sailboat cruising bahamas

Service Locator

• Angler Endorsement
• Boat Towing Coverage
• Mechanical Breakdown
• Insurance Requirements in Mexico
• Agreed Hull Value
• Actual Cash Value
• Liability Only
• Insurance Payment Options
• Claims Information
• Towing Service Agreement
• Membership Plans
• Boat Show Tickets
• BoatUS Boats For Sale
• Membership Payment Options
• Consumer Affairs
• Boat Documentation Requirements
• Installation Instructions
• Shipping & Handling Information
• Contact Boat Lettering
• End User Agreement
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Vessel Documentation
• BoatUS Foundation
• Government Affairs
• Powercruisers
• Buying & Selling Advice
• Maintenance
• Tow Vehicles
• Make & Create
• Makeovers & Refitting
• Accessories
• Electronics
• Skills, Tips, Tools
• Spring Preparation
• Winterization
• Boaters’ Rights
• Environment & Clean Water
• Boat Safety
• Navigational Hazards
• Personal Safety
• Batteries & Onboard Power
• Motors, Engines, Propulsion
• Best Day on the Water
• Books & Movies
• Communication & Etiquette
• Contests & Sweepstakes
• Colleges & Tech Schools
• Food, Drink, Entertainment
• New To Boating
• Travel & Destinations
• Watersports
• Anchors & Anchoring
• Boat Handling
• ← Lifestyle

A Boater's Guide To Cruising The Bahamas

Advertisement

Reaching paradise never comes easy. This veteran of the Bahamas liveaboard life shows how it's done.

An aerial view of the Exumas. (Photo: Onne van der Wal)

They say that no one knows the exact number of islands in the Bahamas. Some say that there are around 2,400 of them, scattered about a stunning 590-mile-long archipelago, with its closest area being, for many boats, just one day's trip from Florida. Fewer than 50 of these islands have a village or town. Most are tiny islets with rocky shorelines and white beaches hinting of pink. Each is a gem of mangrove, casuarinas, palmetto, sea grape, and coconut palms hiding curly tail lizards, hermit crabs, and birds. But it's the wonderland of the ocean that is the Bahamas' most spectacular feature, with its warm turquoise waters over much of the shallow Bahama Banks.

On a good day, cruising on the banks, you can look into those clear waters and see fish, sharks, and rays darting away from your hull's shadow as it sweeps across the bottom. Below you, grass and fan coral sway with the current. Brain coral hides exotic fish, lobster, and moray eel. Dramatic troughs leading from the shallows out to sea — such as the Tongue of the Ocean and the Northwest Providence Channel — divide the banks, the changing water colors from light turquoise to deep blue leaving even seasoned world travelers in awe.

The islands of the Bahamas lie mostly along the edges of the banks. On some of the outer islands, mail and groceries arrive by boat, and telephone and electricity in homes are relatively recent developments. While some equate the Bahamas with the cities of Nassau or Freeport, the boater's dreams tend to be of islands a bit farther off, such as Long Island, Highborne Cay, Eleuthera, Royal Island, Green Turtle, Mayaguana, Ragged Island, Crooked Island, and the Jumentos — or islands with no names at all, except as they're known to locals, such as Chicken Cay or "His and Hers."

Getting Around And About

The culture, dialect, and pace are distinctly Caribbean, yet the western waters of the Bahamas are only a little over 40 miles from Florida at the closest point. That 40-plus miles is composed of the mighty Gulf Stream, a warm and powerful river in the ocean with current rushing from south to north. Crossing it in the right conditions can be a beautiful trip. But crossing it in the wrong conditions, such as during strong northerly winds, can be dangerous and extremely uncomfortable. Pick your weather carefully, look for flat calm or gentle southerlies, and never go on the verge of a cold front or storm.

Snug all-weather anchorages are rare in the Bahamas, but when you find them, they offer camaraderie, supplies, and parties. (Photo: Onne van der Wal)

When my family and I first started going to the Bahamas many years ago, we followed a compass course and adjusted our routes to currents, wind, and waves. When we reckoned enough time had passed to raise an island, we searched the horizon. If we saw an island, we had to figure out which it was using landmarks, like clumps of trees or hills or colored cliffs. As we sailed in from deep ocean water onto to the shallow Bahama Banks, it was always a stunning moment as the depth sounder went from off soundings to 15 feet! We relied on the art of reading the colors of the water and the vagaries of the tidal currents by watching fan coral and sea grasses swaying to the flow under our boat — a fun endeavor, unless the light was poor or in our eyes.

Today, it's easier with GPS chartplotters. But you get in trouble if you rely too heavily on electronics. Sand shoals shift from year to year, and rocky bars and reefs may not be perfectly charted in the first place. A GPS fix is only as good as the chart you're relying on, and strong currents in inlets can set you onto rocks even as you watch your icon on the screen. And if your GPS equipment or the system isn't functioning well, you can get into trouble. The popularity of "crowdsourcing" doesn't necessarily work well in these waters, either; you never know the experience level of "the crowd" or the accuracy of their observations. Being a little off can put you on a reef.

Reliable guidebooks and paper charts are essential for Bahamas cruising. Otherwise, GPS waypoints extrapolated from mixed data may not be right on the spot. "Right on the spot" is critical when you're navigating an inlet that's only a few hundred feet wide with rocks and reefs around it and swells rolling in. Remember, Bahamas aids to navigation are rare and often not maintained.

Unlike the more forgiving waters of, say, Chesapeake Bay, the Bahamas are riddled with reefs, rocks, and brown bars (rocky ledges) that can quickly hole a boat, and there's no U.S. Coast Guard daily presence. There are some very good salvage firms, but the waters to which they must respond are vast. Lack of infrastructure means inconveniences and often long periods of time required for repairs. In many areas, there are few or no secure marinas or good anchorages available for storm protection. The Bahamas is mostly beautiful wilderness, so take care and navigate conservatively. To do so, you'll need the most reliable charts.

Sara and Monty Lewis began cruising the Bahamas more than 35 years ago. They produce and update The Explorer Chartbooks . Experienced cruisers swear by these Lewis charts. The waypoints provided are, they say, based on the Lewis team actually having gone to the rock, the deep part of the inlet, or the reef and recording the exact GPS reading while on site or verified with satellite photos or trusted advisers' data. Not only do they provide accurate full-color navigational charts, they also include cruising guide "need-to-know info" with informative articles and updated details on facilities and services throughout the Bahamas. (It's information from The Explorer Chartbooks that we heavily relied upon to bring you this article.)

Introducing The Bahamas By Region

Coming by boat , you'll probably get your first impression of the Bahamas from its western boundary. Here, the water and reefs are beautiful, and there are some anchorages for settled weather, as well as some marinas. Most of the small islands have rocky shores and lack good all-weather anchorages.

The Bimini Chain, a series of small cays (pronounced "keys") lies across the Gulf Stream from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. North and South Bimini and Cat Cay are settled. The mysterious stone slabs of the Bimini Road lie under nearby waters, fueling stories of Atlantis. Popular with the sportfishing fleet, Bimini has a village, several marinas, restaurants, and now a resort/casino and a Hilton Hotel.

Whether you prefer fishing Bimini's flats or heading out into the deep for bigger game, charters abound. (Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)

To accommodate those who want to experience the beauty, often the beauty is sacrificed. Bimini has suffered, in my view, as have many of the islands, from the negatives of tourism. In recent years, many of the mangroves on the northern end of Bimini have been replaced by resort development. On the west side, an ocean-docking facility for fast ferries from Miami was built from material dredged up from the ocean bottom. But the Biminis are still accommodating as far as clearing customs and stopping to rest in a marina before crossing the banks. With the tourism have come positives — better availability of parts and goods and better communications in Bimini and other settled areas.

To the north of the Bimini Chain, separated from it by the deep Northwest Providence Channel, is the large island of Grand Bahama , with resorts and marinas. At the far northwestern end of Grand Bahama, the critically located Old Bahama Bay Marina offers shelter for boats caught by weather, as well as many amenities.

Old Bahama Bay Marina at the northwestern end of Grand Bahama offers shelter to boats caught by weather, as well as many amenities for boaters. (Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)

Southeast of the Bimini Chain, across the Great Bahama Banks, lies the giant and mysterious island of Andros . Known as the bonefishing capital of The Bahamas, Andros's vast swamps, creeks, mangrove shallows, and miles of woods stretch more than 100 miles south to north, divided into three major sections of land connected by mangrove and tidal swamp. Scattered about are many of the famous "blue holes" of the Bahamas, some far inland from the shore, extending deep down, many connected with the ocean through a labyrinth of subterranean passages. Nearby, the recently discovered Andros Platform, a multitiered structure of huge, flat, squared blocks, remains silently under the waves, begging explanation.

With limited good anchorages, sparsely populated Andros hasn't experienced the large influx of cruising boats. The Great Bahama Banks blends with the shallows and swamp of its western shore, but its eastern shore faces the deep "Tongue of the Ocean" and has several towns with limited facilities, such as Morgan's Bluff, Fresh Creek, and Congo Town. One of the longest barrier reefs in the world guards this shore, allowing limited access. Andros, like so many other islands, is yet to be awakened, and many would say that's good.

Spiny lobster season is August through March. (Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)

The Abacos is a great place for Bahamas exploration. While it is often considered more civilized than other areas, it's been affected less from tourism. Marinas, protected anchorages with good holding, shopping, good drinking water, restaurants, and small hotels make the area especially inviting. Many cruisers gravitate to the "Hub of the Abacos" with the towns and harbors of Man O'War, Hope Town, and Marsh Harbour. You can take short hops to different towns or anchorages across the shallow Sea of Abaco without going outside the reefs into the ocean. To the northwest of the Hub, and through sometimes-dangerous Whale Cay Passage, lies Green Turtle Cay with its several protected basins, marinas, and the town of New Plymouth with its quaint pastel homes similar to those of Man O'War and Hope Town.

The Berry Islands, known as "Der Berrys" by many Bahamians, are another expanse of small islands surrounded by shallow banks that rise from deep ocean. To the south and west of the busier Abacos, they aren't as heavily cruised because of their shallows and rolly anchorages, but this isolation makes them very attractive to some. Islands such as Great Stirrup, Great Harbor, Whale Cay, and Chub Cay rim the banks. Dinghy passages snake among white shoals and low-tide sand islands. It's easy to get lost. Only three marinas make bases for exploration. Chub Cay Marina is completely protected within an enclosed basin, recently reopened after hurricane damage, though not in full operation as of the date of this writing. Great Harbour Cay Marina also offers excellent shelter and is affordable, with more slips available for transients. In addition, the popular Berry Islands Club is also reopening its restaurant, rebuilding its docks, and fortifying its moorings after a hiatus. Always check ahead for any marina, to be sure it's currently open.

Downtown Nassau is known for its colorful architecture. (Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)

Many tourists consider Nassau to be synonymous with the Bahamas. Not hardly. This is the capital of the Bahamas and more than half the Bahamian population lives on its island of New Providence . It has the good and bad traits of most cities, with a distinctly Caribbean flavor, though reports of violent crime are increasing. Police in white uniforms direct traffic. Horse-drawn carriages commingle with cars, jitneys, and scooters. Buildings and customs reminiscent of the British Colonial Empire blend with things modern, overlaid with a significant share of poverty.

Nassau Harbour separates the "mainland" from Paradise Island, which has luxury hotels and casinos. The northwestern entrance to the harbor is deep and jettied, with several buoys. Huge cruise liners enter, but the inlet can be dangerous in strong onshore winds.

Anchoring isn't recommended in much of the harbor because of poor holding, strong currents, fast boats, wakes, and crime issues. There are several marinas; if Nassau has to be on your cruising itinerary, many boaters select a marina on Paradise Island. The southeastern entrance channel is only around 8 feet deep in one spot where coral heads and rocky bars dictate precise navigation.

To the southeast, the Exuma Cays curve in a northwest-southeast direction. The Exumas have only a few small all-weather marinas. Most anchorages are unprotected from westerlies, so they're only good for settled weather. The few that are sheltered from westerlies are between rocky islands and plagued by swift current and scoured bottom. The islands are generally rocky with low vegetation, sparse population, and a few villages. Nevertheless, each year more and more boats visit .

Cruisers lying to moorings in the beautiful and protected Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. In many places, moorings are preferred or even required to avoid damage to the bottom and because of limited swinging room. (Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)

They've become so popular that celebrities and other wealthy people have purchased entire islands or large portions of them. It's reported that the Exuma Land and Sea Park, once a stronghold of environmental protection, now features such private islands, and personal watercraft from mega yachts often roar up and down the pristine channels. Staged "paradise" picnics on the beaches, replete with instant tents, bars, and lounges, entertain charter parties with all their water toys. Anchorages once enjoyed by a few are now becoming more crowded.

Heading down the chain, cruisers like to stop and enjoy the out-island friendliness of the small villages of Staniel Cay, Black Point, and Little Farmer's Cay . Village restaurants sometimes announce special menus on the VHF. Small grocery stores have limited supplies, and Staniel Cay's Isles General Store has marine and general hardware as well as groceries. And the Blue Store and the Pink Store have also expanded their stock to accommodate the greater number of cruisers and vacationers.

The Staniel Cay Yacht Club offers good meals, fuel, water purified by reverse osmosis, and a nice bar as well as cottage rentals. Indeed, the entire village is open to many home rentals. Fowl Cay Resort is one of several resort islands with rental houses and cottages, and it also has a restaurant available to the public by reservation. Snorkel into Thunderball Cave off Staniel and enjoy viewing thousands of protected fish. Part of the James Bond movie of that name was filmed here.

At the southern end of the Exumas, the "mainland" island of Great Exuma is a popular boating destination with a good but busy harbor. Its George Town boasts supplies and high island civilization. Exuma Market provides dinghy docking, town water, and other services while across Lake Victoria, the well-stocked Shop-Rite is another good choice for stocking. FedEx, UPS, boat supplies, and many other helpful goods and services are available. Almost 400 cruising boats are often in its Elizabeth Harbour for the annual spring Cruising Regatta, a weeklong festival run by the cruising community in conjunction with the Bahamian community.

Heading easterly from the Exumas you'll find more islands and variety. To the north, Eleuthera is known for its oranges and pineapples. Cruisers often visit the busy village of Spanish Wells with its fishing fleet, marinas, marine railways, and supplies. Harbour Island, guarded by the treacherous reef known as Devil's Backbone, is also popular for its pink sand beaches, quaint pastel-color buildings, the historic village of Dunmore Town, marinas, fishing, and relatively upscale living. Royal Island with its enclosed harbor broods with thick foliage and the silent ruins of a large estate. Years ago, wooden sailing ships of the British Navy sought shelter here; today cruisers wait for passage to the Abacos.

Cat Island, south of Eleuthera, stretches 48 miles, offering few anchorages but high hills, farms, villages, and miles of cliff and beach. To the south of Cat lies Long Island, with dangerous reefs extending more than 3 miles off Cape Santa Maria at its northern end. Never more than 4 miles wide, it's 75 miles long and features rolling hills and cliffs, fertile soil, and farming. A popular destination is Salt Pond and Thompson Bay on the west side, from where cruisers can tour the island by car and stock up at a modern grocery. Avoid anchorages exposed to weather and seas.

Far to the south and east, the "far out islands" rise from the deep ocean floor, beyond the banks. You'll find isolated jewels such as Rum Cay and Conception Island. Sumner Point Marina at Rum Cay has been closed due to hurricane damage as of this writing. As you venture farther southeast, more spectacular little islands with limited protection beckon with even more remoteness. These include Samana Cay, where Christopher Columbus is said to have anchored; Crooked Island; Acklins Island; Great Inagua with its famous flamingo population; and Mayaguana — all beautiful islands off the beaten track.

The Jumentos chain arches 90 miles around the southeast boundary of the Great Bahama Banks and has become more popular in recent years for experienced cruisers looking to find pristine islands as they once were. Many of these islands have little all-weather protection, tricky shallows, and few replenishing and stocking opportunities, but make up for it in sweet solitude

You Can't Always Get What You Want

The Bahamas, with their overwhelming beauty and thousands of square miles of ocean wilderness, offer a wonderful boating escape from the massive infrastructure and dense civilization of the States. But what makes them compelling also makes them challenging for unprepared boaters. Go soon if you can, take good care, and tread lightly.

Bahamas Fun Facts

• The Bahamas has the clearest water in the world. Visibility while diving is often more than 200 feet!
• Fewer than 50 of the islands have a village or town.
• The Bahamas has the world's third-longest barrier reef.
• Dean's Blue Hole, west of Clarence Town, Long Island, at 663 feet, is one of the deepest blue holes in the world.
• The first place Christopher Columbus landed when he came to the new world in 1492, he named San Salvador in the Bahamas.
• The word "mainland" is used by those on small outlying islands (called the Out Islands) to describe the larger islands, such as New Providence, Grand Bahama, Great Abaco, and Great Exuma. The "Far-Out Islands" are those even farther away.
• The world's longest underwater cave system can be found in Lucayan National Park, Grand Bahama Island.
• Kalik (pronounced "click"), the beer of The Bahamas, is named after the kalikking sound of cowbells at Junkanoo, the island street parades held every December 26.
• There are only about 396,000 people in all the Bahamas, the majority on the island of New Providence where Nassau is located.
• The national sport of the Bahamas is sloop sailing.
• Bahamas comes from the Spanish baja mar, which translates to "shallow sea."

Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

Chartering & Fishing

Power, sail & crewed charters.

• The Moorings (Abacos)
• Navtours (Nassau, George Town, Staniel Cay)
• Sunsail (Abacos, Nassau)

Sportfishing

• Boaters arriving on their own boats congregate around the marinas in Bimini, Nassau, Chub Cay, Boat Harbor, Highbourne Cay, and others.
• Note that fishing here is split between distinctively different offshore fishing and flats fishing (for bonefish).
• To join a sportfishing charter, search the Internet for numerous listings.
• Consider checking out one of the many fishing tournaments, listed at Bahamas.com/fishing-tournaments-2017.

Photo: Mel Neale

Anchoring Notes

• Never anchor in reef or anywhere your anchor rode may get tangled in coral.
• Leave 360-degree swing room for other boats, the shore, and reefs. Boats swing differently depending on their windage, bottom configuration, eddies, and current.
• The best bottoms consist of deep, soft white sand. You'll see these from the bow of your boat. Don't be misled by bottoms of white rock, marl, or shallow white sand over rock.
• Anchoring in grass usually results in dragging when the wind increases and damaging fish habitat.
• Nylon line can be cut by small rocks or reef. Use as much chain as your boat can safely carry.
• Don't anchor on a lee shore (the shore toward which the wind is blowing). Learn and watch the weather; plan your anchorage for 24 hours. It's not unusual for Bahamian winds to shift over that time.
• What starts as a protected anchorage could become a risky lee shore.
• Study an accurate weather forecast every day, and plan overnight anchorages accordingly.

Weather Notes

• Obtain a detailed weather forecast every day. Heed it.
• Winter cold fronts are often preceded by strong southwesterly winds and come through as a strong, precipitous westerly, then nor'wester. Then winds often clock to a nor'easter and blow hard for days.
• "Squeeze plays" between large areas of high and large areas of low pressure may set up strong winds, usually from the east, for several days.
• The Bahamas offers little good protection in hurricanes and tropical lows. Even enclosed harbors are vulnerable with so little land to weaken the effects of wind and sea. Expect little help compared to U.S. waters.

Respect The 'Rage'

If there is a strong onshore swell, many cuts between islands and reefs become treacherous. The onshore swell may be caused by local onshore winds or from a far-off storm. At sea the swell may seem insignificant, but as it mounts up in the shallow waters near the cuts, it can become deadly. These swells can be far away when you leave the safety of your harbor in the morning but dangerously upon you when you want to enter the next inlet down-island. Watch the weather locally and far out. Ask ahead for current local conditions and knowledge. If any question exists about the safety of an inlet, don't risk it.

Search And Rescue

The Bahamas government has no search-and-rescue service equivalent to the U.S. Coast Guard. The Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Association (BASRA) is a dedicated nonprofit voluntary organization committed to saving the lives of distressed seamen and airmen in the Bahamas. It is funded by donations.

For boaters traveling off the beaten track, consider renting an EPIRB or PLB from the BoatUS Foundation before you go. Visit BoatUS.org for more information.

What Are Your Special Interests?

Looking to hang out with other cruisers? Consider the Hub of the Abacos. Several islands encircle the protected "Sea of Abaco" in which you can go from town to town in protected waters without going out through the reefs into the ocean. Towns include Marsh Harbour, Hope Town, Man O'War. A short hop in calm weather in the ocean fetches up Green Turtle Cay, and a trip south inside will bring you to Little Harbour, home of Pete's Pub and Foundry. There are more marinas in this area than in most other areas of the Bahamas.

Elizabeth Harbour lies near the southeastern end of the Exuma chain and has become a Mecca for cruisers with its relative protection (albeit with some open fetches) and good holding. Its bustling village of George Town is a vacation spot and an oasis of out island "high civilization," which hasn't lost its out-island charm. "In season," from December through March, there can be as many as 400 boats there, with all the potlucks and beach volleyball games you could want. The reefs guarding the entrances can be tricky; good weather and careful navigation are a must. Don't enter with a strong onshore wind or swell.

Looking for sport fishing? Alice Town on North Bimini offers several marinas, bars, restaurants, and good fishing offshore, with several tournaments throughout the year. Chub Cay, scheduled to be fully operational (after the ravages of Hurricane Mathew) has a marina in a completely enclosed harbor with restaurant, bars for bragging, and Customs. Fish offshore in the Tongue of the Ocean between the Berrys, New Providence, and the Great Bahama Banks.

Looking for remote experiences? What used to be remote may be more visited today, although features such as poor holding, little protection from wind and surge, and few provisioning opportunities still keeps the crowds away. You'll find unspoiled beauty and solitude in the Jumentos, Rum Cay (marina may not be rebuilt yet), the shallow banks of the Berrys (where people often explore by dinghy), and Conception Island. These areas have scarce protection, and require serious weather vigilance.

Looking for good diving and snorkeling? The Bahamas has the world's third-longest barrier reef. Five percent of the world's coral can be found there. Bring a light wetsuit, snorkel, mask, and fins for great snorkeling by dinghy throughout The Bahamas.

Looking for a show? Held at the end of April every year, the Family Island Regatta in Elizabeth Harbour is huge. Bahamians come from all the islands to compete, usually in traditional Bahamian boats. Also, the New Year's Day Regatta at Staniel Cay in the Exumas is fun, informal, and rollicking.

Related Articles

The truth about ceramic coatings for boats.

Our editor investigates the marketing claims of consumer-grade ceramic coatings.

Fine-Tune Your Side Scan Fishfinder

Take your side-scanning fishfinder off auto mode, and you’ll be spotting your prey from afar in no time

DIY Boat Foam Decking

Closed-cell foam flooring helps make boating more comfortable. Here’s how to install it on your vessel

Click to explore related articles

Technical Editor, BoatUS Magazine

One of the top technical experts in the marine industry, Tom Neale, BoatUS Magazine Technical Editor, has won nine first-place awards from Boating Writers International, and is author of the magazine’s popular "Ask The Experts" column. His depth of technical knowledge comes from living aboard various boats with his family for more than 30 years, cruising far and wide, and essentially learning how to install, fix, and rebuild every system onboard himself. A lawyer by training, for most of his career Tom has been an editor and columnist at national magazines such as Cruising World, PassageMaker, and Soundings. He wrote the acclaimed memoir All In The Same Boat (McGraw Hill), as well as Chesapeake Bay Cruising Guide, Vol. 1. These days, Tom and his wife Mel enjoy cruising their 2006 Camano 41 Chez Nous with their grandchildren.

BoatUS Magazine Is A Benefit Of BoatUS Membership

Membership Benefits Include:

Subscription to the print version of BoatUS Magazine

4% back on purchases from West Marine stores or online at WestMarine.com

Discounts on fuel, transient slips, repairs and more at over 1,200 businesses

Deals on cruises, charters, car rentals, hotel stays and more…

All for only $25/year!

We use cookies to enhance your visit to our website and to improve your experience. By continuing to use our website, you’re agreeing to our cookie policy.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Yacht Cruising Lifestyle

Everything fun you can do from your yacht

Never Sail the Bahamas Without This Guide

July 12, 2021 by Travis Turgeon 3 Comments

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing through the same waters as 17th-century Buccaneers like Blackbeard and Calico Jack, look no further than the Atlantic’s largest archipelago nation – The Bahamas. Situated approximately 180 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, the Bahamas are made up of nearly 700 islands, most of which remain uninhabited. The Bahamas are home to stunning pink sand beaches, wildly diverse scuba diving opportunities, and the world-renowned swimming pigs of Exuma. Most notably, though, the Bahamas is a yachties paradise. In this guide, we cover everything from planning to cruising costs to ensure that your trip goes off without a hitch. 

Table of Contents:

Sailing the bahamas after hurricane dorian.

• What are the Best Months for Sailing the Bahamas?

How Should I Plan and Prepare for Sailing the Bahamas?

• Sail to the Bahamas
• Bahamas Customs and Immigration
• Which Bahamian Islands Should I Visit?
• Fishing in the Bahamas
• Scuba Diving the Bahamas
• Golf in the Bahamas
• Bahamas Tours – Nassau
• National Parks of the Bahamas
• Festivals and Events of the Bahamas

Historical Sites and Cultural Landmarks of the Bahamas

• Is the Bahamas Safe?
• Costs and Budget for Sailing the Bahamas

On September 1, 2019, Hurricane Dorian – the strongest hurricane to ever hit the Bahamas – caused flooding, mass destruction and took the lives of at least 74 people, leaving more than 200 others missing and presumed dead. Grand Bahama and the Abacos Islands took the worst of the storm, with the destructive mass sitting over Grand Bahama for a shocking 48 hours before moving past the island. The hurricane caused over $3 billion in damages – approximately a quarter of the country’s entire GDP. 

