Bareboat Sailing Vacations in Abacos, Bahamas

Overview

Unlike islands in the Caribbean that were formed from ancient volcanic mountain chains, the Bahamas perch on two banks that rise from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Both are sprawling and shallow, dotted with large and small islands and cays fringed in coral reefs teeming with sea life. Low and relatively flat, the Bahamas nestle to the east of Florida and to the north of Cuba. The delights of a Bahamas sailing vacation unfold on Little Bahama Bank’s Great Abaco Island and its myriad cays and splendid family friendly cruising grounds. Barrier reefs, islands, and cays create the Sea of Abaco, where the trade winds blow across calm turquoise waters sheltered from the ocean beyond. Marinas, scenic anchorages, quiet hamlets, historic sites, fun beachside bars, luxury resorts, superior snorkeling and scuba diving, and relaxed sailing are just some of the rewards of a charter in the Bahamas. An added bonus is the close proximity of a Bahamas yacht charter to the United States, with easy airline connections from major U.S. airports and less time spent getting to the yacht.

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Sailing in Abacos

A Bahamas sailing vacation promises an easygoing time aboard with fair winds year round averaging between 5 and 20 knots. They are seldom stronger unless a northerly front (a “norther”) blows through during the winter months, bringing with it fresh breezes from the northwest. Wind directions are east to southeasterly in summer and more northeasterly in winter. The Sea of Abaco is usually calm, passages are short, and the navigation is mostly line-of-sight. However, the waters are also quite shallow, making it prudent to heed the charts and to account for the tidal range, which can be as much as three feet during a full or new moon. A look at the tide tables reveals negative ranges, meaning the recorded depth at mean low water on a chart could actually be less in reality. While this portion of the Bahamas is ideal for the novice sailor and families with young children, the beauty and unique character of the Abacos also lures veteran sailors to return time after time for more adventures. Daily high temperatures range from 75°F (24°C) in January to 95°F (35°C) in August. Daytime temperatures December through February may dip as low as 60°F (15°C).

Abacos Highlights

Gentle trade winds, stress-free sailing, premier snorkeling, miles of secluded beaches, plentiful marinas, quaint villages and towns, wonderful dining, and friendly people are the ingredients that make up a Bahamas charter. The cruising ground is large, but most sailors find that central Abaco north and south of Marsh Harbour, site of the Moorings base in the Bahamas, offers the best sailing in the area.

Green Turtle Cay – New Plymouth

Situated in one of the most popular cruising grounds in the Bahamas, just north of Marsh Harbour, scenic Green Turtle Cay is a must-see during a Bahamas sailing vacation. The cay has numerous secluded anchorages, snug harbors in Black and White sounds, eclectic shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as intriguing historic sites. Check out the Albert Lowe Museum featuring art and photography about the history of the town of New Plymouth. By the time the American Revolution ended in 1783, many loyalists from the former British colony had relocated to the Bahamas. Some chose to live on Green Turtle Cay. A bronze sculpture at the fascinating Memorial Sculpture Garden pays homage to Green Turtle Cay’s British settlers. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the exhibits at the Captain Roland Roberts House Environmental Center, where the ecology of the reefs is explored.

View Green Turtle Cay – New Plymouth highlight

Elbow Cay – Hope Town

In addition to its fine anchorage at White Sound (not to be confused with the one at Green Turtle Cay), Elbow Cay is home to Hope Town, noteworthy for its amenities for sailors but also for the distinctive red-and-white striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse that has been a landmark in the Abacos for generations. Local residents have worked hard to preserve the lighthouse, which first went into operation in 1863. It’s one of only a handful left in the world that burns pressurized kerosene, requiring constant attention from the keeper. It stands 89 feet above sea level and has 101 steps to the top. Climb the lighthouse and admire an unforgettable view of the Sea of Abaco.

View Elbow Cay – Hope Town highlight

Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park

A rich and varied diversity of bird, fish, and plant species inhabit the 2,100-acre preserve at the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park, about 20 nautical miles south of Marsh Harbour. The centerpiece of the preserve is Sandy Cay and the Pelicans, north of Lanyard Cay. Coral reefs and undersea caves make these waters among the best in the Bahamas for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially about halfway up the east shore of Sandy Cay, where the underwater scenery is about as good as it gets. Pristine beaches are inviting for beach combing, swimming, and sunbathing.

View Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park highlight

Little Harbour

The secluded, well-protected anchorage at Little Harbour on Great Abaco Island is an attractive spot to drop the hook or pick up a mooring, and relax in the cockpit to admire the sunset. A pleasant walk east across the narrow spit to the abandoned lighthouse provides spectacular views of the broad Atlantic, as waves roll in and break on the beach. A reef nearby offers good snorkeling, and on the west side of the harbor are caves. To the northwest is the crescent-shaped and wide Bight of Old Robinson; its intriguing creeks snake inland. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of a visit to Little Harbour is the story behind it. Founded as an art colony about 60 years ago, the arts still flourish amid the impressive beauty in a place completely off the electrical grid. Visit Pete’s Pub and Gallery to savor island cuisine and appreciate the artwork on display.

View Little Harbour highlight