Bahamas Bliss: 7-Day Sailing Paradise
Don’t wait to make this dream a reality—book your sailing adventure now and experience the magic of the Exumas and beyond!
Tropical Vibes, Endless Tides
Embark on a breathtaking 7-day sailing adventure through the Bahamas, where turquoise waters, untouched beaches, and vibrant marine life await.
Day 1: Nassau
Begin your journey in the bustling city of Nassau, where vibrant culture meets pristine beaches. Enjoy the lively marina and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Allen Cay and Highbourne Cay
Sail to the Exumas and encounter the exotic iguanas of Allen Cay before relaxing on the serene beaches of Highbourne Cay.
Day 3: Warderick Wells Cay 🏝️
Explore the Caribbean’s largest underwater park, home to vibrant reefs and marine life. Dive into crystal-clear waters and experience unmatched serenity.
Day 4: Compass Cay and Staniel Cay 🦈
Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay and discover Staniel Cay’s iconic swimming pigs and Thunderball Grotto.
Day 5: Shroud Cay
Glide through Shroud Cay’s tranquil mangroves and uncover its hidden lagoons for a peaceful escape.
Day 6: Norman’s Cay
Visit Norman’s Cay, steeped in history, and snorkel around the famous underwater plane wreck.
Day 7: Return to Nassau
Sail back to Nassau, cherishing the unforgettable moments from your Bahamian adventure.
This journey will leave you longing for another Bahamian adventure.
Nassau
Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, on New Providence Island in the central Bahamas archipelago. The harbour holds three major charter marinas: Nassau Yacht Haven, Atlantis Marina (megayacht, on Paradise Island across the bridge), and Bay Street Marina in the city centre. The Old Town holds the Government House (Pink House), the parliament buildings, and the colonial-era stone fortifications. Day-sail routes east reach the Exuma Cays chain in 6-8 hours, the closer Rose Island and Athol Island (snorkel anchorages, 30 minutes), and the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay. The Bahamas sit on a shallow limestone plateau — most of the inter-island waters average only 5-15 metres depth, with sand-bottom visibility to 20 metres on most days. Season runs year-round; peak December-April, hurricane June-November.
Palm Cay Marina is a modern marina and residential area located on Nassau's eastern shore.
- Berths: 194 slips accommodating vessels up to 48 meters.
- Depth: Water depths up to 3.5 meters.
- Services: Electricity, water supply, fuel station, waste management, restrooms and showers, 24-hour security.
- Additional Amenities: Restaurants, private beach, swimming pool, and market for added convenience.
This marina offers an exceptional blend of comfort and functionality for sailors and holidaymakers alike.
Cable Beach, one of Nassau’s most iconic destinations, is famed for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by luxury resorts, it offers a vibrant atmosphere with opportunities for water sports, sunbathing, and relaxation. Whether enjoying jet skiing or dining at seaside restaurants, Cable Beach combines fun and tranquility for an unforgettable experience.
Nassau Yacht Haven Marina is a popular marina located near Nassau's city center.
- Berths: 130 slips accommodating yachts up to 46 meters.
- Depth: Water depths up to 4 meters.
- Services: Electricity, water, fuel station, restrooms, and laundry facilities.
- Additional Amenities: Nearby restaurants, cafes, and shopping stores.
This marina serves as a perfect base for exploring historic Nassau.
Jaws Beach, tucked away on Nassau’s western edge, is a serene haven for nature lovers. Known for its calm, clear waters and unspoiled beauty, it’s ideal for snorkeling and quiet relaxation. Far from the bustling crowds, Jaws Beach offers a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.
Clifton Heritage National Park is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty on Nassau’s western edge. This park tells the story of the Bahamas through preserved historical ruins, trails surrounded by lush landscapes, and breathtaking coastal views. A standout feature is the underwater sculpture garden, where marine-inspired art and vibrant sea life merge beneath crystal-clear waters, offering a unique snorkeling experience. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventurers, Clifton Heritage invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and tranquil beauty of the Bahamas.
Carna by Dario Cecchini, nestled in the heart of Nassau, is a culinary destination that redefines the steakhouse experience. Spearheaded by the world-renowned butcher Dario Cecchini, this restaurant is a celebration of premium meats and sustainable practices. The menu features an exquisite selection of dry-aged steaks, freshly sourced ingredients, and innovative dishes that highlight the art of butchery.
Set in an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere, Carna offers sweeping views of the surrounding marina, making it an ideal spot for a sophisticated dinner or special celebration. The attentive service and passion for quality are evident in every detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
OIA Restaurant in Nassau offers a refined blend of tropical charm and international culinary excellence. As Goldwynn's signature dining destination, OIA brings together Mediterranean and Asian influences with a touch of Peruvian flair, crafted using innovative Japanese techniques. The menu showcases a fusion of bold flavors, featuring the finest locally sourced and imported seasonal ingredients.