With all of the destruction and misery of such a recent tragedy, what is it like sailing the Bahamas nearly two years later? 

With over 650 islands unaffected by Hurricane Dorian, a world-class destination awaits all of those who will be sailing the Bahamas. Airports, tour operators, hotels, restaurants, and more are open for business and eager to gather a few tourist dollars. In fact, many people depend on tourists to rebuild their livelihoods after the devastation. Tourism is the best way to support the Bahamian communities. Not just the big resorts, chain restaurants, and cruise ships, but the local individuals running and working in markets, mom-and-pop shops, and street food stalls. There has never been a better time for a holiday in the Bahamas.

What are the Best Months For Sailing the Bahamas?

Sailing in the Bahamas is possible year-round, with access to shelter and resources nearly everywhere in the country. Each season comes with its pros and cons, though, and many prefer certain months to others. While each season is defined by exact dates, there is little assurance that mother nature remains consistent year to year.

Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30)

While the term “hurricane season” seems daunting, you are by no means guaranteed to witness a boat-thrashing storm that crushes your cruising lifestyle for years to come. You are, however, advised to be mindful of a few things.

How Can I Stay Safe During Hurricane Season?

It’s essential to have a strategic plan in place when cruising the Bahamas during hurricane season. Part of your strategic plan should be to keep up with weather forecasts and have all of the proper equipment on board to alert you of incoming storms and harsh conditions. Luckily, the islands offer numerous “hurricane holes” – providing shelter and safety for those who need it. Plan your cruising routes so that you are always a short distance from one of these harbors, making for an easy escape to safety before the weather becomes a threat. Choose the harbors based on shelter, size, and the abundance of moorings in an anchorage. If you choose to weather the storm at anchor, your holding must be perfect for ensuring your safety.

Will my insurance cover me while sailing the Bahamas during hurricane season?

Every insurance plan is different from the next, and each will have a specific set of requirements to provide robust coverage for you and your vessel. Actually, many consider hurricane insurance to be a sham, insisting that boaters meet ridiculous stipulations to cover even a fraction of the damages. Some plans require you to pull your boat from the water entirely, while others opt-out of hull coverage without an additional plan to match. Your best bet is to plan your trip well in advance. Decide what you want to do and where you want to do it, and find an insurance plan that fits the bill.

Peak Season (December 1 – March 30)

Peak season in the Bahamas offers up some of the best weather you could ask for, and it makes for the perfect escape from some of the brutally cold destinations throughout North America. While peak season is often regarded as the “best” time for sailing the Bahamas, others may have a different opinion. Consider the following before planning your trip during the high season.

How are the Crowds During Peak Season?

The Bahamas are the perfect escape from the cold weather in the north, and it shows with the crowds and lack of moorings available at the popular cruising destinations. Crowds aren’t bad news for everyone, though – it just depends on the vibe you’re looking for. Junkanoo, for example, is an epic festival that draws a ton of people from all over the world. It’s a celebration of history, music, and cuisine that should not be missed if you’re in the area. 

Bahamas Peak Season Prices

As expected, prices tend to skyrocket with the peak season. There is a far higher demand for simple amenities, so make sure you know what to expect before arriving. If you aren’t entirely set on a budget vacation, the peak season can be a thrill that’s unrivaled for many. 

Shoulder Season (April 1 – May 31)

As with many destinations worldwide, shoulder season in the Bahamas offers an excellent balance between weather, costs, and crowds. Many consider April and May to be the best months to visit for the simple fact that crowds are thin, anchorages and moorings are abundant, and the activities and attractions remain unaffected. While there is no “wrong” time for sailing the Bahamas, we strongly suggest considering the shoulder season for your next holiday – especially for those looking for superb diving and fishing.

With so many people cruising the Bahamas every year, it seems like people make it happen with minimal effort. However, while you have the opportunity for a “paradise on earth” type of trip, you should approach it with the right amount of planning and preparation. Many people have shared their struggles and successes with sailing the Bahamas, so we put together a timeline to make sure you don’t miss a beat in preparing for crystal blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and powdered white-sand beaches. 

3 – 6 Months in Advance

• Apply for a cruising permit for sailing the Bahamas. You can do this online or upon arrival with immigration and customs at the port of entry. Online registration is the easiest way to apply and is strongly preferred by officials.
• Order a yellow quarantine boat flag and a Bahamas courtesy flag to be flown while in the country. You can order these in various dimensions, but most opt for the 12” x 18” size.
• Check your passport validity, and order a new passport if needed. 
• Join online resources such as Facebook groups and travel forums to stay up-to-date with everything related to cruising in the Bahamas. Updates on entry requirements, island closures, and nearly everything else will be discussed here by fellow yachties. 
• Arrange your bills to be paid automatically to avoid late fees, poor internet connection, and simple forgetfulness. Check for international fees when using your bank cards abroad. If your bank doesn’t offer attractive global usage, consider setting up a new bank account. Many banks don’t penalize their members for using their cards outside of the country. Radius Bank is one such online bank that reimburses users for foreign transactions and ATM fees. 
• Thoroughly read and understand your boat insurance, and consider switching plans if it makes sense. Many plans don’t cover boaters who visit the Caribbean during hurricane season, so ensure your insurance plan suits your needs. 

Consider your options for communication, both on land and at sea. There are several options for internet and phone service while sailing the Bahamas, including:

• Google-Fi is claimed by many to be the best cruising plan when visiting the Bahamas. There are three plans to choose from, with high-speed data starting at $10/GB.
• My Island Wifi is one of the newest options and is quickly becoming a favorite for those in the sailing community. Island Wifi is a mobile hotspot device that offers daily, weekly, and monthly plans, with unlimited 4G data for just $85 per month.
• Aliv is another new data service in the Bahamas that lets you buy a sim card and use your phone as a hotspot device. You can also buy a MiFi mobile router for data-only uses. For monthly unlimited 4G data, expect to pay around $140.
• T-Mobile has an international plan that offers unlimited 2G data in the Bahamas for $70 per month. T-Mobile’s plan can be an excellent low-hassle option for those who don’t need the fastest internet speeds. 
• Verizon offers an international travel pass with unlimited 4G data for $10 per day, which is quite expensive for extended trips. If you just need a few days of coverage, though, this can be a good option for current Verizon customers.
• BTC is a local Bahamas sim that can be used with any unlocked phone. While the internet speeds are not on par with some of the other options, it’s simple to set up and use – making it a reasonable consideration for some. Data plans vary, with one of the most popular plans offering 15GB of data for $35 per month.
• Research various Bahamian islands, routes, marinas, anchorages, and anything else that may be of interest during your trip. Make a rough outline of your itinerary, preferably on a map, and leave room for improvisation. Order guides, books, and any other resources that you may find helpful. 

Learn as much as you can about the weather in the Gulf Stream. How to plan, prepare, when to leave, and everything in between.

• Choose a jump-off point from the US, and arrange what you need to get there pre-departure.
• The most popular starting points are Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Pierce, and West Palm Beach.Research anything and everything regarding fishing, diving, handguns, and other activities you plan to do.
• Be sure that you are up-to-date and understand the Bahamas’ fishing laws and regulations before fishing from your private vessel.
• Check and update your onboard safety equipment and first-aid kits. Ensure nothing is expired and that everything has been adequately inspected and tested.
• Ensure you have replacement and repair parts for any vital equipment – most things are far more expensive in the Bahamas, so it’s best to come prepared with anything you may need. 

* Always check for up-to-date customs and immigration requirements well before departure.

3 – 10 Days in Advance

• Take out a fair amount of cash from your bank. ATMs can be scarce, and when you do find one, you may be charged several transaction fees for using it. In addition, vendors often won’t have change for large bills. Be sure to stock up on $1’s and $5’s to avoid this problem. 
• Monitor the weather and watch for optimal windows to make the Gulf Stream passage safely. 
• Provision your boat: Canned foods, paper products, soft drinks, alcohol, personal items, and more will often be cheaper to buy pre-departure.

Sailing to the Bahamas

Regardless of your chosen port of entry, the Bahamas is just a quick overnight crossing from south Florida. If you’re running a speedboat, you may be able to make the trip in just a few hours. Either way, it’s essential to select an appropriate window of good weather for the crossing, and most sailors agree that the further south you start, the easier the passage will be. 

The Bahamas Ports of Entry

Below, we outline your options for ports of entry based on region. The list is subject to changes and updates, so be sure to check with the government’s website before sailing to the Bahamas. Remember, leisure crafts must clear customs and immigration and purchase a cruising permit before they are free to operate in the Bahamas. We’ve added an interactive map to help navigate your options for ports of entry when arriving in the Bahamas. Alternatively, see the screenshots below for a quick reference to each region.

• (+1) 242-699-4045
• [email protected]
• Airport – Sandy Point (By Request Only)
• Sandy Point Public Dock (By Request Only)
• (+1) 242-699-4060
• (+1) 242-365-0083
• Baker’s Bay Marina / Guana Cay (Private Members Only)
• (+1) 242-367-1900
• (+1) 242-367-4000
• Great Abaco Beach Resort Marina
• Jib Room Marina
• (+1) 242-367-4996
• (+1) 242-367-1903 or (+1) 242-699-4021
• Marsh Harbour Public Dock
• (+1) 242-699-4059
• [email protected]
• (+1) 242-365-8250
• Treasure Cay Public Dock

• (+1) 242-368-2030
• Fresh Creek Public Dock
• (+1) 242-329-2140
• San Andros Public Dock
• (+1) 242-369-2640

Bimini / Cat Cay

• (+1) 242-347-3391 (Landing Fee – $50)
• (+1) 242-347-3100 or (+1) 242-347-3102
• [email protected] or [email protected]
• (+1) 242-347-3500
• (+1) 242-347-3166
• (+1) 242-347-3116
• (+1) 242-347-6100, Ext: 1016
• (+1) 242-347-6100, Ext: 1035 / 1036 or (+1) 242-473-1727
• (+1) 242-347-3071 or (+1) 242-347-3477
• (+1) 242-347-3101
• (+1) 242-347-3028

The Berry Islands

• (+1) 242-359-9020 
• (+1) 242-325-1490
• Bullock’s Harbor Public Dock
• (+1) 242-367-8566
• (+1) 242-367-8005

• Arthur’s Town Public Dock (By Request Only)
• Bennet’s Harbour Public Dock (By Request Only, Landing Fee – $100)
• (+1) 242-342-2016
• (+1) 242-342-2149 or (+1) 242-342-2223

Eleuthera and Harbour Island

• (+1) 242-699-6122 or (+1) 242-699-6147
• (+1) 242-699-6122
• [email protected]
• (+1) 242-333-2325
• (+1) 242-333-2142 or 866-389-6864
• (+1) 242-333-4462
• (+1) 242-699-6128
• (+1) 242-333-4255
• (+1) 242-699-6121 or (+1) 242-699-6117
• (+1) 242-335-1650
• (+1) 242-332-3777 or (+1) 242-332-3778
• (+1) 242-332-2341
• (+1) 242-699-6104
• (+1) 242-334-8500
• (+1) 242-334-6303
• (+1) 242-334-2112 or (+1) 242-699-6126 / 6112

• Black Point (By Request Only)
• (+1) 242-345-0071
• [email protected]
• (+1) 242-336-2072
• (+1) 242-342-7050
• (+1) 242-336-2578
• Airport – Staniel Cay (By Request Only)
• Staniel Cay Marina(By Request Only)

Grand Bahama Island

• (+1) 242-602-9503 
• (+1) 242-602-9503
• (+1) 242-602-9491
• (+1) 242-602-9546 (+1) 242-602-9400
• (+1) 242-284-5193 or (+1) 242-373-7616
• Lucayan Marina Village
• Lucayan Yacht Club
• (+1) 242-352-6834
• Ocean Reef Marina (By Request Only)
• (+1) 242-373-9090
• Port Lucaya Marina Village
• Xanadu Marina (Older Docks – Not Advised)
• South Riding Point
• (+1) 242-349-4101 or (+1) 242-727-0514
• (+1) 242-602-9413 or (+1) 242-602-9481
• [email protected]

• (+1) 242-339-1254
• [email protected]

Long Island

• Clarence Town Public Dock (By Request Only – Contact Airport)
• Deadman’s Cay Airport (Domestic Only)
• (+1) 242-337-3430
• (+1) 242-338-8668
• Simms Public Dock (By Request Only)
• (+1) 242-338-2012
• (+1) 242-338-2050 / 2051 / 2052

New Providence

• (+1) 242-676-6020
• (+1) 242-604-3196 / 3184 / 3187 / 3174
• (+1) 242-393-8232
• (+1) 242-323-2172
• (+1) 242-676-7000
• Kelly’s Dock
• (+1) 242-604-3277 / 3256
• (+1) 242-362-4271
• (+1) 242-393-7873
• (+1) 242-393-0771
• (+1) 242-393-8173
• (+1) 242-676-8554
• (+1) 242-604-3341
• (+1) 242-394-1036
• Southwest Bay Dolphins
• (+1) 242-394-1605
• (+1) 242-363-6068

San Salvador

• (+1) 242-331-2631 or (+1) 242-477-0900 or (+1) 242-452-6129
• (+1) 242-331-2131
• [email protected]

Florida to the Bahamas – Which Routes are Best to Follow?

While there are pretty much endless routes you can follow to get to the Bahamas, there are some tried-and-true paths that sailors commonly take. Keep in mind that any of these routes can be adjusted or mix-and-matched to better fit your overall itinerary.

Miami to Grand Bahama

For one of the shortest possible routes from the southern US, consider sailing to the Bahamas from Miami. Depending on where you plan to explore throughout your trip, this is a great spot to base yourself – especially for first-time visitors to the Bahamas. 

Miami to The Exumas

Another option to sail to the Bahamas from Miami is to head straight for the Exumas. This route offers boaters a true taste of the Gulf Stream while also providing adequate shelter and calm seas at the ladder-half of the trip. If the weather gets bad, you also have several options for alternative stop-offs before reaching your initial destination. The Exuma Islands are made up of over 350 cays, so it’s a great location to begin a holiday for sailing the Bahamas.

West Palm Beach to The Abacos

If you don’t want to sail to the Bahamas from Miami, another popular jump-off location is West Palm Beach, Florida. Starting further north allows you to hit some of the northern Bahamian islands on your way out rather than your way back. It also provides a bit of a different vibe when making the passage across the Gulf Stream. The Abacos is another ideal starting point for a holiday around the Bahamas, as you can run the eastern edge of the archipelago all the way down to the Eleuthera and Harbour Islands if you so desire. 

How to Navigate the Gulf Stream

The Gulf Stream is a 60+ mile wide ocean current that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to Florida and up the Atlantic coast of the US. The water in this current flows north at a considerable rate, and the water temperature in the current is higher than the surrounding waters. Because of this, tropical storms are much more likely and can occur with little warning. Three primary considerations need to be made before making the passage from the southern US to the Bahamas. Weather, heading, and boat speed. 

Timing your passage across the Gulf Stream can be tricky, especially for those making the crossing for the first time. Throughout the winter months, patience is key to sailing across the Gulf Stream safely. To ensure ideal conditions for sailing to the Bahamas, you should wait until the winds do not exceed 15 knots, and you should generally avoid crossing in the presence of northerly winds. You can use numerous resources in preparation for the passage, and one of the most popular is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

Heading and Course

When crossing the Gulf Stream, your heading and course will never be identical. The current flows north at such a high rate that you will always run a course that ends up north of your heading. As a result, the Gulf Stream is a great place for sailors to hone their navigation skills. If you rely entirely on automated navigational equipment and your gear malfunctions, you can easily miss your landing point. Plotting a course on a paper chart and traveling at right-angles is the go-to method for sailors using anything other than high-speed boats. 

Speaking of boat speed, it should come as no surprise that the slower your boat is, the more you will be affected by the high-speed currents of the stream. While speedboats can generally snake the passage in just a few hours, those sailing to the Bahamas generally need to plan for a 6-10 hour journey depending on the destination and conditions. During your course, it’s likely that you will cross paths with other boats at one point or another. Be extremely cautious when this happens, as boat speeds can be highly deceiving in the Gulf Stream.

Sailing the Bahamas – Customs and Immigration

After finally arriving at one of the many ports of entry in the Bahamas, you’ll need to legally enter the country and obtain a cruising permit for onward travel. The customs and immigration process is similar to entering through an airport, but there are some differences and special requirements, which we discuss below. 

What Documents Do I Need to Enter the Bahamas?

To enter the country on a private vessel, you will need the following documentation:

• Copy of a Completed Bahamas Customs Clearance Form
• Valid Passport as Proof of Citizenship
• Bahamas Immigration Card Per Person
• Proof of Ownership
• Any Other Supporting Documents
• A cruising permit can be obtained online before entering through customs and immigration or upon arrival by boat. It is far preferred by immigration officials that this is done online before arrival. 
• Copy of All Firearm Documents
• Pet permits are issued by the Department of Agriculture and are required for all pets older than three months. Annual or short-term licenses are available. 
• American Bully
• Presa Canario
• Staffordshire Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Savannah Cat
• For more information and resources regarding animal passports, please visit the Government of the Bahamas website.

Clearing In Process

When entering the country by private vessel, you must follow the standardized process to ensure smooth and uneventful entry. Dress nicely, be patient, and treat all officials with respect. The general process for clearing in is as follows:

• As you enter your chosen port of entry, hoist the yellow quarantine flag to notify a customs official of your arrival.
• Depending on the port, either a customs official will come to your boat, or the boat captain will need to go to shore to find them. Only the boat captain is permitted to leave the vessel before clearing in. 
• All passengers on board are required to show proof of citizenship and fill out an immigration card. 
• After receiving your cruising permit, take down your yellow quarantine flag and hoist the Bahamian courtesy flag – fly this flag for the remainder of your stay. 

* The crew on SV Tula recorded a video recording of their arrival process with a customs official entering Great Harbour Cay – it’s a great resource to visualize the process for those who have yet to visit.

Can I bring a firearm with me while sailing the Bahamas?

Visitors to the Bahamas are allowed to have firearms on board their private vessels, but they must be declared with immigration officials. Only handguns, rifles, and shotguns are permitted in the Bahamas. All documentation should be presented upon arrival, including the serial number and manufacturer of each weapon. In addition, a customs official will take a hard count of all ammunition when inspecting the vessel, and that count will be double-checked during departure procedures.

As of June 2021, the following remains true:

• There is a limit of three firearms per vessel, of which the caliber may not exceed .308.
• No more than 250 rounds of ammunition are allowed for each firearm.
• All automatic weapons are prohibited.
• No weapons are permitted for any center console vessels. If firearms are found on center console boats entering the country, they will be taken by police and returned upon departure.

All firearms must be kept under lock and key while in the country and may not be taken off the boat for any reason without obtaining a permit through Bahamian police first. The Bahamas recently increased the penalties and sentences for those who break local firearms laws, and those caught violating gun laws will be dealt with accordingly. It is not uncommon for visitors to the Bahamas to be arrested when found with guns onboard illegally. 

If for any reason, you must exit the country by air and leave your vessel for pickup at a later date, you must notify the police and customs of your departure. Police will escort you to your boat to retrieve your firearm(s) and store it for you until your return. 

What are the fees for sailing the Bahamas ?

Everyone entering the country by boat will need to pay an entry fee upon or before arrival. Fees are standardized by boat size as follows:

• 0-34’: $150 for up to 3 Months – OR – $300 Annually
• 34-100’: $300 for up to 3 Months – OR – $600 Annually
• 100-150’: $500 for up to 3 Months – OR – $1000 Annually
• 150-200’: $800 for up to 3 Months – OR – $1600 Annually
• 200’+: $1000 for up to 3 Months – OR – $2000 Annually

These fees cover a private vessel’s cruising permit, fishing permit, and departure tax for up to three people. For additional passengers, a departure fee of $20 will be added to the total. All fees are valid for a second re-entry within 90 days of departure.

Clearing Out Process

All vessels must clear out of the country and receive a certificate of clearance before departure. Both the cruising permit and immigration cards will be returned to customs officials. If there are firearms on board, they must be declared with all ammunition present. Weapons procedures are essential to reduce the availability of illegal weapons in the Bahamas. 

* No fees are required for clearing out

Sailing From the Bahamas Back to the United States

If you’re headed back to the U.S. after clearing out of the Bahamas, you’ll need to be familiar with the re-entry process and the documents required to clear back in. You are considered to have entered the US once you have anchored or tied up within US waters – Nobody can leave the vessel until cleared by customs officials. As of September 2018, the Small Vessel Reporting System (SVRS) is no longer an option for returning boats, and float plans are no longer required or accepted. All operators of non-commercial boats MUST report to a CBP Port of Entry.

• Toll-Free: 1-800-432-1216
• CBP ROAM Mobile App
• www.cbp.com
• Once you have reported your arrival, you’ll be directed to the nearest Port of Entry to physically present all passengers and crew on board. 

Prepare the following documents for customs officials to review upon your arrival at the chosen Port of Entry:

• Vessel Name and Vessel Registration
• Vessel Owners Name and Passport
• Captains Name, DOB, and Passport
• Passenger Passports
• List of Foreign Ports Visited While Abroad
• Total Value of Purchases Made Abroad

Which islands should I visit while Sailing the Bahamas?

With over 700 islands throughout the archipelago, there’s something that fits the bill for nearly every type of sailor. So whether you’re on the hunt for blissful coral-lined shores or the community vibes of a busy anchorage, the Bahamas has a destination that delivers. While far from an exhaustive list, the islands listed below are some of the favorites of visitors to the country.

Abaco Islands

The Abaco Islands are genuinely some of the Bahamas’ best, hosting clear turquoise waters, coral-encrusted coasts, world-class golf courses, and colonial seaside towns. The island chain stretches over 120 miles in length and is surrounded by calm, shallow waters that are home to a vast abundance of marine life – making it the perfect destination for long days on and below the water. 

You could easily spend weeks at the various cays along the chain of islands exploring the reefs, enjoying the local cuisines, and visiting the swimming pigs of Abacos – not to be confused with the swimming pigs of Exuma. 

The beaches at Treasure Cay have been recognized by National Geographic as some of the best in the world, making this a no-brainer for your itinerary while sailing the Bahamas. 

Andros Island is considered the bonefishing capital of the Bahamas, lined with mangrove shallows and creeks – the perfect habitat for the various species found in the Caribbean. You can cast a line from the shore or drop an anchor and test your luck. Either way, you should have no problem landing a few meals around the island. 

If you’re looking to do some snorkeling or scuba diving, the Andros Barrier Reef is the third largest reef in the world, measuring over 190 miles in length. With over 160 species of fish and coral, Andros is one of the most popular diving locations in all of the Caribbean. The area is also home to various blue holes, both inshore and further out, that the Bahamas are known for. 

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, a popular cruise ship stop-off point that’s famous for its offshore coral reefs and pastel-painted buildings. Today, Nassau holds over 80% of the population of the Bahamas, although it has maintained the laid-back Caribbean vibes people come for. 

Using Nassau as a base location in the Bahamas is relatively common, as it sits nearly centered in the archipelago and offers easy access to almost all other Bahamian islands. With an international airport on the island, it’s also one of the most popular places to charter a boat from after flying into the country. 

The Exumas are among the most popular islands in all of the Bahamas, and make no mistake – they are incredible. Consisting of 365 cays, the majority of the islands are entirely uninhabited. They are host to a seemingly unreal abundance of wildlife, both above and below the water, so we suggest you come prepared with a mask and snorkel in hand. 

In Norman Cay, you can snorkel in calm, crystal-clear waters above Pablo Escobar’s sunken drug plane – making for a truly unique experience. 

A short boat ride from Norman Cay, Staniel Cay was the shooting location of two James Bond movies – stop off and have a Martini – just make sure it’s shaken, not stirred. The island is also home to a world-famous cave system called “Thunderball Grotto” –  a must-see for any qualified cave divers. 

Not too keen on snorkeling or diving? Spend your days marveling at the rare iguana species and marine birds, and swim with the world-famous pigs of Exuma on Pig Beach at Major Cay. You can even bring some fresh fruit to feed the pigs – it makes for some outstanding photos!

Berry Islands

If you’re heading to the Bahamas in search of tranquility, the Berry Islands offer up just that. These mostly undeveloped islands sit about halfway between Grand Bahama and Nassau, making it the perfect stop-off for the beginning of your trip. 

Devil’s Cay anchorage is a must-see destination in the Berry Islands, hosting the serene nature and wilderness you imagine when you think of the Bahamas. There are small, secluded stretches of sand nestled along the coastline that offer nearly everyone in the area the chance to lounge in their own personal paradise.

Bimini comprises three main islands – South Bimini, North Bimini, and East Bimini – and many small, uninhabited cays scattered around and between. Most of the residents stay on South and North Bimini, and the East island consists mostly of coastal mangroves. The Bimini Islands are the closest of the Bahamian Islands to the mainland US and hold over 2000 of the country’s residents. 

The Bahamas is one of the world’s greatest shark sanctuaries, and Bimini is host to nearly every shark found in the country. Visitors who participate in guided shark tours frequently see lemon sharks, tiger sharks, blacktips, nurse sharks, bull sharks, and even the occasional hammerhead when in season. Whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or just someone who wants a unique experience on your holiday, these marine-rich waters deliver on all fronts. 

If you’re like most – you may be a bit skittish getting in the water with sharks, but there are also shallow areas where juvenile lemons hang out that kids and non-swimmers can interact with. The Bimini Shark Lab offers tours where they teach visitors about their research – a wonderful experience not to be missed. 

