Bahamas Yacht Charter

Luxury Yacht Charter Guide To The Bahamas

Land of the bright and the beautiful, the Bahamas is a world-class yacht charter paradise boasting stunning slips of coral, white sand, and pastel-coloured houses situated against the backdrop of aquamarine waves lapping at white sand beaches.

This 700-island nation is so striking that Scott Kelly, a NASA astronaut, has famously called The Bahamas "the most beautiful place from space" - and it's easy to see why.

An exceptional charter yacht destination, the Bahamas stands out with its stunning turquoise waters, picturesque islands, and incredible underwater world of corals and tropical fish.

Exquisite Experiences

In addition to its idyllic Caribbean setting, a Bahamas yacht rental holiday is a luxurious experience complete with exclusive resorts, fine dining, and sophisticated shopping opportunities.

Favoured by the rich and the famous, the Bahamas is home to the private island properties of Oprah Winfrey, Johnny Depp, and Beyonce.

For those seeking adventure and cultural immersion, a Bahamas yacht rental offers countless opportunities to island hop, snorkel and dive, explore the rich history of pirates and sea-faring soldiers of fortune, and sample the glorious Bahama Mama cocktails.

Reasons To Charter A Yacht In The Bahamas

Bahamas yacht charters are highly sought after for the unique experiences they provide.

Whether it's lounging on pristine beaches, soaking up the sun from the deck of a luxury yacht, or exploring the islands' rich heritage and culture, the Bahamas is one of the world's most legendary laid back sailing grounds.

Here are our favourite reasons to charter a yacht in the Bahamas:

Endless Island Hopping

The Bahamas boasts an endless array of secret coves and hidden harbours scattered across the patchwork shades of blue.

It’s no tourist board exaggeration to say that the Exuma Cays has an island for every day: this charmed part of the Caribbean comprises 365 dreamy slips of sand, some of which are uninhabited islands waiting to be discovered.

Over in the Abacos, you will find a sailor’s paradise. Here, yacht charter guests can explore the collection of curious little cays famous for their sea turtles, lighthouses, and deep-sea dives.

Pink sand beaches, shallow waters, and coral cays of the Bahamas create a perfect playground for a sailing yacht charter vacation unrivalled by any other destination on Earth.

Underwater Paradise

Stingrays, sharks, and every colour of coral imaginable – diving in the Bahamas is a must for yacht charter guests looking to plunge into an exotic underwater world.

While bone fishing and snorkelling are hot on the island of Eleuthera, this Caribbean pearl is best known for its wealth of excellent diving spots and abundant marine biodiversity.

The Bahamas is home to Andros Barrier Reef, the world's third longest reef of over 190 miles - a stunning feat of nature perfect for underwater adventures.

Shipwreck diving can be done on Buttonwood Beach, and the Current Cut has been rated as one of the top ten dive sites on the planet. The same can be said of the Exuma Cays with their vertical walls that sink straight into the inky black of the abyss to sunken ships. Divers will be drooling at the promise of exploring a fascinating complex of underwater caves in Grand Bahama.

Luxury Getaway

Aside from its stunning natural beauty, the Bahamas are known for bespoke experiences, luxury living, and private island resorts.

High-end shopping, elegant boutiques, exquisite SPA and wellness getaways, and world-class dining are part of the course in the Bahamas.

Private yacht owners and luxury charter yacht guests alike enjoy exclusive resorts, gourmet restaurants, rum-tasting events, and more - there's no place like the Bahamas to truly embrace the lifestyle of celebrities and wealthy bon vivants.

Rich History and Heritage

The Bahamas were Christopher Columbus' first port of call on his journey toward the Americas, and ever since, the islands have held a special allure to explorers, pirates, and sailors.

Once home to Blackbeard the Pirate himself, the Bahamas boast a rich history and culture merging European, African, and Caribbean influences.

Bahamas Yacht Charter Destinations

With several hundred islands to choose from, navigating the best that a Bahamas yacht charter has to offer can be a daunting task.

A multitude of island chains and cays offers its own unique charm and attractions: adventure seekers will enjoy exploring Thunderball Grotto perhaps best known as the location for the James Bond movies Thunderball and Never Say Never Again, near Staniel Cay, a stunning underwater cave system similar to the famed Mexican cenotes.

Lucayan National Park in Grand Bahama is perfect for channelling your inner Indiana Jones: the national park is famous for the mangrove forests, underwater caves, and Gold Rock Beach.

Nature's Treasure Trove

Those looking for sandy cays, private beaches, and shallow aquamarine waters will enjoy the unspoiled Rose Island, the crescent beaches of Treasure Cay, and the private island resort on Fowl Cay.

