The Bahamas
Seven hundred islands of blinding turquoise calm.
The Bahamas is not just a destination; it is a lesson in the color blue. Comprising 700 islands and cays, this archipelago offers a spectrum of cyan so electric it looks Photoshopped. The cruising grounds are defined by shallow, gin-clear banks that allow you to spot starfish on the bottom from the flybridge. It is a region of stark contrasts: you can spend Friday night playing baccarat in a tuxedo on Paradise Island and Saturday morning feeding iguanas on a deserted cay where the only footprints are your own.
The Best of the Bahamas
Staniel Cay Yacht Club
Staniel Cay, Exumas
The beating heart of the Exumas since 1956. This marina and bar is where Jimmy Buffett once held court and where every yacht captain eventually ends up. The walls are plastered with burgees from visiting vessels, and the atmosphere is a perfect cocktail of salt spray, rum, and maritime history.
Sip Sip
Harbour Island (Pink Sand Beach)
The ultimate “ladies who lunch” destination. Perched on a dune overlooking the famous pink sands, this open-air spot is strictly lunch-only and famous for its lobster quesadillas. It is the place to see fashion editors and celebrities letting their hair down over spicy margaritas.
Big Major Cay (Pig Beach)
The Exumas
A surreal, slightly comical spectacle of feral pigs paddling out to greet the tender. While Instagram has made them famous, seeing a 300-pound sow doggy-paddle through crystal-clear water remains a bizarre, bucket-list experience. Bring carrots, watch your fingers, and prepare for chaos.
Thunderball Grotto
Near Staniel Cay
A hollowed-out limestone rock made famous by the 1965 James Bond film. From the outside, it looks like nothing; dive underwater to enter, and you emerge into a cathedral-like cavern illuminated by skylights in the rock ceiling, teeming with sergeant major fish.
Chat 'n' Chill
Stocking Island, Exumas
The definitive Sunday barefoot beach bar. Accessible only by boat, it sits on a beach of blinding white sand. Order a fresh conch salad—chopped right in front of you—and feed the stingrays that circle the shallows like friendly puppies looking for scraps.
Compass Cay Marina
Compass Cay, Exumas
Famous for its resident nurse sharks. These docile bottom-feeders congregate on the submerged swim platform at high tide. Guests can stand waist-deep in the water as dozens of sharks glide around them—a thrill that feels dangerous but is actually quite serene.
Destination Brief
Best Time to Charter
December to April (Peak); May to July (Warm, calm waters).
Languages spoken
English
Cruising Style
Shallow draft cruising (catamarans and specific motor yachts) is preferred due to the shallow banks.
Currency
Bahamian Dollar (BSD), pegged 1:1 with the USD. Note: US Dollars are accepted everywhere.
Getting There
Fly into Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau or Marsh Harbour (MHH) for the Abacos.
Amazing Itineraries
Discover each itinerary by clicking on the maps above.
Day 1: Island Hub to Reefside Bliss
Depart from the bustling marinas of Marsh Harbour for a short cruise to the expensive white sands of Great Guana Cay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel the Great Guana Cay Reef
Explore one of the most vast and diverse barrier reefs in the Bahamas, located just off the Atlantic side of the island.
KEY FEATURES
Nippers Beach Bar & Grill
Experience spectacular beach views and the famous Sunday pig roast at this colorful, multi-level oceanside social destination.
Day 2: Crossing to Green Turtle Cay
Navigate north toward White Sound, passing through the vibrant jade-green waters that define this historic region.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Encounter the Swimming Pigs
Make a stop at No Name Cay to meet the famous swimming pigs, an unforgettable and playful Bahamian experience.
KEY FEATURES
Picturesque Harbors
Arrive at the lush greenery of New Plymouth, hiding one of the most protected and serene anchorages in the Abacos.
Day 3: Heritage & Coastal Calm
Spend the day immersed in New Plymouth, a village where 18th-century charm meets modern island tranquility.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Stroll Through New Plymouth
Explore the quaint streets of pastel cottages, white picket fences, and the Albert Lowe Museum to learn about the Loyalist maritime history.
KEY FEATURES
Miss Emily's Blue Bee Bar
Visit the home of the original Goombay Smash cocktail, a truly authentic Bahamian punch invented right here in the heart of the settlement.
Day 4: Traditions of the Sea
Sail south to the traditional community of Man-O-War Cay, the historic boat building capital of the Bahamas.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Albury's Sail Shop & Workshops
Witness generations of craftsmanship at the Albury Brothers’ boat building facility and visit the canvas shop where bags are handcrafted.