Eleuthera is the Bahama’s fourth-largest island – a long and spindly stretch of land no more than a few km wide for most of its length. The inner island holds pineapple fields and flatlands, with a coastline shrouded in jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches. The shallow, crystal-blue waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the powdered sand is as ideal as it gets for a day of sunbathing. 

Just off the coast of Eleuthera sits Harbour Island – a location known for its stunning pink sand beaches. There are numerous anchorages just off the shore, and visitors shouldn’t run into any trouble finding a place to hold. There are even seven marinas for docking and coming to shore if you want to spend a night or two there. If you hope to dock at a marina slip, be sure to contact the marina well before your arrival to ensure your slip remains available. 

Be aware of the “Devil’s Backbone” when coming into Harbour Island – a treacherous, shallow reef that extends along the island’s north coast. Many first-time visitors have been unfortunate enough to find themselves coming in contact with the reef’s jagged edges, so be cautious upon your arrival to avoid similar pitfalls. 

Fishing While Sailing the Bahamas

Fishing in the Bahamas is on any ambitious angler’s bucket list, and it’s easy to see why. Just imagine – You cast a line, loosen your drag, and kick back in your lounge chair overlooking the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. Suddenly, the sounds of the waves lapping against your boat are interrupted by the ZZzZZzzZZZ of your fishing line – you’re hooked! Anywhere else, you’d assume you’re in for a quick fight and expect to have dinner on the boat deck within minutes. Here, though, assumptions are better left at home. 

Fishing in the Bahamas offers you the chance to catch nearly every Caribbean species imaginable, along with the opportunity to land world record fish on a daily basis – the excitement is real. Few places hold a candle to the epic, big game battles that happen on these waters – and it all happens with dream-worthy Bahamian backdrops painted endlessly in a thousand shades of blue, white, and turquoise. 

Before you cast a line into these awe-inspiring waters, it’s essential that you know the fishing rules and restrictions of the Bahamas to avoid any problems. 

Don’t let a simple case of unawareness put a damper on your holiday. Here’s a quick overview of the basic fishing guidelines, but be sure to FOLLOW THE LINK ABOVE for more in-depth information on fishing in the Bahamas and the rest of the Caribbean. 

• A fishing license is required in the Bahamas, although you should have been issued one along with your cruising permit. 
• Various fishing nets and traps are off limits, and so are certain mesh sizes (see link above).
• Various marine parks prohibit fishing within their boundaries (see link above).
• All coral species, sharks, billfish, turtles, and sea fans are illegal to target or take.
• Closed seasons and size limits exist for various species (see link above).
• Spearfishing is legal in the Bahamas, but spearguns are prohibited – only Hawaiian Slings are approved for use. Additionally, you may not spearfish within 200 meters of any coastline throughout the country.

Now that you’re up to date with the laws, regulations, size limits, and seasonal fishing restrictions in the Bahamas, it’s time to dig deep and make some tough choices. Of course, certain fishing locations throughout the country are better for specific species than others, but you won’t run into many troubles regardless of where you are. Here are just a few fishing destinations that are sure to leave you stunned with excitement, and hopefully, deliver some of the best fishing of your life while sailing the Bahamas. 

Abaco Islands Fishing

Situated in the northeast Bahamas, the Abaco Islands are known for their outstanding fishing – specifically, marlin fishing. During peak season – historically running from April to July – marlin can be found just about anywhere around the islands. However, locals have their favorite stomping grounds, and the secret is getting out. Right off the lighthouse of Elbow Cay, marlin fishing has proven to be consistently productive, and the action isn’t slowing. Your best bet is to drop your lines when the depth reaches about 500 feet. Another local tip is to troll the area when the tides are receding and when the water is abundant with plankton – generally changing the water’s color to milky green. 

If you’re interested in a fishing tournament, look no further than the Abaco Islands. Every year, between April and July, the islands host big game fishing tournaments, and the turnout is never disappointing. In 2011, one fishing team pulled out a nearly 120-pound Bluefin Tuna – setting a world record for the species and further signifying the epic possibilities in the area. 

Bimini Fishing

Bimini is only 50-some miles from Miami, Florida, and it’s comprised of three main islands that sit in the middle of the ocean. The islands are a fisherman’s playground, allowing the opportunity to catch nearly any species found throughout the Bahamas. In fact, there have been over 50 record-setting catches in Bimini alone – making it a highly coveted destination for sport fishermen.

The locals in Bimini spend a lot of time tuna fishing, as do the visitors to the area. As with most other destinations throughout the Bahamas, the once-coveted Bluefin Tuna has seen a massive decline in numbers over the years. Yellowfin Tuna are now found in higher numbers than ever before, so they have landed the spot for the top species in the area. Tuna fishing can be unpredictable, but the locals have found tried-and-true methods for locating their masses. Follow the birds! Seabirds target baitfish that swim near the surface, and so do the tuna. The birds are the first to spot the baitfish, so trolling the waters before the tuna gets you a headstart on the action. 

Exumas Fishing

Deep-sea fishing, reef fishing, shore fishing, spearfishing, bonefishing, lobstering – you name it, the Exumas delivers. The nice thing about the Exumas is the location. Whether you’re basing your trip entirely around big game-fish or want to spread the love and make the rounds between your fishing techniques, the Exumas offers easy access to nearly any location throughout the Bahamas. 

Big game can be caught year-round in the Exumas, but some months produce a better catch than others. In January, for example, Wahoo tends to run in masses. You can catch some of the heftiest fish you’ve ever laid your eyes on in the Exumas. On the other hand, April and May see mahi-mahi in unheard-of numbers. You have the chance to land a world record at any moment during these months. 

* Always be aware of catch restrictions. All billfish are catch and release only in the Bahamas.

While you can be successful reef fishing just about anywhere in the Bahamas, visitors swear by the Exumas time after time for species like snapper and grouper. The reef fishing is second to none in any month, so no need to plan your trip around the fish. Reef fishing is the best angling for a family, especially those with younger children just starting in the sport. While deep-sea fishing is great fun, it’s often a bit too much effort for those who aren’t overly excited in the first place. Just be sure to reel in your catch quickly. Sharks are commonly drawn in for an easy meal from your hook. Sandy Cay is a popular reef fishing spot, but you’ll have luck over just about any reef. 

Spiny lobster fishing is another favorite for those in the Exumas, but you’ll need to be aware of the season and the catch laws associated with it. Generally speaking, the spiny lobster season runs from April 1 to July 31. Always check for changes and updates with the local authorities. Once you’re clear, you may only use snorkel gear and a Hawaiian Sling. No scuba gear or spearguns are permitted to harvest lobster. Grab a local guide or ask around for tips on hot locations, and happy eating!

Fishing in Nassau

Nassau is the capital of this giant archipelago nation, so it’s only reasonable to mention it as one of our top fishing destinations. As with the rest of the Bahamas, Nassau hosts a massive spread of fishing opportunities, including bonefishing on the flats, reef fishing for snapper, and bluewater fishing for big game-fish. 

Tuna fishing is one of the most sought-after species in Nassau, and the actions happen during the summer months between May and August. Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna are the most common species, with Bluefin Tuna falling to the wayside – as they are far less common to land. The Yellowfins caught here often weigh anywhere from 20 to 400 pounds, with the Blackfins commonly taken between 25 and 55 pounds. The fish here are no joke, so prepare yourself for a real workout if you land one on your hook. “The Pocket” is one of Nassau’s most popular fishing locations for Tuna, so gear up and head out to the deep blue.

The bonefishing is best at the south of the island. The most popular fishing hole here is called “The Southern Flats.” During low tide, shallow waters expose giant sand patches where Barracuda, Permit, and Tarpon hang their hats. Get ready to see what all the fuss is about, but bring your A-game. These fish can escape your hook in a matter of seconds if you’re not careful.

Scuba Diving While Sailing the Bahamas

Sailing the Bahamas offers countless experiences that are as shocking as they are awe-inspiring, and scuba diving holds its place at the top of the list. Diving in the Bahamas is arguably unrivaled by most other destinations, with a vast and expansive list of unique dive sites suitable for any experience level. Adrenaline-packed drift dives, massive and dramatic wall dropoffs, eerily beautiful blue holes, color-bursting reefs, and heart-pounding shark dives – you can have it all. From ripping through washing-machine-like currents to blowing bubble rings above calm coral reefs, the following dives are certain to leave you smiling from ear to ear.

Tiger Beach – Grand Bahama

Located about an hour’s boat ride from the west end of Grand Bahama sits Tiger Beach – a small and shallow sand flat home to numerous shark species – most notably, tiger sharks. Few places offer shark diving like the Bahamas, so recreational divers, scientists, and underwater photographers come from all over the globe for the experience. 

The sharks at Tiger Beach are residents, and you can have face-to-face encounters year-round. With that said, October to January is breeding season for tiger sharks, so a visit during these months pretty much guarantees close encounters. Conditions are relatively consistent throughout the year, with calm currents, warm water, and lots of sunshine. The dives are shallow, and you don’t do much active swimming, so expect bottom times of 45-120 minutes.  

While tiger sharks undoubtedly take center stage at Tiger Beach, the dive site is also home to lemon sharks, reef sharks, nurse sharks, bull sharks, and great hammerheads. You’ll see numerous shark species on most dives, and it is not uncommon to see up to 20-30 sharks at a time. There’s no better place than Tiger Beach to hone your underwater photography skills , so come prepared to capture the photos of a lifetime. 

To dive at Tiger Beach, you’ll need to arrange a trip with a certified dive shop and an experienced dive guide. Diving in such an area without the proper briefing, knowledge, and experience can easily lead to disaster, so be sure to choose a reputable shop or guide. Day trips to Tiger Beach are possible from land but are more commonly made by liveaboard dive trips.

Current Cut – Eleuthera 

Few things are more exciting than tearing through high-speed, multi-directional currents – and Current Cut is a dive site that delivers pure adrenaline for those with an itch to scratch. The dive site is a 60-foot deep, 100-yard wide crevice off the island of Eleuthera that hosts a wildly strong current that makes for some of the best drift diving in the world. 

With current speeds that can reach up to 10 knots, this dive is one of the fastest drifts on the planet. In just 10 short minutes, you’ll cover nearly ⅔ of a mile – only experienced divers should consider this dive. Those that make the plunge tumble their way over magnificent coral reefs covered in hearty, soft coral and sea fans – just a few of the organisms that benefit from the high flow of nutrients carried by the current. It’s common to see mako and blacktip sharks, schools of stingrays, and massive big game-fish like tuna and wahoo. Don’t bother bringing your camera on this dive, though – there’s just no chance of consistently catching quality shots. 

Vulcan Bomber and Tears of Allah – James Bond Wrecks – Nassau

For those with a love of Sean Connery, cinema, secret spies, or a shaken martini, diving the James Bond wrecks in New Providence is hard to pass up. Appearing in “Thunderball” and “Never Say Never Again,” the Vulcan Bomber and Tears of Allah shipwrecks are two of the most famous in the Bahamas. Due to the nutrient-rich waters, you’ll find that these artificial reefs are teeming with life – unlike many shipwrecks around the world. Turtles, rays, and sharks are all area residents – it’s a dive you shouldn’t miss if you’re around New Providence. 

Both wrecks are shallow and calm, so the sites are accessible to all levels of divers. It’s easy to explore both in a single dive, as they lie just 30 feet or so from one another along the seafloor. If you want to capture a bit of Bond’s legacy during your dive, be sure to bring a wide-angle lens to fit the wrecks in the frame. 

The Crater Blue Hole – Andros

Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas, and it’s home to several natural “blue holes” – large marine caverns or sinkholes that develop along coral reefs and limestone. “The Crater” is the most famous of the Andros blue holes, with a thriving ecosystem that delivers on numerous fronts. Blue holes are commonly suitable for more experienced divers, but the blue hole in Andros is accessible to all skill levers – just be sure to hire a guide for your dives. 

Generally, first-time divers to The Crater will just explore the outer edges in shallow water. The outer edge resembles a canyon, and the dropoff to the deep blue is quite dramatic. Only highly experienced divers should descend into the hole, and they should not do so without a local dive guide. Blue holes are notoriously dangerous, as the lack of ambient light can lead to confusion and vertigo – killing many who have dived beyond their limits. The Crater is home to sea turtles, rays, eels, various reef fish – ideal marine life and an underwater landscape that make for an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Golfing While Sailing the Bahamas

“If God played golf, he would only play in the Bahamas.” It’s a common expression for golf enthusiasts who get the chance to swing their clubs on these heaven-like links. Whether you’ve played the sport for weeks or decades, the Bahamas is a golfer’s paradise for any skill level. Many of these world-famous courses display painted blue backdrops of the Atlantic, making it nearly impossible to forget your time spent on these fairways. Take a break from sailing the Bahamas and hit the links during your time around the islands.

The Abaco Club on Winding Bay – Great Abaco

It’s no easy task to choose a “favorite” golf course in the Bahamas. Still, many who are experienced around these island courses choose the Abaco Club – hands down. These Scottish-style links are nestled right on the sea, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic that are arguably unrivaled by other courses in the Bahamas. Your driving game will need to be clean and polished to be successful on this hard, fast course, and you’ll need to keep your cool when staring down some of the most intimidating tee shots around. Bunkers, dunes, and sloping greens make this course both challenging and rewarding for those with the patience and skill, so bring your A-game and get ready for a truly unique experience. 

Ocean Club Golf Course – Paradise Island, Nassau

The Ocean Club Golf Course of Paradise Island is an 18-hole, par-72 course that spans over 7000 yards along the island’s peninsula. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, this championship course is tough on even the most experienced golfers, making it a coveted experience for those up for the challenge. The course offers rentals, practice facilities, a pro shop, and golf lessons with certified PGA instructors for novice golfers or those who want to brush up on specific skills. You can book tee times up to two months in advance, so make sure to reserve your space as soon as your trip is certain.

Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar – Nassau

The Royal Blue Golf Club is an 18 hole, par-72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus – considered one of the greatest golfers in the sport’s history. The front nine and the back nine vary drastically, with the front nine displaying an Atlantic backdrop and a back nine of jungle and limestone. The elevation changes throughout the course make it challenging to stay on par, so it’s the perfect place to test your driving and short-game precision. Don’t want to haul your clubs to the course? No problem. The world-class rental program offered at Baha Mar lets you rent the latest and greatest in the game, with equipment from Callaway, PXG, TaylorMade, and Titleist, to name a few. 

Tours While Sailing the Bahamas – Nassau

One of the best ways to explore new destinations is by taking local tours, and there are some truly unique and memorable experiences to have while sailing the Bahamas. You can hire a private guide, join a group tour, or arrange your own itinerary. We always prefer hiring a local guide – the knowledge and experience of locals, regardless of the destination, always wins over a standardized tour. Whether you’re looking to explore the history, culture, or cuisine of the Bahamas, there’s a tour to satisfy.

Graycliff Cigar Rolling Demonstration and Rum Tasting Tour – Nassau

In the Bahamas, there is no pairing more iconic than cigars and rum. Of all the companies offering rum tasting and cigar rolling tours in the Bahamas, none are as well known as the Graycliff Cigar Company – an extension of the historical Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant in Nassau. Graycliff cigar production began in 1997 with a single cigar roller and has now grown to a globally recognized boutique cigar company that employs 16 master rollers – each having perfected the art of Bahamian cigars.

The Graycliff company offers a two-hour cigar rolling demonstration and rum tasting tour for those interested in seeing how the cigars are produced. The tour gives you first-hand insight into just how artistic Bahamian cigar rolling is and how a truly perfect pairing of tobacco and rum can take you to a place of bliss. For a full-bodied taste of traditional Bahamas, look no further than this tour. 

Straw Market Tour – Nassau

When traveling to a destination for the first time, the best way to get a feel for the people, culture, and cuisine is to visit a local market. This holds especially true with the Bahamas. For a truly authentic Bahamian experience, join a locally guided tour to the Straw Market in Nassau. The market hosts local vendors who sell handmade crafts and souvenirs – most of which are woven from straw. Bags, hats, mats, dolls, conch jewelry, wood carvings – the list is long, and it’s continuously evolving. The vendors accept both US and Bahamian dollars, and the market operates daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. 

Bahamian Food Tour – Nassau

To truly discover a country and its culture, you need to dive deeply into the local cuisine. The culinary world of the Bahamas is made up of a myriad of tastes, textures, and colors – and the fresh local ingredients deliver bursts of joy with every meal. Seafood, of course, is a staple throughout the country – with conch taking center stage as the national dish of the Bahamas. Conch is cooked in endless ways, each as mouth-watering as the last. Conch fritters, cracked conch, conch salad, conch chowder – be sure to try as many conch dishes as possible. Food Tours in the Bahamas are plentiful, and Nassau is arguably the best place to indulge. 

Visiting National Parks While Sailing the Bahamas

The Bahamas is home to 14 national parks, two land-and-sea parks, and two marine parks – making the prospect of exploring some of the 20,000+ square miles of protected land a genuine possibility. Protected and endangered wildlife inhabits much of the land, and natural wonders are abundant – with one of the largest marine cave systems and the third-largest coral reef in the world. 

Inagua National Park – Great Inagua

Inagua National Park is located on the southernmost island of the Bahamas, boasting over 280 square miles of pristine island beauty. Due to its location, visiting the park is usually an uncrowded and blissful experience. The park is home to the world’s largest breeding colony of West Indian Flamingos – the national bird of the Bahamas. With the number of flamingos in the park reaching over 70,000, a visit to the park delivers an unreal experience that can be had in few other places across the globe. The park does have an active warden but lacks infrastructure and trail systems to assist visitors in exploring the park. The park requires visitors to hire an approved guide for a visit, most of which run for about three hours and cost around $40 per person. Reduced rates are available for groups of five or more. 

Exuma Cays Land-and-Sea Park – Great Exuma

Known as “The Crown” of the Bahamas – the Exumas consist of 360+ islands, displaying some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Every island offers a unique experience, and the Exuma Cays Land-and-Sea Park on Great Exuma is no exception. The park was created in 1958, and today, the park is made up of over 175 square miles of land and water. It was the first “no-take” reserve in the Caribbean. Fishing or harvesting marine life is illegal, creating some of the most pristine underwater environments you could ask for.

The park is easy to explore for those with a boat due to the numerous moorings available for visitors.  They are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and many can even hold larger yachts. From snorkeling with nurse sharks to exploring the various naturally occurring ecosystems on land or underwater, the Exuma Cays Land-and-Sea Park is sure to tick a few boxes for any type of visitor. 

Pelican Cays National Park – Cherokee Sound, Abaco

As the second land-and-sea park created in the Bahamas, Pelican Cays is a marine-life hotspot in the already abundant and thriving Bahamas. The park’s unique and extensive reef systems are enhanced by the laws and regulations in the area, boosting marine life biomass and increasing biodiversity. As a result, people worldwide flock to the park to enjoy the snorkeling and diving opportunities on offer. Apart from the marine life excitement, the park is home to powdered white sand beaches that are as pristine as any other throughout the Bahamas, making the prospect of lounging in paradise all too real. The park is located about 9 miles southeast of Marsh Harbour, and moorings are available for visitors who are sailing the Bahamas. 

Festivals and Events While Sailing the Bahamas

The Bahamas has a vibrant history that has developed and evolved over many generations. With its roots stemming from African culture, the island nation has developed a unique and colorful style of expression to include its American and European influences. From the world-famous Junkanoo Festival to the Regattas attended by yachties worldwide, there is always something to bring out the authenticity and taste of the Caribbean that the Bahamas is so well known for. 

Junkanoo – Nassau 

Junkanoo is by far the most well-known cultural festival in all of the Bahamas. It is said that the celebration originated in the West Indies by slaves who demanded the right to celebrate amongst themselves. Although it began as a spontaneous event, it has now become one of the Caribbean’s most significant festivals celebrating the people and culture of the Bahamas. The biggest days for Junkanoo celebrations are on Boxing Day and New Years Day, although there are smaller celebrations during the spring and summer months. Be sure to ask about the smaller festivals anytime you are sailing the Bahamas. The largest of the celebrations occur in Nassau. If you’re headed to the area strictly for the festival, Nassau is your best bet. 

Participants in the festival spend months preparing costumes, instruments, and dances for the spectacle. Many compare Junkanoo to New Orleans during Mardis Gras, a colorful and vibrant event fueled by dance, music, cuisine, and culture. On Boxing Day, the main event takes place from 2 AM to 10 AM, so you’ll need to have your party shoes on to stay lively through the night.

National Family Island Regatta – Elizabeth Harbour, Exuma

Every year, for a period of four days, the top sailors from all over the Bahamas come to Elizabeth Harbour on Exuma for the National Family Island Regatta. During the event, sailors race their locally built sloop rigs for “Best in the Bahamas.” While the sailing competition is the main draw for the event, visitors who don’t participate in the race can enjoy many things both on and offshore. Parties, weight-lifting competitions, sand volleyball, and much more give those without the racing itch yet another reason to visit the world-renowned Exuma Islands. The event generally occurs in the last week of April, but the dates are subject to change by the year. Be sure to check in with the official NFIR website for updates on the dates and the event itself. 

All Andros Crab Fest – Fresh Creek, Andros 

Andros Island, otherwise known as “the land of crabs,” hosts a festival every year in the second week of June called All Andros Crab Fest. The purpose of the festival is to amp up the local economy by bringing in both domestic and international tourists – teaching them the crab-catching ways of the Andros people. With thousands of visitors to the event every year, the culinary experience of the festival is truly unique, serving up local dishes such as crab rice, crab soup, crab and dough, and just about any other crab dish made famous in the Caribbean. A friendly note to attendees of the festival – all pets must stay on leashes at all times. Loud, unexpected noises can startle animals and make the event unenjoyable, so consider leaving them at home or on the boat for the event.

If you’re looking to add a bit of history and culture to your trip to the Bahamas, you should have no trouble satisfying the urge. The Bahamas is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks. Places like Nassau have weeks worth of locations to keep you busy. From time-honored colonial buildings to various parks and historical museums, these islands will keep you wide-eyed and wondering for years to come after your visit. 

Fort Fincastle and The Queens Staircase – Nassau

This pairing is one of our favorites. The Queens Staircase is one of Nassau’s crown jewels when it comes to history, and it’s located inside the Fort Fincastle complex on top of Bennet’s Hill in Nassau. The fort was initially built in 1793 by a man named Lord Dunmore, and the staircase was created as an access point from the city. 600-some slaves constructed the hand-carved limestone staircase and, which took more than 16 years to complete. The staircase is named after Queen Victoria.

Fort Fincastle was also constructed with limestone, and its structure resembles a colonial riverboat. Sitting at the top of the hill, it overlooks Nassau and the rest of Paradise Island – the chosen location to guard Nassau and the harbor. The fort is relatively small, and you can stroll through the complex in under thirty minutes. The view from the top is quite spectacular, so come prepared with a camera in hand. 

Hamilton’s Cave – Long Island

Located on Long Island, Hamilton’s Cave is among the most extensive cave systems of the Bahamas. Not a fan of confined spaces? No worries! The passages in Hamilton’s Cave are at least 50 feet wide and 10 feet tall, making it a no-stress situation for even the most claustrophobic of us. Lucayan artifacts have been discovered since 1935, and you can still see the original hieroglyphics on the cave walls. The cave’s entrance is located just a few hundred feet off of Queen’s Highway. While the cave is relatively safe to explore, you may not explore the cave without a guide. The chances of getting lost are pretty high if you are unfamiliar with the cave system. Please be advised that while the passages are large, the area is unsuitable for those with physical disabilities or wheelchairs. 

* Support the local communities by hiring a guide for excursions while sailing the Bahamas.

Is Sailing the Bahamas Safe?

Generally speaking, sailing the Bahamas is as safe as any other destination. As with anywhere, though, it’s essential to exercise caution to prevent theft, robbery, and assault during your visit. If you ask around, the common response to crime inquiries will follow with something about Nassau. That being said, with the right state of mind and some common sense, you should be able to avoid any real problems. 

The following advice and travel warnings have been issued by the US Department of State – they are subject to change, so double-check for updates before you leave for sailing the Bahamas. 

• Visit the US Embassy’s website for up-to-date safety information before your arrival.
• Do not answer the door at your hotel/residence if you do not know who it is. 
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Review the Bahamas crime and safety reports before your arrival.
• Review the US Travelers Checklist before your departure.

Outside of personal safety, you should be mindful of petty theft while sailing the Bahamas. Things like dinghy outboard motors, tools and personal belongings are all easy targets – as with anywhere in the world. Mainly, these thefts occur at night when the boat owners and crew are sleeping and can be avoided by simply not leaving things accessible to would-be thieves. 

If you can, remove your outboard from the dinghy and place it into storage while not in use. If you do encounter a theft in progress, don’t physically confront the burglars. Instead, turn on as many lights as possible, make loud noises, and immediately call for help from local law enforcement. 

When leaving your vessel for the day or going to town for an evening, be sure to lock all entry points to your boat. Don’t loudly speak of your plans in public areas, and if possible, stay in an anchorage or marina with other boats nearby. The sailing community is close-knit, and other boat owners are happy to keep an eye on your boat while you’re away.

Costs of Sailing the Bahamas

As with any destination, the costs of cruising the Bahamas will depend entirely on your cruising style and the experiences you aim to have. After considering all costs, from repairs and maintenance to excursions and eating out, the costs for cruising the Bahamas can vary wildly. The good news is, most sailors are in the same metaphorical boat – trying to stretch their finances as far as they can while still living out their dreams. 

How Much Will Sailing the Bahamas Cost?

