Yacht charter in the Bahamas, a tropical archipelago in the Caribbean, is said to be one of the best vacation in the world. These islands which are about 700 in total are tropical hot locations with nice weather and amazing scenery. And with its combination of pure deep blue and turquoise water roundabout by smooth white sandy beaches, you can be sure of a refreshing and relaxing time at the beach, sitting beside the waters and enjoying the view.
The Pros Of Sailing The Bahamas
Apart from the nice warm weather and beautiful scenery, there are several unique sensational features about this vacation center that will make you wish you were right on your way there for your next vacation. Some of these amazing and unique features are:
The Pig Island of Big Major Cay is unique in the world
It’s unimaginable to think of swimming with pigs, right?! But here at The Big Major Cay Island in The Bahamas, you can swim or play with the friendly pigs on the island. This peaceful Island also offers a sense of privacy to its visitors as very few people (the caretakers of the pigs) reside there. And yes, you can catch families, especially newly married couples enjoying their honeymoon vacation as well.
The Bahamas are filled with Great Diving Spots for Snorkeling
You might have not heard, but the Bahamas is one of the best places for scuba divers and snorkelers to explore underwater life and have a great time doing so. There are also some nice spots; like Conception Island (Long Island), The Abacos, not forgetting The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Parks, and several other places.
Bahamas Cuisine Includes Tasty Seafood and The Refreshing Cocktail
One interesting thing you must also know is that the Bahamas offers delicious sea foods like conch ceviche, Nassau grouper, fried fish, rock lobsters, etc., which are a blend of the African, European, and South African food styles. These foods will make your taste buds dance for joy; not forgetting their famous cocktail with a natural blend of fruits to keep you refreshed.
Florida is a just a sail away from the Bahamas!
It is fascinating to know that Florida is about 50 miles away from the Bahamas. The best time to go boating from the Bahamas to Florida is in November when there are fewer tourists, good weather, and calm.
The island of Bimini is the closest to the mainland of the United States. When it comes to finding the perfect fishing trip, sailing from the Bahamas to Bimini is one of the best choices you can make.
You can charter a boat from Florida to Bimini for a fishing trip with your friends and family.
All our yachts available in the Bahamas here
The Best Time to Sail the Bahamas
Considering all these amazing features, we are certain you’re convinced beyond doubt that the Bahamas is one of the best places to sail as well as a sure paradise away from home anytime any day. However, sailing from the Bahamas is worth it but not 100% of this time. Sailing seasons and regions greatly influence these factors.
The best time to sail in the Bahamas is from February to July.
Like all countries in the Caribbean Sea and near it, the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands could experience hurricanes. Hurricanes are most likely to happen from the 1st of July to November 30th, with August, September, and the beginning of October being the most probable times of the year.
It is important to stay abreast of weather reports before planning your trip and also have a contingency plan in case it occurs.
How hard is sailing in the Bahamas ?
Sailing in the Bahamas could be relatively easy as long as you have everything you require; some of which we would be listing as we proceed.
The Best Boats to Sail Around The Bahamas
In addition to sailing at the right season, you have to ensure you sail the right boat. A large boat well-built and strong enough to transport you, your co-travelers, and all of your supplies to the desired location is what you should consider. Although the size of the boat would depend on the number of people sailing and the size of their luggage, the strength of the boat is quite a critical factor to be considered also. You need to ascertain that the boat is strong and able to withstand whatever weather conditions, cool or extreme, you might encounter on the way.
Some of the best boats to sail The Bahamas with includes:
The Sunreef 60: a great catamaran for the Bahamas
This 60ft catamaran is a well designed sailboat that features an effortless flow between its internal and external spaces thereby making it easy for you to navigate your way in the boat. It is also said to offer the best space for relaxation owing to its cleverly designed bridge deck and superstructure.
The Ipanema 58: a complete catamaran to sail around the Bahamas waters
This Fountaine Pajot offers a flybridge and two sundecks designed specially to enable you to relax in the warm sun while flexing with friends. It is said to be perfectly equipped with all the necessary amenities like an anchor, GPS, swim ladder, refrigerator, air conditioner, etc, needed to provide you maximum comfort and safety.
The New Tanna 47: the perfect bareboat option for the Bahamas
This luxury catamaran offers comfortable space, a great relaxation center. She is also said to be quite stable in rough weather conditions as the boat can be steered from inside without interference from external distractions like a strong wind and so on.
There are a few other nice sailboats that can serve their purpose well enough but remember that it’s safety and comfort before anything else when picking a boat to sail. And just in case you decide to sail the boat all by yourself, here’s an easy guide to help you have a safe, easy and comfortable journey.
