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abacos islands yacht charter

Bahamas

Abacos Islands Yacht Charter: Explore Paradise!

The Abacos are a group of tropical islands and cays nestled in the northernmost Bahamas, situated between Grand Bahama Island and Great Exuma. They are world renowned for their stunning beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Boasting a wide array of activities such as sailing, diving, snorkeling and fishing, these islands make the perfect place for an Abacos Islands Yacht Charter.

The primary islands in this region are Great Abaco and Little Abaco, surrounded by countless smaller cays and islets. The most notable among these being Elbow Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Man-O-War Cay, and Guana Cay.

The islands are characterized by stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and quaint, colorful harbors. Narrow channels meander through many of the cays, offering a host of protected anchorages for boats and yachts alike. Throughout the islands, one can find charming colonial architecture, with vibrant homes and historic buildings.

Each islet and cay within the Abacos possesses its own unique personality. From the colorful village of Hope Town to the mile long secluded beach of Treasure Cay, visitors encounter an array of options when it comes to experiences in this idyllic tropical paradise.

abacos islands yacht charter
Treasure Cay Beach, Abacos

A Brief History

The Abacos have quite a colorful history, formed by a blend of native, colonial, and maritime influences. Initially inhabited by the Lucayan people, Spanish explorers like Christopher Columbus brought significant changes to the islands when they first arrived in the 16th century.

Throughout the 17th century, the islands became a sanctuary for pirates and privateers before falling under British colonial rule. British Loyalists settled in the Abacos in the 17th century, adding to the islands’ cultural landscape. Over time, the region’s maritime industries expanded to include shipbuilding and fishing.

Tourism grew during the 20th century, and the islands saw a significant increase in visitors. Today, the islands maintain their historical charm while catering to modern tourism.

Weather | Abacos Islands Yacht Charter

In the Abacos, summers are hot, humid, and mostly cloudy. The winters are comfortable, humid, windy, and mostly clear. The temperature typically varies from 66°F to 88°F and is rarely below 60°F or above 91°F.

Places to See | Abacos Islands Yacht Charter

Man-O-War Cay

Visit Man-O-War Cay, a small island renowned for its boat-building heritage. Explore the island’s boatyards, where traditional wooden boats are still constructed, and admire the local craftsmanship. Don’t forget to visit the Sail Shop, where local women use old ship sails to create bags, backpacks, and purses.

Great Guana Cay

Head to Great Guana Cay, famous for its stunning 7-mile beach, Nipper’s Beach Bar (home of the Sunday Funday pig roast), and the vibrant community of New Plymouth. Just out in front (to the East of the island) there’s an incredible reef to snorkel. Don’t forget to bring your fins, though, as it’s a few hundred yards from the beach. Spend a day basking in the sun, savoring delicious local cuisine, and soaking in the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Treasure Cay

This beach is one of National Geographic’s Top 10. And rightly so. With over three miles of white sand fringed by palm trees, stunning turquoise waters, and plenty of amenities, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon lounging, looking for sea shells, and soaking up some sun.

Green Turtle Cay

Discover the tranquility of Green Turtle Cay, a captivating island known for its pristine beaches and quaint colonial architecture. Rent a golf cart and cruise around the island in style. Don’t miss the Albert Lowe Museum, which provides insights into the island’s history.

Hope Town

The historic lighthouse of Hope Town is visible for miles, a candy-striped sentinel on the southeastern reef.

Pelican Cays National Park

Pelican Cays National Park has a vast collection of sea life and coral. For miles on the sandy bottom, you will find giant starfish. Dive sites such as Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park are home to underwater caves and multicolored coral reefs.

Walker’s Cay National Park

Turtles, eagle rays, and sharks populate Walker’s Cay National Park in the far northwest.

Fiddle Cay

For an even more secluded experience, visit the beautiful beaches of Fiddle Cay. The shelling here is extraordinary, as it has uninhabited, pristine white sand beaches.

