want to consider Six Schilling Channel, which is located 11 miles to the south, but much gentler in terms of tidal current.

Approaching from the west toward Current Cut, first pick up waypoint 25 25.496N 76 49.361W about 2.3 miles northwest of Current Cut. Once you have picked up the waypoint, set a course of 130 degrees true for a distance of about 2.5 miles and into the cut itself. You will start to notice the influence of the strong currents about a mile out on the outgoing tide, so be sure to keep an eye on your relative position to make sure you are not getting set off course.

Once you are in the cut and proceeding eastward, prepare to make a turn to the south just past the government dock, which is located on the north side of the cut. The turn is visible in the image above - the starboard turn is just after the line of rocks that just out into the cut on its far side. Depths in the cut are deep - about 30 to 50 feet over a rock bottom that is scoured by the current.

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