Whether starting your day with an elegant breakfast, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or indulging in a romantic oceanfront dinner, OIA provides a sophisticated dining experience. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or a carefully curated wine selection, and let the stunning ocean views elevate your experience.
Cleo Mediterráneo, located in Nassau's Baha Mar, offers a vibrant and unforgettable dining experience inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. Created by award-winning chef Danny Elmaleh, the menu blends his signature dishes from Los Angeles with fresh Bahamian ingredients to deliver a unique culinary journey. Indulge in shareable plates, mezzes, flatbreads, and expertly crafted cocktails, all served in a lively, intimate atmosphere that evokes the warmth of family dinners.
With its energetic setting and commitment to fresh, local flavors, it’s no surprise Cleo Mediterráneo earned a spot as one of OpenTable’s “50 Hottest Restaurants in the U.S.” Whether enjoying a romantic evening or a gathering with friends, Cleo promises an exceptional Mediterranean-inspired adventure.
Exumas
The Exuma Cays are a 130-kilometre chain of 365 small low-lying islands in the central Bahamas, running northwest to southeast in a thin line that separates the deep Atlantic from the shallow Great Bahama Bank. The cays are mostly uninhabited and protected as part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (the world's first marine reserve, 1958). The single most-visited stop is Big Major Cay — the home of the famous swimming pigs, a feral colony of about 20 wild pigs that swim out to greet visiting boats. The neighbouring Staniel Cay holds the Thunderball Grotto (a sunlit underwater cave used as a James Bond filming location in 1965) and the Staniel Cay Yacht Club — a small private-aircraft-and-boat clubhouse with a single restaurant. Bahamian-route charters do the Exumas as a 5-7 day extension from Nassau. Season runs year-round.
Step into the untouched beauty of Allen Cay, where nature reigns supreme. This secluded gem in the Exumas is famous for its vibrant population of endangered Bahamian rock iguanas. These fascinating creatures roam freely on the pristine beaches, creating a unique experience for visitors.
Take a leisurely stroll along the soft sands and marvel at the turquoise waters that surround this serene cay. Perfect for nature lovers, Allen Cay offers a rare opportunity to connect with wildlife in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable visit.
Welcome to Highbourne Cay, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Exumas." Known for its first-class marina and breathtaking beaches, this private island is a haven for luxury and tranquility. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Horseshoe Bay, where the vibrant Octopus Garden Reef awaits snorkeling enthusiasts with its colorful marine life.
For those seeking relaxation, Highbourne Cay offers some of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or enjoying water sports, this island promises a perfect balance of adventure and serenity. Highbourne Cay is your ideal introduction to the enchanting Exumas.
Discover the stunning beauty of Horseshoe Bay, one of Highbourne Cay's most enchanting spots. This crescent-shaped bay boasts crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, making it a haven for relaxation and exploration. Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Octopus Garden Reef, where colorful fish and coral formations create a mesmerizing scene for snorkeling enthusiasts.
The calm waters of Horseshoe Bay are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply floating under the warm Bahamian sun. Whether you’re an adventurer or a beach lover, this idyllic bay offers something special for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in one of the most tranquil and picturesque settings in the Exumas.
Warderick Wells Cay
Warderick Wells Cay sits in the central Exumas — a small uninhabited cay that holds the headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the world's first marine reserve (declared 1958, 456-square-kilometre no-take protected zone). The park HQ on the north side of the cay maintains the mooring field (about 25 buoys) used by all visiting yachts — anchoring is forbidden on the protected zone to avoid coral damage. The cay holds the iconic Boo Boo Hill at the south end, where visiting boats traditionally leave a piece of driftwood with their boat name carved on it — the hill is now covered in thousands of layered driftwood plaques. The north side holds the famous Sand Trail dive site with reef sharks and the wreck of a sperm whale skeleton (\"Pickle\"). Warderick Wells is 2 hours from Compass Cay. Season runs year-round.
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, nestled in the heart of the Exumas, is a pristine sanctuary spanning 176 square miles. Known as the first protected marine area in the Bahamas, this park offers breathtaking coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and untouched beaches. Visitors can snorkel among colorful fish, explore serene lagoons, and marvel at the natural beauty that thrives in this no-take zone. The park’s conservation efforts make it a paradise for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers. A visit to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is not just an adventure—it's a journey into one of the world’s most extraordinary marine ecosystems.