For extraordinary experiences, Big Major's Cay offers the attraction of the famed swimming pigs; the Atlantis Resort in Nassau delivers a touch of luxury, while Exuma Cays are heaven for marine life and pristine nature.

Although preferences will depend on personal interest, several Bahamas destinations are particularly attractive for yacht charters:

Nassau

The capital of the Bahamas on New Providence Island and a major hub for cruise ships and Bahamas yacht charters, Nassau is a vibrant town boasting upscale anchorages like the Palm Cay Marina, a vibrant atmosphere, and an array of high-end restaurants, casinos, and luxury resorts.

Easily accessible from most major international airports, Bahamas Nassau is an excellent launch pad for a Bahamas yacht charter holiday.

Its close proximity to the Exuma Islands and Paradise Island, exciting nightlife, and cultural attractions make Nassau a perfect starting point for a yacht charter in the Bahamas.

Bimini

Barely a stone’s throw from the shores of Florida, Bimini Island is often the first encounter with the bliss of the Bahamas.

Rumour has it, Bimini was Ernest Hemingway's favourite haunt and an old rum runners' refuge; treasure hunters will tell you the island is a possible location of the lost city of Atlantis.

The curiosities don't end there: Bimini Road, or the Road to Atlantis, is an underwater mystery still baffling scientists of today. A submerged ruins of an underwater wall, Bimini Road stretches for half a mile underwater - and no one seems to agree on exactly what it might have been.

Legends aside, Bimini is a tiny paradise island boasting excellent deep-sea fishing for tuna and marlin, scuba diving, and rich marine wildlife of turtles and sharks.

Grand Bahama Island

The Grand Bahama Island, located just 56 nautical miles from Palm Beach, Florida, is the northernmost landmass in the Bahamas.

Known for its stunning coral reefs, mangrove forests, and emerald seas, Grand Bahama is steeped in pirate tales and rich cultural heritage.

Luxury yacht charter guests will enjoy Grand Bahama's exclusive resorts, golf courses, and boutique hotels.

Eleuthera

Eleuthera is the spot for lovers and layabouts: the postcard-perfect powdered pink sands, jagged cliffs, lush rainforests, and pristine coral reefs create a stunning backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Some of its beaches - Lighthouse Beach, Twin Coves Beach, and many more - are world-famous for their unspoiled beauty, and stargazing in Eleuthera is unparalleled since there's no light pollution at night.

Charming boutiques, arts and crafts stores, and local eateries create a cosy atmosphere on the island, whereas those looking for adventure will find plenty of excellent diving, snorkelling, and reef fishing spots.

Harbour Island

Situated northwest of Eleuthera, Harbour Island is famous for its Devil's Backbone coral reef, pink sand, and quaint pastel-coloured cottages.

Full of historic charm and island luxury, Harbour Island, despite its small size, boasts upscale resorts, luxury hotels, and fine dining experiences.

The Exumas

Over a hundred miles of dreamy cays and an island for every day of the year: the Exuma Islands offer a stunning getaway for private boat rental tours. Only twenty of the islands are inhabited, leaving plenty of shimmering stretches of sand to call your own.

Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the stunning Exumas Land and Sea Park, the islands are home to some of the region's most notable attractions.

Island Magic

Shroud Cay, known for its mangrove forests, nurse sharks, and turtles, is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Here, a unique phenomenon creates a natural waterslide: when the tide empties into the Exuma Sound, it creates a whirlpool river, rapidly offering the "washing machine" experience to those willing to ride it.

Another jewel of the Exumas is Wax Cay, famous for picturesque anchorages, Polynesian-style villas, and delicious Bahamian cuisine.

Compass Cay has a naturally protected harbour and has long become a popular spot to see nurse sharks. Finally, Norman's Cay is the legendary island once run by pirates, drug lords, and explorers.

Now, Norman's Cay is best known for its large marina and acts as the official Bahamas Port of Entry.

Big Major's Cay

A part of the Exumas, Big Major's Cay, deserves its own mention. An uninhabited island affectionately named Pig Beach by the local Bahamians, Big Major's Cay is famous for its... swimming pigs.

The History of Water Piggies

Nobody knows how the pigs ended up on the island - some say they may have been left here by sailors or perhaps had narrowly escaped a shipwreck - but these days, the adorable pigs and piglets have become a major attraction.

Amazingly enough, the feral porkers love swimming with tourists and graciously accept food offerings from travellers.

It's rare, if not impossible, to see pigs share the water with dolphins and sea turtles - and that's precisely why Big Major's Cay is a must-see on your Bahamas sailing holiday.

