How do I reserve a slip at Abaco Beach Resort?
The Yacht Club does not manage the slips at the marina. To reserve a slip, call the marina at 877-533-4799. Be sure to say you are a Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club member. They will need a credit card and will typically take a deposit of 2 nights at the standard rate. The rate will be adjusted when you check-in and show your membership card.
Ins and Outs of the special rates at Abaco Beach Resort
Our special contracted rates are shown on the Club website under the “Member Benefits” tab. Here are a few additional specifics that you need to know.
* Your vessel MUST be in the marina by the “Must Arrive By” date shown on the chart. Of course, you can arrive earlier. Under certain circumstances an allowance for bad weather might be given however you must contact the marina and keep them informed of your progress.
* At check-in you will be required to pay for the entire term of your stay. It is recommended that you do not pay for additional days at that time. For example, if you are booking a 90 day stay, only pay for 90 days up front. Once you reach the end of your contract term (i.e. 90 days) you do not need to leave the marina. Space permitting, additional days will be billed at the same rate.
* If you leave early, no refund will be given.
* The special rates end on March 31. As of April 1, you will be charged at the standard marina rates. In the past and as space allows, the resort may grant an extension of the special rates into April.
When do most boats arrive at the resort?
Boats start to arrive sometime around Thanksgiving however some arrive earlier than that. The majority of boats will have arrived by mid-December.
What is there for me to do at the resort each day?
There is plenty to do each day. The Club has a calendar of events scheduled each season. Additionally, the resort has Pickleball courts, 2 pools, an ocean beach w/ beach toys, and on-site restaurants & bar. Each evening members meet at the Club tent for happy hour to chat and talk about daily life. This is where plans hatch for upcoming overnight voyages, beach parties and more.
How do I find out what is happening while I am there?
In addition to nightly gatherings under the tent, there is a Club moderated Facebook Messenger group where members can discuss activities, ask for help with a project, or almost anything else.
Do I need to participate in the activities?
No, but you will want to! Some say it is a little like adult summer camp!
How do I get around Abaco?
Most members use bicycles, both standard and electric, to move about. There is also a very robust and reasonably priced taxi system. Additionally rental cars are readily available. Be careful! The roads are narrow and remember we drive on the left side in the Bahamas! There are also several ferries for island-to-island travel.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
Safety is not generally a concern when walking around. Like anywhere, you should always be aware of your surroundings. There is full time security on the resort property.
How far do I need to travel for groceries?
Maxwells supermarket is a short bicycle ride away. This is a REAL supermarket and rivals many in the US. Additionally, Dockside Market is at the end of Abaco Beach Resort’s entry road and is an easy walk from your slip.
Does the marina have free internet available?
The marina does have free WiFi however most boaters find that Starlink or an Aliv mobile hotspot are faster and a better alternative.
What if I don’t have a water maker? Is the dock water safe?
The dock water supply is fed by the Marsh Harbor municipal water system. It is considered to be ‘hard’ water (high mineral content). It is drinkable but many people without water makers opt for purified drinking water from the RO water machine at Dockside Grocery. (The author of this FAQ does not have a water maker!)
My boat does not have the ability to discharge overboard. What can I do?
There are no pump-out stations in the Bahamas. A pump out truck can sometimes be arranged but it is quite costly. This can be a deal breaker for some boats.
What if I need some mechanical work when I am there?
Members are usually the first to help but all manor of service is readily available.
Can I get Amazon packages sent to the resort?
Generally, Amazon does not deliver in Abaco but most everything you might need is readily available. There are freight services that are very reliable and fly packages over from Florida each day. However, they are best used for “emergency” shipments as they can be expensive.
What if I need medical attention while I am there?
Simple medical care is readily available in Marsh Harbor and some of the out islands may have a small clinic. Generally, more complicated medical situations might require transport to the US for treatment. Some members carry specialized emergency evacuation insurance for that purpose. There is a good pharmacy near the resort.
How do I renew my membership with RMHYC?
Your membership is only eligible for renewal starting in September of the year it is scheduled to expire. All memberships expire on December 31. However, depending on the membership term you selected when you enrolled or last renewed, your expiration year may not be the current year. To check your membership expiration date, log in to the website and visit the Profile section, which can be accessed by hovering over your name at the top of the home page. Renewal email reminders are sent out in early September each year and are sent only to members whose memberships are scheduled to expire that calendar year.