EROS
121FT · MOTOR YACHT
Pricing from $140,000/week
10 Guests · 5 Cabins · 7 Crew
Bahamas Yacht Charters — Exumas & Beyond
Crewed catamaran charters through the Exuma Cays — Staniel, Compass, Shroud, and Warderick Wells. All-inclusive, week-long, with captain and chef on board.
Why the Exumas
Why Charter a Crewed Catamaran in the Bahamas?
The Exumas are a 365-cay chain in the central Bahamas, stretching south from New Providence across some of the most transparent water in the Caribbean. Most cays are uninhabited; a handful have a marina, a yacht club, or a single bar. The chain sits on the shallow Bahama Bank, which gives these waters a luminous turquoise unlike any other Caribbean charter ground.
A crewed charter is the practical way to see the cays. Shallow banks, narrow cuts, and tide-dependent passages reward a captain who knows them — navigation, anchorage selection, and shore landings are handled by the crew. A typical day might pair a snorkel at Thunderball Grotto with a beach lunch at Compass Cay, where the resident nurse sharks gather around the marina dock.
What sets the Exumas apart from the better-known Caribbean charter grounds is concentration. Within a single week-long itinerary, guests encounter the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, hand-fed rock iguanas at Allan's Cay, nurse sharks at Compass, James Bond-era cave snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto, and tidal sandbars that surface only at low water. Few cruising grounds pack this much variety into a single chain.
What Makes a Bahamas Yacht Charter Special
Four characteristics that distinguish the Exumas from other Caribbean charter grounds.
Water Clarity on the Bahama Bank
The Exuma cays sit on a shallow limestone bank where average depths run 5 to 15 feet over white sand. The result is visibility well beyond standard Caribbean conditions and a luminous turquoise that anchored yachts appear to hover above.
Remote, Protected Anchorages
Most cays in the chain are uninhabited; many anchorages see only one or two yachts on a given evening. The Exuma Land and Sea Park (Warderick Wells, Shroud Cay, Hawksbill Cay) is a no-take national park with limited mooring fields, restricted shore access, and almost no commercial development. The contrast with the higher-traffic BVI is immediate.
Wildlife at Every Anchorage
Big Major Cay's swimming pigs are the most photographed wildlife encounter in the Caribbean, and the Exumas chain offers several others. Allan's Cay holds a colony of endemic Bahamian rock iguanas; Compass Cay's marina draws a resident pod of nurse sharks at every tide; sea turtles forage on the seagrass flats off Shroud Cay.
Sandbars, Cuts & Coral Gardens
Low tide exposes sandbars in the cuts between cays — flat sand platforms a few inches above the water, suitable for a beach lunch or paddleboard staging. Pipe Creek and the eastern shore of Shroud Cay are the most photographed; on a week-long itinerary the captain typically times at least one stop to coincide with the tide. Most cays also have shallow coral gardens within snorkeling distance of common anchorages.
Featured Exuma Bahamas Crewed Yachts
A hand-picked selection of catamarans, power catamarans, and motor yachts for Exuma Bahamas crewed charters — yachts and crews we know firsthand.
Sample Exuma Bahamas Crewed Charter Itinerary
Your week is shaped around your group's interests, the season, and the conditions on the water — your captain tailors the days as they unfold. Treat this itinerary as a starting point for inspiration.
Crewed Itinerary · Exumas
Exuma Bahamas Yacht Charter Itinerary: 7 Days
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.
- Duration
- 7 days / 8 nights
- Base
- Nassau
Plan your Exumas charter
Custom-tailored to your dates and group preferences
1
Day 1 of 7 · Nassau → Highbourne Cay
Welcome Aboard – Sailing to the Exumas
Anchorage: Highbourne Cay
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.
Day Highlights
- 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.
2
Day 2 of 7 · Highbourne → Exuma Park
Allen's Cay Iguanas & the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Anchorage: Emerald Rock, 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.
Day Highlights
- 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.
3
Day 3 of 7 · Exuma Park → Staniel Cay
Staniel Cay, Thunderball Grotto & Swimming Pigs
Anchorage: Staniel Cay
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.
Day Highlights
- 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.
4
Day 4 of 7 · Staniel Cay → Compass Cay
Compass Cay – Nurse Sharks & Crescent Beach
Anchorage: Compass Cay
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.
Day Highlights
- Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay Marina.
- Relax on Crescent Beach.
- Snorkeling and paddleboarding in turquoise waters.
5
Day 5 of 7 · Compass Cay → Shroud Cay
Shroud Cay – The Magical Mangrove River
Anchorage: Shroud Cay
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.
Day Highlights
- 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.
6
Day 6 of 7 · Shroud → North Sail Rocks
Deep-Sea Fishing & North Sail Rocks Exploration
Anchorage: North Sail Rocks
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.
Day Highlights
- 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.
7
Day 7 of 7 · North Sail Rocks → Rose Island
Return to Rose Island – Final Night Aboard
Anchorage: Rose Island
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.
