Destinations > Regions > Caribbean > Bahamas
Boasting 700 idyllic islands, the Bahamas is one of the most popular destinations for a yacht charter within easy reach of the United States. From the luxury resorts and activities of Nassau to the stunning remote island chain of the Exumas, the Bahamas have been attracting superyachts to its shores for decades. The Bahamas offers an array of beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an extraordinary destination for a yacht charter vacation.
It is easy to get to the Bahamas from both the United States as well as Europe, with a large International Airport on New Providence island as well as several private airports scattered across the island nation. The most developed of the islands is New Providence, home to the large town of Nassau, the capital, with its sugar-pink buildings and the fun annual Junkanoo carnival. Within a short cruise, guests on luxury yacht charters in the Bahamas can find themselves in the less populated islands including the charming Exumas, Eleuthra, the Berry Islands, or the Abacos. These beautiful islands offer a variety of experiences, from serene escapes to vibrant local culture.
Selection of available charter yachts in the Bahamas
What kind of experiences are there to enjoy on a luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas has something for everyone. New Providence – one of the most populated islands – is home to many luxury resorts. Golf fans can head over to the Albany course, which is regularly frequented by celebrity owner-investor Tiger Woods. The One&Only Ocean Club with its classic colonial style is featured in the early scenes of the James Bond movie, Casino Royale. While enjoying your luxury Bahamas vacation, take the whole family along to the world-renowned Atlantis Water Park, which has several rides and activities as well as an aquarium and opportunities to get up close with the local marine life.
Junkanoo is a lively carnival celebration in the Bahamas dating back hundreds of years which takes place over several weeks each year. There are a variety of events during Junkanoo, from concerts and cultural shows to street parades where participants wear colourful costumes with masks and dance, or play musical instruments in a whirlwind for the senses.
A Bahamas yacht rental wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the clear blue waters of the Exumas, an archipelago of 365 mostly uninhabited islands surrounded by coral reefs and Pirates of the Caribbean vistas. A stop at Staniel Cay will offer the chance to visit the famous swimming pigs of Big Major Cay and snorkel in 007’s Thunderball Grotto from the Thunderball movie. Round it off with a stop at Staniel Cay Yacht Club, of Jimmy Buffet fame, for a legendary frozen piña colada and a plate of conch salad. In addition to this, Norman’s Cay, known for its fascinating history and beautiful turquoise waters, is a must-visit for those on a yacht charter itinerary in the Exumas.
Whether you enjoy deep-sea fishing or the challenge of shallow-water bonefishing, the Bahamas is a haven for many who like to enjoy a sports fishing yacht charter. Cast off directly from the back of your yacht or head out in one of the tenders to explore the local hotspots known for sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and many more. If you want to charter a yacht specifically for fishing, the Bahamas offers some of the best opportunities.
If you would also like to explore sea life, the blue holes towards the south of the Bahamas are truly unique for any scuba diver, while the underwater visibility in the Exumas and the Tongue of the Ocean and Bahamas Banks are also famous. Whether you are looking for an advanced scuba expedition or a simple snorkel off the back of your yacht, there is something on offer in the Bahamas. The abundance of tropical fish makes snorkelling and diving in these blue waters a truly unforgettable experience. The Bahamas’ turquoise waters also provide a stunning backdrop for all water sports, from jet skiing to paddle-boarding.
When is the best time to rent a yacht in the Bahamas?
Although it is a great destination to rent a yacht year-round, the main charter season in the Bahamas falls between November and April. The weather during these months is typically warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for a yacht charter holiday.
Average temperatures in the Bahamas range between highs of approximately 28C (82F) in November to 27C (81F) in April. The sea temperature in November is usually around 27C (81F) and 26C (79F) in August.
Where can you visit on a private yacht charter in the Bahamas?
Many people on luxury yacht charters in the Bahamas will fly into Nassau on New Providence or George Town on Great Exuma, both of which have private and commercial terminals. New Providence is the most built-up of the islands in the Bahamas, with a number of luxury resorts and various shore-based activities from golf courses designed by world champions to water parks and high-rolling casinos.
The Exumas are one of the most popular destinations for a yacht charterer, offering a chance to experience rugged limestone islets encircled by teeming coral reefs and postcard-worthy sand spits perfect for a private beach barbecue. The beautiful white beaches of the Exumas are perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying a secluded picnic.
Eleuthra is a large island lying to the east of New Providence. As well as a number of interesting scuba diving sites, it is a stone’s throw from Harbour Island, the holiday destination of choice for those seeking laid-back island charm with a hint of uptown grandeur.
More remote spots such as Cat Island and Conception Island are the last frontier before the Atlantic, with superb opportunities for game fishing and pelagic diving as well as snorkelling and surfing. Or jump in a seaplane for a day trip to the famous Pink Sands Beach, where celebrities, supermodels and top CEOs rub shoulders and enjoy barefoot luxury on a relaxed yet refined Harbour Island. Rose Island, a short sail from Nassau, is another fantastic spot, known for its white sands and stunning marine life.
What are the major yachting ports in the Bahamas?
New Providence has the most comprehensive infrastructure for superyachts in the Bahamas, with the cruise ship port being used by many of the largest superyachts. Albany and Lyford Cay residential resorts to the west of the island also have purpose-built superyacht marinas, with the larger capacity being found at Albany.
The Bimini Islands, the Berry Islands, and the Abacos to the north and west of New Providence are also regular stopover points for yachts making the crossing to the Bahamas from the United States, or for smaller yachts cruising the islands, but superyachts tend to spend more time in the central and south Bahamas, in the Exumas and beyond. Several smaller marinas can be found in this region, but the largest superyachts tend to remain at anchor when cruising the majority of the Bahamas.
Catamaran charters are also a great choice in the Bahamas, providing a spacious and stable platform for exploring the islands. Whether you prefer motor yachts or sailing yachts, there are options to suit your every preference. A sailing vacation in the Bahamas offers the opportunity to explore secluded coves, pristine beaches, and lively local culture, all while enjoying the thrill of blue-water sailing.
Looking to contact a yacht charter broker in the Bahamas?
YACHTZOO prides itself on privacy and trust for our charter clients. Booking a yacht charter in the Bahamas is no different. With the help of YACHTZOO’s dedicated Bahamas yacht charter broker specialists, you can choose between the highest quality superyachts, a choice of itineraries, and the best rates available.
If you would like to book a Bahamas yacht charter, please get in touch with a YACHTZOO Bahamas boat charter broker by filling in the form here. A dedicated yacht charter broker will be in touch with you by phone or by e-mail with the perfect yachts for your vacation in the Bahamas. For those interested in catamarans, motor yachts, or any other type of charter yacht, YACHTZOO’s team can provide tailored recommendations to ensure your yacht charter holiday is unforgettable.