We’ve broken down the expenses and estimated monthly costs for four different sailing categories below. Keep in mind that these are all estimates, and while many people have documented falling in these price ranges based on their cruising style, not everyone will be able to manage their expenses the same. The qualities listed can be mix and matched to suit your lifestyle, and you can trade certain luxuries and costs for others when it works for you. 

Shoestring Budget Sailing – The Bahamas ($700-$1000/Month)

While not many choose to live the extreme budget cruising lifestyle, it is still possible with the right amount of planning and preparation. The following is typical for shoestring budget sailing in the Bahamas:

• 25-35’ sailboat – it’s uncommon to see many cruisers on a boat under 30’.
• Able to successfully fish for a significant amount of meals.
• No marina stays – only anchorages and moorings.
• Basic meals will suffice – beans and rice will be a staple.
• No car rentals.
• No hotels on land.
• Self-entertained – little to no paid excursions.
• Slow travel – minimal fuel costs.
• Independent boat maintenance and repairs.

Budget Sailing – The Bahamas ($1000-$1500/Month)

Budget sailing is more common than shoestring sailing, and many people who are eager to jump into the cruising lifestyle start on a budget similar to this. The following is typical for budget sailing the Bahamas:

• 35-45’ sailboat – smaller boats are easier to maintain and require less fuel.
• Able to successfully fish for meals several times per week.
• Limited marina stays – sleeping at anchorages and moorings on most nights.
• Strike a balance between high-end and basic meals – primarily cooking on the boat.
• Limited car rentals – reserved for special occasions and emergencies only.
• Limited hotels and excursions – special occasions only.
• Semi-slow travel – conscious of fuel costs.
• Mostly independent maintenance and repairs.

Comfort Sailing – The Bahamas ($1500-$2500/Month)

While not everyone can afford this cruising lifestyle, it is possible to live this way – especially when comparing the costs of living at home or elsewhere abroad. The following is typical for comfort sailing in the Bahamas:

• 45-55’ sailboat – larger boats provide more functionality and more leisurely travel. 
• Able to successfully fish for meals on occasion – two to three times per week.
• More room for high-end dining – You should cook about 50% of your meals on the boat.
• Only staying at marinas when needed for electricity, repairs, and provisions.
• Occasional car rentals when necessary for travel or special occasions.
• Hotels and excursions when desired during travels or special occasions.
• Travel at a faster pace – still using the sails when possible.
• Some independent maintenance and repairs – outsourced when necessary.

Luxury Sailing – The Bahamas ($2500+)

Luxury sailing brings a new level of comfort and class to the cruising lifestyle. It is common for those living within this budget to be retired, earn passive income, or work from the boat. The following is typical for luxury sailing in the Bahamas:

• 55’+ sailboat – ranging all the way up to superyachts.
• Successfully fishing for meals serves more as a hobby or sport rather than a requirement. 
• Catered, high-end meals on the boat or on land are an option. 
• Paid long-term marina slips are an option – prices vary drastically.
• Explore and travel by car as you wish. 
• Stay at hotels or homestays as you wish. 
• Speed of travel is not of concern.
• Able to outsource nearly all maintenance and repairs.

Want to join the community at #BoatLife? Get a conversation started on our  new forum  by leaving a question or comment!

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment below, share it on social media, and subscribe to our email list.

For direct questions and comments, shoot me an email at [email protected]

Sharing is caring!

Reader Interactions

July 22, 2021 at 5:42 am

This blog is very informative specially for those sailors who are cruising for the first time to Bahamas. Like you have mentioned that you have to be careful when you are crossing the Gulf Stream, are any other dangerous spots which sailors have to watch out while cruising Bahama islands.

July 22, 2021 at 8:33 am

Hello Vivek. Thanks for reading our page! We hope that this guide can serve as an all-in-one resource for anyone planning to sail the Bahamas. We value our readers’ needs, and we will be sure to update our content as information changes and new details emerge.

To answer your question, there are no particular areas in the Bahamas that pose much of a threat outside of the Gulf Stream. However, we advise anyone sailing in the area to study up on their chosen destinations to ensure there are no unexpected obstacles. We also advise our readers to be mindful of ocean and weather conditions. The best way to do this is by keeping your weather alert systems up-to-date and in working order, and proactively checking the conditions.

One of the best ways to navigate unknown territories is with the use of nautical charts. These charts graph the ocean and its adjacent coastal regions, making it easier to judge natural features and tides.

We hope this helps!

Cheers from all of us here at #BoatLife

December 12, 2021 at 5:45 am

Travis, This is one of the most helpful articles I’ve read about sailing in The Bahamas. It’s expansive – from departure to clearing in, with a great balance of breadth and depth on preparation, routes and destinations. I’m planning to get underway along the east coast in June 2022 with destination of The Bahams in December. Your advice and information has been very insightful and helpful to me for planning. Thanks a lot! Kieran

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

MB #20512 PO BOX 480 Sevenoaks Kent TN13 9JY

Tel: +44 56 0386 9163

Keep In Touch

Thank you for reading.

Join our online crew and find more about the #boatlife

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sailing Totem
• Charter Resources
• Destinations
• Galley Recipes
• Living Aboard
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology

Sailing the Bahamas

• By Jen Brett
• Updated: May 16, 2018

Just an overnight sail away from busy South Florida lies some of the arguably best cruising to be found anywhere. Indeed I am certain that more than one sailing dream (I can’t be the only one) has been launched in response to the magazine photos of perfect white-sand beaches and idyllic anchorages.

If you’ve never cruised the Bahamas before, you may be wondering what the “best” islands are or what the sailing conditions might be like. To address these questions and more, I’ve put together this intro to cruising the Bahamas. (Of course, the Bahamas are such a huge area, and I can’t really cover everything here, so if you have a question, please feel free to email me and I will update this with a Q&A!)

While I’ve cruised the Bahamas in pretty much every season except for fall, winter is by far the most common time that people go. From the holidays through April, it’s not uncommon to share a popular anchorage with dozens (or in the case of George Town, hundreds) of other boats, while in the summer, you might have the place to yourself.

Getting There

If a winter in the Bahamas is in your plan — either as your ultimate destination, or as an island hop down the thorny path to the Caribbean — you’ll probably want to be crossing over from the East Coast sometime in November. While you can cross from pretty much anywhere south of say, Hatteras, my favorite jumping-off point is South Florida, and the more south you go, the easier your crossing will be. For example, if you want to check in at Bimini or Cat Cay, consider leaving from around Key Largo. If the Abacos are your initial destination, leaving from Miami or even Fort Lauderdale will allow you to ride the Gulf Stream for a bit. It is possible to go more or less straight across the Stream, but you should have plenty of fuel aboard. My husband and I have taken our ketch, Lyra , to the Bahamas, once from Fort Lauderdale, and once from Port Canaveral (heading south along the coast, inside the Stream, before turning towards the islands). Both times we went straight to Nassau to clear in, although when we left from Canaveral, stopping in West End or Freeport, would have been quicker (we were eager to make our way south, so chose to head to Nassau).

Although they aren’t terribly frequent in the fall, cold fronts can sweep down and bring northerly winds with them (and rain squalls)—you do NOT want to be caught in the Gulf Stream during a blow out of the north, so plan your crossing when you have a weather window with light breezes with nothing out of the north for several days prior to your journey to allow the Stream to “calm down.”

The journey to the islands is a magical one — since you want to arrive during daylight hours, most sailboats will need to leave sometime the previous evening/night. After leaving the crazy that is the So. Fla. coast, you have a hopefully uneventful time in the Stream — and plenty of time to practice tracking ships on the AIS — and come morning are approaching the Bahamas. The closest ports of entry are in the Bimini islands, or you can sail on to ports in the Abacos, the Berry Islands, or Nassau.

Islands in the Sun

The Bimini islands, including Cat and Gun cays, are a common first stop for cruisers. Cat Cay (all cays in the Bahamas are pronounced “key”) is an easy port of entry and neighboring Gun Cay is a nice place to relax for a few nights before heading across the Great Bahama Bank.

After crossing the banks, your possibilities are open: you can spend time in the lovely and very quiet Berry Islands, head over to the bustle of Nassau, make way for Eleuthera, turn north to Great Abaco, or south toward the Exumas and the far Out Islands beyond.

Andros: The largest islands in the Bahamas, Andros isn’t typically thought of as a hot spot among cruisers, but it makes an interesting stop. Fresh Creek, home to the US Navy’s Atlantic Underwater Testing and Evaluation Center (AUTEC) base, and Morgan’s Bluff are the areas most frequented by cruisers. If you’re into scuba diving, Andros boasts a barrier reef that extends more than 140 miles along the island’s east coast and to a depth of 6,000 feet making up part of the western edge of the trench known as the Tongue of the Ocean.

Abacos: This northern Bahamas island group is very popular among both new and experienced cruisers (Check out CW contributor Wally Moran’s Adventures in Abaco ). Unless you’re in dire need of provisions, most sailors will choose to skip busy, cruise-ship oriented Freeport and head to the picturesque settlements of Marsh Harbour or Hope Town.

Berry Islands: These beautiful islands are the place to go if you’re looking for peace and quiet as most of the cays remain undeveloped and uninhabited. The only population centers, if you can call them that, are at Chub Cay, which is where you’ll find the new Chub Cay Resort and Marina (reopened in mid 2017 after being destroyed by Hurricane Matthew, and Great Harbour Cay on the northern end. If you stop in the Berrys, have a meal at Flo’s Conch Bar on Little Harbour Cay—it’s a real Bahamian experience.

Nassau: Considered by most cruisers to be a necessary evil, Nassau is the largest city in the Bahamas, and as such has attractions, groceries, marinas and marine services, and an international airport. If you just need to make a quick stop in the big city and don’t want to stay overnight, head over to Rose Island — lovely anchorages, decent snorkeling, and a good place to stage yourself for a run to the Exumas or Eleuthera.

Eleuthera: Eleuthera is a beautiful and somewhat out of the way place for cruisers. The island is nearly 100 miles long and just a 1/2-mile wide in most places. We spent time cruising Eleuthera for the first time last winter, and absolutely loved it. There is a great anchorage with nearly all-around protection at Hatchet Bay, a lovely settlement at Governor’s Harbour, and the convenience of Rock Sound is hard to beat (a good grocery store and even an airport with a dinghy dock). We rented a car at the airport and traveled the length of the island for a day .

Exumas: For many sailors, the Exuma islands are cruising paradise — they’re beautiful and interesting, and they offer great sailing, snorkeling, and fishing. There are a variety of anchorages to choose from all along the 130-mile chain that offer everything from solitude to a national park to a popular cruisers’ destination. The Exumas are easily my favorite region in the Bahamas—some not to miss stops are the iguanas at Allen’s Cay; the sunken plane at Norman’s Cay; Thunderball Grotto at Staniel Cay; mangrove creeks at Shroud Cay; and the moorings at Warderick Wells. And of course the convergence of cruising sailors in George Town. If you’re there in early March, check out the George Town Cruising Regatta .

The Far Out Islands: If you’re looking for some adventure and are a competent and self-sufficient cruiser, consider checking out some of the islands that are way off the beaten track. Some of these islands, such as Cat Island, Long Island, Conception Island (one of my favorite places!), and Rum Cay, are a pleasant day sail away, others such as Crooked and Acklins islands, Mayaguana, Great Inagua, and the Ragged Islands are much more remote.

Further Reading

Delicious conch salad and the beautiful islands of the Bahamas go hand in hand—check out this Conch Salad recipe.

Need some inspiration for when the other fresh veggies run out and the cabbage is still going strong? Here are some ideas

Photo gallery: Miami to George Town, Bahamas

Photo gallery: New Year’s in the Bahamas

Photo gallery: Pure Bahamas

Only have a short time or just a charter in mind? Here are Four Easy Trips in the Abacos

Chartering on a budget in the Abacos — it can be done!

Here’s the story of a quick delivery from Miami to the Exumas

Shots from the Family Islands Regatta — there’s nothing like it!

Bahamas Cruising info

Bahamas customs

Cruising Tips

From Brittany Meyers aboard Asante

Bahamas is ALL about the water, so make sure you have a few things on board to enjoy it: like snorkel gear, Hawaiian sling (if you are into spearing), and – if you have a room – an inflatable kayak or inflatable Paddle board (iSUP) can be a LOT of fun, especially in the more remote islands where the land offers little to explore.

Expectations are everything: If you are traveling to the Exumas, it’s good to prepare for sleepy, remote islands with very few “shore attractions.” We met people who went to the Exumas expecting the British Virgin Islands and they were very disappointed.

Invest in the “Explorer Charts” they are well worth it and exemplary. BUT, don’t forget that you CAN go off the beaten path every once and a while, and not all anchorages are marked with an anchor.

Provision well in the US, but don’t go crazy. Our first trip to the Bahamas we provisioned like we were going to the moon and it was totally unnecessary. There are plenty of islands that have decent grocery stores and while you might not eat your favorite food from home, you will NOT go hungry.

When anchoring, try not to simply follow the herd and leave a little room to the boats who were there first if it is possible. Nobody enjoys being anchored on top of and there are PLENTY of fantastic anchorages in the Bahamas.

One of the best features of the Bahamas are the locals – they are friendly, kind, welcoming and have not been embittered by mass tourism. Enjoy this camaraderie and, if your budget allows, support the local community by eating at their restaurants or purchasing their goods from time to time.

From longtime Bahamas cruiser, Pam Wall

Take plenty of outboard motor fuel

Get the biggest RIB you can fit aboard your boat comfortably, it will be your source of diving, exploring, eating out, and your car!

Have an easy way to get into your tender from the water. I go up the back of my RIB with my back against the pontoon and use the cavitation plate of the outboard as a convenient step up into my tender so easy so simple

Set up an easy way to collect rain water in your water deck fill. I use a tea towel wrapped around the deck fill facing forward for a dam for rain on foredeck going down the scuppers into the deck fill. Works like a charm

Take a “ look bucket ” for looking under water from your tender. Check your anchor from the tender from the look bucket

Take a hand meat grinder for delicious conch fritters

Take a tack hammer to open hole in conch to get the meat out

Take a COMFORTABLE Mask, snorkel, flippers as you will be using them all the time

Be sure you have screens, awnings, bimini top, sun shades for the aft end of your bimini top, etc

Take a lot of GOOD sun protection lotion, hat, polarized sunglasses (I take 3 pairs of inexpensive polarized sunglasses as I know I will probably loose them!), dive shirts with sun protection, aloe if you get burned

Coat your RIB with 303 Aerospace Protectant to protect it from UV deterioration

Don’t forget the Hawaiian Sling for fish and crayfish. No spear guns allowed

• More: Bahamas , Destinations , international bahamas , moorings , voyaging
• More Destinations

Cruising the Northwest Passage

An oasis in the middle of the atlantic, global movement of cruising boats, top 20 cruising destinations for your bucket list, how to rig everything in your favor, new to the fleet: pegasus yachts 50, imtra named employee-owned company of the year, is there a doctor aboard.

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter

Ericson 34-2 Finds Sweet Spot

How to Sell Your Boat

Cal 2-46: A Venerable Lapworth Design Brought Up to Date

Rhumb Lines: Show Highlights from Annapolis

Solar Panels: Go Rigid If You have the Space…

Leaping Into Lithium

The Importance of Sea State in Weather Planning

Do-it-yourself Electrical System Survey and Inspection

When Should We Retire Dyneema Stays and Running Rigging?

Rethinking MOB Prevention

Top-notch Wind Indicators

The Everlasting Multihull Trampoline

What Your Boat and the Baltimore Super Container Ship May Have…

Check Your Shorepower System for Hidden Dangers

DIY survey of boat solar and wind turbine systems

What’s Involved in Setting Up a Lithium Battery System?

The Scraper-only Approach to Bottom Paint Removal

Can You Recoat Dyneema?

How to Handle the Head

The Day Sailor’s First-Aid Kit

Choosing and Securing Seat Cushions

Cockpit Drains on Race Boats

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Safer Sailing: Add Leg Loops to Your Harness

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

• Belowdecks & Amenities
• Books Charts

Top Cruising Guides for the Bahamas

Resources youll want for that island cruise..

The Bahamas are often viewed as the Holy Grail of East Coast cruising due to their beauty and proximity to the Florida coast. Although they appear tantalizingly close (particularly when viewed on those nautical chart-themed placemats down at the Oyster Shack), make no mistake about it: A cruise to the Bahamas is an open-water passage that demands both attention to detail and proper safety precautions. Planning and executing a successful cruise to the Bahamas can be an extremely rewarding experience, one that provides ample opportunity to test preparedness of both boat and crew, while offering a reasonably do-able taste of bluewater cruising.

In an effort to help you live the dream, PS recently took a look at some of the most popular cruise-planning guides and charts covering the Bahamas.

What we tested

For our matchup of Bahamas cruising resources, we tested 13 products from five manufacturers. From Doziers Waterway Guide, a trusted source of cruising information since 1947, we evaluated the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands (2014) guide as well as the popular Skipper Bobs Bahamas Bound. White Sound Press sent us The Cruising Guide to Abaco Bahamas by Abaco legend Steve Dodge.

Richardsons Maptech, one of the worlds largest chartmakers, submitted its Maptech ChartKit Region 9, The Bahamas to Crooked Island Passage, as well as the Maptech Embassy Cruising Guide Florida and the Bahamas. We also tested electronic charting products from Navionics and Garmin. From Navionics, a leader in marine charting software for over 20 years, we tested the Navionics+ Plus and mobile app Navionics Boating HD; Garmin, a worldwide provider of navigation, communication and information devices and applications, was represented by its BlueChart g2 BlueChart Mobile products.

How we tested

All products were evaluated while cruising to and in the Bahamas during the first half of 2014 aboard our test boat, a 1978 Union 36. The south-bound cruise began in the fall of 2013 as we left Norfolk, Va., and transited the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway to Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (See our review of AICW guidebooks in the May 2014 issue online .) We crossed over to the Abacos, and ultimately based our boat at Mangos Marina in Marsh Harbour.

While theres a certain amount of cross-pollination between many of the products, for ease of reference during our comparison, we divided our test group into three broad categories:

1. General Cruising Guides: All-in-one guides that touch on a wide variety of information, from planning your crossing to marina and anchorage information, and even the best nightspots while in port. Resources in this category (with the exception of the black-and-white Skipper Bob book) feature full-color spreads, aerial photos, chartlets, etc.

2. Chart books: The primary focus of these publications are the charts and navigational data youll need while cruising the Bahamas, although like the above cruising guides, theyre also liberally spiced with useful, need-to know information-from general cruising info (weather, outfitting, etc.) to area abstracts, services, and local history.

3. Charts: While this was not a test of paper charts per se , we did look at a chartkit and a companion chart, along with digital charts. We did not delve into many NOAA print-on-demand chart options for this particular test.

General Cruising Guides

Doziers waterway guides.

Touted as the only cruising guide of its kind thats updated annually, the Dozier family of Waterway Guides and publications has helped boaters get the most from their travels for over 60 years. The Waterway Guides Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands 2014 edition features nearly 500 pages of navigation information, as well as aerial photography with marked routes, marina listings, and locater charts.

The Things to Know Before You Go section provides a wealth of pre-cruise planning data on topics ranging from medical services to flag etiquette, while the Skippers Handbook section touches on equally diverse topics-provisioning, routing, entry procedures, and day-to-day living during your adventure. The guide also covers possible anchorages, and its Yellow Pages sections and Goin Ashore articles provide everything from historical information to popular restaurants for each island and port of call.

Cruising grounds are divided into four sections: northern, central, southern, and the Turks and Caicos. Each section is color-coded for quick reference and clarity-a nice touch that makes finding the right section quick and easy.

Helpful cruising data like GPS waypoints, detailed planning charts, and distance charts help cruisers travel with more safety and less stress. Also included is a skippers notes section, Bahamas overview planning chart, and a (hopefully never needed) hurricane tracking chart. Need to find a particular marina or service? The marina listings and locator charts show locations and amenities offered.

The flexible spiral binding and heavy laminated covers (with bookmarker flaps) made the guides easier to use in the open, sometimes breezy cockpit of our test boat. While we kept them handy for quick reference at all times, we tended to use it primarily at the navigation station or seated in the cockpit at the end of the day while planning our next adventure.

Bottom line : When planning your cruise to and in the Bahamas, youll be hard-pressed to find a more informative resource. We recommended the Dozier guide.

Skipper Bob

Bahamas Bound is one of a series of popular cruising books by the late Bob Skipper Reib, who with his wife Elaine cruised more than 44,000 miles while living aboard both a trawler and a sailboat. According to Elaine on the publications website, Bobs purpose in writing the Skipper Bob guides was to make fellow cruisers adventures as comfortable and safe as possible. In authoring these guides, he wanted to provide others with the knowledge he gained through his years of experience. Added to that was sharing the years of experience and knowledge of other boaters that we met along the way. Bobs theory was If you are going to be here, you might as well pay attention.

Purchased by Doziers in 2007, the Skipper Bob books format has remained essentially the same. Bahamas Bound is, in essence, a step-by-step guide for planning your Bahamas adventure.

It covers a wide range of topics, including outfitting your vessel, planning the Gulf Stream crossing, and where to go and what to expect while cruising the Bahamas. Want to know how much toilet paper you should bring or the cost of water in Marsh Harbour? Look no further; Skipper Bob covers it.

Also included is a list of marinas, with available services, as well as current long-term and transient rates. Although no charts are provided, Bahamas Bound does feature helpful overview sketches of the islands, cruising characteristics of both the Abacos and the Exumas, and a list of recommended cruising guides and charts along with pricing and sources.

Bottom line: A great overall source of information on planning your Bahamas cruise. We Recommend it.

Maptech Embassy

Maptechs Embassy Cruising Guides provide detailed navigational information and advice to help plan your cruise, and they serve as handy quick-reference books while youre on your way. According to the publisher, the Florida and the Bahamas guide we evaluated is first and foremost a Florida cruising guide. The Bahamas portion of the book (18 of its 560 pages) is a short introduction to the Islands, basic considerations for planning your cruise (the crossing, weather to expect, etc.), along with a facilities guide and general overview charts.

Bottom line: This guide is more of a teaser for Florida cruisers interested in trying out the Bahamas than a resource for cruising the islands.

• White Sound Press

Although grouped within our general cruising guides, the truth is the White Sound Presss The Cruising Guide to Abaco Bahamas would be just as fitting in our chart-book category. A multipurpose guide thats updated annually by Steve Dodge and family, this 25th edition continues the tradition of promoting safe navigation and providing interesting, useful information. It includes updated charts covering Walkers Cay to Cherokee Sound, approaches and advice on cruising from Florida to Abaco, as well as general cruising advice. The magazine section includes a brief history of Abaco, articles of interest on the island, a road map, classified Abaco business directory, and tropical medical tips. This latest addition contains 76 full-color charts and tide tables for 2014.

The easy-to-read color charts, based on original hydrographic research and 40 years of local knowledge, are the only charts that show locations of submerged power lines and do not anchor zones in the central part of Abaco. Also included are recent color aerial photographs of all principal harbors (what cruiser doesn’t love good aerial photos) and GPS waypoints, both of which help reduce the stress of entering new harbors.

We found the book to be accurate and informative. We also found the expanded coverage of approaches to Abaco-Bimini, Northern Eleuthera, and West End (our point of entry)-to be a helpful aid while planning and executing our cruise.

Bottom line: If your cruising plans include Abaco, this is one reference youll definitely want onboard. We highly Recommend it.

Explorer Chartbooks

The first Explorer Chartbook covered the Exumas and was produced by cruising authors Monty and Sara Lewis in 1994. Since then, the Explorer Chartbook line (Near Bahamas, Exumas and Ragged islands, Far Bahamas) have become cruising bibles of sorts and are extremely popular among Bahamas-bound sailors.

Each book provides essential instructional information for boaters, including general articles on Customs, history, weather, anchoring, use of GPS, communications, piloting and navigating, reading the water, snorkeling and dinghy safety, plus an expanded, alphabetized list of specific tips in the help menu.

The company states that the hallmark of Explorer Charts continues to be accurate and up-to-date navigational data supplied by the Lewises and their experienced research team. Their website reports that the Lewises have cruised the Bahamas every winter since the inception of the Explorer Chartbooks and are constantly updating the charts and Need-to-Know Info.

Printed on waterproof paper, the chartbooks are robust and conveniently sized, making them equally handy for use at the navigation station or in the cockpit. Charts are full-color and feature shoreside facilities, landmarks, roads, and elevation contours. Theyre also cross-referenced for ease of use and provide a combination of small- and large-scale charts (allowing you to get the big picture before planning out a detailed route). Soundings (in meters), tide tables, and compass roses (with the latest magnetic variation) are also provided.

Bottom line: If you can afford only one publication for cruising the Bahamas, these are the ones youll want to have on board. They are the Best Choice chartbooks.

Paper charts

Produced as a companion chart to their cruising guide to Abaco, White Sound Presss Chart AB001 Great Abaco and Cays is a single-sheet, two-sided chart of Great Abaco and its cays, including waypoints and suggested courses. Printed on waterproof / no-tear paper, Chart AB 001 is suitable for use above and belowdecks for planning adventures and underway.

Side 1 features Walkers Cay to Cherokee Sound; Side 2 covers Cherokee Sound to Hole-in-the-Wall and Florida to Abaco. Also portrayed are 12 inset charts of harbors and other areas of interest.

Bottom line: As advertised, Chart AB001 is a great companion to The Cruising Guide to Abaco Bahamas and an excellent overview of the entire Abaco cruising area. Highly recommended.

Maptech ChartKit

Maptech ChartKits are 22- by 17-inch, full-color reproductions of government and private charts. The Region 9 ChartKit, The Bahamas to Crooked Island Passage 7th edition, that we tested features GPS datums, lat/lons, distances, color satellite photos of harbors and anchorages in popular destinations, as well as small-scale, wide-area charts and large-scale, detailed charts of harbors and approaches.

