Exumas Yacht Charter Itinerary
7 days
•161 nautical miles
World-famous for their sapphire seas and swirling white sands, the Exumas are a vibrant display of Bahamian color.
Sail from cosmopolitan Nassau south into the stunning Exumas, a chain of islands stretching over 120 nautical miles.
Drop anchor to visit the swimming pigs, snorkel through underwater caves, and meet the friendly nurse sharks.
The best time to visit is generally December to April, when temperatures hover in the comfortable 28–31ºC range.
This sample 7-day itinerary highlights a yacht charter from Nassau, exploring the Exumas aboard a sleek catamaran.
Bahamas Itinerary (7 Day Yacht Charter)
Just a short transfer from the airport brings you to Nassau Marina, where your yacht awaits. Spend your first night enjoying the local bars and soaking in the vibrant capital of the Bahamas. Explore Nassau’s pastel streets, rich history, and attractions like the Pirates of Nassau Museum before setting sail.
Visit Arawak Cay (The Fry Fish) for authentic Bahamian food
- Visit the gorgeous Cable Beach or Cabbage Beach
- Explore historic spots such as the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Charlotte
Highbourne Cay is famous for its deserted beaches and luxurious vibe. Anchor offshore and enjoy staying onboard your yacht with stunning ocean views. Spend your days snorkelling and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the cay.
Anchor close to the beach and dinghy ashore to explore
- Snorkel or dive at the nearby Octopus Garden Reef
- Dine at the Xuma Beach Bar / Restaurant (perfect at sunset)
Today, enjoy a relaxed 3-4 hour sail to Hawksbill Cay, where you’ll moor for the evening. This peaceful, uninhabited island offers a quiet stop amid the Exumas. Explore its soft sandy beaches and follow a trail to the ruins of a 1700s Loyalist settlement
Hike the trail to the Loyalist ruins for stunning views
- Relax on the white-sand beaches
- Explore the mangroves by dinghy
Staniel Cay is a must-visit for divers and snorkellers, bursting with vibrant coral and abundant marine life. Just west lies Thunderball Grotto, made famous by the James Bond film. Nearby Big Major Cay, or Pig Beach, is a quiet white-sand island where the friendly swimming pigs greet visitors arriving by boat.
Arrive early to enjoy the island before the crowds
- Explore the Thunderball Grotto
- Swim with the Pigs at Pig Beach
- Snorkel with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
Warderick Wells Cay is part of the protected Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park, stretching from Shroud Cay to Bell Cay. Its lush mangroves support a vibrant community of land and marine life. Once ashore, take some time to explore the island’s 20 pristine beaches at your leisure.
Don't forget to bring snorkelling gear to see the incredible marine life
- Hike the trails of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
- See the famous whale skeleton on the beach
Norman’s Cay, surrounded by a vibrant coral reef, is a true gem of the Exumas. Once owned by infamous drug smuggler Carlos Lehder, the island is steeped in history. Snorkel the shallow wreck of one of his planes, just 10 feet deep, amid colorful tropical fish and sea turtles.
Explore the plane wreck early in the morning for calmer waters and a better chance of seeing sea turtles
- Snorkel the famous submerged plane wreck
- Enjoy kayaking in the crystal-clear waters
Rise early to make the most of your final sailing day, cruising 40 nautical miles back toward base. Stop in at Rose Island for one last refreshing swim. Then complete the short 6-mile sail into Nassau to conclude your journey.
Make sure to pack a picnic or snacks as Rose Island has limited facilities
- Visit Sandy Toes (a popular day retreat).