The satellite image shows two distinct atoll-like structures separated by a deep channel 1.4 km (0.87 mi) wide at its narrowest point.

The light beacon on Low Cay is a 21 m (69 ft) metal tower, painted white with a red top.

In most cases, the dispute stems from attempts by a state to expand its exclusive economic zone over the surrounding seas.

Between 1982 and 1986, the two states maintained a formal agreement which granted regulated fishing rights to Jamaican vessels within the territorial waters of Bajo Nuevo and nearby Serranilla Bank.

[9][10] Jamaica's signing of this treaty was regarded by critics as a de facto recognition of Colombian sovereignty over the two banks.

[10] In November 1993, Colombia and Jamaica agreed upon a maritime delimitation treaty establishing the Joint Regime Area to cooperatively manage and exploit living and non-living resources in designated waters between the two aforementioned banks.

[12][13] The exclusion circles were defined in the chart attached to the treaty as "Colombia's territorial sea in Serranilla and Bajo Nuevo".

[15] The United States claim was made on 22 November 1869 by James W. Jennett[16] under the provisions of the Guano Islands Act.

[17][19] Honduras, before its ratification of a maritime boundary treaty with Colombia on 20 December 1999,[20] had previously also laid claim to Bajo Nuevo and nearby Serranilla Bank.