NOTES FROM MONTAGE CAYIssue No. 01
Welcome to Montage Cay’s Quarterly. As the island’s legacy begins to take shape, we are pleased to share updates and progress from The Abacos, and to celebrate the spirit and culture that define The Out Islands.
Each edition is designed to offer insight into what is unfolding on Montage Cay, alongside the people and traditions that shape this remarkable destination. We hope this dispatch fosters inspiration, connection, and a growing sense of anticipation for this extraordinary island community.
ENDURING TRADITIONS
Across The Bahamas’ 700 islands and cays, The Abacos offer the truest expression of Bahamian life. Untouched by mass tourism and immersive in their pristine beauty, these islands offer a warmth and authenticity that simply cannot be experienced elsewhere.
The story of Abaco comes into sharp focus with the Albury Brothers, whose family-run boat-building workshop on Man-o-War Cay produces some of the most respected small craft in the islands. Inside the workshop, experienced craftsmen move deliberately among hulls in progress—skin weathered by sun and salt, hands guided by muscle memory and patience. Though global demand has expanded their reach, the family continues to build a limited number of boats on Man-o-War Cay each year, preserving the techniques and values that shaped Abaco’s identity as the “Boating Capital of the World.” Their work reflects a belief that some things are worth doing slowly, and doing well.
This commitment is a quiet affirmation of The Abacos themselves, and an inspiration for Montage Cay’s own guiding values. Here, timeless design, generational vision, and a deep reverence for place invite an enduring connection to this remarkable chain of islands.
OUT ON THE WATER WITH
CHRIS HAMAWAY
There’s an unmistakable warmth in Chris Hamaway’s voice when discussing The Abacos. The EVP/Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of Montage International has been fishing and boating in this region since childhood, and he’s found these islands hold a beauty and culture unlike anywhere else.
It’s the crown jewel of The Bahamas. The Abacos have more places to discover—more little moments that surprise you—than any other destination.
Bonefishing, in particular, is where Hamaway finds the most satisfaction. He holds the region’s dedicated, expert guides in the highest esteem, recounting days on the water that unfolded effortlessly over conversation and camaraderie.
Some of my best times on a boat, I didn’t even catch a fish. What makes The Abacos special is the people, first and foremost.
AN ABACO ORIGINAL
The arrival of mahi-mahi signals a new season in The Abacos, and this simple, dockside preparation reflects the spirit of a Bahamian spring: fresh, vibrant, and bright.
DOCKSIDE CITRUS MAHI
Ingredients
- Fresh mahi-mahi fillets
- 2–3 key limes or sour oranges, halved
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Preparation
- Pat fish dry and season with oil, squeezed citrus, salt, and pepper
- Let rest briefly while heating grill or pan
- Cook skin-side down for 4 minutes, then flip, cooking 2–3 minutes more (or until cooked through)
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh citrus and serve immediately
ONLY IN THE OUT ISLANDS
Tahiti Beach Sandbar
One of The Abacos’ most storied stopovers, Tahiti Beach Sandbar is just minutes from the Montage Cay Marina on the southern tip of Elbow Cay.
Elbow Reef Lighthouse
A treasured symbol of Bahamian heritage, this candy-striped beacon in Hope Town is one of the world’s last manually operated, kerosene-fueled lighthouses.
Pete’s Pub & Gallery
Tucked into Little Harbour, this open-air institution is home to the Johnston family’s bronze foundry and its celebrated gallery.
PROGRESS & MOMENTUM
Construction at Montage Cay has entered a new phase. Residences are well advanced across the island, and for the first time, the full scale and flow of Montage Cay can be experienced in a single visit, from the Sales gallery and mock-up Residence to the Villas along Piper Beach.
Set along Three Sisters Beach with the private Marina directly behind, the recently released Marina Villas represent one of the most distinctive residential offerings at Montage Cay. Positioned within a quiet stretch of the island, accessed by landscaped pathways, these Residences offer a rare combination of beach on one side and berth on the other.
Spa Montage is now well into construction and beginning to take shape on site. Here is a closer look at what’s to come.
If you have been considering Montage Cay, this is an ideal time to experience the progress firsthand. Contact our team to arrange a visit.
Looking Ahead
In the next edition, discover the story behind one of The Abacos’ most enduring and iconic landmarks: the red-and-white-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse.
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