Bahamas Yacht Charter Itinerary
7 days
Exumas Yacht Charter
World-famous for their sapphire seas and sandy swirls, the Exumas are an explosion of Bahamian colour.
Sail from cosmopolitan Nassau south into the wonderful Exumas, a sliver of islands that snake for over 120nm.
Drop anchor and visit swimming pigs, snorkel in underwater caves, and get friendly with nurse sharks.
The best time to visit is generally from December to April, when temperatures are in the 28-31ºC sweet spot.
This sample 7-day itinerary will focus on a yacht charter from Nassau, sailing among the incredible Exumas.
A Week in the Exumas
DAY
Day 1: Nassau
DAY
Day 2: Highborne Cay (33nm)
DAY
Day 3: Hawksbill Cay (19nm)
DAY
Day 4: Staniel Cay (28nm)
DAY
Day 5: Warderick Wells Cay (21nm)
DAY
Day 6: Normans Cay (18nm)
DAY
Day 7: Nassau (42nm)
Explore the Exumas
Just a short transfer from the airport takes you to Nassau marina, where your yacht will be ready and waiting. Settle into life aboard, and while away your first night in one of the local bars in the capital of the Bahamas. Nassau is a fascinating place to start and end your charter, a famous former pirate haven with pastel houses and a rich history. Take a stroll around the town, and maybe visit the Pirates of Nassau museum.
Deserted beaches are Highborne Cay's main feature besides its luxurious vibe and lavish accommodations. Stay overnight in a beautiful cottage by the sea and spend the day snorkelling and kayaking in crystal-clear waters.
Today is a gentle 3-4 hour pootle down to an evening stop on a mooring ball at Hawksbill Cay. A peaceful, uninhabited island, Hawksbill Cay makes a lovely quiet anchorage to break up the journey through the Exumas. The island has numerous soft sand beaches, and a trail leading to the ruins of an old Loyalist settlement from the 1700s.
Staniel Cay is an absolute must for all divers and snorkelers, jam-packed with vibrant coral and rich marine life. To the west is Thunderball Grotto, famous for its role in the James Bond film. A white-sand island located northwest of Staniel Cay, Big Major Cay is otherwise known as pig beach and is home to the Bahamas famous swimming pigs. Big Major Cay is accessible only by boat, and so is blissfully quiet. Once here, you can expect a warm welcome from the friendly residents, who will swim out to greet you, especially if you're carrying some vegetable scraps for them to snack on!
Warderick Wells Cay is part of the Emerald Rock Land & Sea Park protected park that extends from Shroud Cay to Bell Cay. The Caribbean's largest underwater sea park, its lush mangroves create a lively community for land and sea creatures. Once ashore, take some time to explore some of the island's 20 pristine beaches.
Surrounded by a coral reef, Norman's Cay is a real gem. The island used to be owned by the infamous drug smuggler, Carlos Lehder, and you can snorkel the ruin of one of his planes (only 10ft deep), while surrounded by vibrantly colorful tropical fish and sea turtles.
Rise early today to make the most of your final sailing day, cruising the 40nm back to base. Stop off at Rose Island for one last swim before crossing the 6nm into Nassau
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