Things to Do | Abacos Islands Yacht Charter

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Dive into the Abacos’ underwater wonderland and explore vibrant coral reefs, ancient shipwrecks, and abundant marine life. Discover sites like the Mermaid Reef or the mysterious Blue Hole, which offer breathtaking experiences for novices and experienced divers.
  • Island Hopping: With a yacht charter, you can hop from one captivating island to another, each with its unique charm and attractions.
  • Fishing: The Abacos offer excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Set sail for trophy fish such as marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and bonefish.
  • Beaches: Relax and unwind on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From the powdery white sands of Treasure Cay Beach to the secluded shores of Tahiti Beach, you’ll find yourself immersed in tranquility.

Geography |

One of the world’s largest barrier reef systems surrounds these reef-and-cay-sheltered waters. Enjoy hundreds of miles of relaxed cruising in the relatively shallow safety of the Sea of Abaco, which includes the islands of Great Abaco and Little Abaco. Another delightful string of sandy cays is just to the east.

The two large islands of Great Abaco and Little Abaco and the Abacos Cays make up the Abacos.

Marinas

Abaco Beach Resort & Marina offers a state-of-the-art 198-slip marina and the best award-winning cuisine in the Bahamas Out-Islands.

Sample 8-Day Abacos Islands Yacht Charter Itinerary

Please note that this is just a sample itinerary. It is subject to change based on weather conditions, yacht speed, and personal preferences. We will work with you to create a custom itinerary based on your interests and desires.

abacos islands yacht charter
Treasure Cay Marina

Marsh Harbour to Elbow Cay

  • Depart Marsh Harbour and sail approximately six nautical miles to Elbow Cay.
  • Explore the charming settlement of Hope Town and visit the iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse.
  • Enjoy the pristine beaches and snorkeling spots around Elbow Cay.

Elbow Cay to Man-O-War Cay (7 NM) | Day 2

  • Sail from Elbow Cay to Man-O-War Cay.
  • Immerse yourself in the island’s boat-building heritage and visit the boatyards.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque settlement and admire the local craftsmanship.

Man-O-War Cay to Green Turtle Cay (12 NM) | Day 3

  • Cruise approximately 12 nautical miles from Man-O-War Cay to Green Turtle Cay.
  • Relax on the stunning 7-mile beach and indulge in water sports like snorkeling or kayaking.
  • Explore the quaint community of New Plymouth and visit the Albert Lowe Museum.

Green Turtle Cay to Great Guana Cay (10 NM) | Day 4

  • Sail from Green Turtle Cay to Great Guana Cay.
  • Spend the day lounging on the beautiful 7-mile beach and swimming in the turquoise waters.
  • Enjoy a delicious meal and vibrant atmosphere at Nipper’s Beach Bar.

Great Guana Cay to Treasure Cay (14 NM) | Day 5

  • Sail from Great Guana Cay to Treasure Cay.
  • Discover the breathtaking white sands and crystal-clear waters of Treasure Cay Beach.
  • Engage in water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, or jet skiing.

Treasure Cay to Walker’s Cay (35 NM) | Day 6

  • Cruise from Treasure Cay to Walker’s Cay.
  • Explore the uninhabited Walker’s Cay and its stunning surrounding reefs.
  • Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities in the deep-sea fishing capital of the Bahamas.

Walker’s Cay to Green Turtle Cay (30 NM) | Day 7

  • Sail from Walker’s Cay to Green Turtle Cay.
  • Return to the captivating island and revisit your favorite spots or explore new ones.
  • Relax on the beach, dine at local restaurants, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.

Day 8: Green Turtle Cay to Marsh Harbour (12 NM) | Day 8

  • Cruise from Green Turtle Cay back to Marsh Harbour.
  • Arrive in Marsh Harbour and take some time to explore the town’s marinas and shops.

Visit The Types of boats for charter in the Bahamas for our insights.

Yachts for an Abaco Islands Yacht Charter Vacation

Here are a few of the boats available for your Abacos Islands yacht charter: