On Mangrove Cay, there’s plenty to explore, from sponge processing and racing sloop building to woodcarving and knowledge of local plants. A cultural and history tour, along with a historic residence, offers further insights into the island. By planning your trip around your interests, you can choose between crafts, history, fishing and nature.

Crafts and Local Knowledge

Sponge harvesting is an important local source of income. The sponges are cleaned and trimmed, then sold to artists and for use in natural cosmetics and personal care products. Harvesting, processing and use are different aspects of the same local trade. Mangrove Cay also preserves its boatbuilding tradition through the construction of racing sloops.

Moxeys Crafts focuses on woodcarving and shell work. It also makes miniature boats from local woods such as Andros mahogany and sapodilla. The healing properties of local plants such as noni and Naked Wood are explained as well. Wood and shells are featured alongside plant knowledge as distinct topics.

At Pink Rose Handcrafts, visitors can take an in-house cultural and history tour. It covers local customs and the use of sponges and sisal plants. In contrast to sponge harvesting as a source of income, the tour focuses on how these materials and plants are used. If you plan to take the tour, check the current schedule directly before your visit.

A Historic Landmark

The Old Commissioner's Residence was built in 1868 by Lenox Forsythe of Wales, Mangrove Cay's first Commissioner. The building is located behind the Community Clinic. Its construction date, the builder's origins and his office connect the house to the island's early administrative history, complementing insights into local customs and crafts with a tangible historical reference.

Waterways and Orientation

Waterways run through Mangrove Cay and are named North Bight, Middle Bight and South Bight. These three names provide a geographical framework for the island. The location description for Mangrove Cay Club also refers to Middle Bight: the club is on the northeastern shore, below Middle Bight and east of Moxey Town. If you are considering the club as a place to stay, confirm the details directly with the provider.

Fly Fishing and Wildlife

Mangrove Cay is well known among fly fishers. One specific fishing option is offered by Swains Cay Lodge, which can arrange reef and deep-sea fishing at the Andros Barrier Reef. Confirm arrangements directly with the lodge. The island's general reputation among fly fishers and the lodge's specific reef and deep-sea fishing arrangements are two distinct fishing options.

Mangrove Cay is home to many species of wildlife and birds, including ospreys, sea eagles and flamingos. Alongside crafts and fishing, wildlife offers another way to experience the island: while fishing focuses on the activity, here the interest is in birds and their habitat.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mangrove Cay Settlement, South Eleuthera, Central Abaco, South Abaco, North Eleuthera, North Abaco, City Of Freeport, Long Island.

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