Abacos

Abaco Islands delivers a slice of true Bahamian life for luxury yacht charters.

This collection of islands and cays stretching across a 120-mile chain buzzes with mirror-like turquoise lagoons, lost forests, fantastic snorkelling opportunities, and fascinating settlement villages that tell the tales of history.

The Best of the Abacos Islands

Great Guana Cay is one of the most beautiful of the Abacos. Long white sand beaches, surf spots, and excellent reef fishing opportunities abound here, and those looking for peace and quiet will find it on Great Guana Cay.

Marsh Harbour offers excellent marinas and anchorages, lively markets, and a glimpse into colourful Bahamian culture.

The more remote Treasure Cay is known for those iconic white sand Caribbean beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, and Hope Town stands out with its candy red and white striped lighthouse that's become a landmark of the Bahamas.

Rum Cay

Nestled away in the southern Bahamas, Rum Cay is best known for its unspoiled natural beauty and colourful coral formations.

Secluded, tranquil, and remote, Rum Cay hides old shipwrecks under its turquoise blue waters, and there are plenty of world-class fishing opportunities for mahi-mahi, tuna, and marlin.

Those looking for cultural immersion will enjoy Rum Cay's traditional cuisine and authentic Bahamian culture.

When To Charter A Yacht In The Bahamas

The Caribbean weather is quite the charmer – boasting a blurred horizon of blue, abundant sunshine, and low rainfall, your time on the islands is unlikely to be a washout.

Mid-December onwards to mid-April tends to be the best time to hit the shores of the Bahamas, especially for those escaping the colder weather of Mediterranean winters.

Generally, the Bahamas sailing season stretches from December to April.

The Cost of a Bahamas Yacht Charter

Bahamas yacht charters vary in cost depending on whether you're renting a motor yacht or a sailing yacht, as well as the boat's size and capacity.

Motor yacht charters typically cost $25,000 - $70,000 per week, although luxury crewed motor yachts might cost anywhere between $50,000 and $1,000,000.

A sailing yacht charter in the Bahamas costs $15,000 - $50,000 a week, again depending on the boat's size. Larger sailing yachts tend to cost more.

Sailing Yachts, Catamaran Charters, and Motor Yachts

There are three types of yacht charter in the Bahamas: sailing and motor yachts, and catamaran charters.

Sailing yachts are preferred by those looking for romance and traditional sailing.

Wind-powered sailing yachts appeal to travellers who prefer an authentic experience; in addition, sailboats can often access shallows that larger motor yachts cannot.

Motor yachts are engine-powered boats offering comfort, speed, and luxury. Some shallow draught motor yachts are capable of accessing shallow waters and marinas.

A Word on Catamaran Charters

A catamaran is a yacht with two parallel hulls connected by a deck. Catamarans can be either sailing or motorised, offering stability and plenty of space. Catamaran charters are popular among families and groups of friends because of their ample deck space and smooth movement.

Features of Luxury Yachts in the Bahamas

When choosing charter yachts, it's worth considering the facilities and amenities available on board.

For a romantic sailing holiday, large swimming decks and jacuzzis might take priority.

For active vacations, water toys are essential, whereas onboard entertainment and gourmet meals might be necessary for those seeking luxury.

Here are some of the most popular features of charter yachts for that perfect Caribbean sailing holiday:

1. Large Decks and Spacious Cabins

A Bahamas yacht charter is all about comfort, convenience, and easy access to that shimmering aquamarine water.

Motor yachts with large and low decks for swimming are ideal, while spacious, well-equipped cabins ensure comfort.

1. Water Toys

Kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, e-foils, and other water toys enhance the sailing experience, especially for those who love to stay active.

1. Gym and SPA Rooms

There's no shortage of swimming, snorkelling, and diving opportunities in the Bahamas.

However, an onboard gym and spa rooms can enhance the experience of guests who prefer keeping fit and enjoying wellness treatments onboard.

1. Movie Theatre

Granted, a Bahamas yacht charter is all about beach bars and trendy restaurants rather than Netflix onboard. Then again, an onboard movie theatre can provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy some private time and a favourite film with a cocktail in hand.

Book A Bahamas Yacht Charter Today

A yacht charter in the Bahamas is hands-down the best way to explore this stunning corner of the planet. Turquoise waters, hidden beaches, legends of pirates and buccaneers, and the uniquely Bahamanian way of life are best experienced from the deck of a yacht.

Choosing a boat charter allows travellers to truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Bahamas and experience the complete freedom and luxury of sailing.

Explore your Bahamas yacht charter options today and start planning a vacation of a lifetime.