KEY FEATURES
Car-Free Security
Visit the “Queens Highway,” a narrow path where the Atlantic and Sea of Abaco nearly meet, on this quiet, dry (alcohol-free) island.
Day 5: The Iconic Horizon
Voyage to Hope Town on Elbow Cay, home to the most photographed landmark in the entire archipelago.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Elbow Reef Lighthouse
Climb the 101 steps of the candy-striped lighthouse, one of the last in the world still manually powered by kerosene and weights.
KEY FEATURES
Tahiti Beach
Explore the magnificent sandbar at the southern tip of Elbow Cay, accessible at low tide for wading in crystal-clear water.
Day 6: Seclusion & Artistry
Drift toward the southern edge of Abaco for a day of solitude in the natural beauty of Little Harbour.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Pete's Pub & Bronze Foundry
Visit the only working sculpture foundry in the Bahamas and enjoy a “Blaster” cocktail at the legendary sand-floor beach bar.
KEY FEATURES
Natural Caves & Reefs
Snorkel in the protected harbor or explore the nearby caves (formerly pirate lairs) that surround this secluded cove.
Day 7: The Final Stretch
Reflect on your island-hopping adventure as you enjoy a final morning swim before cruising back to the mainland.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Reflection on the Bight
Take in one last view of the turquoise marsh or visit Mermaid Reef just off the coast for a final snorkel before disembarkation.
KEY FEATURES
Marsh Harbour Hub
Enjoy a moment at the waterfront marinas to visit local art galleries before departing from the gateway of the Abacos.
Day 1: Coastal Beginnings
Depart the bustling capital of Nassau for the tranquil, prosperous village of Spanish Wells.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Explore the Village
Discover a highly prosperous fishing village on St. George’s Cay. Famous for its expertise in Bahamian lobster fishing and meticulously maintained pastel homes.
KEY FEATURES
The Fishing Capital
As the lobster fishing capital of the Bahamas, the seasonal harvest is a must-try at local waterfront favorites like Wreckers or the Shipyard.
Day 2: Docking at the Jewel
Navigate from the fishing grounds of Spanish Wells to the exclusive docks of Harbour Island.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Dock at Valentine's
Secure a slip at the world-class Valentine’s Resort & Marina, the perfect base for diving, snorkeling, or exploring the western harbor.
KEY FEATURES
Island Sophistication
Experience “Island elegance” hospitality where golf carts are the preferred mode of transport flower-lined streets of Dunmore Town.
Day 3: Blushing Sands & Briland
Dedicate a full day to the "Pink Sand Beach" and the historic architecture of Dunmore Town.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Pink Sands Beach
Walk the three-mile stretch of pale rosy-sand, a natural marvel created by microscopic coral insects known as foraminifera with bright pink shells.
KEY FEATURES
Colonial Heritage
Stroll through Dunmore Town, a former 18th-century capital filled with English colonial buildings and high-end boutique experiences.
Day 4: The Narrow Path
Sail south along the 110-mile long island of Eleuthera toward its historic administrative center.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Glass Window Bridge
Witness the dramatic lookout where a narrow rock formation separates the turbulent navy Atlantic from the calm, turquoise Bight of Eleuthera.
KEY FEATURES
Geological Wonders
The route offers access to unique maritime attractions, including the nearby Sapphire Blue Hole and Preacher’s Cave.
Day 5: Island Traditions
Immerse yourself in the local culture and botanical beauty of Central Eleuthera.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Friday Night Fish Fry
Join the island’s most famous social tradition at Governor’s Harbour, featuring fresh-caught seafood, “sky juice” cocktails, and local music.
KEY FEATURES
Leon Levy Preserve
Explore the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, the first national park focusing on indigenous plant propagation and traditional bush medicine.
Day 6: The Gateway to the Exumas
Cross the deep water to reach Highbourne Cay, often referred to as the gateway to the private island lifestyle.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Horseshoe Bay
Highbourne’s naturally protected, crescent-shaped harbor, ideal for gentle diving, snorkeling, and kayaking in crystal-clear waters.
KEY FEATURES
Pristine Seclusion
Highbourne Cay maintains eight world-class beaches with ultra-soft white sand, often offering guests total seclusion.
Day 7: The Grand Finale
Complete the loop with a final passage back to the vibrant capital city.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Navigate Nassau
Explore the historic Parliament Square and its buildings near George Street, or visit the world-famous Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.
KEY FEATURES
Culinary Excellence
Enjoy your journey’s celebratory dinner at Graycliff, the Bahamian five-star restaurant, or savor Michelin-star quality at Nobu.