Chart grids simplify vessel positioning, and major navigation aids are identified with named GPS waypoints. Charts feature pre-plotted courses between major navigation aids but also provide the information (compass rose, scales, etc.) needed to do such calculations yourself. The Chart Page Index (inside front cover) and Go-To page numbers allow you to quickly and easily find the chart you want. Tables showing marine facilities and services are also provided.

Our testers used these charts when planning longer routes and for plotting vessel position during our crossing from Florida. We used the ChartKit primarily at the chart table at the navigation station. They can also be used in the cockpit, although theyre a bit bulkier and not as convenient as the chartbooks. Theyre also not waterproof, so if your cockpit is exposed, youll want to use a plastic chart protector. The kit we tested came with a protector, but it was pretty flimsy.

Although not inexpensive at $150, the ChartKit is much easier to manage and less expensive than purchasing all the full-sized paper charts youll need.

Bottom line: Recommended. The chartkit is an economical and convenient size and package for paper chart coverage of the Bahamas.

Electronic charts and apps

We installed and tested Navionics Plus charts using a Raymarine e7 multifunction display (MFD). (See PS July 2012 and July 2014 online for more on the e7.) We also downloaded the Navionics Boating HD mobile app to our iPad and gave it a whirl. (See PS May 2014 online for more on testing the Navionics products.)

Compatible with a wide range of chartplotters and MFDs, Navionics cards provide charts that are clear and easy to read, with depth contours, spot soundings, port plans, port service guides, nav aids, and more, all on a pre-loaded, plug-and-play memory card. For initial downloads and updates, users plug their chip into a PC/Mac, then select and download the coverage they want from the companys website.

In addition to the paper chart feel of Navionics Plus, testers liked the wide variety of display options such as shaded contours and features like Intelligent Clarity IC, which provides an uncluttered display for easier reading.

Quick access to tide and current information was a huge plus when planning and following our route, as was the XPlain feature, which gave us a plain-language description of navigational symbols with a click of the cursor.

We love paper charts, but not so much the time and effort required to keep them properly updated. Navionics Plus charts Freshest Data lets users update their card within 12 months of purchase by adding or removing charts as many times as they wish. The update option ensures you always have the most current charts, while the ability to download only charts needed for a particular cruise ensures your display wont become bogged down processing too large a chart.

Last year, Navionics announced an expansion of its Plotter Sync app, which allows owners of Raymarine WiFi-enabled MFDs to easily update charts wirelessly (without removing their Navionics Plus chip).

As for the mobile app, having the Navionics data loaded on our iPad basically created a second display. With our iPad mounted at the helm, we were able to simultaneously view both zoomed in and expanded chart displays while underway. Being able to view charts on the iPad (either down below or during dinner at the local bar) made planning the next days adventure a breeze.

Bottom line: What sailor doesn’t love the benefits of electronic charts-particularly when they can be easily updated as many times as desired for a whole year. Recommended.

In addition to providing information on tidal stations, currents, depth contours, and IALA symbols, Garmins BlueChart g2 marine charts offer good transitioning between zoom levels and seamless continuity across chart boundaries.

It also features a number of customizable display features such as safety shading-which enables contour shading for all depths shallower than a user-defined safe depth, a nautical no-go zone if you will-chart view options like standard 2-D direct overhead or 3-D over-the-bow chart views for easier chart reading and orientation.

BlueChart Mobile allows you to plan and view routes on your tablet, smart phone, or iPod. Routes, waypoints, and tracks can also be wirelessly transferred to your networked chartplotter using a marine Wi-Fi adapter kit (sold separately). Once underway, the Wi-Fi adapter also lets you view real-time track data on your tablet by wirelessly sharing the GPS location from the marine network.

We loaded BlueChart Mobile on our iPad, which allowed us to interact with the chart using the radial menu to mark waypoints, establish routes, etc. We didnt test the Wi-Fi adapter, however, we were able to use our wireless-only iPad to follow the boat along its route by using the Bad Elf GPS Pro (see PS January 2014 online ).

The biggest draws that make the Garmin BlueChart g2 and BlueChart Mobile app popular with a number of Bahamas-bound cruiser are: The charts feature data from the popular Explorer Chartbooks line, and BlueChart Mobile allows you to access data from ActiveCaptain, a Web community that provides real-time content generated by mariners. ActiveCaptain allows users to read and write reviews about marinas, shared local boating knowledge, anchorages, and hazards.

Bottom line: Electronic charts coupled with access to ActiveCaptain make the Garmin products our Best Choice for electronic cruising resources.

While any of the above products can help make your Bahamas cruising experience safer and more enjoyable, most sailors lack the stowage space, budget, or inclination to buy them all. Those products that brought the most useful features to the table (frequent updates, accurate information, better layout, or ease of use) stood out in our evaluation pile and were used regularly during our there and back again cruise to the Bahamas.

For pre-departure cruise planning and reference while in the Bahamas, Skipper Bobs Bahamas Bound is a great read and will satisfy dreaming armchair captains, as well as those actively planning the cruise. If your cruising plans include the Abacos, youll also want to have The Cruising Guide to Abaco Bahamas, along with its companion chart AB 001 onboard.

Accurate charts are the cornerstone of any successful voyage, and we like having both paper and electronic charts onboard. For long-range planning purposes and a solid look at the big picture, we found the Richardsons Maptech ChartKit to be a great tool for navigation station, although less than ideal for use at our somewhat exposed helm.

As a day-to-day cockpit chart companion that also covers pretty much anything else youll need during your cruise of the Bahamas, the Explore Chartbooks are viewed by many as the gold standard, and wed have to agree.

As far as electronic charts and their associated apps, testers liked the charts, display, and features offered by both Navionics Boating HD and Garmin BlueChart Mobile. We have no problem recommending both, however, access to ActiveCaptain data and seamless compatibility with those using Explorer Chartbooks give Garmin the edge-and the Best Choice pick-in our opinion.

Testers found the annually updated information provided by Doziers Waterway Guide to be extremely useful when planning that liberty call ashore to sample the delights a port has to offer. We highly Recommend it.

• Entering and Exiting the Bahamas by Boat

• Dozier’s Waterway Guide
• Skipper Bob Publications
• Richardsons’ Maptech
• Explorer Chartbook

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

What’s The Best Vinyl Window Cleaner for Your Boat?

40-Footer Boat Tours – With Some Big Surprises! | Boat Tour

Electrical Do’s and Don’ts

Bahamas Travel Advisory: Cause for Concern?

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

Matt Weidert

Exumas Cruising Guide: Our Favorite Bahamas Sailing Destination

Planning for your exumas bareboat charter.

Provisioning

Exumas bahamas cruising guide resources, exumas cruising conditions.

• Explore the northern Exumas, turning around near Staniel Cay (this is what we recommend!) . There is so much to explore that you won't miss out by missing the southern Exumas.
• Do a one way trip from Great Exuma to Nassau. This takes advantage or the prevailing trade winds out of the east - enjoy that downwind sailing. It does, however, complicate provisioning since Great Exuma is not as well stocked. You will also need to coordinate extra logistics to travel to Georgetown for the start of your trip.
• One way from Nassau to Great Exuma. This makes provisioning easier, but you are more likely to sail to windward.

When to sail in the Exumas?

• Consistent trade winds blow out of the east to southeast, allowing for more settled cruising conditions
• Cold fronts are not as common.  This means fewer squalls and potential exposure to westerly/northerly winds
• Days are longer, giving you more time for fun on the water
• Although early tropical activity can occur, it is far less likely
• It's less busy since many of the full-time cruisers have begun to leave the area in preparation for hurricane season

Sailing conditions in the Exuma

Exuma Bank vs. Exuma Sound

Tides and Cuts

• In the northern Exumas, the tides will be around 20 minutes later than Nassau
• Around Staniel Cay, you can expect the tides to be about 30 minutes later than Nassau

Exumas sailing itinerary: the perfect plan for a week in the islands

Day 1: overnight in palm cay marina, day 2: yellow banks crossing and highbourne cay.

Day 3: South to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park

Day 4: Thunderball Grotto and swimming pigs

Day 5: Back north to Compass Cay

Day 6: Shroud Cay and the magical river ride

Day 7: Final day optionality

Norman's Cay

Highbourne cay, allen's cay, sail rocks north, day 8: crossing back to palm cay, explore these related articles from the yacht warriors.

BVI vs Exuma Bareboat Charter: Exploring New Horizons

Explore BVI vs Exuma differences for bareboat charters, from logistics and cruising conditions to unique charter experiences.

Charter notes from our USVI land-based stay

Discover USVI charter lessons learned from our land-based stay on our Spring Break trip to St. Thomas.

Beyond the charts: echoes of the U.S. Military in the SVI

Have you ever wondered why the SVIs, nestled so closely to their popular Virgin Islands' sisters, remain a less-charted paradise?

When is your next yacht charter? Consider booking with the Yacht Warriors.

Charter. Beyond.

Get fresh ideas for your next yacht charter trip - insider guides, sailing itineraries, planning tips, and more. Subscribe and receive my free BVI Trip Planning Document.

• Paddle Board

When and How to Sail to the Bahamas: A Guide for Beginners

Sailing to the Bahamas is a dream for many sailors. With crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and endless blue skies, it’s no wonder that thousands of people flock to these islands every year. However, sailing to the Bahamas can be daunting, especially for novice sailors. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about sailing to the Bahamas as a beginner, including why to sail there, pre-departure preparation, the best time to sail, planning your route, and sailing tips for beginners.

Quick Facts

Why sail to the bahamas, the allure of the bahamas.

For many people, the allure of the Bahamas lies in its natural beauty. With crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, stunning beaches, and endless blue skies, the Bahamas is a true paradise for nature lovers. The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, each with its own unique charm and character. From the bustling capital of Nassau to the remote and secluded islands of the Exumas, there’s something for everyone in the Bahamas.

One of the most popular attractions in the Bahamas is the swimming pigs of Exuma. These friendly pigs live on a small island in the Exuma chain and are known for swimming out to greet passing boats. Visitors can feed and swim with the pigs, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Another must-see attraction in the Bahamas is the Thunderball Grotto. This underwater cave system was made famous by the James Bond film “Thunderball” and is now a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The cave is filled with colorful fish and coral, making it a breathtaking sight to behold.

Ideal Destination for Beginner Sailors

The Bahamas is an ideal destination for novice sailors. The waters are generally calm and shallow, making them easy to navigate, and the islands are located relatively close to the United States. What’s more, the Bahamas has a well-established tourism industry, which means there are plenty of resources available to help you plan your trip and navigate the islands.

One of the best ways to explore the Bahamas is by sailboat . With its calm waters and steady trade winds, the Bahamas is a sailor’s paradise. Many charter companies offer sailboat rentals and can help you plan your itinerary, ensuring that you make the most of your time in the islands.

One popular sailing route in the Bahamas is the Abacos. This chain of islands and cays is located in the northern part of the Bahamas and is known for its calm waters, picturesque harbors, and charming seaside towns. The Abacos are a popular destination for sailors and offer plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and exploring.

Preparing for Your Sailing Adventure

Are you ready to set sail on an adventure to the Bahamas? Before you embark on your journey, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.

Choosing the Right Boat

Choosing the right boat is crucial for a successful sailing trip to the Bahamas. You’ll want a vessel that is seaworthy, safe, and comfortable. Smaller boats such as catamarans or dinghies can be ideal for beginners, as they are easier to handle and navigate. However, if you plan to sail with a group of friends or family, a larger vessel may be necessary. Consider renting a boat from a reputable charter company that has experience with sailing to the Bahamas.

When choosing a boat, it’s important to consider the number of people on board, the length of your trip, and the type of sailing conditions you’ll encounter. The Bahamas are known for their calm waters, but it’s still important to have a boat that can handle any unexpected weather conditions.

Essential Sailing Gear and Equipment

Before setting sail, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary gear and equipment for your trip. This includes, but is not limited to, life jackets , navigational tools, communication devices, medical kits , and flares. Additionally, consider packing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun.

It’s also important to have a well-stocked galley with plenty of food and water for your trip. You may also want to bring along some fishing gear if you plan to catch your own dinner.

Acquiring Necessary Permits and Documentation

In order to sail to the Bahamas, you’ll need to acquire the necessary permits and documentation. This includes a cruising permit, which allows you to sail within the Bahamas, and a fishing permit, if you plan to fish while on your trip. Additionally, you’ll need to have a valid passport and proof of citizenship, as well as any necessary visas.

It’s important to do your research and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork before setting sail. Failure to do so could result in delays or even prevent you from entering the country.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable sailing trip to the Bahamas. So hoist the sails, catch the wind, and enjoy the beauty of the open sea!

Best Time to Sail to the Bahamas

Weather and climate considerations.

The Bahamas is a beautiful destination for sailing enthusiasts, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. However, when planning your sailing trip to the Bahamas, it’s important to consider the weather and climate conditions. The best time to sail to the Bahamas is during the fall or winter months, between November and April, when the weather is mild and dry. During this time, the temperature ranges from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect weather for sailing.

It’s advisable to avoid sailing to the Bahamas during the hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. During this time, the risk of hurricanes and tropical storms is high, and it’s best to stay clear of the area. However, if you do need to sail during this time, make sure to keep an eye on the weather reports and have a solid plan in place in case of an emergency.

Another factor to consider when sailing to the Bahamas is the wind and currents. The Gulf Stream, a powerful ocean current that flows along the east coast of the United States, can affect sailing conditions in the Bahamas. It’s important to be aware of the direction and strength of the wind and currents, as they can impact your sailing experience.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The Bahamas is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant culture and festivals. Timing your sailing trip to coincide with one of these events can add an extra element of fun and excitement to your adventure. The most popular festival in the Bahamas is Junkanoo, which is held around Christmas and New Year’s. This colorful and energetic festival features parades, music, and dancing, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the Bahamas.

Another popular event is the Bahamas International Music Festival, which is held in May and features local and international musicians performing a variety of genres, including jazz, reggae, and R&B. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Bahamas and enjoy some fantastic music.

Other festivals and events in the Bahamas include the Andros Crab Fest, the Long Island Regatta, and the Eleuthera Pineapple Festival. Each of these events offers a unique experience and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Sailing to the Bahamas is an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to plan your trip carefully. Consider the weather and climate conditions, as well as the seasonal events and festivals, to make the most of your sailing adventure in the Bahamas.

Planning Your Route

Planning a sailing trip to the Bahamas can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and a laid-back island lifestyle, the Bahamas is a popular destination for sailors from around the world. However, before setting sail, it’s important to plan your route carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Popular Starting Points

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when planning your trip is where to start your journey. There are several popular starting points for sailing to the Bahamas, each with its own advantages and challenges.

Florida is a common starting point for sailors, as it offers easy access to the Bahamas from the east coast of the United States. From Florida, you can sail across the Gulf Stream to reach the Bahamas in just a few days.

The Abaco Islands, located in the northern Bahamas, are another popular starting point. The Abacos offer a convenient entry point to the Bahamas, as well as plenty of opportunities for island hopping and exploring.

If you’re looking for a more urban experience, Nassau is a bustling city that serves as the capital of the Bahamas. From Nassau, you can explore the nearby islands or venture further afield to more remote destinations.

Navigating the Gulf Stream

One of the most important factors to consider when planning your route is the Gulf Stream. This powerful ocean current can have a significant impact on your journey, so it’s important to take it into account when planning your route.

The Gulf Stream runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, and can be a challenging area to navigate. The current can reach speeds of up to five knots, making it difficult to sail directly across. Instead, many sailors choose to sail at an angle to the current, which can help to reduce the impact of the current on their journey.

In addition to the current, it’s also important to consider the weather conditions when navigating the Gulf Stream. The area is known for its strong winds and rough seas, so it’s important to plan your journey carefully to avoid any dangerous conditions.

Must-Visit Islands and Anchorages

Once you’ve made it to the Bahamas, there are plenty of islands and anchorages to explore. With over 700 islands and cays, there’s no shortage of destinations to choose from.

The Exumas are a popular destination for sailors, thanks to their stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. The area is also home to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a protected area that offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Andros is another must-visit island, known for its unspoiled natural beauty and abundant marine life. The island is home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers.

Eleuthera is a long, narrow island that offers plenty of opportunities for exploring. The island is home to several charming towns and villages, as well as some of the Bahamas’ most beautiful beaches.

When it comes to anchorages, there are plenty of options to choose from. Elbow Cay in the Abaco Islands is a popular anchorage, thanks to its sheltered harbor and charming village. Warderick Wells in the Exumas is another popular anchorage, known for its stunning natural beauty and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the Bahamas offers something for everyone. With careful planning and preparation, your sailing trip to the Bahamas is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Sailing Tips for Beginners

Mastering basic sailing skills.

For beginners, sailing may seem daunting at first. However, with practice and patience, you’ll soon become comfortable and confident on the water. Start by learning the basic skills, such as how to raise and lower the sails, how to steer the boat, and how to perform basic maneuvers. Take advantage of any sailing courses or lessons that are available to you.

Safety Measures and Precautions

When sailing to the Bahamas, safety should always be your top priority. Make sure to familiarize yourself with safety procedures, including how to respond to emergencies, and have a plan in place in case of an unforeseen event. Additionally, always wear a life jacket when on the water, and never sail alone.

Communication and Navigation Tools

Communication and navigation tools are essential when sailing to the Bahamas. Make sure to have a reliable VHF radio, as well as a GPS and a compass. Additionally, consider bringing a chart or map of the area, as well as a guidebook or sailing manual to help you navigate the islands.

Sailing to the Bahamas is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is accessible to sailors of all levels, including beginners. With a little planning and preparation, you can experience the natural beauty, culture, and history of these islands, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Follow these tips and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing trip to the Bahamas.

Sailing To The Bahamas FAQS

When should i sail to the bahamas.

The best time to sail to the Bahamas is during the fall and winter months, between November and April. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, making it perfect for sailing.

What month is best to sail to Bahamas?

While you can sail to the Bahamas at any time during the period between November and April, many find the early spring months of March and April particularly pleasant due to their moderate temperatures and low rainfall.

What is the best route to sail to the Bahamas?

The best route depends on your starting point and the specific islands you want to visit in the Bahamas. If you’re starting from Florida, you can sail directly across the Gulf Stream to reach the Bahamas. The Abaco Islands are a popular destination and offer a convenient entry point to the Bahamas. However, if you’re looking for more urban experience, you can sail to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.

Can you sail from US to Bahamas?

Yes, you can sail from the United States to the Bahamas. Florida is a common starting point due to its proximity to the Bahamas. You can sail across the Gulf Stream from Florida and reach the Bahamas in just a few days.

How safe is it to sail the Bahamas?

Sailing in the Bahamas is generally considered safe, particularly if you take necessary precautions. The waters are generally calm and shallow, making them easy to navigate for novice sailors. However, safety should always be a top priority. Make sure to familiarize yourself with safety procedures, have a plan in case of emergencies, always wear a life jacket on the water, and never sail alone.

How big of a boat do I need to go to the Bahamas?

The size of the boat needed depends on a few factors including the number of people on board, the length of your trip, and the type of sailing conditions you’ll encounter. Smaller boats such as catamarans or dinghies can be ideal for beginners, as they are easier to handle and navigate. However, if you plan to sail with a group of friends or family, a larger vessel may be necessary. It’s important to choose a seaworthy, safe, and comfortable vessel for your journey.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

What to Do If Your Boat Engine Won’t Start? Common Problems & How to Fix Them

How to launch a boat by yourself: complete beginner’s guide, how to surf: complete beginner’s guide to get you started.

Comments are closed.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• Bahamas Sailing Adventure
• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Explore the Out Islands (Eleuthera and Exuma) as you sail for new horizons!
• Join in the sailing alongside the crew and learn how to tend sails or steer
• Encounter unique wildlife and interact with locals
• Kayak, snorkel, paddle board, or hike each day
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding
• Small Ship Sailing
• Wildlife Viewing
• Greater Antilles
• Eleuthera Island

Full Itinerary

Day 1: nassau | embark, day 2-6: sailing the bahamas.

• 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners

Day 7: Nassau | Disembark

• 1 Breakfast

Liberty Clipper

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is 50%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, AmEx or Discover

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships - Health & Safety Policies - Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships
• General Terms & Conditions - Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners
• 6 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Unlimited coffee, tea, and juice
• Use of all on-board water toys, such as snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddle boards, etc.
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Pre- or Post-cruise hotel   
• Bottled water, soda and alcohol are available on the ship for an additional fee
• Port taxes/fees

We Love to Talk Travel

Caribbean travel guide.

• All Caribbean Trips
• Caribbean Small Cruise Ships & Sailboats
• Lesser Antilles
• Best Time to Visit the Caribbean
• Caribbean Island Guide
• Belize Sea Kayaking Tours
• Belize Snorkeling Trips & Tours
• Belize Beach Resorts
• Caribbean Luxury

Favorite Caribbean All Trips

• Sailing the Caribbean
• Belize Explorer

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

Best Sailing Destinations In The Bahamas

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

The Bahamas offer some of the most beautiful tropical sailing locations in the world—and they're quite close to the mainland U.S.

The best and most beautiful tropical sailing destinations in the Bahamas are Nassau, Bimini, Grand Bahama Island, Exuma, Rum Cay, the Berry Islands, and the picturesque pink sands on the island of Eleuthera.

In this article, we'll go over seven of the best and most scenic sailing destinations in the Bahamas. We'll cover their main attractions, locations, food, and drink, along with each island's local accommodations for sailboats.

We sourced much of the information used in this article from reputable guides and directly from the tourism directories provided by the Bahamian government.

Table of contents

‍ 1. Nassau

Nassau is one of the finest and a favorite Bahamian sailing destinations. It's the capital of New Providence and home to a rich history. The island is famous for its tropical scenery, resorts, and modern infrastructure.

Nassau is particularly friendly to American boaters from the gulf and Atlantic coast. As far as accommodations are concerned, Nassau and Paradise Island are some of the best destinations to visit.

Nassau is home to modern marinas and docking facilities. There's plenty of opportunities to resupply on the island, and the populated areas have plenty of bars and restaurants. The beaches of Nassau are spectacular, and you can anchor right off the shore with ease and take a swim.

Snorkeling and reef diving are popular activities to enjoy on Nassau and its surrounding islands and shoals. The water is warm, and the weather is usually good—except for the occasional afternoon thunderstorm. But on normal days, the environment is perfect for activities in the sun and easy sailing.

Bimini is one of the closest Bahamas sailing destinations to the United States and one of the most picturesque. Bimini offers beautiful reefs, blazing white sand, and crystal-clear water less than a day's journey from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The islands in the Bimini Chain each have their own unique attractions, though the majority are sparsely populated. There's a large resort in Bimini that offers the perfect tropical vacation. Additionally, Alice Town on North Bimini offers shopping, food, and drink.

The island is small and home to roughly 1,500 permanent residents. It's an extremely popular destination for cruising, as the island is very close to Florida and offers numerous places to anchor and dock. The views of the reefs are spectacular, and the beaches are welcoming—especially for catamarans and shallow-draft cruisers.

Bimini is so close to the mainland that sailboats aren't the only vessels that find their way over. Powerboats, including open-top outboard fishing center console vessels, are a common sight in the area, and the local boat traffic can be heavy.

3. Grand Bahama Island

Grand Bahama Island is another Bahamas destination that's within a day's sail of the mainland United States. The island, which is located just 56 nautical miles from Palm Beach, Florida, is the northernmost landmass in the Bahamas.

Unfortunately, Grand Bahama Island was devastated by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, but locals have made steady progress rebuilding the island in the last two years.

The island has a dramatic history shaped largely by its long and wide coral reefs. Initially, these reefs kept Europeans off the islands, but they were eventually used by pirates to lure ships into running aground, where they would be looted by men in small boats.

Today, the islands offer spectacular reef diving and luscious tropical scenery to explore. The Lucayan Natural Park, named after the island's native population, offers a rare glimpse into an almost untouched tropical forest that's rich with rare wildlife.

There are marinas on the island and places to anchor. That said, it's important to use care when anchoring out, as boat traffic (and especially anchors) have a detrimental effect on the already endangered coral reefs.

Exuma is another top sailing destination in the Bahamas. It's popular with sailors and power boaters alike thanks to its spotless sandy cays and miles of luscious green tropical coastline. It also has extensive reefs, which are great for diving, and plenty of close offshore water sports opportunities.

George Town is a favorite overnight stop on the island, and it's also a great place to spend the week. George Town has a full-service marina, harbor, and rental locations for scuba and dive gear. Additionally, the beach is a popular and scenic destination for tourists and sailors.

The Exumas are a series of small islands and cays located around Exuma, and they offer numerous activities and sights to see for boaters. Norman Cay is a favorite destination, with lots of places to tie up and a beautiful coral reef to admire. The cay is colorful and full of life, plus it has restaurants and accommodations.

Highborn's Cay is another great spot to spend the day. The cay is home to the world-renowned 'Octopus Garden' reef, which is rich with wildlife. You can spend your time admiring the reef, hanging out on the beach, or attempting to locate one of the island's famous giant iguanas.

Rum Cay is a lesser-known destination in the Bahamas, but it's possibly one of the best. It's known by some in the sailing community as the "sleeping beauty" island due to its seemingly untouched coral reefs and stunning antique ruins.

The water surrounding the island is shallow—really shallow. Rum Cay is known for its long underwater sandbars, which essentially extend the beach underwater for many yards when conditions are right. This allows shallow-draft vessels to drop anchor and sailors to hop onto the seafloor with water up to their waists.

