Exuma Islands Yacht Charters | Cruising Paradise
The Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, beginning 35 miles southeast of Nassau. This pristine area is a perfect destination for your Exuma Islands yacht charter.
The islands are divided into three major areas—Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and The Exuma Cays. Each area is unique, and there is no doubt that Exuma, Bahamas, is an ideal destination for a yacht charter.
The largest of the cays is Great Exuma. It is 37 miles long and is joined to Little Exuma Island by a small bridge. The capital and largest town in the district is George Town.
Near the town, but on Little Exuma, the Tropic of Cancer runs across Pelican Beach. The beach is also known as Tropic of Cancer Beach.
A Yacht Charter Adventure: Exuma Land and Sea Park
There's more to the Exumas than swimming pigs and the famous Thunderball Grotto. See the Exuma Land and Sea Park and experience the true beauty of the Exumas. Exuma Land and Sea Park Land and Sea Park | Natural Beauty Abounds The Exuma Land and Sea Park is a 22 by-8-mile protected area in the Bahamas. The area extends from Shroud Cay in the north to Bell Cay in the south. The park showcases wildlife and biodiversity, with abundant natural beauty. The park is part of the Bahamian National Trust, which started in 1958. Everything is protected. Visitors may not remove any animal or fauna; the only ones who may fish are the birds! At the southern end, there are beautiful rock formations. The Bahamas is home to many breathtaking beaches unlike any other in the world. There's even an area called "the aquarium" because there are so many fish;...
Allan Cay | A Tropical Oasis
Allan Cay is in the Northern Exuma Islands, about thirty-seven miles southeast of Nassau, Bahamas. This long, thin cay has very few trees. This scenic destination is a must-visit for those seeking the ultimate luxury yacht charter experience. Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful wildlife promise an unforgettable journey into paradise. Bahamas Sailing Catamaran TIGER LILY A Brief History Allan Cay gets its name from Captain William Allen, a British privateer. This region has a rich history, dating back to the era of pirates and privateers who sought refuge in the hidden coves and islets of the Bahamas. Today, Allan Cay is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and luxury travelers. Weather | Exumas In Allan Cay, the summers are hot, humid, and partly cloudy. The winters are comfortable, humid, dry, and mostly clear. Tropical breezes blow year-round. The temperature typically varies from 70°F to 88°F and is rarely below...
Big Major Cay
Big Major Cay (also known as Major Cay) is an uninhabited island in Exuma, Bahamas. The island is home to Pig Beach, a beach populated by a colony of feral pigs, and it has become a tourist attraction in modern times. Big Major Cay No one knows how the pigs, also known as "the swimming pigs," arrived on the island, although three theories exist. First, some say they were left on purpose by sailors who planned to return for a pig roast. When they never returned, the pigs made themselves at home. Second, it is rumored that the pigs swam ashore after surviving a shipwreck. And last, the pigs may have been bred in preparation for feeding the locals during the Gulf War when food supply chains were threatened. However, the pigs arrived, and they are worth visiting. Weather Like the rest of the Bahamas, Big Major Cay is warm...
Compass Cay
Cruising south in the Exuma Blues from the northern Exuma islands and Cay, you arrive at Compass Cay, one of the top attractions in the central Exuma islands. Here you can swim with the sharks, rent a villa, and dock at the marina for the day or night. Compass Cay, Exumas Mr. Tucker Rolle welcomes everyone with a smile. There is a casual, relaxed atmosphere, and the focal point is the area around the sharks. Weather During the winter, the weather in central Exumas is warmer than in Nassau. Summers have hot days and comfortable nights. The water is warm year-round. Compass Cay has perfect weather, with an average high of 77-86 degrees Fahrenheit. February is the coolest month, while July and August are the hottest. The most rain falls in October. Compass Cay | Places to See and Things to Do Compass Cay is a true paradise on Earth,...
Explore Captivating Great Exuma, Bahamas
The largest of the Exuma Cays is Great Exuma, 37 miles long and joined to Little Exuma by a small bridge. The capital and largest town in the district is George Town. Great Exuma is one of the Bahama Islands still untouched by major tourism. Great Exuma Beach From its intriguing history to its remarkable attractions, Great Exuma offers many unforgettable experiences. Explore this stunning destination and why it deserves a spot on your luxury yacht charter itinerary. A Brief History Great Exuma has a long and interesting history. It goes back to the 17th century when the indigenous Lucayan people lived there. Later, pirates found shelter in the island's secret coves and safe places to anchor their ships. In the 18th century, Great Exuma became a center for growing cotton on plantations. Nowadays, the island is famous for its resorts, private villas, and delightful towns that have a special...