Day 1: Gateway to the Exumas
Embark in the vibrant capital of Nassau and sail to the private island lifestyle of Highbourne Cay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel the Octopus Garden
Snorkel the protected marine reefs right off the marina to explore the vibrant coral heads and teeming fish life at the “Octopus Garden.”
KEY FEATURES
Meet the Allen Cay Iguanas
Visit the neighboring Allen Cay to toss grapes to the endangered Northern Bahamian Rock Iguanas that inhabit the shore.s:
Day 2: The Mangrove Labyrinth
Navigate to the northernmost end of the Exuma Park to experience untouched wilderness and private island seclusion.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Kayak the Mangroves
Take a dinghy or kayak through the “creeks”—natural mangrove rivers that cut through the island—leading to a stunning sequestered ocean beach on the other side.
KEY FEATURES
Camp Driftwood View
Hike to the island’s highest point at Camp Driftwood for sweeping panoramic views of the indigo waters and turquoise banks.
Day 3: The Heart of the Park
Sail into the protected heart of the Exumas, home to the largest underwater sea park in the Caribbean.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel the Sea Aquarium
Explore the sea garden known as the “Aquarium,” a shallow reef teeming with protected sergeant majors, parrotfish, and turtles.
KEY FEATURES
Tradition at Boo Boo Hill
Hike the varied trails to the top of Boo Boo Hill and leave a piece of driftwood with your boat’s name on the cairn to appease the spirits.
Day 4: Cinema and Famous Friends
Arrive at the "Hub of the Exumas," a central destination famous for its cinematic history and lively atmosphere.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Into Thunderball Grotto
Snorkel through the hollowed-out sea cave featured in James Bond’s Thunderball, where light beams pierce through the ceiling into a natural fish bowl.
KEY FEATURES
Swim with the Pigs
Visit Big Major Cay just moments away to feed and swim with the world-famous swimming pigs.
Day 5: Legendary Leisure
Cruise to a beautiful crescent-shaped haven known for its unspoiled beaches, palms, and lagoons.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Swim with Nurse Sharks
Conquer your fears at Compass Cay Marina and swim freely among a school of docile nurse sharks that gather in the shallow waters.
KEY FEATURES
Rachel's Bubble Bath
Visit the north of the island to find a natural pool where ocean waves crash over limestone rocks to create a frothy “bubble bath” lagoon.
Day 6: Secrets of the Smugglers
Discover a sleepy resort island with a notorious past as the base for Carlos Lehder's smuggling operations in the late 70s.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel the Sunken Plane
Explore the wreckage of a drug smuggler’s C-46 plane resting in just 10 feet of water, now a thriving artificial reef for tropical fish.
KEY FEATURES
Island Exploration
Walk the circle of palm-lined beaches or dine at the revamped MacDuff’s restaurant for a chic, barefoot vibe.
Day 7: The Final Horizon
Begin the final 40-nautical-mile journey back to the vibrant capital, reflecting on a week of Exuma magic.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Stopover at Rose Island
Enjoy a final morning of snorkeling and beachcombing at Rose Island, a small Bahamian hideaway just east of Nassau.
KEY FEATURES
Return to Nassau
Return to the marina in Nassau for final goodbyes to the crew and transfer to Lynden Pindling International Airport.
FAQs
Q: Can we start our charter directly in the Exumas to avoid the crossing?
A: Yes, and for many guests, this is the preferred option. You can fly via private charter or scheduled commuter flight into Staniel Cay (TYM) or Georgetown (GGT). Boarding the yacht here allows you to skip the 40-mile open water crossing from Nassau and drop anchor immediately in the pristine “blue water” zone.
Q: Is the Bahamas suitable for young children?
A: It is perhaps the most family-friendly destination in the Caribbean. The geography is defined by sandbars and shallow waters that function like giant, warm wading pools. Unlike volcanic islands with deep drop-offs and surf, the Exumas offer calm, protected “swimming pool” conditions that are perfect for toddlers and confident swimmers alike.
Q: Are the swimming pigs safe?
A: Generally, yes, but they are wild animals motivated by food. They can get aggressive if they think you are withholding a snack. The “insider” tip is to feed them from the boat or while standing in the water, but do not tease them. And never, ever feed them on the sand it ingests sand which is bad for their health.
Q: Is the water really that blue?
A: It is actually bluer. The unique combination of white limestone sand and shallow depth creates a refraction of light found almost nowhere else on earth. Astronauts have famously stated that the Bahamas is the most recognizable and beautiful place on Earth to view from space.