Warderick Wells Cay offers an unparalleled experience for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers with its scenic trails and stunning vistas. The highlight is Boo Boo Hill, where a short hike rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Exuma Sound and the surrounding islands. Along the way, discover unique limestone formations, native vegetation, and vibrant wildlife that thrive in this protected environment. Whether you're seeking serenity or adventure, a nature walk on Warderick Wells Cay is a perfect way to connect with the island’s pristine beauty.
Shroud Cay
Shroud Cay sits in the northern Exumas, 20 kilometres north of Warderick Wells — a 3-kilometre-long uninhabited cay inside the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. The cay is defined by a series of tidal mangrove channels (\"creeks\") that cross the entire island from west to east; the longest of these is the 1.5-kilometre Driftwood Creek on the south side, which channels strong tidal currents that visitors ride by kayak from the west anchorage through to a sand beach on the east Atlantic-facing side known as Camp Driftwood — a 200-metre crescent of white sand named for the driftwood shelter built by a 1960s squatter who lived alone here for 30 years. The west-side moorings holds 10 buoys. Shroud is 90 minutes from Warderick Wells. Season runs year-round.
Norman’s Cay
Norman's Cay is a 16-kilometre-long cay in the northern Exumas, immediately north of Shroud Cay — historically infamous as the personal cocaine-trafficking hub of Colombian cartel boss Carlos Lehder from 1978 to 1982, who took over the entire island and used it to fly cocaine into the United States. The island is now redeveloped as a small private resort (MacDuff's) with a 5-room hotel and beach club. The shallow waters off the western beach hold the iconic Curtiss C-46 wreck — a Lehder-era cocaine-smuggling cargo plane that crashed on a landing approach in 1980, now lying in 2 metres of water with the fuselage and wing snorkel-accessible. The cay also holds Soldier Cay at the southern tip — a 250-metre sand beach with a single beach bar. Norman's is 30 minutes from Shroud Cay. Season runs year-round.
Norman’s Cay Marina is a tranquil haven for sailors exploring the Exumas, offering modern facilities and a serene atmosphere.
- Berths: Spacious slips accommodating yachts of various sizes.
- Services: Electricity, water supply, waste management, and docking assistance.
- Additional Amenities: On-site restaurant and bar, and easy access to nearby beaches and snorkeling spots.
Whether anchoring for a brief stop or staying longer to explore the island, Norman’s Cay Marina provides a perfect base for maritime adventures.
Norman’s Cay is home to one of the most intriguing underwater attractions in the Bahamas: a sunken drug-smuggling plane from the 1980s. Resting in crystal-clear shallow waters, the wreck is now a thriving artificial reef teeming with marine life. This historic site is a favorite for snorkelers and divers who come to explore its haunting beauty and rich biodiversity. With easy access and a unique story, the plane wreck is a must-see for adventurers visiting Norman’s Cay.
Compass Cay
Compass Cay is a small privately-owned cay in the central Bahamas Exumas chain, 5 kilometres north of Staniel Cay — a 3-kilometre-long island with a single working marina (Compass Cay Marina) on the east coast, a small clubhouse restaurant, and about 10 holiday cottages. The island became famous internationally after viral 2010s social media of the resident wild population of Caribbean nurse sharks that gather under the marina dock daily — about 30 sharks (3-4 metres long, harmless filter feeders) come to the dock to be fed and tolerate close-contact swimming with visitors. The cay also holds Rachel's Bubble Bath — a natural rock pool on the windward side where Atlantic waves crash through a gap to create a foaming swim pool, similar to the Bubbly Pool on Jost Van Dyke. Compass Cay is 30 minutes from Staniel Cay. Season runs year-round.
Compass Cay Marina & Resort is a true gem of the Exumas, offering a serene retreat for sailors and adventurers alike. Nestled in the heart of Compass Cay, the marina provides top-notch facilities for yachts of various sizes, including docking assistance, water supply, electricity, and waste management. Guests can relax in the marina’s laid-back atmosphere while enjoying breathtaking views of turquoise waters and pristine beaches.
Beyond its exceptional amenities, the resort offers direct access to some of the island’s most famous attractions, including Rachel’s Bubble Bath and the iconic nurse sharks. Whether you’re anchoring for a short visit or an extended stay, Compass Cay Marina & Resort promises an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty.
Rachel’s Bubble Bath, a natural tidal pool on Compass Cay, offers a refreshing and unique experience for visitors. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and filled with crystal-clear water, the pool gets its name from the foamy bubbles created when waves crash over the rocks. Perfect for a relaxing swim or a fun splash, this hidden gem is a must-visit spot for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure.
