Exumas Yacht Charter Guide

With one to explore for each day of the year, the Exumas are home to a string of over 365 islands and cays. Part of the Bahamas, this stunning archipelago is renowned for its turquoise waters framed by idyllic beaches. 

Ideal for island-hopping yacht charter adventures, the Exuma chain is full of secluded anchorages and remote islets for cruising. Underwater adventures here are fit for all abilities and can include swimming with nurse sharks and tropical fish, snorkelling or diving wrecks, caves, and the iconic blue holes. 

Play out your own castaway on a secluded sandbar, enjoy luxurious amenities in Nassau, hike the trails of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, meet the swimming pigs, sharks, and endangered rock iguanas, or soak up the Bahamian lifestyle.

Best Time To Visit: December to April, the peak cruising season, offers the most favourable conditions, with warm temperatures, steady winds, and lower humidity.

Key Cruising Areas: Starting a yacht charter in the capital of Nassau, go at your own pace and visit spots like Staniel Cay, Compass Cay, Norman’s Cay, and the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.

Don’t Miss: Snorkel the underwater cave system of the famous James Bond spot of Thunderball Grotto at Staniel Cay.

Best Spots For Wining And Dining: Book a table at Xuma’s Restaurant and Bar on Highbourne Cay, the waterside, alfresco spot is perfect to enjoy an elegant evening meal.

Best Local Dish: A Bahamian staple found throughout the islands is conch; enjoy it deep-fried as fritters or in a salad, washed down with a Kalik beer.

Local Culture: Explore Georgetown, the capital of the Exumas, located on Great Exuma Island; admire its colonial-era architecture; and visit historical sites and the local market.

Best Beach: It is challenging to choose one with so many, but on Little Exuma, the Tropic of Cancer is a favorite thanks to its untouched natural beauty and pristine white sand.

IYC Recommends: Enjoy a beach picnic setup by the crew on the picturesque sandbar on the south side of Big Farmer’s Cay. The mile-long sandbar is the perfect setting for your own magical beach day.