The island is extremely picturesque and the perfect place to spend time on a sailboat. The weather, as you'd expect, is wonderful—and the waters are stunningly blue and clear. The island itself is also green and covered in tropical plants and wildlife.

The white sandy beaches are something out of a postcard, and the island is usually less crowded than other destinations in the Bahamas. You can hang out in the large inlet or just offshore and enjoy the beach. Or, you can dive into the healthy corral reefs for a truly unique experience.

6. Berry Islands

The Berry Islands are a beautiful island chain located in the Bahamas and also an excellent sailing destination for U.S.-based boats. The Berry Islands are known for their spectacular fishing and picturesque cays.

In fact, there are just under 30 individual small islands that make up the chain, giving sailors plenty of opportunities to find a secluded spot to anchor and enjoy the scenery.

The Berry Islands offer numerous accommodations for boaters, including docks and shore-based amenities. Additionally, the islands are known for their fresh seafood, dining locations, and there are plenty of spots to stop and grab a drink on the beach.

The island has marinas that are designed to accommodate boats with deep drafts. That means if you follow the charts correctly, you won't run aground and mess up your keel. That said, you'll have to be careful when navigating around the island, as the reefs are numerous and quite shallow.

The Berry Islands are the perfect destination to enjoy the island lifestyle. The islands are great if you like to tie up to a dock and chat with other sailors. They're also an ideal destination if you want to anchor offshore and spend the day snorkeling and paddleboarding.

And the Berry Islands are affordable—docking rates on the island are competitive, and meals are reasonably priced in most locations. It's one of the best destinations in the Bahamas for truly tropical sport fishing or relaxation.

7. Eleuthera

Eleuthera is one of the safest and most interesting islands in the Bahamas, and it's a top destination for sailboats, both large and small. Eleuthera is part of the Great Bahama Bank, and it's geographically thin and long.

The island and its surrounding cays boast 210 miles of attractive and clean coastline. It's made up of a long main island with several towns, along with four cays and Windermere Island to the east. This makes it the perfect destination to find a secluded stretch of coastline to anchor out or explore the reefs.

The population of the island is just around 8,000 people, but there are plenty of accommodations for sailors.

There are several marinas on the island with services, along with resorts and plenty of places to eat and drink. Additionally, you can freely explore the interior parts of the island and engage with the locals.

Harbor Island is a key attraction of the island, but Pink Sands Beach is the most well-known destination. Here, the sand is literally pink—which offers excellent photographic opportunities and a unique location to hang out and soak up the sun. Additionally, the water just offshore is shallow enough for wading and water activities.

Lighthouse Beach is another gorgeous location to visit, as it features unique rock formations and a lighthouse. French Heave Beach features a luscious green backdrop with a wide sandy beach, which is perfect to set out a few lawn chairs and enjoy a drink.

And if you're interested in greenery, don't forget to check out the Leon Levy Native Preserve. This nature sanctuary offers a rare glimpse into the unadulterated natural habitat of the island, featuring rare tropical birds and other wildlife. Plus, it's just a short distance from docking locations.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

by this author

Destinations

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor

August 16, 2023

Best Sailing Destinations In BC

June 28, 2023

Best Sailing Charter Destinations

June 27, 2023

Popular Posts

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

December 28, 2023

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

• Bowthruster
• Furling mainsail
• Fully battened mainsail
• Electric toilet

Need help? Call us:

The Bahamas Yacht charters

12 knots offers yacht charters at the Bahamas. This wonderful archipelago of 29 islands, 661 cays and nearly numerous islets, Bahamas is a true sailing paradise. Bahamas yacht charter will bring you only positive emotions: clear turquoise waters teeming with life, gorgeous sand beaches on hundreds of coral islands, quiet anchorages and secluded coves in the clear waters.

Rent a Boat in The Bahamas: 144 Available

Dufour 390 gl sailboat charter (2020).

Rent a boat Bali Catspace OV (2021) in Bahamas

Sailboat Dufour 412 GL (2022) for rent in Bahamas

Lagoon 42 - 4 + 1 cab. catamaran charter (2018)

Rent a boat Dufour 390 GL (2023) in Bahamas

Sailboat Sun Odyssey 409 (2014) for rent in Bahamas

Nautitech 40 Open - 4 + 2 cab. catamaran charter (2014)

Rent a boat Sun Odyssey 449 (2018) in Bahamas

Catamaran Lagoon 40 - 3 cab (2019) for rent in Bahamas

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 - 3 cab. catamaran charter (2019)

The Bahamas Yacht Charter Reviews with 12knots

“the sailing was great. the exuma islands were amazing.”.

I apologize for the delay. We have been out of the country for almost a month. The sailing was great. The Exuma Islands were amazing. The staff at Navtours were helpful and professional. On the last day (on the crossing back)—the impeller went bad. W…

YACHT CHARTERS

Patrick Oliver

United States

“Great experience”

Booking with 12 Knots was a great experience, they helped answer all our questions ahead of time. Would use them again to find a bareboat charter. Looking forward to many more travels using them.

Other popular destinations

• rent a yacht france
• yacht charter france
• yacht charter italy
• bareboat charter bvi
• bvi yacht charters
• bareboat charter martinique
• boat rental martinique
• usvi boat charters
• Mahe yacht charters
• bareboat charter croatia
• Trogir yacht charters
• greek yacht charter
• rent a boat greece
• Kos yacht charters
• Rhodes yacht charters

Frequently Asked Questions about yachting in The Bahamas

How much does it cost to rent a yacht in the bahamas , how many boats are available for rent in the bahamas , what are the main yacht charter bases in the bahamas , what boats are available for charter in the bahamas .

Yacht Charter

The Bahamas Yacht Charter

Up to 40% discount on 2024 departures. Offer valid until 31st March

Why Charter in the Bahamas?

The Abacos have been The Bahamas’ boating capital since colonial times, and whether you are a sailing purist, willing to tack until the last gasp of wind, or just a sun worshiper joining the adventure to relax and explore with fins and snorkel, this is your paradise.

About Our Location

While reconstruction efforts continue in the Abacos following the devastation caused by hurricane Dorian in 2019, Navigare is excited and proud to be a part of the recovery with a new charter base opened in 2021.

The Navigare base is located in Marsh Harbor on site at the Conch Inn Hotel and Marina , only 10 minutes from the Leonard Thompson Airport.

Explore our base!

Cruisers and charterers in the Abaco will enjoy a steadily warm climate with sustained trade winds; similar to southern Florida, generally sunny with slightly colder temperatures from December through February.

Local Considerations

The official currency for the Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar, which, like the US dollar, is denoted with a dollar sign. The denotation B$ is used to distinguish it from other Dollar currencies. The U.S. dollar is on par with the Bahamian dollar and is accepted all over the Bahamas, so there is no need to change to Bahamian if you are able to pay in USD.

Fleet Size / Boats Offered

The Navigare fleet in the Bahamas consists of sailing catamarans and power catamarans:

• Sailing catamarans 40 to 50 ft from Bali and Lagoon
• Power catamarans 36 to 48 ft from Aquila

Charter Services Offered

• Bareboat charters

• All-inclusive charters

Check-in days

In the Bahamas, the minimum charter duration is 3 days, and there are no set check-in or checkout days.

Check-in: 4:00 PM Checkout: 10:00 AM

Carefree Pack

Navigare Carefree includes damage waiver insurance with full coverage, welcome package, final cleaning, bed sheets & towels, dinghy, outboard engine & fuel, propane gas, full water tanks, and snorkeling equipment.

Yacht Fuel is not included – the fuel tank will be full when your charter starts and you are responsible for topping off the fuel tank at the end of your charter. The price of the Carefree Pack varies by boat size and is a flat fee for bookings up to one week. A surcharge applies for bookings of 2+ weeks.

Review what's included onboard.

Optional Extras

You may supplement your charter booking with optional equipment or services available through Navigare or third-party providers.

Share this page with friends

Send a charter inquiry

Topics to read about, check out our blog for bahamas.

Top 6 Places to Visit in the Abacos Islands, Bahamas

The Abaco Islands are a string of islands and cays that span over 120 miles in the northern Bahamas, creating a pristine tropical paradise. Our Navigare Bahamas base is in...

Sailing in Abaco, The Bahamas

Listen in to Navigare Yachting and the publishers and authors of "The Cruising Guide to Abaco, The Bahamas", Steve Dodge (founder) and his sons, Jon and Jeff Dodge as we...

Top 5 Sand Bars in the Bahamas

Top 5 Sand Bars in the Bahamas It’s no secret that the Bahamas, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches, is a tropical paradise that attracts millions...

Send request

Do you have any questions ask away we are here for you..

Subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy 5% off your next charter when you book online

Navigare Yachting & Cookies

Navigare uses both our own cookies and cookies from third parties to be able to improve your experience on the website. We also use the information to evaluate the use of various functions on the site and to support the marketing of our services. We use cookies for the following: necessary features of the website, features that give you the best possible user experience on the site, statistics, web analytics and marketing.

By clicking "Accept All" you give consent to all areas of use. You can also choose which areas of use you want to give your consent to by clicking on “Manage Cookies” below. You can withdraw your consent at any time. Please click on "Privacy Policy" located in the footer of our site for more information on consent management.

About cookies

Please use a modern browser to view this website. Some elements might not work as expected when using Internet Explorer.

• Why Charter Homepage
• Luxury Yacht Vacation Types
• Corporate Yacht Charter
• Tailor Made Vacations
• Luxury Exploration Vacations
• ALL 3,576 Yachts For Charter
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Classic Yachts
• Catamaran Yachts
• Special Offers
• by Destination
• Yacht Reviews
• Destination Guides
• Inspiration & Features
• Mediterranean Charter Yachts
• France Charter Yachts
• Italy Charter Yachts
• Croatia Charter Yachts
• Greece Charter Yachts
• Turkey Charter Yachts
• Bahamas Charter Yachts
• Caribbean Charter Yachts
• Australia Charter Yachts
• Thailand Charter Yachts
• Dubai Charter Yachts
• Destination News
• New To Fleet
• Charter Fleet Updates
• Industry News
• Yacht Shows
• Corporate Charter
• Charter Advice
• Why Use a Yacht Broker
• Charter Costs Explained
• Add my yacht
• Yacht Charter Destinations

• Ideas & Tips
• Itineraries
• See & Do
• Eat & Drink

597  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Bahamas

Bahamas Yacht Charter

A Bahamas yacht charter promises guests a slice of tropical perfection and unparalleled escapism. The idyllic chain of islands that form the Bahamas provides yacht charter guests with a decadent cocktail of sun-drenched sands (even pink ones), crystalline waters teeming with marine life, and diverse topography.

Comprising more than 700 heavenly islands with precious few inhabited, the cruising grounds of the Bahamas archipelago offer a fascinating mixture of seclusion and connectedness. Expect a gloriously slower pace of life that harmonizes with the gentle tide, blended with a fiesta of blazing color and soft-calypso: an endearingly exotic charter experience.

Silhouetted by coral cays, aquamarine shallows are garlanded with glistening coves and iridescent bays are often only three or four meters deep, making the Bahamas both a perennial family favorite and a jet-setter's paradise. It's ideal territory for shallow draft yachts or catamarans, who can cozy up to seldom-visited anchorages and soak up their celestial calm, or delve deeper for an aquatic adventure.

Bahamas Yacht Charters: At a Glance

• Constant sunshine Its sun-drenched shores amid cinematic landscapes charm yacht charter guests all-year-round. A blissful sanctuary awaits you when you reach these islands.
• 700 islands, cays, and islets Make up the achingly beautiful jigsaw that is the Bahamas archipelago; expect beaches and bays that make your heart sing as par for the course. You'll be spoilt for choice with stunning anchorages.
• 4% cruising fee Attractively low fees help to make the Bahamas an enduringly popular yacht charter destination.
• Easily accessible Reaching the Bahamas is a mere hours flight from Florida or three hours from New York and Toronto. The Bahamas also has excellent transport links to other worldwide destinations.
• Tropical thrills The Bahamas is a place of endless adventure and intrigue: from swimming with inquisitive pigs and gliding alongside friendly nurse sharks; to strolling otherworldly pink beaches and diving into coral-filled caves that once appeared in a James Bond film. The list really does go on and on.
• Shallow waters The Bahamas' alluringly clear waters aren't deep, so shallow draught motor yachts, sailing yachts or catamarans provide guests with more opportunities to admire the Bahamas' natural splendor.

Where to Charter a Yacht in the Bahamas

Sensationally beautiful cays dapple every part of this glittering archipelago, so Bahamas yacht charter guests can take their pick of destinations to venture to. Every kind of possible itinerary can be catered to here; from simply recalibrating on silky sanded beaches lapped by gentle waves of unearthly blue: to shimmying the night away at twinkling bars until dawn; to whiling away sun-kissed afternoons golfing, snorkeling, fishing, and even horseback riding.

Below you'll find some of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the Bahamas:

Nassau and Paradise Island Best for : vibrant nightlife, iconic scenery, and its proximity to high-end resorts (the renowned The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island) with bountiful casino and fine cuisine options

The Abacos Best for : endless powdery sand beaches, glittering coves, sheltered bays, verdant forests, and idyllic diving opportunities

The Exumas Best for : seeing the famed swimming pigs, incredible underwater caves, friendly nurse sharks, spellbindingly turquoise waters, exclusive resorts, and deserted cays

Eleuthera Best for : ethereal natural pools, vividly colorful architecture, lesser-known architectural feats, less frequented beaches and vast stretches of transcendental coral reefs that make it a snorkeling and diving paradise

Harbor Island Best for : flamingo pink beaches and waterfront parties from dusk until dawn, charming sundowner spots, and exquisite world-class dining

Grand Bahamas Best for : magical underwater caves, with fascinating subaquatic snorkel and dive sites in abundance, and a national park for epic nature trails

Types of Charter Yachts in the Bahamas

Crewed motor yacht charters and luxury catamaran charters are undoubtedly the best way to discover the Bahamas.

As one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the Caribbean , guests have countless fleet options when it comes to a Bahamas crewed charter. If you are unsure whether to opt for a motor yacht, sailing yacht or catamaran to cruise Bahamian waters, here are some main points to consider:

Shallow Cruising Grounds

The waters all around the Bahamas are fairly shallow, often no more than 4 meters deep, and even less in some places. Therefore, yachts with shallow drafts make the ideal choice for luxury charters around this enchanting region.

Most sailing charter yachts come equipped with a retractable keel, facilitating access to the beautiful turquoise shallows, although larger sailing yachts may still find their draft too deep for some areas, even with their keel up!

To get around this, some of the larger luxury yachts drop their anchor further out into the deeper waters and use their onboard tenders to explore the area, where guests can experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with the archipelago’s astonishing marine fauna, including rays, sharks and inquisitive swimming pigs. The yachts’ tenders also enable even greater access to the Bahamas' myriad exquisite island reefs and blue lagoons.

Motor yacht charter in the Bahamas

A luxury motor yacht provides guests with a tranquil haven to uncover the startling beauty of the Bahamas. Whether you want to peacefully bronze under Bahamian rays or get out the jet skis and whizz around deserted islands, a crewed motor yacht charter in the Bahamas provides you with boundless itinerary options. 

Sailing Yacht Charter in the Bahamas

Chartering a sailing yacht in the Bahamas means you can embrace all that these substantially beautiful islands have to offer. Cruising further afield to otherwise inaccessible sleepy villages with chalk-white beaches and waters suffused with a pale aqua glow is worth incorporating into any itinerary.

Catamaran Charter in the Bahamas

Given that the majority of catamarans have shallow drafts, crewed catamaran charters are a highly popular choice for Bahamas vacations. As you can cruise close to the cays, guests can savor the liberating feeling of being able to jump off-board at almost any point. Whether it's to dive amid sunken shipwrecks and admire shoals of fish that shimmy through fronds of coral in a kaleidoscope of color or to dance the night away at a private island under a blanket of stars; the choice is all yours.

How Much Does It Cost To Charter a Yacht in the Bahamas?

Bahamas yacht charters are plentiful, which means there are a vast array of motor yacht and catamaran charters to suit every type of budget. The average prices for motor and sailing yacht charters in the Bahamas are as follows;

For motor yacht rentals in Bahamas, prices can range from $42,100 to $1.47m per week, plus expenses

For luxury sailing yacht rentals in Bahamas, prices can go from $30,000 to $343,476 weekly, plus expenses

Tax for Yacht Charters in the Bahamas

What is the cost of tax for yacht charters in the Bahamas? From the 1st of July 2022, a new 10% VAT rate will be levied on the total charter fee, and is applicable to all yachts cruising in Bahamian waters. The new 10% levy does not replace the current 4% cruising fee which remains payable to the Port Department. 

All yachts wishing to cruise within the archipelago must now register for VAT in the Bahamas and receive a Bahamian TIN number. 

Please consult your chosen yacht charter broker who will be able to offer personalized advice on VAT and any other business for your next Bahamas yacht charter.

Foreign-Flagged Yachts in US Waters

There are strict and complicated rules governing commercial yacht charters (non-private) cruising US waters, which in general means that only US-flagged yachts or US built yachts with a coastwise endorsement can conduct yacht charters in the US. Furthermore, yachts that are available for charter are considered to be "engaging in a trade" and thus ineligible for a US cruising licence. Most luxury charter yachts are also not US duty paid.

As the majority of the charter fleet are foreign-flagged yachts, Bahamas yacht charters will likely begin outside of the US, usually in the Bahamian capital of Nassau where there is a large busy international airport.

That said, it is possible to pick-up charter guests in the US so long as the yacht's next port of call is outside of US waters. This can be a good option for those wishing to meet the boat in Florida and cruise down to the Bahamas from here.

Where Should I Begin My Yacht Charter in the Bahamas?

The vast majority of yacht charters in the Bahamas embark and disembark in the country's picturesque capital  Nassau , which is home to its best-known international ports, dotted with top-rung marinas all along its azure waters. The city is justly renowned for its throng of fine-dining options, boutiques, hip eateries, and casinos fringed by towering palm trees. Nassau is also conveniently located for cruising to the Exumas and beyond.

For a real respite from the crowds, it's common for yacht charter guests to embark their vessel at Marsh Harbor on the  Abaco Islands ,  where you can trace the mesmerizing string of sandy cays that can be found here. Its shores, a serene and shimmering topaz, are perfect for dropping anchor and taking the toys for a spin.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Bahamas by Yacht?

One of the great joys of choosing a Bahamas yacht charter is that its balmy climes and shallow waters make it more or less ideal to cruise all-year-round* .  But the Bahamas does have a peak season from mid-December to mid-April. The average temperatures of both Bahamian summers and winters are unsurprisingly tropical: hovering between 24-29 degrees and rarely dipping below this. 

During the summertime (from May until October), guests can expect endless sunshine and some humidity, while from November until April, the Bahamas has a slightly cooler temperature and colder waters.

*However, whilst Bahamian weather is pleasingly warm all-year the islands do fall within the hurricane belt, running from June until the end of November along the US East Coast and the Caribbean. The Western Caribbean's own hurricane season usually starts from mid-September until early November.

Nevertheless, it is worth keeping in mind that hurricanes in the Bahamas are fairly infrequent, and even less so than on the US East Coast.

Marinas in the Bahamas

It is not hyperbole to say that the Bahamas offers some of the most spectacular marinas in the world: from glamorous hotspots replete with award-winning restaurants, designer stores, and buzzing beach bars, to the exquisite barefoot luxury that emanates from the less frequented.

A slew of activities is on offer here, including bonefishing, ocean fishing, dolphin watching, golfing, and snorkeling. And that's not even to mention the dizzying array of casinos, water parks, and marine reserves you can also find. Simply put, marinas in the Bahamas are simply of the finest caliber.

But which marinas are the best? Below are some charter favorites:

• Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina : the newly renovated marina at Paradise Landing close to the famous Atlantis Resort in Nassau offers a raft of 5-star amenities, wellness facilities and world-class retail outlets, not to mention exclusive restaurants and bars, alongside an on-site customs facility and slips catering to yachts up to 420ft (128m) LOA.
• Treasure Cay Beach, Marina and Golf Resort (The Abacos): well-protected deep water marina, with excellent provisioning. Features an outstanding golf course, as well a spa for an extra dose of pampering. Excursions to see the delightful water-bound pigs can also be arranged here. It offers a 164-berth capacity up to 46m.
• Green Turtle Club and Marina (The Abacos): tranquil and conveniently located to Abaco's hotspots as well as a perfect spot for beach hikes and land-based activities. Accommodates 40 berths up to 39m.
• Atlantis Marina: iconic megayacht marina featuring a protected harbor with 63 berths up to 67m. Has an extensive number of facilities including a golf course, casino, spa, water park, and more. You can also arrange swimming with dolphins excursions here.
• Emerald Bay Marina (The Exumas): large superyacht marina that has a berth capacity of 150 for yachts up to 79m. Within easy reach of many mesmerizing cays, including Cave Cay and Staniel Cay.
• Palm Cay Marina (Nassau): ideal jumping point for exploring Paradise Island and the Exumas, with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities. 194 berth capacity up to 33m.
• Highbourne Cay Marina: exclusive marina on a privately owned island, seen as the gateway to the Exumas. Accommodates up to 26 berths.

Popular Anchorages in the Bahamas

The Bahamas has jaw-dropping anchorages in abundance, flecked all along the 590-mile-long archipelago.

In the Exumas , you must cruise towards Leaf Cay to meet the colony of stocky but amiable Iguanas who call it home. You won't miss them: they'll be ready and waiting to greet you when you drop anchor. You should also pay a visit to  Staniel Cay, where the famed  Thunderball Grotto ( named after the 1965 James Bond film) is located, to see a cave illuminated by light and flourishes of angelfish. Closeby, you'll find Big Major Cay's  swimming pigs, who have a seemingly never-ending capacity for treats, and Shroud Cay's sea turtles contently floating amid a dramatic underwater backdrop. Simply put, it's a wildlife lover's paradise.

In the Abacos, head south to the isolated Great Guana Cay and  spend an afternoon snorkeling around the marine park, or alternatively, head straight to its golf course. Further north, you'll find Green Turtle Cay : where fishing boats stand charmingly in front of timber houses in a perfectly graduated shade of pastels. Swimming pigs (yes, there's even more here!) are located in nearby Noname Cay . And last but not least, bathe in the calm, warm shores of  Treasure Cay,  where you will find some of the best beaches in the world.

Elsewhere, other popular anchorages include those in  Eleuthera , an island steeped in cultural significance but manages to retain its erstwhile charm. Set towards  St. George's Cay to drink up the peaceful ambiance of Spanish Wells beach  and meander the historic  Governor's Harbor.

Read more: 10 Day Exumas Yacht Charter Itinerary

Best Airports in the Bahamas for Yacht Charters

Reaching your crewed yacht charter in the Bahamas is a breeze, with more than 20 international airports at your disposal, plus myriad smaller private and public airports. However, some are more conveniently located to popular yacht charter destinations than others. Here are the most popular airports for yacht charters in the Bahamas:

• Nassau Lyndon-Pindling International Airport: best for charters starting in vibrant Nassau, as it is conveniently located to the docks of many world-class marinas and can be a quick tender ride from the airport. 
• Georgetown, Great Exuma Airport : ideally located to reach the world-famous swimming pigs in the Exumas. Daily international flights are available.
• North Eleuthera Airport: an international airport that is best for reaching the quaint Eleuthera and Harbor Island.
• Marsh Harbor International Airport: ideal for charters commencing on the crystal clear shores of Abacos, being only 7.9km away.
• Treasure Cay Airport : smaller than Marsh Harbor International Airport, this one is perfect for Northern Abacos yacht charters, taking a short water taxi ride to Green Turtle Cay to reach your destination.

Booking Advice from the Experts

We strongly recommend booking with your yacht charter broker at least three to six months in advance, as the Bahamas is a highly popular Caribbean luxury yacht charter destination. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from.

This also ensures your broker has enough time to craft a personalized itinerary and secure a berth at a popular marina.

Local Insight

• Keep in mind that the endless sunshine from mid-December until April attracts a high number of visitors to this idyllic location, and this is when the Bahamas is usually at its busiest.
• New Providence Island (where Nassau and the extraordinary Atlantis Resort and Marina are situated) tends to be heaving with cruise ships. If you are looking for a calmer charter, this is worth taking into consideration.
• Weather conditions and wind strength play a crucial role in anchorage spots in the Bahamas, so plan any overnight anchorages accordingly.
• Some anchorages can be a bit of a challenge to set: it's common for heavy grass to cover a large section of some of the better spots to drop anchor 
• Anchorages that appear to have a sandy bottom can oftentimes be just a thin layer of sand over a coral reef or rock, making it difficult to dig the anchor in. Don't be misled by them!

Most Popular Superyacht Hotspots in the Bahamas

In the north of the archipelago you'll find the Abacos : widely considered to be the boating capital of the Bahamas thanks to its unique geography. Epitomising laid-back Bahamian living, an Abacos yacht charter is ideal for those in search of stillness and solitude. Soak up its subtle alchemy at the vast 2,100 marine reserve in Pelican Cay,  fringed by blossoming coral, tame sea turtles, and dancing angelfish, or explore the superb surfing opportunities at Fowl Cays . For a journey through vivid color, pass a leisurely morning in nearby  Hope Tow n, admiring crayon-hued Bahamian architecture and  Elbow Cay's candy-striped lighthouse whilst drinking in their unpretentious ambiance.

After an afternoon spent floating on a late-summer heat haze, further on to Green Turtle Cay and sip on that famous Bahamian cocktail, the Goombay Smash, by a seafront taverna as the sun casts a peachy glow. Of course, no visit to the Abacos would be complete without a trip to the acclaimed  Treasure Cay Beach : its milky white sands and cyan shallows see it routinely end up on the world's most beautiful beaches list.