Read also: Caribbean Yacht Charter: the Full Price List
The Best Sailing Itinerary for The Bahamas
Nassau begins the Bahamas Sailing itinerary from which you could decide to sail through the beautiful shallows of the lagoon or even the Atlantic Ocean itself. Palm Cay which has a landmark with the Lynden-Pindling Airport (about 35 mins apart) is one of the famous bases located right in the center of Nassau which is known to house most yacht fleets. And you can reach Nassau most conveniently by flying to the NAS airport and then boarding a cab to Nassau where you’ll have your boat waiting for you.
So now, let’s get right into our sailing itinerary to The Bahamas:
- Day 1: Now that you’ve arrived at the base, it would be best to organize your stuff, pick your group cabin and meet for your area briefing. Of course, don’t forget to relax and prepare yourself for the journey ahead. And if you have a few hours to spare, you can wander about the beach observing the beautiful scenery. Nassau Marina has accommodations for overnight stays.
- Day 2: You’ve got to wake up early and be on the move to the Northern Exumas, specifically at an enclosed Island which is Highbourne Cay. It is a good spot to dive in and explore underwater life.
- Day 3: It’s another beautiful morning to set sail to the Warderick Wells Cay which is at the center of the sea park where you can have a view of the wonders of the Island. It takes a while, 20 NM to sail to this destination and so if you feel hungry and tired, you can take a stop at Allan’s cay.
- Day 4: Judging from the fact that the previous day was a long tiring journey, it would be nice to take a break from sailing and just enjoy the moment at the beach. You can go swimming, snorkeling, or just stroll around enjoying the warm weather.
- Day 5: Now that you are fully energized to continue the journey, it’s time to set sail to Shroud Cay which is about 18NM.When you’re ready to lay down your head to rest, Exumas Park moorings are available for your comfort.
- Day 6: Today we head out to Norman’s Cay which is about an hour away from Shroud Cay. Since the journey wouldn’t take so long, you could spend a few extra hours there at Shroud Cay. Get some rest or take a swim.
- Day 7: Hey! It’s time to set sail back to Nassau. However, there are a few stops you could take in between There are, however, a few stops you can make along the way. You could stop to have an amazing time at Allan’s Cay beach; maybe a swim or perhaps stop for a nice meal. Or you could stop for a dive underwater there at Highbourne. Whichever place you decide, ensure to have a great time.
Other itinerary inspirations? Discover a cruising itinerary of 7 days in the Abacos or 7 days around Nassau in the exuma
The Best Marinas in The Bahamas
Perhaps, you’re looking to stop by a resort facility (of course you should) where you can enjoy walks on the beach sands; exploring the Islands and observing the beautiful water tides, go diving, snorkeling, and many other fun activities, then you’ll need to visit a Marina (maybe one or two). Yes! We have some of the best suggestions:
The Abaco Marina is the biggest in the Bahamas with the most and certainly one of the best equipment and facilities. Several of the world’s most beautiful beaches can be accessed from this marina. Exciting, right? They also offer good internet and electricity as well as good security.
This is also one of the best marinas in the Bahamas that cater to omega-sized patches and also offers great facilities like a fitness center, casino, nice restaurant services, a sports bar, shopping center, and many more.
This marina is well known among divers and fishermen especially because it can accommodate yachts up to 75 feet. It has a swimming, water spots area, restaurant, and BBQ area and provides free Wi-Fi and constant electricity to visitors. Pretty cool!
On the subject: The best liveaboard marinas in the Bahamas
Read also: Top 3 Luxury Yachts of the Week in the bahamas
Legal Requirements to Sailing The Bahamas
So now that you have a guide to The Bahamas and insights on the best marinas to stop by, let’s talk about all the legal requirements you’ll need:
- Passport and Visa: Entry requirement depends on your country of birth, American or Europeans for example won’t need a visa but you will need a valid passport. We recommend checking with your local embassy that everything is set to enter the country and on official sources.
II) Sailing conditions and experience: To sail the Bahamian waters by yourself, you need solid sailing experience and good knowledge about the tides. When entering the Bahamas with a boat, you will need to pay an entry fee for your cruising permit, fishing permit, and departure tax.
- Insurance requirement: Since 2020 avec covid pandemic, travel insurance is required to enter the Bahamas.
Traveling Cost of Sailing the Bahamas
The cost of sailing may be a little on the high side, hence planning is strongly advised. You will need to pay for your entry requirements, travel costs, boat/yacht fees, feeding, and accommodation.
Once other necessary requirements stipulated by the Bahamas immigration service have been met, you are good to go.
The price of a yacht charter in the Bahamas is from $3,600 for a 30ft bareboat catamaran, up to +$100,000 for a nice motoryacht. Off course there should be a choice for any budget. For more details, read on about the cost of chartering a yacht.
Feeding and accommodation cost depends on a few factors such as duration, location, and personal taste.
Need further tips on planning a great vacation in the Bahamas? Feel free to contact us.
Cheers to a great vacation!