Day Highlights
- Scenic sail back across the Yellow Bank.
- Final evening of water sports and relaxation at Rose Island.
- Special farewell dinner aboard.
8
Day 8 · Departure
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.
Plan Your Exuma Bahamas Charter
When to go, what it costs, and how to get there — the practical answers guests ask before booking a Exuma Bahamas crewed yacht charter.
When to Charter the Exumas
Peak Season (Dec–Mar)
December through March is the highest-volume booking window. Conditions in the Exumas differ meaningfully from the protected BVI: cold fronts move through from the northwest every five to ten days from January through March, bringing squalls, wind shifts, and occasional northerlies that constrain anchorage choice. The clear days between fronts are excellent. A captain familiar with the chain routes around incoming fronts using the lee sides of the cays. Christmas, New Year, and Spring Break weeks typically book 12+ months in advance.
Best Window (Apr–May)
April and May are the most favorable months of the year. Trade winds settle from the east-southeast at 12 to 18 knots, cold-front season has ended, and days are lengthening. Cruising traffic thins as full-time cruisers leave the chain ahead of hurricane season, and tropical activity is statistically rare before June. By summer the heat builds, the trades soften, and there's little breeze to break it. For guests choosing between windows, this is typically the best the chain offers.
What a Bahamas Crewed Charter Costs
$25,000–$100,000 per week
Crewed yacht charters in the Exumas typically run from $25,000 to $100,000+ per week, depending on yacht size, build year, and crew. Pricing follows one of two models. Some yachts charter all-inclusive — base rate covers yacht, crew, food, beverages, fuel, and standard running costs — the same model common to British Virgin Islands charters. Others run on a plus-expenses model: the base rate covers yacht and crew, and food, beverages, fuel, mooring and marina fees, and Bahamas cruising and fishing permits are paid through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), pre-funded at 25–35% of the base rate and reconciled at trip end. The Bahamas also carries a 14% cruising tax that does not apply in the BVI — making a like-for-like Bahamas charter modestly more expensive than the same yacht chartered in the Caribbean. Crew gratuities, customary at 15–20% of the base rate, are paid directly to the captain on disembarkation.
How to get to the Exuma Bahamas
- Gateway airports
- Nassau (NAS) is the primary international gateway, with non-stop flights from most US East Coast cities and a deep-water harbor that accommodates any yacht size. Staniel Cay has a regional airstrip midway down the chain; small turboprops from Nassau, Fort Lauderdale (FLL), or Florida private terminals reach it in 60 to 90 minutes. Some itineraries pair a Nassau arrival with a Staniel departure, shortening the on-water portion of a shorter trip.
- Embarkation ports
- Embarkation from Nassau is most common, departing from Atlantis Marina, Hurricane Hole, or Palm Cay. The first day includes a crossing of the Exuma Sound to reach the northern cays. Embarkation from Staniel Cay Yacht Club is also available; this skips the crossing and is the preferred option on shorter (4–5 day) charters. Starting from Staniel — or any cay south of Nassau — sometimes carries a relocation fee, depending on where the yacht is positioned at the start of the charter. One-way itineraries are also possible on longer charters: Nassau to Staniel and back, Staniel north to Nassau, or even Georgetown (Great Exuma's southern hub) all the way north to Nassau. South-to-north return passages typically ride more comfortably than the reverse — the prevailing wind and swell direction favors that routing. Yacht and trip length shape the right answer; we walk through the options with you before booking.
- Airport transfers
- From Nassau airport, the embarkation marinas are 15 to 30 minutes by taxi. From the Staniel Cay airstrip, the yacht club is a five-minute walk. Private transfers between Nassau and Staniel by seaplane or charter flight are available for guests on tight schedules; the broker arranges these in advance.
- Customs & immigration
- Bahamas customs and immigration clearance happens at the port of entry. The captain handles the yacht's cruising and fishing permits as part of the standard charter setup. Guests need a valid passport; US, UK, and EU citizens do not require a visa for stays under 90 days.
Frequently asked questions
About chartering in the Exuma Bahamas.
How long should our Bahamas charter be?
We recommend a week. The Exumas chain runs over 100 nautical miles end to end, and seven days gives you time to settle into the cruising ground instead of rushing through it. A typical week visits Allan's Cay, Norman's Cay, Shroud Cay and Warderick Wells in the no-take park, Compass Cay's nurse sharks, and Staniel Cay for Thunderball Grotto and the swimming pigs at Big Major.
Shorter trips (4–5 days) work too. For those we typically recommend embarking at Staniel Cay rather than Nassau — starting in Nassau adds a half-day crossing of the Exuma Sound to reach the northern cays, which is a fine experience on a week-long charter but a meaningful chunk of a five-day trip. Staniel Cay drops you in the middle of the chain immediately.
What is included in an all-inclusive Bahamas crewed charter?
Included: a professional crew (typically captain, chef, and stewardess), all meals and a standard bar (beer, wine, and spirits), water sports equipment, fuel for normal cruising, Bahamas cruising permits, linens, and towels.