Explore the Wonders of Shroud Cay
Shroud Cay is the northernmost cay in the Exuma Land and Sea Park, an uninhabited cay owned by Exuma Park. This archipelago of cays surrounds a shallow tidal mangrove salt marsh, creating a unique nursery for conch, lobster, sea turtles, birds, and many fish. The landscape of Shroud Cay changes from year to year due to winds and waves. Many Bahamas Yacht Charters in the Exumas visit Shroud Cay. Bay in the Exumas A Brief History of Shroud Cay Shroud Cay has a significant historical past. It takes its name from the shroud, a rope used to lower the sail of a sailing ship. In the 18th and 19th centuries, this region was a haven for pirates who sought refuge within its hidden coves and meandering waterways. Shroud Cay's rich history intertwines with the tales of notorious pirates, adding an air of mystery and adventure to its allure. Weather The...
Highbourne Cay
Highbourne Cay, Bahamas, is a privately-owned island in the Exuma Cays 35 miles southeast of New Providence. It is approximately three miles long and shaped like the letter H. The highest point is over 100 feet above sea level, one of the highest elevations in the Exumas. Centuries ago, this Cay was a haven for pirates, and now most boaters have it on their itinerary. Beach in the Bahamas A Brief History Highbourne Cay boasts a fascinating history that adds depth to its allure. The island takes its name from Colonel Andrew Deveaux, a loyalist who fought in the American Revolutionary War. Deveaux sought refuge in the Bahamas, and in 1783, King George III rewarded his loyalty by granting him the island, originally named High Burn Cay. Over time, the name transformed into the beloved Highbourne Cay we know today. Weather The weather in Highbourne Cay is generally warm to...
Little Exuma
Little Exuma is only twelve square miles. It is here that scenes from two of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies were filmed. This is a lovely stop on a Bahamas yacht charter itinerary. Little Exuma Beach Little Exuma | Weather The weather in Little Exuma is very similar to that of Great Exuma. The summers are hot and humid, and the winters are very comfortable, mostly clear, and windy year-round. The temperature typically varies from 70°F to 88°F and is rarely below 65°F or above 90°F. Although the island isn't in hurricane alley, it does get tropical storms. Little Exuma | Things to See and Do Eat at Santana's Grill Pit, an open-air beach shack restaurant. Local favorites include cracked lobster, cracked conch, shrimp, grilled grouper, peas and rice, and macaroni and cheese. Visit the salt lake near Williams Town. Here, salt was once harvested and shipped abroad. Hike...
Norman Cay | Discover Breathtaking Beaches
Norman Cay is a small island in the Exumas, the Bahamas, about a hundred acres in size. Despite its small size, it is an island with a spirit and story. It has been home to pirates, drug lords, filmmakers, explorers, writers, fishermen, and marine biologists. As popular as Norman Cay has become over time, it is almost untouched by man today. Norman Cay is an ideal location to start your Exuma Yacht Charter. The airport can handle small jets and other smaller aircraft. Flying from Nassau reduces cruising time by at least three to four hours. Norman Cay Beach Norman Cay is south of Highborne Cay as you sail the Exuma Cays from the north. There are good places for scuba diving in the Cay between Highborne Cay and the island. You can enjoy the beautiful marine world if your yacht has scuba diving gear or an Aquasafari Dive Instructor....
Staniel Cay
Crystal blue water and white sand beaches surround Staniel Cay, making it one of the most popular cays in the Exumas. It is about 75 miles south of Nassau and 250 miles southeast of Florida. Staniel Cay Yacht Club An Island Overview Less than 120 people live on the island in a small village on the western shore. The village has residential housing, restaurants, bars, a church, a police station, a post office, a library, small retail stores, and marine supply shops. Some Exuma Yacht Charters start from or end in Staniel Cay. Private charter and scheduled flights are available from the airport or via seaplane to and from Nassau. Generally, this allows for more time onboard in the cays. Two cays separated by a mangrove creek make up Staniel Cay. At the north end, there is a salt pond. Bahamas National Trust protects Staniel Cay. This organization is responsible...
Stocking Island Weekend Fun
Stocking Island is a small, long, narrow island off the port of George Town, Great Exuma Island, Bahamas. The Island has a population of only 10. It is merely one mile across the harbor from Government Dock in George Town. This long narrow Island protects George Town from ocean waves, creating a natural harbor. One high hill, known locally as the Beacon, is capped with an old, unused gas beacon. Stocking Island A Brief History of Stocking Island Stocking Island has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. The island gets its name from the British Loyalist, Captain John Eliot Stocking, who settled there in the late 18th century. During the American Revolution, Stocking Island was a refuge for loyalists escaping the conflict. Today, you can see old loyalist homes and artifacts and learn about the island's interesting history. Weather The summers are hot, humid, and mostly cloudy....
Warderick Wells Cay
Warderick Wells Cay is home to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, stretching from Wax Cay Cut in the north to Conch Cut in the south. Note that all living and dead wildlife is protected. For this reason, visitors may not take anything from the park, including rocks and sand. Warderick Wells Cay Be sure to bring all supplies when visiting the park, as there are no available supplies, including water. The park headquarters has a small gift shop, and the proceeds support the park. There are no bathrooms, showers, or other shoreside facilities. Brief History Warderick Wells Cay has a rich history dating back centuries. The Lucayans originally inhabited the island, the indigenous people of the Bahamas. During the colonial era, it was a hiding spot for pirates who used the natural harbor and its surrounding caves to stash their treasures. Today, the island is managed by the...
