Aerial view of a narrow, green island with turquoise ocean, boats in calm inlets.
YACHT CHARTER DESTINATION

Exumas Yacht Charter

SPEAK WITH A CHARTER SPECIALIST

Your privacy is important to us. Privacy Policy

365 cays of turquoise water and wild encounters

Where the Aegean and Mediterranean trade myth for anchorageStretching over 100 miles through the heart of the Bahamas, the Exumas are a chain of more than 365 cays, and easily one of the most exciting stretches of water in the Caribbean. The scenery alone is worth the trip: impossibly clear turquoise water fading into every shade of blue, powder soft sandbars that seem to appear out of nowhere, and quiet anchorages that feel like they belong to you alone.

But it's the wildlife that makes the Exumas unforgettable. At Big Major Cay, you can swim right up to the islands' famous wild pigs as they paddle out to greet arriving boats, one of the most talked about experiences in the entire Bahamas. At Compass Cay, gentle nurse sharks glide through the shallows close enough to touch, and at Allen Cay, curious iguanas patrol the beach like they own the place. In between, there's world class snorkeling over coral heads, kayaking through mangrove creeks, and some of the best bonefishing and deep sea fishing anywhere in the region.

With hundreds of cays to explore and no two anchorages alike, the Exumas are built for slow, adventurous days on the water, and they consistently rank as one of the top cruising grounds in the Bahamas.

Charter Itinerary

For a full itinerary, or to build your own experience, please inquire.

DAY 1

Staniel Cay

Begin your luxury yacht charter at Staniel Cay snorkeling through the clear blue waters, and visit the Thunderball Grotto, where the James Bond movie of the same name was filmed. Then make your way to Warderick Wells Cay for a diver’s paradise flaunting reefs, drop-offs, blue holes and caves filled with exotic marine life.

Sharks swim in shallow, crystal-clear turquoise ocean water near a white sand beach.

DAY 2

Hawksbill Cay

Cruise to uninhabited Hawksbill Cay on Day 2 to enjoy Loyalist Ruins and snorkeling in beautiful harbors and bays. When you’re done, make your way to Shroud Cay and its vast mangroves and explore the various caves and wildlife, including the rare white-tailed tropical birds that nest in the limestone rocks.

Woman in striped hat relaxes on a white lounge chair on a pristine white sand beach by a turquoise ocean.

DAY 3

Norman's Cay

Wake up and get in the water early to explore the airplane wreck on the east side of Norman’s Cay. You can also enjoy fishing and snorkeling in this small and uninhabited island. Then set off for Highborne Cay to dive off Basket-Star Reef and get caught in the Washing Machine, a cut that swirls you and your guests through the islands to be seen!

Aerial view: tropical island, white sand beach, turquoise water, and many boats.

DAY 4

Allan's Cay

For breakfast pull into Allan’s Cay and roam around with the indigenous rock iguanas. Afterward enjoy a hike through the secluded white sand beaches and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Spend the rest of your day swimming, snorkeling and exploring the vast clear blue waters while soaking up the sun.

A white gazebo adorned with flowers set up for a ceremony on a tropical sandy beach.

DAY 5

Compass Cay

Enjoy swimming with nurse sharks in crystal clear blue waters in Compass Cay – a unique experience that can be had only in the Bahamas.

Boy with crossed arms next to a spotted pig on a sandy beach.

DAY 6

Big Majors Cay

Spend day 6 at Big Majors Cay feeding the friendly wild pigs. Enjoy snorkeling the calm waters and seeing the marine life. Head to Sampson Cay to the village of Little Farmers Cay and take in the beautiful views of Exuma Sound and Galliot Cay.

Aerial view of a tropical island with turquoise water, lush greenery, and a marina.

DAY 7

Sampson Cay

Sampson Cay is one of the hidden gems of the Exumas, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and a peaceful escape just north of Staniel Cay. Once home to a popular marina and resort, the island remains a favorite stop for yacht charters thanks to its protected anchorages, scenic trails, and easy access to nearby attractions like Thunderball Grotto and the swimming pigs.

Aerial view of shallow turquoise ocean with swirling sandbars seen through white clouds.

DAY 8

Staniel Cay

End your luxury Bahamas yacht charter back in picturesque Staniel Cay.

Three smiling women stand behind a counter at an outdoor event with boats.

Ready to start your charter adventure?

Get in touch with us and one of our dedicated charter specialists will be at your service to answer all of your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a permit to swim with the pigs at Big Major Cay?

No permit is required to visit Big Major Cay, though visitors are asked to follow guidelines to keep the pigs and other wildlife safe.

Is the Exumas good for fishing?

Yes, the Exumas offer excellent bonefishing on the flats as well as deep sea fishing further offshore, making it a popular stop for anglers.

How many days do you need to explore the Exumas by yacht?

Most Exumas yacht itineraries run 5 to 7 days, allowing time to island hop between anchorages, beaches, and wildlife stops throughout the chain.

What is the best time of year to visit the Exumas by yacht?

The dry season, from November to May, is the best time to visit the Exumas, offering calmer seas, less humidity, and ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

What makes the water in the Exumas so clear?

The Exumas sit atop a shallow limestone shelf with fine white sand, which reflects sunlight and gives the water its signature turquoise clarity.

What is the best way to see the iguanas at Allen Cay?

The iguanas are typically spotted right on the beach, and a short dinghy landing is usually all it takes to see them up close in their natural habitat.