“Big Major Cay pig swims and Thunderball Grotto snorkelling sit at the centre of a Bahamas yacht charter.”
Begin your adventure at Big Majors, also known as Big Major Cay, where you can make a splash by swimming alongside the famous swimming pigs – a surreal and unique experience. The Exuma Cays are recognized as a premier yacht charter destination, offering pristine anchorages and breathtaking scenery. Do not forget to snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, a mesmerising underwater cave system teeming with vibrant marine life. Staniel Cay and the Staniel Cay Yacht Club are popular stops for yacht charters, providing excellent marina facilities and a lively social scene. Nestled within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is Warderick Cay, a haven for hikers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Thrill-seekers, head to Saddle Cay for an adrenaline rush. Try your hand at spearfishing or delve into the depths with scuba diving to uncover the vibrant underwater world beneath the waves. For a glimpse into history, sail to Compass Cay, where you can swim with nurse sharks, and explore the ancient cave formations of Rocky Dundas. Treat your taste buds to the delectable shellfish delights of St George’s Caye. Sample fresh seafood that reflects the rich flavors of the region, providing a culinary journey to remember. Enjoy a beach bar experience on the islands, where you can savor local cuisine and drinks with scenic ocean views.
When planning your trip, you can charter in the Bahamas through a straightforward process, and Bahamas chartering is renowned for combining luxury and adventure. Yacht rental options abound, with a wide variety of yachts for charter and charter yachts available to suit different group sizes and preferences. Bahamas yacht charters deliver a truly memorable experience, and booking your dream Bahamas yacht charter ensures a personalised and seamless journey.
In the Exumas, premier marinas such as Emerald Bay Marina and Highbourne Cay Marina cater to luxury yachts and provide access to nearby cays. Deep sea fishing, fishing boats, and exploring deserted islands are popular activities, while shallow waters and secluded beaches offer perfect spots for swimming and relaxation. Golf courses, outstanding golf course facilities, and golf resorts are available on certain islands for leisure enthusiasts. With its diverse yacht charter destinations, vibrant marine life, and the exceptional range of experiences and amenities the Bahamas offers, your yacht in the Bahamas promises an idyllic and adventurous escape.
Yachts for Charter in the Bahamas
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BAHAMAS YACHT CHARTER IN PICTURES
Top Tips For Your Bahamas Yacht Charter
Frequently Asked Questions
PLANNING YOUR BAHAMAS YACHT CHARTER
What is the best time of year for a luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas?
The optimal season to charter a yacht in the Bahamas runs from December through April, when the weather is pleasantly cool, the sea is warm, and the trade winds are steady. This period offers superb crusing conditions and lively island atmospheres. Shoulder seasons — April to June and October through mid-November — provide a more tranquil experience with fewer visitors, reliable weather, and increased yacht availability.
What is the weather like in the Bahamas during the prime charter season?
Between December and March, temperatures in the Bahamas typically hover in the mid-20s Celsius, with sea temperatures around 24°C — ideal for a yacht charter so you can enjoy swimming, diving, and watersports. The skies are mostly clear, with excellent visibility. Summers bring hotter, more humid conditions with occasional showers and stronger winds as hurricane season approaches.
Which airports provide the most convenient access to Bahamas yacht charters?
Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau is the main point of entry, offering easy access to New Providence Island and surrounding cays. For guests arriving privately, several smaller airports also serve the outer islands, providing convenient connections to start your yacht charter.
VAT & Charter Costs
What is the applicable VAT or tax rate for a luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas?
A 14 per cent tax applies to yacht charters, which combines the previous 4 per cent port tax with a 10 per cent Value Added Tax introduced in July 2022. This single consolidated charge simplifies payments and is calculated on the charter fee. Your broker will advise on all applicable taxes to ensure full compliance.
What is the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) and what does it cover?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a sum paid in advance to cover charter expenses that are not included in the charter fee. These may include fuel for the yacht, tenders and water sports equipment, food and beverages, berthing dues and harbour charges, local taxes, divers’ fees, customs formalities, waste disposal, water and electricity taken from shore, ships’ agents’ fees (where applicable), personal laundry, communications and internet use, and any special equipment requested by the Charterer. The Captain will provide detailed accounts of expenditure, and any balance will be settled at the end of your Bahamas yacht charter.
What is the standard percentage for gratuities in yachting?
Gratuities are not included in the charter fee. It is customary, though always at the Charterer’s discretion, to leave a gratuity in recognition of excellent service. As a guideline, a gratuity in the region of 10 to 15 per cent of the contracted gross Charter Fee is considered appropriate.
Destinations & Experiences in the Bahamas
What are the most exclusive yacht charter destinations around the Bahamas?
Yacht charter guests typically explore stunning locations such as the Exumas, famed for their pristine coral cays and swimming pigs; the clear, aquamarine waters of Eleuthera; the culturally rich Abaco Islands and Harbour Island; as well as natural wonders like the Thunderball Grotto.
Which iconic attractions should I explore during my Bahamas yacht charter?
During your Bahamas yacht charter do not miss swimming with the pigs in the Exumas, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and visiting the underwater caves at Thunderball Grotto. Harbour Island’s pink sand beaches provide an unforgettable backdrop for relaxation, while the settlements of Abaco showcase charming colonial architecture and local heritage.
What bespoke experiences and activities can I enjoy while sailing in the Bahamas?
A Bahamas yacht charter can include private beach barbecues, fishing excursions, diving trips to explore coral reefs, paddleboarding in secluded bays, and sunset cruises. Guests often are interested in bespoke tours of local islands, gourmet dining on board prepared by private chefs, and encounters with unique wildlife, such as sea turtles and dolphins.
Where are the best restaurants and culinary experiences in the Bahamas and surrounding islands?
Here are the best restaurants and culinary experiences to have during your Bahamas yacht charter: Nassau’s Cafe Matisse offers elegant Italian dining in a refined colonial setting, while the Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort serves world-class seafood with stunning ocean views. On Harbour Island, The Landing combines boutique charm with locally inspired menus and impeccable service. In the Exumas, Fowl Cay Resort provides ultra-private gourmet dining within a luxurious villa setting.
