Yacht Charter Itinerary The Exuma Islands, Bahamas
Written by Missy Johnston
Allen’s Cay
Join your charter yacht in the capital city of Nassau to begin this terrific yacht charter itinerary of the Exuma Islands, and cruise 34 miles to another world. There are more than 700 islands in The Bahamas, with the Exuma chain reaching south at least 120 miles. Arrive at the Allen’s Cay group of islands to explore the various cays in this little group, including nearby beaches and to meet the large population of protected native iguanas on Leaf Cay or Southwest Allan’s Cay, which always come out to greet visitors. Good snorkeling and fishing surround this collection of some 13 small islands and reefs.
In the morning cruise to uninhabited Hawksbill Cay, on of the prettiest cays in the Exumas Land and Sea Park. Walk along the beautiful expanse of beaches and climb the large hill for a panoramic view of the anchorage and a great photo opportunity. In the afternoon, hike the various trails across this cay to explore ruins of Loyalist plantations dating from 1783 and enjoy a picnic lunch packed by your on board yacht charter Chef.
Warderick Wells
After breakfast, cruise to Warderick Wells, headquarters of the Exuma Land and Sea Park, where you’ll be greeted by an amazing display of water colors over the shallow sand banks upon approach. Snorkeling is excellent on nearby reefs. On shore, check out the sperm whale skeleton on the beach and for a little activity, hike the park’s four miles of walking trails.
Staniel Cay
Enjoy a lazy tropical breakfast before cruising to Staniel Cay where you can visit this quaint settlement of brightly colored Bahamian typical houses. Snorkelers will enjoy exploring nearby Thunderball Cave, by the charter yacht tender, the site of the movies “Splash” and “Thunderball”. Have dinner on board or ashore at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club.
Big Major Cay
Leave for Big Major Cay to visit the swimming piggies. Cruise to the eight-mile-long Pipe Creek, an area generally deserted as many yachts avoid its tricky shifting shoals and endless coral heads. This is a watersport paradise providing endless fishing, exploring and snorkeling opportunities. Your charter yacht crew will put all of the water toys out for an afternoon of fun in the sun.
Enjoy breakfast before cruising north to Shroud Cay. After anchoring, take the dingy through unspoiled mangrove creeks for a private picnic lunch on a spectacular unspoiled ocean beach which will magically appear as created by your charter yacht crew. Hike along the trails to see a variety of birds and wildlife.
In the morning cruise to Norman’s Cay to snorkel on the island’s famous airplane wreck. While lunch is served, cruise to Nassau for a visit to the magical Atlantis Resort for great entertainment and nightlife.
Nassau
Disembark your charter yacht in Nassau.