Not included: crew gratuities (15-20% of the base charter rate), any marina or dockage fees beyond customary stops, premium drinks or specialty provisions, onshore dining (Staniel Cay Yacht Club, etc.), and transfers to and from the yacht.
What is APA, and how does it work on a Bahamas crewed charter?
APA stands for Advance Provisioning Allowance — a pre-paid fund (typically 25-35% of the base charter rate) that covers food, beverages, fuel, mooring and marina fees, and other running costs during your trip. Your captain keeps an itemized account, and any unused funds are refunded at the end of your charter.
In the Exumas specifically, APA also covers Bahamas cruising and fishing permits, the relocation fee if your yacht is repositioning to a starting point like Staniel Cay, and dockage at marinas such as Highbourne Cay or Compass Cay if your itinerary calls for them.
How far in advance should we book a Bahamas crewed charter?
For peak season (December through April), book 6-12 months ahead — the best yachts and crews go first, and Christmas/New Year, Spring Break, and Easter weeks often book 12+ months out.
For our favorite Exumas window (April through May), 4-6 months is typically enough. Last-minute availability comes up too, especially when a charter cancels — we can always check what's open.
Can the chef accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences?
Yes. Your chef can accommodate virtually any dietary need — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, allergies, kids menus, and more. Before your charter, you will complete a preference sheet detailing every guest's dietary requirements, favorite foods, and anything to avoid. Your chef builds the menu around it.
In the Bahamas, expect plenty of fresh-caught conch, lobster (in season), and grouper alongside your preferences — it's part of what makes a Bahamas charter feel like a Bahamas charter.
Should we start our Bahamas charter from Nassau or Staniel Cay?
Both work, and the right call depends on your trip length and travel preferences.
Nassau is the more common starting point — direct flights from most US gateways and a deep-water harbor for any size yacht. The trade-off is a half-day open-water crossing of the Exuma Sound to reach the northern cays before your charter really begins.
Staniel Cay sits in the middle of the Exuma chain, near Pig Beach and Thunderball Grotto. Starting from Staniel skips the Nassau crossing entirely and you're chartering from the moment you step on board — a meaningful difference on a 5-7 day trip. The trade-off is that flights are smaller (regional turboprops out of Nassau or Fort Lauderdale), and there is often an extra relocation fee to position the yacht to Staniel.
For a 7+ day charter we usually recommend starting in Nassau and using the crossing as part of the experience. For 4-5 days, Staniel is hard to beat.
How to get to the Exumas?
You can fly directly to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau with airlines like Delta, United, American, and Air Canada.
When is the best time to visit Exuma, Bahamas?
The best time to visit Exuma, Bahamas, is from December to April, thanks to its moderate weather and comfortable temperatures. This period is particularly appealing for a variety of reasons:
- Stable Weather Conditions: These months provide the most stable and predictable weather, with minimal rainfall and storm activity. This consistency makes it easier to plan your sailing adventures and ensures more time enjoying the sun and sea.
- Comfortable Climate: The climate is pleasantly warm, with temperatures usually ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-29°C), making it ideal for outdoor and water activities. The ocean temperature is also inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and diving enthusiasts.
- Favorable Sailing Conditions: The trade winds during this season are steady and moderate, offering ideal conditions for sailing. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a beginner, navigating the waters of Exuma is both enjoyable and accessible.
- Lower Hurricane Risk: Traveling outside the Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June to November, reduces the risk of travel interruptions and ensures safer sailing experiences.
What kind of marine life can I expect to catch while fishing in Exuma?
In the Exuma Sound drop, just a stone's throw away in some places, you can catch species like wahoo, mahi mahi, and tuna. You can read more about it here.
What are the best activities to do in Exuma during a yacht charter?
From hiking on Boo Boo Hill, swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay, to enjoying a Peanut Colada at Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Exuma offers unique activities for sea adventurers.
What should I know about swimming with the pigs in Exuma?
Visiting the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay is a unique experience. It's recommended to bring suitable food for them (such as fruits and vegetables) and maintain a respectful distance to enjoy this encounter safely and responsibly.
Explore the Exuma Bahamas
Field-tested guides, itineraries, and tips — written from years of chartering these waters.
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How to Book Your Exuma Bahamas Yacht Charter
1
Share Your Vision
Fill out our quick form and we'll dive into your unique preferences — from adventure-packed itineraries to pampered escapes. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to charters, we'll tailor recommendations just for you.
2
Choose the Perfect Yacht
With over a decade of experience, we'll guide you to the yacht that matches your style, needs, and group. Having personally chartered many of these yachts, we'll ensure you select the one best suited for your perfect escape.
3
Relax While We Handle the Details
Once your yacht is booked, we'll take care of logistics: paperwork, reminders, and personalized resources to help you plan. From arrival planning to must-visit spots, we'll make your charter as seamless as it is unforgettable.
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