Compass Cay is famous for its friendly nurse sharks, offering visitors the unique chance to swim alongside these gentle creatures. In the calm, shallow waters of the marina, these harmless sharks are a highlight for animal lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Feeding and swimming with the nurse sharks is not just an unforgettable adventure but also a perfect opportunity to learn about these fascinating marine animals.
Staniel Cay
Staniel Cay is the central charter hub of the Exumas, an 800-metre-long inhabited cay (about 70 year-round residents) with the Staniel Cay Yacht Club — a small private-club marina and restaurant complex that has served as the standard Exumas overnight stop since 1956. The Yacht Club holds 25 berths and a famous bar restaurant where visiting crews sign the walls. Just south of the cay sits the Thunderball Grotto — a sunlit underwater sea cave used as the filming location for the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball and for the 1983 Never Say Never Again. The cave entrance is 1 metre below the high-tide waterline, swimmable through into an interior chamber lit by skylights with reef-fish concentrations. The neighbouring Big Major Cay (the swimming-pigs island) sits 1 kilometre west. Staniel Cay is 30 minutes from Compass Cay. Season runs year-round.
Thunderball Grotto, located near Staniel Cay, is one of the Bahamas’ most iconic natural attractions. This underwater cave system, made famous by James Bond films, offers a magical snorkeling and diving experience. Inside the grotto, you’ll find crystal-clear waters illuminated by shafts of sunlight, vibrant coral reefs, and schools of colorful fish. Accessible during low tide, this hidden gem is perfect for adventurers looking to explore the unique beauty of the Exumas. Whether you're a snorkeling enthusiast or a first-time explorer, Thunderball Grotto promises an unforgettable journey beneath the waves.
Staniel Cay Yacht Club is the heart of the Exumas, offering a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and Bahamian charm. Established in 1956, the club features a world-class marina catering to sailors and yachts of all sizes, as well as cozy waterfront cottages that provide a warm and welcoming stay. Guests can enjoy fresh, local cuisine at the Captain’s Lounge and Sea Level restaurants while soaking in the stunning marina views.
Beyond its exceptional amenities, Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a gateway to some of the region’s most famous attractions, including Thunderball Grotto and the nearby swimming pigs. Whether you’re docking your yacht or enjoying a relaxing getaway, the club is a must-visit destination for an authentic Exuma experience.
Step into the authentic charm of the Captain’s Lounge, the original dining room of the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, serving guests since 1956. With its 1950s Cuban tile floors and open-air windows, the lounge exudes a nostalgic island vibe that takes you back to the club’s early days. Guests can enjoy a laid-back dining experience with breakfast served from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and casual lunch or dinner available from Noon to 9:00 PM. Reservations are not required, making it an easy and welcoming option for every meal. Perfect for those seeking a casual yet classic atmosphere, the Captain’s Lounge embodies the heart of SCYC’s legacy.
For an unparalleled waterfront dining experience, Sea Level at Staniel Cay Yacht Club offers breathtaking views of the Exuma blues. Begin your day with breakfast overlooking crystal-clear waters, enjoy a relaxing lunch, or savor a candlelit dinner as the sun sets. Breakfast is served from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, and lunch is available from Noon to 3:00 PM with no reservations required. Dinner, however, offers an exclusive experience with two seatings at 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM, requiring reservations made by 4:00 PM on the same day.
From its idyllic setting to its curated dining options, Sea Level is the epitome of island elegance. Don your island-resort attire and indulge in a culinary journey that perfectly complements the beauty of the Exumas.
Flyin' Pig Cafe in Staniel Cay offers a cozy and laid-back dining experience inspired by the charm of the Bahamas. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the cafe serves hearty breakfasts, flavorful lunches, and refreshing beverages perfect for fueling your island adventures. With its playful nod to the iconic swimming pigs, Flyin' Pig Cafe combines local charm with delightful cuisine, making it a must-visit spot for both travelers and locals alike.
Nassau Return
The Perfect Finale to Your Bahamian Journey
As your unforgettable Bahamian adventure draws to a close, Nassau welcomes you back with its vibrant charm and inviting allure. This bustling hub of culture, history, and tropical beauty is the ideal spot to reminisce on your journey through the Exumas. Explore Nassau’s colonial past with a stroll down Bay Street, savor local flavors at waterfront eateries, or simply unwind at the pristine beaches that frame this island paradise.
Whether you're soaking in the last rays of the Bahamian sun or planning your next escape, Nassau ensures your adventure ends on a high note. Let the memories of turquoise waters, untouched beaches, and endless exploration linger as you prepare to return, already dreaming of your next Bahamian getaway.
Answered