Weather
In George Town, the summers are hot, humid, and mostly cloudy; the winters are warm, dry, and straightforward. It is windy year-round. During the year, the temperature typically varies from 70°F to 88°F. It is rarely below 65°F or above 90°F.
Exuma Islands Yacht Charter | Places to See
- Moria Harbour Cay, National Park. The park covers 13,440 acres and is a vital part of the ecosystem between Great and Little Exuma. It includes dunes, beaches, mangroves, and seagrass beds.
- Mile-long Sandbar just south of Big Farmer's Cay. This is a mile-long stretch of dazzling white sands that emerges from the blue-green water at low tide.
- Bitter Guana Cay, also known as Iguana Island, and make friends with some of the island's inhabitants, the Bahamian Rock Iguanas. You can even hand-feed these animals.
- The Exuma National Land and Sea Park. This park is one of the most extensive underwater and land preserves.
- Hermitage Estate in Williams Town, on Little Exuma. The Hermitage Estate is a 970-acre cotton plantation on which the Cotton House stands, the oldest building in the Exuma's.
- Kidd Cove. This harbor, protected by Stocking Island, was said to be Captain Kidd's favorite spot. The hill overlooking the harbor, where a church stands today, is called Kidd Hill. It is believed that Captain Kidd might have stationed lookouts there and on Beacon Hill at Stocking Island.
Exuma Islands Yacht Charter | Things to Do
- Swim with the pigs. Big Major's Cay is home to these "domesticated" animals. Whenever a boat arrives, they swim out to be fed. Although the pigs are friendly, be aware that they are still wild!
- Enjoy local cuisine at Chat' N' Chill, a bar and grill offering native dishes. Or, dine at Sandals Emerald Bay, which offers Asian, French, and Italian cuisine.
- Kayak. Embark on a kayaking expedition through the mangrove forests of Moriah Harbour Cay National Park, a protected area offering a haven for wildlife, including endangered species. Watch for iguanas, sea turtles, and birds as you immerse yourself in this untouched ecosystem.
- Scuba dive. Dive Exuma offers organized dive trips to blue holes, reefs, and wrecks. They are located on the Government Dock in Georgetown, Great Exuma.
- Find a farmers' market. Small shops and produce stands throughout the islands sell local fruits and vegetables, freshly caught fish, and homemade bakery items.
- Listen to local music. Head to Eddie's Edgewater Grill in George Town on Mondays to hear a Rake n' Scrape band.
Gastronomy
Food in the Exuma Islands is similar to traditional Bahamian dishes. The Exumas are known for fresh seafood such as conch, grouper, jack, lobster, tuna, and wahoo. If you've never tried conch (pronounced "konk"), try it fried or in chowder.
Here are a few restaurants to try:
- Shirley’s at The Fish Fry. Great Exuma.
- Tropic Breeze Beach Restaurant. On Little Exuma near the Tropic of Cancer beach. Outdoor seating only.
- Santana’s. On Little Exuma. It is probably the most famous and great Bahamian experience.
- Blu on the Water. In Rolletown. Great views and an interesting menu, including crack conch and spicy crab roll sushi.
- Haulover Bay Bar & Grill Restaurant. Rolletown.
Marinas | Exuma Islands Yacht Charter
Staniel Cay Marina. Accommodates drafts up to 12 feet and yachts up to 210 feet. The newly renovated marina offers fuel, electricity (single and three phases), fresh water, ice, and bait. Eighteen secure slips accommodate center consoles to mega yachts.
The Marina at Emerald Bay. The marina has 133 slips from 40 feet to 240 feet. In addition, there are sewage pump-outs at each slip, 30/50/100 amp 120/240 (3ph), water, high capacity fuel tanks with high volume pumps, floating docks, 24-hour security, immigration, and customs on-site.
Compass Cay Marina. Accessible from the Exuma Banks and the Exuma Sound through channels marked with buoys and range markers. Thirty, fifty, and 100-amp electric, Reverse osmosis water, laundry, and shower facilities are available.
The marina store has ice, beer, soda, bottled water, limited sundry and food items, clothing, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Fuel is available about five miles away at Staniel Cay.
Yacht Types
In general, two types of yachts are perfect for cruising the shallow waters of the Bahamas:
Motor Yachts – If you are looking for comfort and adventure, motor yachts are an excellent choice. You can add more stops to your itinerary on a motor yacht because it quickly travels from place to place without being dependent on the wind. In addition, they're typically the most luxurious boats.
Catamarans – Sailing and power catamarans are ideal for adventurers looking for a comfortable, stable, and relaxed sailing experience.
Power Catamarans are also a yacht charter option in the Exumas. For more, head to our Bahamas Travel Guide.
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