Matt Weidert
Crewed Catamaran Charter Bahamas: The Ultimate Experience
Why Choose an Exumas Crewed Catamaran Charter?
- Unbelievable shades of blue – Some of the most breathtaking water on the planet, with crystal-clear shallows and deep cobalt blue channels.
- Protected sailing – The Exuma Bank offers smooth, well-sheltered cruising, making for comfortable and predictable sailing conditions.
- Pure solitude – With so many islands and cays to explore, you can find your own private anchorage nearly every night.
- World-class fishing – The nearby Exuma Sound drop-off is rich with wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, and snapper.
- Sandbars galore – Step onto a pristine sandbar that appears at low tide, perfect for a private picnic and a swim in knee-deep water.
- Easy access – Direct flights from the U.S. mainland make getting to Nassau seamless, so you can be on your yacht and sailing within hours.
The Best Time to Charter a Crewed Catamaran in the Bahamas
- Consistent trade winds for smooth sailing
- Longer days to maximize your time on the water
- Less crowded anchorages before hurricane season
The Ultimate Weeklong Private Crewed Charter in the Exuma Bahamas
Embark on an all-inclusive, luxury sailing experience through the Exumas, where your private crew takes care of everything. From pristine beaches and thrilling offshore fishing to unforgettable snorkeling and secluded anchorages, enjoy the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and seamless luxury.
Your journey begins with a scenic sail across the Yellow Bank to the Exumas and ends with a final night at Rose Island, just outside Nassau, before disembarking the following morning.
Day 1: Welcome Aboard – Sailing to the Exumas
Your adventure begins at a Marina in Nassau or Paradise Island, where your professional crew welcomes you with a handcrafted cocktail and a seamless check-in. After a quick orientation, your yacht sets sail across the Yellow Bank toward the Exuma island chain.
Midway through the crossing, the captain selects a calm spot for a snorkeling session at a vibrant coral head, where you can explore tropical fish and, in season, spiny lobster.
By late afternoon, you arrive at Highbourne Cay, where you can paddleboard, enjoy a beach stroll, or relax with a sunset swim before savoring a gourmet first-night dinner aboard under the stars.
Highlights of Day 1:
- Welcome cocktail and yacht orientation at arrival marina.
- Scenic sail across the Yellow Bank to the Exumas.
- Snorkeling at a vibrant coral reef.
- Sunset beach walk or paddleboarding at Highbourne Cay.
- Gourmet first-night dinner under the stars.
Day 2: Allen’s Cay Iguanas & the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
After a leisurely breakfast on deck, take the tender to Allen’s Cay, home to the endangered Bahamian Rock Iguanas. These friendly reptiles roam the beach and eagerly greet visitors.
Afterward, set sail south to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a protected marine sanctuary where snorkeling is truly world-class. Your captain will guide you to Emerald Rock, known for its stunning reefs, crystal-clear waters, and powdery white sand beaches.
Spend the afternoon kayaking through hidden coves, snorkeling colorful coral gardens, or hiking to Boo Boo Hill for panoramic views of the Exumas.
Highlights of Day 2:
- Visit the endangered iguanas at Allen’s Cay.
- Sail to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
- Snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking at Emerald Rock and Boo Boo Hill.
- Sunset cocktails and dinner aboard.
Day 3: Staniel Cay, Thunderball Grotto & Swimming Pigs
Wake up in the heart of the Exumas and enjoy a morning paddleboard session or swim before breakfast.
Sail south to Staniel Cay, one of the most iconic stops in the Exumas. Your first adventure of the day is a thrilling snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, an underwater cave made famous by the James Bond movie Thunderball. Swim through natural openings as sunlight illuminates the cavern in a dazzling display.
Next, take the tender to Big Major Cay, home of the famous swimming pigs. These friendly pigs love to greet visitors in the shallow waters, making for a fun and memorable experience.
In the afternoon, visit a stunning remote sandbar for a luxury beach picnic, complete with chilled champagne and fresh seafood.
Highlights of Day 3:
- Snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto, an iconic film location.
- Meeting the famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay.
- Luxury beach picnic with champagne and fresh seafood.
- Sunset cruise and chef-prepared dinner aboard.
Day 4: Compass Cay – Nurse Sharks & Crescent Beach
After breakfast, sail north to Compass Cay, where you can swim with gentle nurse sharks right from the dock.
Afterward, explore Crescent Beach, one of the most spectacular beaches in the Bahamas, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy—whether it’s a snorkel session, a gentle hike around the island, or a sunset cocktail on deck.
Highlights of Day 4:
- Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay Marina.
- Relax on Crescent Beach.
- Snorkeling and paddleboarding in turquoise waters.
Day 5: Shroud Cay – The Magical Mangrove River
Set sail for Shroud Cay, an uninhabited island with a stunning mangrove river that winds its way through the island. This is one of my favorite activities in the Exumas.
After breakfast, take the tender through the famous "Sanctuary Creek", a natural lazy river leading to a breathtaking sand dune beach. Along the way, spot sea turtles, stingrays, and baby sharks in the shallow waters. If the tides are perfect, you can enjoy a fun water slide at the end of the creek.
Camp Driftwood is also worth a visit, where you can take in the views of the Exuma Sound.
Highlights of Day 5:
- Dinghy or kayak ride through the mangrove river at Shroud Cay.
- Spot sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.
- Relax at Camp Driftwood Beach with stunning views.
Day 6: Deep-Sea Fishing & North Sail Rocks Exploration
Today, set out for an exhilarating offshore fishing adventure in the deep waters of the Exuma Sound, targeting wahoo, mahi-mahi, and tuna. Whether you're reeling in the catch of the day or just enjoying the thrill of being on the open water, this will be an unforgettable experience.
After a morning of fishing, arrive at North Sail Rocks, one of the most secluded and pristine anchorages in the Exumas. Here, enjoy an afternoon of water sports, snorkeling, and exploring hidden beaches. If conditions allow, you may even have the chance to catch lobster and conch for a fresh-made ceviche prepared by your chef.
Highlights of Day 6:
- Exhilarating offshore fishing for wahoo, mahi-mahi, and tuna.
- Secluded anchorage at North Sail Rocks.
- Afternoon of water sports, snorkeling, and exploring hidden beaches.
- Optional fresh lobster and conch ceviche.
Day 7: Return to Rose Island – Final Night Aboard
After breakfast, begin the scenic sail back toward Nassau, crossing the Yellow Bank once more.
By late afternoon, arrive at Rose Island, where you’ll enjoy one last afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the Bahamian sun. As the sun sets, your crew will prepare a special farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible memories made throughout the week.
Highlights of Day 7:
- Scenic sail back across the Yellow Bank.
- Final evening of water sports and relaxation at Rose Island.
- Special farewell dinner aboard.
Day 8: Disembarkation by Noon – Farewell to Paradise
Wake up to the calm, clear waters of Rose Island and enjoy a leisurely final breakfast aboard before setting sail for a short return to Nassau.
Your crew will arrange a seamless transfer to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) or your next destination, ensuring a stress-free departure.
.jpeg)