Home to 365 cays, days here could easily drift by diving off burnished rocks until the sun slowly slinks away. Life truly does revolve around the water in the Exumas, so think every watersport you could possibly imagine is a go here. Plus, it's the perfect shallow cruising ground for yacht charters, with no cruise ships in sight making it a discerning choice for those looking for repose.

Sailing towards Big Major's Cay is love at first sight for most: it's where you will find Pig Beach ,  and its utterly charming piggies gliding surprisingly effortlessly across the water. Nearby, plunge into the sea with nurse sharks at Compass Cay before ending the day sauntering along the remote  Three Sisters Beach as the sunsets. Whilst you are here, go onshore and absorb Bahamian culture to its fullest in  Georgetown.

Read more: 6 of the Best Beaches in the Bahamas

An Eleuthera yacht charter has come to encapsulate the island's name, which in Greek means 'freedom'. Secluded, slender, and over 100 miles long, Eleuthera is unquestionably the prettiest out of the Out Islands, fully earning its name as the Nantucket of the Caribbean. With the island's soft, salmon-colored sandy beaches and pastel-painted houses set among pineapple fields, it's hard not to become infatuated by its perfectly-packaged tropical charms.

Make sure you also visit the historic capital  Governor's Harbor  and the verdant  Hatchet Bay whilst you are cruising its unspoiled shores.

Harbour Island

Situated in the northwest of Eleuthera, Harbor Island is renowned for its astonishing Pink Sand Beach , which gets its unique rosy hue from the presence of millions of tiny crushed coral seashells. Packing a powerful punch to the senses, this seemingly endless stretch of sand which is cool-to-the-touch (and ideal for barefoot walking) extends over three miles and adored by the well-heeled. And you'll understand in an instant why when you visit.  Languid afternoons spent upon its long arc of soft sugar-textured sand, hugged by pale-blue waters and bathed in golden light will linger long in your memory.

But that's not all Harbor Island has to offer. It would be remiss not to mention Harbor Island's lively night scene, and the number of sophisticated boutiques huddled here: with Dunmore Town the ultimate go-to destination for designer wear.

Read more: The top 14 most Instagrammable places in the Bahamas .

Don't Miss:

Andros Barrier Reef: delve into shipwrecks and be greeted with a vast array of marine life at the third longest reef in the world. If you fancy bonefishing, this is among the world's best locations.

Warderick Wells: tether here to discover some of the rarest life forms on earth, as well as lobsters, turtles, and parrotfish.

Wax Cay: grab your jet skis for a thrilling trip through the cay's myriad of mangroves.

Lucayan National Park: a stunning park that is also home to the world's longest underwater cave system.

Walker's Cay: if you love sport-fishing, then this spot should be your prime choice.

Junkanoo: be serenaded by island-inspired calypso and flamboyant dance troupes in this vibrant street parade held every Boxing Day.

Glass Window Bridge: drink in the majestic panoramas here, with views of the rich, sapphire-tinted waters of the Atlantic to the left, and the aqua Caribbean to the right.

John Watling’s Distillery: set in a former plantation house, sample a traditional rum cocktail at the Red Turtle Tavern, bordered by leafy black olive trees.

Clifton Heritage National Park: snorkel around the largest underwater sculpture in the world — an 18-foot statue of a Bahamian girl.

Bimini: less-frequented, this island is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can swim with wild dolphins, so make the most of it.

Start Planning - Speak with a Charter Expert

Our yacht charter experts will:

• Discuss your vacation plans
• Check availability & shortlist suitable yachts
• Negotiate booking & prepare your itinerary

Need Advice?

Speak to a Charter Broker

Explore the Bahamas

Guide to The Exumas

Guide to Grand Bahama Island

Guide to Acklins & Crooked Island

Guide to Mayaguana

Guide to Rum Cay

Guide to Inagua

Guide to Long Island

Guide to Eleuthera

Guide to Berry Islands

Guide to Abacos Islands

Guide to Bimini

Guide to Cat Island

Guide to Freeport

Guide to Andros Island

Guide to Nassau

The bahamas yacht charter itineraries.

Make every moment count during your superyacht vacation with our carefully-curated yacht charter itineraries for the Bahamas. Designed by yachting experts, we've cultivated itineraries that will satisfy a range of requirements.

For yacht charter guests seeking intrigue, float alongside the Exumas' world-famous swimming pigs and friendly nurse sharks, or venture to the rose-colored sands of Harbor Island.

For party-goers and keen shoppers, Nassau, Paradise and the Grand Bahamas certainly tick the box with their high-end resorts, with an abundance of casino and fine dining options.

When it comes to magical subaquatic adventures, yacht charter guests can take their pick of spectacular diving and snorkeling sites in the Bahamas, such as the mesmerizingly beautiful isles of Abacos and Eleuthera.

Discover the Bahamas

World-famous swimming pigs, flamingo pink beaches, spellbinding anchorages, excellent diving opportunities and turquoise shallows that are perfect for families.

When to Go:

Mid-December to Mid-April

• Nassau Lyndon-Pindling International Airport
• Georgetown Great Exuma Airport
• North Eleuthera Airport
• Marsh Harbor International Airport
• Treasure Cay Airport

Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Bahamas 2024 & 2025

Crewed charter yachts in the bahamas.

• My Yacht Shortlist
• Save My Search
• Main Photo Main Photo
• Interior Interior
• Lifestyle Lifestyle
• Most Relevant

Image View Options

Length Options

Currency Options

Sort Search

• View Shortlist
• Save Search

91m   Lurssen

from $1,400,000 p/week

115m Lurssen

115m   2021

from $2,808,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Black Pearl 14

105m Oceanco

105m   2018

Christina O 34

99m Canadian Vickers

99m   1943/2020

from $756,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Carinthia VII 12

97m Lurssen

97m   2002/2023

from $1,512,000 p/w eek ♦︎

97m Feadship

97m   2017/2022

from $1,728,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Madsummer 12

95m Lurssen

from $1,296,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Aquarius 12

92m Feadship

from $1,500,000 p/w eek

Queen Miri 36

92m Neorion

92m   2004/2023

from $1,069,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady Lara 12

91m Lurssen

91m   2015/2023

from $1,400,000 p/w eek

90m Oceanco

90m   2018/2024

89m Oceanco

from $1,100,000 p/w eek

89m   2015/2023

Maltese Falcon 12

88m Perini Navi

88m   2006/2023

from $490,000 p/w eek

86m Scheepswerf Gebr. van der Werf

86m   1998/2024

from $535,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Man of Steel 12

86m Oceanco

86m   2010/2023

from $1,000,000 p/w eek

Victorious 12

85m Ak Yachts

from $864,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Alfa Nero 12

81m Oceanco

81m   2007/2021

from $728,000 p/w eek *

Elements 12

80m Yachtley

from $862,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Excellence 12

80m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $1,150,000 p/w eek

Amaryllis 12

78m Abeking & Rasmussen

78m   2011/2022

from $770,000 p/w eek

from $480,000 p/w eek

Huntress 12

76m Lurssen

from $725,000 p/w eek

75m Admiral Yachts

from $972,000 p/w eek ♦︎

75m Feadship

from $900,000 p/w eek *

75m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $880,000 p/w eek

from $983,000 p/w eek ♦︎

74m Nobiskrug

74m   2008/2013

from $562,000 p/w eek ♦︎

73m Delta Marine

73m   2006/2015

from $525,000 p/w eek

Nautilus 12

73m Picchiotti

from $807,000 p/w eek ♦︎

73m Lurssen

73m   2006/2020

from $615,000 p/w eek

Quantum of Solace 12

73m Turquoise Yachts

73m   2012/2022

from $574,000 p/w eek

Game Changer 17

72m Damen Yachting

72m   2017/2020

from $450,000 p/w eek

72m   2010/2023

from $600,000 p/w eek

Talisman C 12

71m Turquoise Yachts

71m   2011/2020

from $567,000 p/w eek

70m Feadship

from $650,000 p/w eek

Sherakhan 26

70m Vuijk Scheepswerven

70m   2005/2022

from $589,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Sycara V 12

68m Nobiskrug

68m   2010/2017

Wayfinder 12

68m Astilleros Armon

from $375,000 p/w eek

68m Icon Yachts

68m   2010/2020

from $540,000 p/w eek

67m Benetti

from $680,000 p/w eek

67m Shadow Marine

67m   2007/2008

from $120,000 p/w eek

67m Alloy Yachts

67m   2011/2019

from $351,000 p/w eek ♦︎

66m Rossinavi

from $637,000 p/w eek *

Invictus 12

66m Delta Marine

66m   2013/2020

from $650,000 p/w eek *

65m Benetti

Eternity 17 7 12

65m Codecasa

65m   2010/2022

from $390,000 p/w eek

from $462,000 p/w eek

Silver Angel 12

65m   2009/2015

from $425,000 p/w eek

64m Benetti

64m   2016/2021

from $475,000 p/w eek

63m Halter Marine

63m   1978/2022

from $350,000 p/w eek *

Soundwave 12

63m Benetti

from $702,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Utopia IV 12

63m Rossinavi

from $505,000 p/w eek

Baton Rouge 12

63m Icon Yachts

from $454,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lucky Lady 10

63m Oceanco

63m   2002/2022

from $310,000 p/w eek

Nora 18 8 12

62m Icon Yachts

62m   2013/2019

from $490,000 p/w eek *

62m Viareggio SuperYachts

62m   2009/2023

62m Feadship

from $440,000 p/w eek *

Sorrento 12

62m Benetti

62m   2010/2020

from $345,000 p/w eek

Katharine 12

61m   2000/2021

from $335,000 p/w eek

61m Abeking & Rasmussen

61m   2012/2022

from $643,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady Kathryn V 12

61m Lurssen

Top Five II 12

61m Hakvoort

from $550,000 p/w eek

Blue Moon 12

60m Feadship

60m   2005/2021

from $395,000 p/w eek

Book with Ease - Speak with a Charter Expert

Our charter experts will:

Enquire now for yacht availability & free consultation.

Bahamas Yacht Search:

• Bubble name

Yacht Amenities

Top 'Things To Do' in the Bahamas

Explore underwater sculptures and woodland trails

A playground for sealife

The Bahamian hotspot that Hollywood fell in love with

More Things To Do

Bahamas Yacht Charter Q&A

Your vessel will need to have a shallow draft (no more than 4m) as Bahamas waters aren't deep. If you would like to visit the Bahamas by superyacht, it will need to have a shallow draft below 4m or a retractable keel to cruise comfortably and make the most of the idyllic anchorages found here.

Browse with ease on our site a wide-ranging selection of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans for charter in the Bahamas. Select by your chosen dates, number of guests, yacht type, features, and preferred onboard toys and we'll show you what's available.

If you decide to make an enquiry, a yacht charter broker will then contact you to provide you with a custom charter proposal based on your needs.

You can also reach out to your yacht charter broker directly, and they will be able to research for you the ideal yacht charter in the Bahamas.

Mid-December to mid-April is the Bahamas' peak season, characterized by endless sunshine and pleasingly warm waters.

Nassau is the invariably popular choice to begin a Bahamas yacht charter. Not only is the city astoundingly beautiful and replete with world-class marinas, hip boutiques, restaurants, and more, but reaching other Bahamas destinations like the Exumas is a breeze.

In most cases, a completed charter agreement and 50% of the charter fee is required as a deposit to secure your luxury yacht charter, which is payable once the contract has been signed.

The Bahamas is a highly popular yacht charter destination, which for guests means there is a yacht to suit practically every budget.

When booking, keep in mind the additional costs that aren't included in the base rate, namely tax and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). Typically set at 30% of the charter fee, the APA is paid in advance and covers expenses such as fuel, berthing, food,  drinks, as well as any special requests (such as for tenders that are not carried by yacht, equipment hire, etc.)

As Featured In

The YachtCharterFleet Difference

YachtCharterFleet makes it easy to find the yacht charter vacation that is right for you. We combine thousands of yacht listings with local destination information, sample itineraries and experiences to deliver the world's most comprehensive yacht charter website.

San Francisco

• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on X
• Follow us on Instagram
• Find us on LinkedIn
• Add My Yacht
• Affiliates & Partners

Popular Destinations & Events

• St Tropez Yacht Charter
• Monaco Yacht Charter
• St Barts Yacht Charter
• Greece Yacht Charter
• Mykonos Yacht Charter
• Caribbean Yacht Charter

Featured Charter Yachts

• Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter
• Wheels Yacht Charter
• Victorious Yacht Charter
• Andrea Yacht Charter
• Titania Yacht Charter
• Ahpo Yacht Charter

Receive our latest offers, trends and stories direct to your inbox.

Please enter a valid e-mail.

Thanks for subscribing.

Search for Yachts, Destinations, Events, News... everything related to Luxury Yachts for Charter.

Yachts in your shortlist

15 days sailing itinerary in the Bahamas

by Kanika from SamBoat | Feb 23, 2022

Do you need some sun, coconut trees, turquoise lagoons and a place to clear your mind? Head out on a 15-day sailing itinerary in the Bahamas Islands to feel cut off from the world.

⛵The Bahamas is an extraordinary sailing destination

Just mentioning the name of the Bahamas is enough to make anyone dream. The country consists of hundreds of islands and thousands of beaches that await you there. With your sailboat, you will be able to admire the vibrant, warm colors of the ocean : from emerald green to turquoise blue. Renting a sailboat in the Bahamas is the ideal solution to discover the beauty of the ocean. Moreover, there will be no shortage of activities on your boat: snorkeling, scuba diving, relaxing and anchoring on dreamy islands. 

⚓ What you need to know about sailing in the Bahamas

This sailing itinerary in the Bahamas is relatively easy thanks to the mild weather and constant winds. The difficulty lies in anticipating the ocean floors, with sometimes only 1m of depth. The sandy or rocky bottom is clear and you will see the differences between sand and the darker areas where you will most likely find coral. Observing the color of the water is therefore a good reference for navigation. In addition to that, we recommend that you use marine charts. You will find few tidal phenomenons in the Bahamas, as the tide coefficients are very low, on the other hand you can reach 6 knots of current in some places.

☀️ When should I go sailing in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas is a perfect tropical destination all year round. Regardless of the time of year, the Bahamas offers perfect sailing conditions.

15-day sailing itinerary in the Bahamas

For your next vacation on a sailboat or catamaran, consider sailing for several weeks in the Caribbean. This 15 day itinerary will leave you astonished by the amazing scenery and will bless you with a lot of sunshine throughout your journey.

Departure: Great Guana Cay

This is the ideal starting point for a boating excursion in the Bahamas, as you will be immersed in the local culture right away. You will also be able to taste many Bahamian specialties in the small, picturesque village that sits on the island.

Stopover 1: Green Turtle Cay

20 nautical miles, 4 hours of sailing 

On this part of the island, you will find large stretches of sand and deserted beaches. If you love animals, head to No Name Cay, a small islet where you will see many families of pigs that love to go on the beaches and rub shoulders with tourists. 

Stopover 2: Great Turtle Cay → Bullock Harbor

30 nautical miles, 6 hours of sailing

Bullock Harbor is also called “The Village” as this is where the majority of the locals live. You will find the main administrative offices there too. It is the ideal stopover to discover the local town and taste the culinary specialties of the Bahamas. 

Before heading to Elcuthera, we recommend a stopover in Nassau. This island is a good place for refueling your boat and getting your strength back before sailing to Eleuthera, where you should expect 40 miles or about 6 hours of navigation. 

Stopover 3: Bullock Harbor → Eleuthera

40 nautical miles, 8 hours of sailing 

Eleuthera is a narrow and long island, which is particularly famous for its pink sandy beaches. You will even find a natural swimming pool called Ocean Hole populated by turtles and tropical fish. For surfing enthusiasts, you can go to Surfer’s Beach, where waves regularly come to delight adrenaline seekers. 

Stopover 4: Eleuthera → Highborne Cay

25 miles, 5 hours of sailing 

There is no lack of activities on this islet since it is in front of the deserted beach of Horseshoe Bay. You can discover the beautiful reef called “Octopus Garden ”. On the beach you will surely meet the harmless Iguanas that live here. 

Stopover 5: Highborne Cay → Norman Cay

3 nautical miles, 45 minutes of sailing

Norman Cay and its reef is a must-see for any itinerary in the Bahamas. You will be able to admire a plane wreck at a depth of only 3 meters. This natural environment is a perfect habitat for hundreds of colorful fish species.

Stopover 6: Norman Cay → Warderick Wells Cay

15 nautical miles – 3 hours of sailing 

Warderick Wells Cay is home to the largest marine park in the Caribbean. The Exuma Cay Land and Sea Park covers 456 km2. You will see many amazing creatures and protected species as the anchorage is very regulated in this area. 

Stopover 7: Wells Cay → Cat Island

50 nautical miles, 8 hours of sailing

On this island you will find the highest peak of the Bahamas. Mount Alvernia is only 63 meters high. By stopping over on Cat Island, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs by going on short hikes. You can also enjoy the beautiful local beaches: 

• Little San Salvador 
• Pigeon Cay Beach 
• Half Moon Beach 

When you have finished visiting all these beaches, you can slowly sail north to Spanish Wells.

Stopover 8: Cat Island → Spanish Wells

25 miles – 5 hours of sailing.

Going north, you can stop at the small islands of Saint George’s Cay and Charles Island. Spanish Wells is only 2 miles long and 800 meters wide. You will find a charming little pontoon to dock, and you can start a small tour of the island by foot. 

Stopover 9: Spanish Wells → Elbow Cay

50 nautical miles – 10 hours of sailing  

If you stop over on the island of Elbow Cay, we recommend that you stop at Tahiti Beach. You can drop anchor and practice snorkelling; the beach is home to beautiful coral reefs. 

It’s time for your last night in the Caribbean, so enjoy your last Bahamian sunset. 

Return: Elbow Cay → Great Guana Cay 

It is time to head back to your point of departure in order to return your boat and proceed with some administrative duties. There you have it, now you can return to the mainland with many amazing memories!

If you liked this itinerary in the Caribbean, you might also like our itinerary for a 7 day adventure on the British Virgin Islands . 

🍃 By doing this sailing itinerary in the Bahamas entirely on a sailboat you will travel 415 km and save 36 liters of fuel. 

Set sail into the new year.

Featured , General Sailing

Why Sailing is a fantastic way to start 2024 As 2024 approaches and we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, the beginning of a fresh year often inspires us to seek new adventures and embrace novel experiences. If you're looking for a unique and invigorating...

Top Five Winter Sailing Destinations 2023

Destinations

Just in time for the upcoming holiday travel season, SamBoat is revealing its top five winter sailing destinations. In this blog, we embark on a maritime journey to uncover the most coveted winter sailing destinations, where azure waters and sun-kissed beaches provide...

Spooky Maritime Mysteries

We’re usually focused on sharing fantastic charter offers, destinations, and sailing guides here at SamBoat, but we also love an excellent maritime story. For some Halloween fun, we thought we would share some spooky nautical mysteries. The Flying...

Guide to choosing the right boat to rent in Cabo

So, you’ve decided you’re heading to Cabo for vacation. And you want to experience a yacht charter in Cabo to truly enjoy everything the Sea of Cortez has to offer for an afternoon. Let me help you choose the right vessel for your boat rental in Cabo. When choosing...

Top 10 Christmas Destinations for Boating Enthusiasts

As the holiday season approaches, boating enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to combine their love for the open water with the festive spirit of Christmas. From charming coastal towns to tropical paradises, numerous destinations around the world offer a...

NASSAU SAILING BOAT TOURS

Relax on the Beach and Snorkel at a beautiful coral reef.  Free cancellations 24 hours before tour! 

4.5 stars on tripadvisor.

Relax on the Beach and Snorkel at a Beautiful Reef!

We offer motorboat tours.  You can swim with turtles and snorkel a beautiful reef at Rose Island and surrounding islands, or just relax on the beach! The local Bahamian captain will tell you all about the Bahamas and let you relax and jam to some fun music!

Shore Excursions

Island hop as you snorkel a reef and relax on the beach at rose island and surrounding islands.

Swimming in crystal clear water doesn't get much better than that!  We will board an intimate motorboat with just your group or with just a few others onboard (you choose!).  Listen to a local Bahamian captain tell you about the history and vibe of the Bahamas as you pass majestic Paradise Island and head out to beautiful Rose Island to snorkel at a colorful reef and relax on the beach. Tours last 4 hours and are perfect for cruise customers who have a limited time at port or for those staying on the island. Perfectly situated just a 5 minute taxi ride from Paradise Island, Downtown, and the Cruise Port.  Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour.

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Book a Hotel
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Required Travel Documents
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Transportation
• Royal Gifts
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

REAL-LIFE WATER WORLD

Bahamas cruises.

Soak up island views and aquatic adventures with a cruise to the Bahamas.

A respite for sun and sand seekers, the Bahamas is home to light blue beaches, translucent underwater caves, a rich royal heritage and exclusive private isles. These can all be found throughout a beautifully scattered string of 700 islands (most of which are uninhabited). Cruise to the Bahamas to take a dive and witness a majestic coral garden at Orange Bowl reef, hang out at ultra-luxurious resorts like Atlantis, and shop resort fashion in Paradise Island or Nassau. The Bahamas has an island for every taste and style, and it's easy to enjoy its subtropical charm during an overnight stint or a week-long cruise. Discover the magic with a Bahamas cruise.

Save Big With These Bahamas Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Bahamas cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

Get Royal Deals, Sign Up Today

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

FIND YOUR SUN-DRENCHED PLAYGROUND

Home to enchanting shades of blue and deliciously warm breezes, the Bahamas is the ideal place for adventures involving the sea. The best Bahamas cruises will allow you to dive and discover underwater worlds, meet marine animals and shop for island souvenirs by the ocean. 

INTO THE BLUE

Dive and drift through warm waters to reach colorful coral reefs in Bimini like Rainbow Reef. See mysterious shipwrecks like Theo's Wreck and Sea Star Wreck in Grand Bahama. And take part in some thrilling wall diving — where you can explore deep reef edges — in New Providence.

AQUATIC ADRENALINE IN ATLANTIS

For water thrills and close encounters with marine creatures, head to lush and majestic Atlantis, the fantasy resort by the sea that boasts the world's largest open-air marine habitat and what is perhaps the most exhilarating waterpark around: Aquaventure.

SHOP SEASHELLS BY THE SEASHORE

Shop in the Bahamas with an ocean breeze blowing your way as you explore the crafts center in Bimini, the straw market in Grand Bahama and the exclusive hub that is Crystal Court in Atlantis resort.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Beyond the coasts lie more wonderful discoveries. Saunter the lively streets of Nassau, chill by a freshwater pool in Perfect Day at CocoCay, or get a history lesson at the Heritage Museum during your cruise to the Bahamas. 

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Shake off the sand and delve deep into towns like Nassau and Freeport and the remote island of CocoCay. Take a nature walk or a Jeep adventure through the pine forests, or stretch your legs at the Rand Nature Center, which offers bird-watching and installations by local artists.

THIS IS YOUR PERFECT DAY

To take your vacation experience to an entirely new level, visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, where a perfect day is waiting. Swim in the Bahamas' largest freshwater pool, go down the tallest waterslide in North America, and chill with a book in the only private overwater cabanas in the Bahamas.

PLAY IN PASTIMES

Out of all the towns in the Bahamas, Nassau encapsulates this destination's heritage with many historical landmarks. Stop by Fort Charlotte, the Queen's Staircase, Pompey Square or the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas and get a dose of its past.

WATERSCAPES ON THE BEST BAHAMAS CRUISES

A cruise to the Bahamas is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the Bahamas onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

DECK DEFYING DAYS

Fill your days on a short escape with Oasis Class thrills — onboard Allure of the Seas ®. Tame waves on two FlowRider® surf simulators. Zipline nine decks up. And catch jaw dropping entertainment, night after night. All while sailing to the picture-perfect shores of The Bahamas and our private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay.

EXPLORE ALLURE OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ISLES

If you’re craving crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and island vibes turned way, way up, these getaways check all the boxes. Each week-long sailing onboard Adventure of the Seas includes two thrill- and chill-filled days at our top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay — plus stops in Grand Bahama Island and  Cozumel . 

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Bahamas Cruises Insider

As a subtropical destination, the Bahamas is blessed with year-long comfortable temperatures that range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes packing an easy chore, with only spring and summer frocks to carry for your trip.

To get around, take the local jitneys, the buses making the rounds to Nassau and Cable Beach. Visit the Bahamas and hop on the ferry to get to Paradise Island, the home of the Atlantis resort.

For those looking to encounter some of the Bahamas famous aquatic critters, October to January is the best time to see Tiger Sharks, December to March is when Hammerhead Sharks migrate through Bimini, and you can find Oceanic Whitetips April to June.

Top 7 Most Thrilling Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

March 8, 2024

Experience the top 7 most thrilling things to do at the Perfect Day at CocoCay from sliding down the tallest waterslide in North America to zip lining across the island and much more.

Top 4 Insider Tips to Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day At CocoCay top 4 insider travel tips uncovers free things to do, places to go and thrills you can share with friends. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

Guide To Chill Island at Perfect Day

Discover Chill Island insider tips to all the relaxing things to do from renting overwater cabanas with VIP services, snorkeling with the friendly manta rays to finding the best places to unwind and soak up the island vibes.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Set sail to the best kid-friendly destination in the world on a cruise from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to Perfect Day at CocoCay and discover all the amazing family-friendly activities, award-winning shows, and record-breaking attractions.

Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations

Enjoy your family summer vacation on a cruise to Perfect Day CocoCay and discover the private islands beautiful beaches, kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants and record-breaking water rides and activities for all ages. Find summer cruise deals.

