Turks and Caicos Islands Yacht Charter Guide
The Turks and Caicos Islands – or TCI – may be the best secrets of the Caribbean. The secluded islands are remarkably unspoiled – home to wild horses, populations of flamingo,s and full of caves and hidden beaches seen by few humans, TCI is one of the last paradises on Earth. Surrounded by the third largest reef in the world, tastefully executed development has seen the appearance of excellent private resorts, making TCI the quintessential luxury destination for those in the know and a perfect base for a superyacht charter. The modern capital of Provo is filled with golf courses and top-class restaurants for an evening on land, and the endless beaches and local whale populations are ideal for exploring with your private boat.
Best Time To Visit: Soft trade winds and warm weather make November to June a good time to visit.
Key Cruising Areas: The string of cays that make up Turks and Caicos offer interesting sailing, with many deserted islands and secluded beaches to explore. At the southernmost end of the Bahamas, TCI is a great place to begin a Bahamian yacht charter.
Don’t Miss: The first and only conch farm in the world is located in North Caicos. A tour of the farm offers a fun and unique insight into the industry and a chance to take home stunning unbroken shells. Afterward, stop at the legendary Da Conch Shack to sample the delicacy prepared in every way imaginable.
Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Providenciales (Provo to locals) is the buzzing capital of TCI, filled with chic boutiques and dining options. Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar is not to be missed, where chef Eric Brunell will delight with his seafood specialties – try the Mahi Mahi carpaccio paired with a cold white from the extensive wine list.
Best Local Dish: Conch is the local dish of TCI, and you will find many shacks around the islands. For the best conch fritters with beautiful scenery – and cocktails – head to Mudjin Bar and Grill in Dragon Cay.
Local Culture: The culture of TCI is a unique mixture of African, British, and Caribbean influences. Quite different to typical Caribbean reggae, the music of TCI is ripsaw and you can listen to a local rake-and-scrape band on Sunday nights at Somewhere Café & Lounge in Provo.
Best Beach: With 230 miles of white beaches, it is easy to find a private spot on the islands. Not just the best in TCI, awarded “Best Beach in the World” 2018, with white sand, a barrier reef that calms the swells, and a collection of private beach clubs, Grace Bay more than lives up to expectations.
IYC recommends: Sail around Chalk Sound in Provo. The brilliant azure of the lagoon is peppered with hundreds of small islands, which sit in the shallow waters and provide homes for rock iguanas. Little development in this area means that it is perfect to visit by yacht. Snorkel and swim in the shallow warm waters, sunbathe on white sands, then return to your boat to enjoy a rum cocktail on the deck as the sunsets.