Exumas Sailing Itinerary
An Exumas charter itinerary is as delightful as it is diverse. The chain of 365 islands and cays provides an unmatched cruising wonderland that will enchant Bahamas newcomers and globe-trotting travelers of all kinds. Charters begin with a southbound journey along the west coast of the Exuma Cays, where you’re free to sail among the easy-to-navigate strip of secluded harbors and lavish ports nestled throughout the clear-blue nautical wilderness. In between anchorages, you’ll discover deserted beaches and quaint seaside bars that truly capture the essence of vacation, on island time.
Ready to set sail? Browse our suggested Exumas itineraries, pick the perfect time to sail, and secure your dream Exumas yacht charter today. Questions? Our team is just a call away to assist you!
Please note: Moorings and marinas may have an associated fee dependent on location.
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7 Day Exumas Itinerary
Set your course for a week of unforgettable cruising through the stunning Exuma island chain. This 7-day sailing itinerary gives you the time to venture farther from Nassau while still enjoying the region’s most iconic highlights. Sail across brilliant turquoise waters to discover hidden sandbars, vibrant coral reefs, secluded beaches, and charming island stops along the way. From snorkeling in crystal-clear grottoes to meeting the famous swimming pigs and relaxing at laid-back beach bars, each day reveals a new side of the Bahamas. With more time to explore and unwind, this adventure blends scenic sailing with those perfect, unhurried moments in paradise.
Day 1
Highborne Cay
Highborne Cay is an idyllic location for an overnight stay. Spend the day kayaking or snorkeling at Horseshoe Bay’s uninhabited beach, which also harbors the splendid “Octopus Garden” reef below the surface. Take the dinghy about one mile north-west to nearby Allan’s Cay where you’ll be welcomed ashore by the friendly three-foot iguanas at Leaf Cay beach, a superb spot for snorkeling. Back at Highborne Cay, enjoy a cocktail or have dinner at the hilltop restaurant for breathtaking 360-degree views of unspoiled paradise as the radiant Caribbean sun sets in the background.
Mooring
Anchor, Dinghy dock
Things to do
Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddle boarding, Dining, Diving with nurse sharks
Facilities
Water, Fuel, Grocery, Ice, Internet, trash, laundry
Day 2
Norman's Cay
The pristine coral reef that surrounds Norman’s Cay and its neighboring islets make it one of the most incredible places in the Exumas that you simply must see for yourself. The conditions are impeccable for all your favorite saltwater activities, or, if you’re in the mood for maximum relaxation, this prime location is also perfect for sun-drenched leisure. The remains of a plane crash can be found on the southwest point of Norman’s Cay, where you can explore the sunken ruins that are now a natural habitat for an array of colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral. And at just 10-feet deep, this is a first-rate snorkeling spot. Nearby, there are plenty of seashells to collect as you stroll along Twinkie Beach, home of the lone palm tree.
Mooring
Anchor, Dinghy dock
Things to do
Guided bonefishing, Spear fishing, Snorkeling, Swimming, Paddle boarding, Kayaking, Dining
Facilities
Water, Ice, Internet
Day 3
Compass Cay
Compass Cay is a delightful stop offering a full-service marina and restaurant facilities. This vibrant destination is famous for its friendly nurse sharks, providing a unique opportunity to interact with these incredible creatures. Compass Cay is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, offering a mix of marine life, exploration, and relaxation that will make your time here truly memorable.
Some highlights include: fishing opportunities between the bays, Rachel’s Bubble Bath located at the tip of Compass Cay, Rocky Dundas Grotto located off Fowl Cay, Fowl Cay also offers a restaurant, providing another dining option during your visit.
Mooring
Anchor, dinghy dock, mooring
Things to do
Hiking, Dining, Swimming, Exploring, Beach
Facilities
Grocery, Ice, Restaurants, Trash service, Laundry, Dinghy dock, Internet
Day 4
Staniel Cay
Staniel Cay earned its claim to fame after providing the splendid backdrop for two James Bond movies. In fact, the spectacular underwater cave system located just west of Staniel Cay was named “Thunderball Grotto” based on its feature-film debut. This must-see snorkeling and diving site is riddled with vibrant heads of coral and abundant marine populations. In the evening, make reservations at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club to enjoy an elegant dinner onshore at this charming harbor full of life and island flair. Golf carts are available for rent at the marina if you wish to explore by vehicle.
Mooring
Dinghy dock, Moorings
Things to do
Snorkeling, Diving, Kayaking, Paddle boarding, Swimming with pigs, Dining, Shopping
Facilities
Water, Fuel, Grocery, Ice, Restaurants, Internet, Trash service, Laundry
Day 5
Warderick Wells Cay
As the headquarters of the 176-square-mile Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, and the largest underwater sea park in the Caribbean, Warderick Wells Cay is a premier anchorage submerged in protected waters. There are 20 marked nature trails to explore on land and 20 secluded beaches located throughout the island’s border. Both the hiking and snorkeling are unmatched at Warderick Wells Cay, where breathtaking scenery reigns supreme and nature’s beauty abounds thanks to the highly-protected Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
Mooring
Moorings
Things to do
Snorkeling, Swimming, Diving, Kayaking, Paddle boarding, Hiking
Facilities
Ice, Internet
Day 6
Shroud Cay
Also part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park territory, Shroud Cay is an uninhabited archipelago of rocks and white-sand beaches that boasts an enchanting channel of mangroves. The sheltered coves serve as an idyllic home for conch, lobster, sea turtles, and other various marine creatures. There are numerous sandy-bottom creeks and estuaries to explore by dinghy and Camp Driftwood Beach offers a lovely lookout point with a unique story. Being at Shroud Cay feels like having a deserted island all to yourself.
