Charter a Yacht in the Bahamas: All that you need to know
Bahamas archipelago is combined of more than 700 coral islands, known for there idyllic beaches, shallow blue lagoons, and bays. Known as one of the finest luxury yacht charters destinations, protected by the barrier reefs, providing safe areas for cruising.
Cruising between islands with a yacht is the only way to discover the true beauty of the Bahamas. Each island has its identity. From golf courses to remote anchorages with extraordinary turquoise bays surrounded with pristine nature. Please have in mind that there are countless yachts available for you to choose from.
Bahamas location
The Bahamas is a country in the northwestern West Indies, located 80 kilometers south-east of the cost of the USA (Florida) and north of Cuba. Nassau is the capital on the island of New Providence. The Bahamas share maritime borders with Cuba, Haiti, USA, Turks and Caicos Islands (UK).
Bahamas weather
The high season in the Bahamas runs from mid-December to mid-April, a great spot for a warm winter getaway. These months are not in the wet season. Expect good weather and lots of sunshine. The sunniest month is April, averaging 9.2 hours of sunshine per day. The average sea temperature in the high season starts from 23°C up to 26°C.
Presented as a top beach destination for winter
The climate is tropical, with a hot and rainy season from May to October. In general, the best to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April. With warm temperatures every day, even during the winter and sunny 300+ days of the year, it’s summer all year long.
Nothing is better than warm up with a beach vacation in the Bahamas. The Bahamas can be affected by hurricanes, the tropical cyclones of the Atlantic, and the Caribbean, which, are more likely to occur from August to October.
Top places to visit during your yachting holidays in the Bahamas
Nassau – Capital city
Most of the yacht charters start in Nassau because of the modern port and the town itself, because it offers great dining, shopping, sunset bars, and entertainment.
Andros island – Ecotourism sanctuary
Measuring 2300 km2 makes him the largest island in the Bahamas and the fifth-largest in the Caribbean. It is also the largest protected area in The Bahamas, this system includes five national parks – the Blue Holes National Park, Crab Replenishment Reserve, North & South Marine Parks, and West Side National Park.
Andros is home to the world’s third-largest fringing barrier reef, the Tongue of the Ocean, a mile-deep abyss. Ideal place for bird watchers, hikers, snorkelers, divers, and fishermen.
Freeport – Second city
Second most populated city in the Bahamas founded in 1955. City operates under a free trade zone which makes your favorite things cheaper. If duty-free shops are not enough for you, make a visit to International Bazaar separated into different areas.
Bimini – Big game fishing capital
The closest Bahamas islands to the USA mainland. Historically significant, including Bimini Road, which some say is a remnant of the legendary Lost City of Atlantis. Bimini consists of two main islands, North and South Bimini Island.
Eleuthera – Birthplace of the Bahamas
The best of pink sand beaches in the Caribbean. Island is known for its fantastic restaurants and stylish nightspots. Eleuthera is also the pineapple capital of the world, commercial farming began in the 18th century.
Long island – Extraordinary natural world wonder
One of the largest caves in The Bahamas, the second deepest blue hole in the world ”Dean’s Blue Hole”, breathtaking cliff, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. More than 120 kilometers long and 6 kilometers wide island, giving you two very different coastlines – dramatic cliffs on one and sandy beaches on the other one.
Inagua – A birdwatchers paradise
Three national parks over two islands. Home to the unusual birds and creatures which make part of protected islands. Many shipwrecks from the Columbus era. Ideal place for animal lovers.
Acklins & Crooked island – An escape from civilization
Extremely remote and not known as a tourist island. The main spotlight is 1000 km2 lagoon – Bight of Acklins, perfect spot for snorkeling and diving. You will also find sandy beaches, coral gardens, and limestone caves. You must visit Turtle sound, which is one of the natural wonders of The Bahamas.
Type of yachts in the Bahamas
Crewed motor yacht
When it comes to luxury motor yachts with crew, size can start to vary from 30 meters in length and offer luxurious and high-end comfort. They all come with a professional crew, comfortable interior, watersports and other amenities for making the best experience possible.
Crewed catamaran
Catamarans are more and more popular in the Bahamas. They perform well when it comes to sailing between the islands. Equipped with high-end tech and professional crew that offers secure sailing. If you love sailing that would be an ideal choice for you.
Bareboat sail and catamaran
If you want to be in charge of your cruise than bareboats are optional for you. Of course, you need to have a valid license for hiring a bareboat. Navigation is the most important aspect in the Bahamas because when you will be island hopping there are so many shallow lagoons and coral reefs and with a combination of tides, you need to be extra careful and precise to avoid any inconveniences at the sea.
We can help you find your dream Yacht
We know that organizing yacht charter holidays can be tiresome. There’s just so many different vessels to choose from! But if you plan the right way if you are a bit adventurous and if classic hotel holidays are not anymore your “cup of tea”, then we can be of a great assistance.
Best yacht charter itinerary in the Bahamas
Day 1 – Warderick Wells Cay / Exuma
Start your charter at Warderick Wells and find real treasures like Stromatolites, an extremely rare early life form. There is a Sea National Park, created in 1958. It was the first land and sea park in the world and is one of the most successful marines parks. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular here. Fishing is prohibited in this area.
Day 2 – Staniel Cay swim stop with pigs
A must-stop destination for anyone in the Bahamas. Iconic swimming pigs, famous film spots, and beautiful beaches. Big Major’s Spot is a unique experience for feeding the world-famous swimming pigs who will get up close and hang out with you. Staniel Cay is also famous for multiple James Bond movies.
Day 3 – Compass Cay
Located in one of the rare totally protected harbors in the Exumas. Perfect spot for families, exploring beautiful sandy beaches. The Bahamas are filled with a number of exciting and unique experiences. Those who are adventurous, nothing is more thrilling than trying to swim with the Nurse sharks, of course in organized tours in the Marina.
Day 4 – Shroud Cay
An uninhabited island in the group of Exuma Cays. A popular stopover for the yachts and sailboats, but if you want to reach the shore you must use a tender boat because of the very shallow lagoons. You will find excellent diverse beaches without a living soul. The main attraction is ”The Waterslide” around a little beach peninsula. If you jump in the current on one side of the point, it will wash you around to the other side, ongoing fun.
Day 5 – Highbourne Cay
Uniquely, the privately-owned island welcomes yachtsmen and guests to its first-class marina and luxury cottages. Due to tremendous popularity, reservations for both are strongly recommended. Marina can accept yacht up to 55 meters. You must dinner at Xuma, an open-air restaurant for the idyllic experience.
Day 6 – Harbour Island
A small island a few miles from Eleuthera Island. Harbour Island is known for it’s Pink Sands beach, one of nature’s greatest achievements. Much of the architecture and way of life was influenced by British Loyalists who settled here in the 1700s, making the birthplace of the entire country together with Eleuthera.
Day 7 – Nassau
The capital and the largest city of the Bahamas with a population of over 70% of the entire population. Immediately you will find out that this is a popular destination, tourists from across the globe, the vibe, hotels, and other entertainments. You can go sightseeing the Fort Fincastle or visit Zoo or Ardastra Gardens for the end of your vacation.