The 5 Most Relaxing Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Discover the most relaxing things to do on your luxury getaway to Perfect Day at CocoCay from the luxury CocoCay Overwater Cabanas to the most popular Chill Island Cabanas and much more.

Relaxing Weekend Caribbean Vacation Ideas

Envision your next weekend Caribbean vacation, plan a short cruise or quick getaway to the best travel destinations to visit. Adventure awaits!

Bahamas Travel Hacks for Families

If you're taking the whole family on a Bahamas vacation, we've got some travel hacks for families to make your kid-friendly trip easier.

Quick Bahamas & Key West Vacations

Bahamas & Key West vacation getaways are perfect for travelers looking for pristine beaches, rich history, delicious food, & stunning wildlife encounters.

Look for the "Bahamahost" sticker when getting a taxi — the label identifies those belonging to a program that promotes excellent service to tourists.

If you happen to visit on the second Friday of the month, go find the Government House and witness the Changing of the Guard, a British custom that's been performed since 1958.

The Bahamian dollar is kept at the same value as the U.S. dollar, making it easy to pay, as both are used interchangeably.

LOCAL CUISINE ISLAND TWIST AND TANG 

There's a lot of similarity between the soul food of the southern U.S., and Bahamian cuisine, that blends the Caribbean tang with its very own spice, creating a trademark flavor unique to the region.

FRUITS OF THE SEA

Little-known as a culinary ingredient in the continental U.S., conch is a large mollusk (akin to clams) with a meaty texture. Locals use it to prepare conch salad, conch fritters, conch chowder and more.

PEAS N' RICE

Pigeon peas are mixed with onions, tomatoes and spices, and incorporated into cooking rice. Often simply called Peas n' Rice, but there's a lot of savory flavors thrown in, like tomato paste, fresh thyme and salted pork or bacon.

CITRUS DELIGHT

Switcha, which many locals consider the official Bahamian drink, blends lemons and limes to concoct a powerful accompaniment to dessert or a refreshing beverage on a hot sunny day.

RELATED PORTS

Laze in a beachside hammock or get your thrills at Thrill Waterpark on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Jump onboard a Bahamas cruise to stroll along the waterfront of capital city Nassau and see its distinctive pastel-colored buildings. Or explore waterfalls and botanic gardens on Grand Bahama Island.

Nassau, Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas

Baltimore, Maryland

Charleston, South Carolina

Bimini, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Miami, Florida

Related Destinations

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Bahamas Bareboat Charter Guide

Ever thought about a sailing charter the bahamas the idyllic destination.

Going on a Bahamas  bareboat charter  is an unforgettable experience and destination for everyone to enjoy. The Bahamas has beautiful white sandy beaches to enjoy, blue waters to swim in and picturesque islands to explore.

On a Bahamas bareboat charter , there is something relaxing for everyone, from water sports to restaurants serving fresh cocktails and delicious dishes.

Bahamas Bareboat Charter

On a Bahamas bareboat charter , you will discover 200 km of paradise. Gentle light winds and easy light sailing conditions with the options of visiting some of the finest scuba-diving spots in the world, with an easy line of sight navigation.

The Bahamas is a collection of over 700 islands, islets, and cays located in the Atlantic Ocean, just north of Cuba and southeast of Florida in the United States. Many of the islands are uninhabited or privately owned, but many are home to resorts and welcome yachts with marinas, restaurants, and beautiful beaches to anchor.

The Bahamas is made up of different collections of islands the largest island in the Bimini and most Bahamas bareboat charter  depart from Nassau. Other collections of islands worth visiting are Bimini, Abaco Islands, Grand Bahama, Inagua, Andros Islands, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Rum Cay, Long Island, San Salvador Island, Ragged Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Exuma, Berry Islands, New Providence, and Nassau.

In this guide, we hope to give you an insight into everything you need to know about booking and going on a Bahamas  bareboat charter .

Your Guide to Bahamas Bareboat Charter

Why go on a bahamas bareboat charter, things to do on a bahamas bareboat charter, when to book a bahamas bareboat charter, what boats are available to charter, what are the benefits of a bareboat charter, where can you sail, what qualifications or requirements are essential for a bahamas bareboat charter.

Bahamas Bareboat Charter. Going on a Bahamas bareboat charter is an amazing experience for the whole family. Whether you are thinking about travelling as a group of friends or family, a bareboat charter is a wonderful adventure for everyone, no matter what ages or group size. On a Bahamas bareboat charter, you can explore over 700 islands with incredible snorkelling spots, gorgeous cays, and easy passages between islands.

Bahamas Islands. Going on a Bahamas bareboat charter is a great way to experience and witness the islands within this area without just staying in a resort on one island. On a Bahamas bareboat charter, you will discover secluded bights, the very best snorkelling spots, and impossibly gorgeous cays.

Places to Visit. The Bahamas is filled with wonderful places to visit and places to moor or swim on a Bahamas bareboat charter. Here are some recommendations for the best places to visit on a Bahamas bareboat charter.

• Nassau – The starting point of many yacht charters and is a great place to purchase anything else required for your charter.
• Highbourne Cay, Exumas – A great place to moor overnight and spend the day kayaking, visiting the uninhabited beach, and snorkel in the reef. Another great diving spot is at Allan’s Cay and Leaf Cay beach.
• Warderick Wells Cay, Exumas – The heart of the largest protected sea park in the Caribbean, where you can snorkel, go hiking (on the 20 nature trails), swim, or just relax on the deserted beaches.
• Shroud Cay, Exumas – Uninhabited archipelago with white sandy beaches, channels with mangroves, caves which are home to lobster, sea turtles, and other sea creatures.
• Norman Cay, Exumas – Home to world-class snorkelling spots, perfect location to relax on the beach, and a natural environment.
• Great Guana Cay, Exumas – One of the largest anchorages in the Exumas, well protected from the winds, with a little town called Black Point Settlement.
• Staniel Cay – Backdrop for two James Bond movies, great snorkelling, and dive sites.
• Rose Island – An 11 miles stretch of beach with excellent snorkelling areas, a great place to watch the sunset, coves, and four beaches – First Beach, MacTaggart’s Beach, Footprints Beach, and Sandy Toes.

Islands . Other collections of islands worth visiting are Bimini, Abaco Islands, Grand Bahama, Inagua, Andros Islands, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Rum Cay, Long Island, San Salvador Island, Ragged Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Exuma, Berry Islands, New Providence, and Nassau.

Best Time to Book a Bahamas Bareboat Charter. The best time to book a Bahamas bareboat charter is now! We have fully qualified and knowledgable sales advisors who can find your perfect Bahamas bareboat charter and help make your sailing dreams come true.

Expert Advice. Our sales advisors can give you recommendations of areas to visit, itineraries, and help with choosing the perfect boat for your trip. Our sales advisors have knowledge of the boats and area, as well as wind conditions and weather at specific times of the year.

Boats In The Bahamas . In the Bahamas, we have a large number of boats available for charter. The Bahamas is a big sailing destination, with lots of options, for itineraries and hundreds of marinas with boats available all over the country, depending on what itinerary you desire.

Bareboat Charter.  For a Bahamas bareboat charter, the boats available are the following (this list depends and varies on the availability at the time of the request and what boats are available for your chosen dates).

• Moorings 4800, 4000 and 42.1
• Sunsail 404 and 444

Bahamas Charters.  A Bahamas bareboat charter is great for families and groups who want to travel at their own pace around their chosen islands. These charters also offer flexibility while avoiding the costs of a skipper, and allow for variations in itineraries and changes to schedules. Bareboat charters are rewarding experiences and a great chance to use existing skills and qualifications to guide your group around their charter.

Freedom. A Bahamas bareboat charter is ideal for exploring a variety of destinations and create your own itinerary. On this type of charter, you don’t need any additional crew, so you are free to travel and sail at your own pace stopping at any place which takes your fancy.

Sailing Itineraries. On a Bahamas bareboat charter, you can take whichever route you desire, depending on what you what to see and explore. The Bahamas has lots of options for itineraries, depending on whether you want to visit islands, beaches, or resorts.

Exploring Islands. Each area of the Bahamas has different things and places to explore depending on what you want to see and do on a Bahamas bareboat charter.

Required Qualifications. To go on a Bahamas bareboat charter at least one person on board should have previous sailing experience and hold the necessary qualifications. Previous experience and a resume are always required and the relevant knowledge of the area and what to look out for.

Happy To Help. Policies vary across countries and even operators in the same region, so it makes sense to check. Whether you are a SailChecker customer or not, we will happily review your qualifications and experience.

Book Your Bahamas Bareboat Charter With Us Today

Amazing sailing experiences, our amazing customers.

I didn't think sailing with my family would be so much fun...

Sailing for the first time.

Everything went smooth, the paper processing, special requests and the specs of tht check-in procedure. Boat was also in good shape, so no complaints and a worry free holiday...

We had a great experience with booking through sailchecker.

Informative and looked for the best value for our family. Very good customer service on this side and in Greece. Great boat and skipper...

Fantastic holiday from start to finish.

They were very responsive and very quick to answer questions via email and instant chat. They had extensive knowledge of the area...

We will most definitely use their services for our next bareboat sailing vacation.

Sailchecker were professional from start to finish - and were awesome dealing with a problem! Our first Yacht had serious issues and sail checker helped us to resolve it...

They are easy to deal with, straightforward and honest and I would recommend them to anyone planning a charter holiday.

During the Coronavirus pandemic, Kate and her colleagues at Sailchecker have performed brilliantly. They have been considerate and highly efficient in re-organising our Turkey charter and also provided lots of assistance in getting our Yacht Security Deposit insurance policy transferred to match our revised charter dates.

Truly worthy of a 5 star rating!

Would I go sailing again? OMG yes! Sailing is the perfect family holiday. Boys loved the activities, I enjoy relaxing as well...

Sailchecker.com arranged a sailing cruise her family of 2 sons, daughter & hubby in the BVI with their own.

It was sail in the day… party at night. We couldn't have wanted a better skipper or a Spring Break!  Good times...

Arranged for 6 friends to sail Spring Break in the British Virgin Islands for under $500 each.

All bookings and confirmations was always accurate with no delays. Our boat was also fabulously maintained and the Skipper new the area extremely well...

Everything was down to the tee.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 215 reviews on Trustpilot

Got a Burning Question About Bahamas Bareboat Charter?

We’re happy to answer any yacht charter & sailing question, leave us a quick question here, or call your local office, the numbers are located in the footer below. when not arrange a call back.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Founder Member IFCYA

Yacht Charter & Sailing.

Start typing and press Enter to search

Under new management - check back soon for 2024 sailing schedule!

Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships

Boston harbor sailing cruises, another great boston harbor cruise season in the books. see you in 2024, thank you for supporting small business..

• Fan Favorite Cruise!

Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise on a Tall Ship

If Boston is best seen from the water, then by far the best time to see it is during a sunset cruise on a classic schooner!

• Calendar Summer , Fall
• Hour Glass 1.5-2 Hours

Featured Cruise

• Calendar Special Event
• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Boston Harborfest Fireworks Cruise – Liberty Star

Kick off the Independence Day Weekend with a BANG and join the fun on Boston’s Tall Ships for an amazing fireworks display, being launched right in Boston Harbor.

• HARBOR HISTORY CRUISE ON A TALL SHIP!
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

"A Sail Through Time" with Boston By Foot

“A SAIL THROUGH TIME”  Learn about Boston’s history while aboard a classic schooner. The cruise follows the paths of ships like the Flying Cloud, Astrea, and Columbia, exploring how their voyages shaped Boston and helped industrialize the country.  Tourguide / Onboard Docent from Boston By Foot.

• PLEASE CHECK BACK FOR 2024 SCHEDULE

Boston Harbor Day Sailing Cruises

Come aboard for a day sail in Boston Harbor on one of our classic schooners! Sailing is a great, family-friendly way to see Boston from a new viewpoint.

Browse Boston Harbor Cruises!

Returning in Spring 2023!

Join us on the water today and experience Boston’s favorite tall ships!

Come aboard with Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships for an unforgettable authentic tall ship sailing excursion in Boston during the summer with Boston Harbor public sails or private charters .

We offer tall ship Boston Harbor cruises and charters, which are the best way to experience Boston sailing in the city’s historic harbor and enjoy unparalleled views of the city with coworkers, friends, and family!

On board, guests have the opportunity to temporarily become part of the crew and step back in time for a taste of what it was like to sail the magnificent ships that were once a common sight in every port. Sailing opportunities include harbor cruises, sunset sails, our specialty Boston Harborfest Sails, USS Constitution Turnaround Sails, and Rum & Revelry sails.

Five-Star Reviews from TripAdvisor

No kidding, this is one of the BEST vacations, and most uniques experiences WE HAVE EVER HAD. Don’t miss the chance to do it. There were passengers from late thirties to mid-seventies aboard, and everyone enjoyed themselves.

The snorkeling was excellent including coral rocks and islands, and even a sunken freighter. One of the best traveling experiences we have every had. Would not hesitate to recommend to anyone looking for an exciting and satisfying sailing experience.

Sailing on a tall ship is like no other vacation. If you’ve ever wanted to do it, it doesn’t get any better than the Liberty Clipper. The crew, Captain Noah, Andrew, Ben, Rikka, Mitch, Jewel, Cam, Brian and Lincoln were excellent!

We loved seeing Boston this way. The sunset was beautiful and the crew was friendly. My only regret is that we didn’t do the longer cruise.

Carnival Freedom Battles Fire in Bahamas

• March 23, 2024

The Carnival Freedom suffered a fire on Saturday afternoon while sailing in stormy weather in the Bahamas.

Unconfirmed eyewitness reports posted to social media said the fire was due to a lightning strike, with the crew quickly getting the fire under control and eventually putting it out.

Video posted from passengers aboard showed the portside of Carnival’s whale-tail funnel on fire. Carnival Cruise Lien said on social media that part of the funnel had then fallen onto the open deck.

The ship reported the fire just after 3:00 p.m. local time while it was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a cancelled call to Princess Cay due to weather.

“There are no operational issues with the ship’s systems and the ship is expected to arrive to Freeport on Sunday morning,” Carnival said in a statement posted on social media.

“The captain has made multiple announcements to guests and crew and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from all open decks. There are no injuries. The port side portion of the funnel has fallen onto Deck 10 and the fire response is putting out the flames.”

Carnival also said it did not expect any  impact to the next Carnival Freedom voyage scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday, March 25.

Of note, the this is the same ship that had a funnel fire in 2022, with Carnival having to replace the funnel at a drydock in Spain late last year.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

Fire extinguished on Carnival Freedom cruise ship after witnesses reported possible lightning strike

Heath Barnes opened his book on the upper decks of the Bahamas-bound Carnival Freedom cruise ship in between bouts of rain.

But his relaxation Saturday afternoon was suddenly stolen with “the loudest thunder and lightning I have ever heard,” he told CNN.

Barnes, of Woodsboro, Maryland, went back inside and minutes later learned from his nephew and his nephew’s two friends, all 16, the ship was on fire.

“I thought they were giving me a hard time, but I got up and went out on the balcony and sure enough, the flames and smoke was pouring out of the tail,” said Barnes, who shared footage of the incident with CNN.

Cruise ship officials reported the fire broke out on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel around 3:15 p.m. local time, according to a news release from Carnival Cruise Line.

Witnesses reported the ship may have been struck by lightning, but that has not been confirmed and the cause is still being investigated, according to the cruise line.

As the ship’s fire response team worked to extinguish the blaze, the cruise’s captain turned the ship toward an area of heavy rain to help put out the flames, the release states.

The fire appeared to be extinguished about two hours after it ignited. There were no reported injuries to guests, but two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation, according to the cruise line.

The port side portion of the exhaust funnel fell onto deck 10 of the ship as a result of the fire, according to Carnival.

The ship was about 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, when the fire broke out. The blaze started as the ship headed to Freeport, the release said.

The cruise line said passengers were able to attend dinner as planned Saturday night.

The US Coast Guard has been notified about the incident.

Barnes said after the fire broke out, passengers were told to remain in their cabins until about 5:40 p.m.

This was his 18th Carnival Cruise trip.

“This was the most interesting one,” he said. “It’s not their fault, it’s Mother Nature.”

Carnival said later on Sunday it had completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport and discovered the damage was worse than the cruise line initially reported.

The Carnival Freedom cruise trips originally scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral, Florida, on March 25 and March 29 have been canceled to allow “immediate repair to stabilize the funnel,” the cruise line said in a news release.

“The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs,” according to the updated release.

Carnival announced full refunds and future cruise credits for passengers scheduled to depart on the canceled cruises.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com

Carnival Cruise ship catches fire after possible lightning strike

The cruise line said damage to the ship is "more than we first thought" and will require immediate repair to stabilize the funnel. cruises scheduled to depart from port canaveral on march 25th and march 29th have been canceled..

Heath Barnes was a passenger on the Carnival Freedom ship when the boat's exhaust funnel caught fire during a thunderstorm. The ship is back at Port Canaveral for repairs. 

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Carnival Freedom ship caught fire Saturday near the Bahamas after passengers reported a lightning strike on the boat during a thunderstorm .

Carnival Cruise Line said the crew reported a fire on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel around 3:15 p.m. Saturday. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, sailing to Freeport after being unable to dock at Princess Cay due to weather conditions. 

"Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire," Carnival Cruise Line said. "While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport on Sunday."

LIGHTNING FATALITIES WERE SECOND LOWEST ON RECORD IN 2023, SAFETY COUNCIL SAYS

Around the time of the fire, radar showed a storm cell over the area and a lot of lightning activity.

Radar at 3:15 p.m. on March 23 when a Carnival Cruise ship was possibly hit by lightning. 

(FOX Weather)

Multiple passenger videos show flames and dark smoke billowing from the exhaust funnel as rain continues to pour onto the deck.

Passenger Heath Barnes said the ship was supposed to dock at Princess Cay on Saturday about 9 a.m., but passengers were told that the boat would continue to Freeport due to strong winds . 

During the afternoon, the rain returned, and passengers reported hearing loud thunder and then seeing the smoke. Soon after, guests were told to remain in their cabins.

Smoke and flames coming from the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom cruise ship on Saturday, March 23, 2024. 

(@breezebreeze_ via Storyful)

"Why is our tail on fire?" someone can be heard saying in the video recorded by Barnes. "That's not good, y'all."

On Monday, Carnival Freedom returned to Port Canaveral , where guests disembarked.

The cruise line said damage to the ship is "more than we first thought" and will require immediate repair to stabilize the funnel. Cruises scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on March 25th and March 29th have been canceled. All guests on the canceled trips will receive a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit.

FOX Business reported that the same cruise ship caught on fire in 2022 after being struck by lightning. 

Carnival Freedom cruise ship on fire

Video shows smoke and flames coming from the Carnival Freedom exhaust funnel on Saturday after a possible lightning strike. (video credit: Credit: @breezebreeze_ via Storyful)

Another video recorded on Saturday by X user @breezebreeze showed the fire on the ship.

"Carnival Freedom on fire AGAIN!!" they wrote on X.

• Extreme Weather
• Thunderstorms

Watch CBS News

Carnival cruise ship catches fire for the second time in 2 years

By Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: March 25, 2024 / 9:57 AM EDT / CBS News

A Carnival cruise ship will be out of commission for repairs for at least a week after its exhaust funnel caught fire and partially collapsed Saturday during a trip to the Bahamas. It marked the second time in just under two years that the funnel on this same ship, the Carnival Freedom, went up in flames while carrying passengers. 

What caused the most recent incident is still being investigated, according to the cruise company. No one on board the ship was injured, but Carnival said two fire crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

The Carnival Freedom left from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Thursday and was supposed to travel for several days through the Bahamas before returning Monday to Port Canaveral. It was not immediately clear how many passengers and crew were on board the Freedom when the fire erupted, but the cruise ship can accommodate 2,980 guests and 1,150 crew members at capacity. CBS News contacted Carnival for more information.

The ship initially reported a fire at around 3:15 p.m. EDT on Saturday, on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel as it sailed 20 miles off of the Bahamas' Eleuthera Island en route to Freeport, the company said in a statement. It had changed course to turn toward Freeport, at the northern tip of the island chain, after cancelling a stop farther south in Princess Cays because of bad weather. Eyewitnesses said that a lightning strike may have sparked the fire, a claim that Carnival said "is being investigated but cannot yet be confirmed."

A fire response team was activated quickly to put out the blaze once it broke out, as the Freedom's captain shifted the cruise liner toward the heavy rain nearby in hopes that would help. The fire was extinguished by 5:20 p.m., Carnival said, including flames from a portion of the funnel that broke off and fell onto one of the ship decks. Funnels are essentially used as smokestacks or chimneys to expel fumes and engine exhaust.

The U.S. Coast Guard said the Carnival Freedom crew was able to extinguish the fire Saturday without their help. They were aware of the fire, though, and issued a Captain of the Port order to the cruise ship before it was scheduled to enter Port Canaveral, Florida, on Monday. Captain of the Port orders are  broad mandates that the Marine Safety and Security Council describes as a tool granting Coast Guard crews "with operational controls over an emergent situation posing safety, security, or environmental risks."

 "We are continuing to monitor the situation," the Coast Guard said in a statement.

Although Carnival said at first that it did not expect the fire to impact trips on the Freedom cruise set to depart Port Canaveral on Monday and Friday, a technical assessment carried out in Freeport on Sunday revealed more significant damage to the ship than they originally thought. The damage would "require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel" after disembarking guests in Port Canaveral on Monday, the company said in an updated statement following the assessment. 

"The funnel has been stabilized for the ship's return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs," Carnival said on Sunday. "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation." 

Both Carnival Freedom cruises scheduled for this week have been cancelled. Carnival said guests who had booked those cruises would receive full refunds and future cruise credits.

The Carnival Freedom's exhaust funnel last went up in flames less than two years ago, in May 2022. It was in Grand Turk at the time, during a planned five-day trip from Port Canaveral. The ship had 2,504 guests and 972 crew on board, Carnival said at the time. None of the passengers or crew were hurt.

• Cruise Ship

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

More from CBS News

Convoy carrying Gaza aid departs Cyprus amid hunger concerns

How cruises are impacted by Baltimore bridge collapse

Heavy rains in northwestern Pakistan kill 8 people, mostly children

Deaths linked to recalled supplement pill containing red mold climb

Two Holland America Line crew members die in onboard 'steam release' in Bahamas

Two Holland America Line crew members died on the line’s Nieuw Amsterdam ship on Friday.

The deaths occurred following "an accidental steam release in an engineering space" around 9:20 a.m. while the ship was calling at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, according to a spokesperson for the line.

The crew members were third engineer Joseph Terrado and wiper Wawan Gusnawan. Terrado was from the Philippines and Gusnawan was from Indonesia.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this event," the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "We’ve been in contact with the families of both team members and are offering our support to them and to all of our crew at this difficult time."

Nieuw Amsterdam was sailing a week-long Eastern Caribbean cruise that departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 16, according to CruiseMapper . The ship returned to Fort Lauderdale around two hours late on Saturday, and left for its next cruise about three hours late.

The vessel will visit Ocho Rios in Jamaica on Tuesday.

"The Bahamas Maritime Authority and the Dutch Safety Board are currently investigating. Safety is always our top priority, and we are working to understand what, if anything, can be learned from this tragic accident," the spokesperson said, noting that earlier reports that the crew members died in a fire on board were incorrect.

Two investigators from the Dutch Safety Board traveled to the Caribbean as part of the inquiry, the independent administrative body said in an emailed statement. The BMA did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spotted Strolling Hand-in-Hand During Romantic Bahamas Vacation: PHOTOS

The pair were spotted enjoying the tropical weather during their recent getaway, as the singer is on a break from her Eras tour

Mackenzie Schmidt is the Home and Travel Editor for PEOPLE. She's worked at PEOPLE for over five years as a writer and editor on the Lifestyle team.

MEGA/BACKGRID

Taylor Swift  and  Travis Kelce enjoyed a sunny stroll together on their recent Bahamas vacation.

The couple, both 34, were snapped walking hand-in-hand during their recent Caribbean getaway. Swift sported a casual look of white shorts, a cropped tank, and woven slides, topped off with sunglasses and a baseball cap.

Kelce wore his swimwear on the outing, donning patterned blue trunks, a white t-shirt. and brown leather loafers.

PEOPLE previously confirmed that the pop superstar and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end had jetted off on the Bahamian vacation in between international legs of Swift's epic Eras Tour.

“They vacationed in the Bahamas for several days," a source told PEOPLE of the trip on Monday. "It was a much-needed break for both of them. They very much enjoyed it. They are so happy together.”

The couple's vacation comes after the pair spent time traveling the world together as Swift continues her  Eras Tour . Recently, they've been spending quality time together in between the pop superstar's shows in  Australia  and  Singapore  in February and March.

The pair have since returned to the States and were spotted enjoying a lunch date at Nobu in Malibu. They were pictured leaving the eatery holding hands while sporting casual looks for their date. In footage posted on social media, the pair were also seen chatting during their date as they sat at a table to enjoy some al fresco dining.

Kelce was also spotted  visiting his hometown of Cleveland . Along with stopping by one of his favorite restaurants for a slice of pizza, the Super Bowl champ also made time to  pose for photos with some fans of his girlfriend .

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Swift's time for relaxation will likely be short-lived. She's fast approaching the April 19 release of her 11th studio album,  The Tortured Poets Department . Then, the European leg of her Eras Tour kicks off with four concerts at the Paris La Défense Arena in France from May 9-12.

Then starting in June the superstar heads to the U.K. before wrapping up the summer with shows in Poland and Austria.

Related Articles