Mooring
Moorings for a fee
Things to do
Snorkeling, Swimming, Beachcombing, Kayaking, Paddle boarding
Day 7
Rose Island
Not too far off the eastern coast of the main port of Nassau lies the little Bahamian hideaway of Rose Island. This 11-mile-long piece of boater’s paradise boasts snorkeling conditions, secluded coves, and four beaches—First Beach, MacTaggart’s Beach, Footprints Beach, and Sandy Toes, which serves up a vibrant party scene on Sundays at the seaside bar and grill. But for those who prefer something more low-key, like palm trees swaying in the wind and the peaceful sounds of waves crashing on the shore, there is a grove of hammocks on the hilltop at Sandy Toes Beach. Spend your final night on board in the serene anchorage located on the northern side of the island. Bask in the breathtaking views as you reminisce about your unforgettable Exumas vacation and take in one more radiant Bahamas sunset.
Mooring
Anchorage only on Northern side of island
Things to do
Hiking & Exploring, Snorkeling, Beaching
Facilities
Sandy Toes – Facility offers a restaurant, villas, beach day facilities, and bathrooms.
5 Day Exumas Power Itinerary
Race through the Exumas from Nassau, chasing reefs, sandbars and grottoes, ideal for couples or groups seeking a lively Bahamian escape.
Day 1
The Moorings, Nassau
Arrive in vibrant Nassau and step aboard at the The Moorings base. Settle into your yacht, meet the team, and ease into island time before tomorrow’s high-speed departure into the Exumas.
Mooring
Marina Berth at The Moorings Base (stern-to or alongside as directed)
Things to do
Exploring, Shopping, Swimming
Facilities
Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Trash
Discover
Stroll downtown Nassau, enjoy waterfront dining, or visit Atlantis Marina Village for last-minute provisions and cocktails.
Day 2
Highbourne Cay
Depart early. Cruise south to beautiful Highbourne Cay, stopping at Allan’s Cay to visit the native rock iguanas. Spend the afternoon enjoying clear shallows and relaxed island charm.
The Day’s Sailing
- 2 Hr Sailing time
- 30 Nautical miles
Mooring
Marina Berth, Mooring Ball (limited), Free Anchoring (weather permitting)
Things to do
Swimming, Snorkelling, Paddleboarding, Exploring, Fishing, Sunbathing
Facilities
Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Trash
Discover
Dine at Xuma Restaurant & Bar overlooking the marina or explore the island’s quiet ocean beach.
Day 3
Shroud Cay
Head to Norman’s Cay, great place to snorkel the famous sunken plane, then continue on to Shroud Cay. Enter the protected beauty of Shroud Cay, where winding mangrove creeks lead to hidden sandbars and panoramic views over the Exuma Sound.
The Day’s Sailing
- 1 Hr Sailing time
- 12 Nautical miles
Mooring
Mooring Ball (Exuma Park), Free Anchoring (designated areas only)
Things to do
Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Snorkelling, Swimming, Exploring, Hiking, Sunbathing
Facilities
None
Discover
Take the dinghy through the mangrove creek to the famous drift sandbar known as the “Washing Machine” for one of the Exumas’ most memorable natural experiences.
Day 4
Staniel Cay
Adventure and laid-back island life await at Staniel Cay. Snorkel the legendary Thunderball Grotto before enjoying a lively evening ashore.
The Day’s Sailing
- 2 Hr Sailing time
- 30 Nautical miles
Mooring
Marina Berth (Staniel Cay Yacht Club), Mooring Ball, Free Anchoring (weather permitting)
Things to do
Snorkelling, Swimming, Diving, Exploring, Fishing, Sunbathing
Facilities
Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Trash
Discover
Enjoy dinner and drinks at the iconic Staniel Cay Yacht Club, visit the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, and snorkel Thunderball Grotto at slack tide.
Day 5
Warderick Wells
Cruise north to spectacular Warderick Wells, headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park and home to some of the region’s most breathtaking viewpoints.
The Day’s Sailing
- 1 Hr 20 Mins Sailing time
- 18 Nautical miles
Mooring
Mooring Ball (Exuma Park; advance reservation recommended)
Things to do
Hiking, Snorkelling, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Exploring, Sunbathing
Facilities
None
Discover
Hike Boo Boo Hill for panoramic views across the cays and snorkel vibrant reefs just off your mooring.
Day 6
The Moorings, Nassau
Enjoy a smooth morning cruise back to Nassau for disembarkation at The Moorings base.
The Day’s Sailing
- 3 Hr 45 Mins Sailing time
- 52 Nautical miles
Mooring
Marina Berth
Facilities
Re Fuel, Water Refill & Ice, Trash
Discover
Refuel, return your yacht, and toast an unforgettable high-speed adventure through the Exumas.
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