Exumas Travel Information & Planning Guide

UTC/GMT -4 hours

Head Office – Nassau 
P.O. Box N 3701 
Tel: (242) 302-2000 / Fax: (242) 302-2098

• Area: 5382 sq miles (13,940 sq km)   
• Population: 382,600 
• Capital City: Nassau   
• Official Languages: English 
• Ethnic groups: Black 85%, White 12%, Asian and Hispanic 3% 
• Religion: Baptist, Anglican, Roman Catholic 
• Government: Constitutional Parliamentary Democracy and a Commonwealth Realm 
• Industries: tourism, banking, cement, oil transshipment, salt, rum, aragonite, pharmaceuticals, spiral-welded steel pipe 

For more information, view this destination’s Cruising Conditions.

The local currency is the Bahamian Dollar, which is equal to the U.S. dollar. U.S. currency is accepted by all vendors. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted in most places. American Express is usually NOT accepted.

Tip according to quality of service.  Porters usually receive $1 USD per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%. Some establishments include the gratuity in their bills.

Airport  

Fly to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. Take 30 minute transfer to the base.

Taxis are lined up at both the Airport and the base, available and easy to access.

When driving, British rules apply, so please drive on the left and watch those roundabouts! Visitors may use their home license for up to three months and may also apply for an international driver’s license.

Charter Boarding Time: 10 a.m.  

Sleep Aboard: Time: 5 p.m.  

Briefing Times: Briefings are done on a first come, first serve basis from boarding time. 

All skippers must attend a Chart Briefing which covers all you need to know about the cruising area, use of the VHF radio, how to call for assistance, and more. A Boat Briefing will also be provided onboard your yacht.

If arriving after hours, a message will be left on the front door indicating the location of your boat. The Chart Briefing and Boat Briefing will be held the following morning prior to departure.

Charter End Time: 10 a.m.

A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter end time.

Coolers  

One cooler is on board, a second can be requested if needed.

Provisioning 

Moorings Care packages are included on every yacht. These packages contain some of the basics to get you started for your vacation. Additional items are available to be purchased and delivered directly to your yacht. Visit our Provisioning Page to learn more.

Mobile phones  

Check with your service provider for information about cell coverage in this region. The base offers Wi-Fi Internet through a service partner for approximately $150 to $200 for a 7-day rental. Cash is accepted and can be paid upon arrival or requested in advance.

Music/iPods  

While most of our newer boats have Bluetooth capability, we cannot guarantee all boats are outfitted with this equipment. For your convenience, we highly recommend you bring an AUX cord so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.

Electricity

The electrical service on The Bahamas is normally 120 volts, 60 cycles AC, in which case North American appliances are fully compatible, while European appliances will need both converters and adapters. Voltage varies with location, however, and some places in the islands may have 220 volt electrical service. Call your hotel ahead of time to find out which system they use. The standard voltage on all yachts is 12volts in order to use electronic equipment that is 110v or 220v; you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter. 

For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list here for Bareboat Charters or here for Crewed Charters.

Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and traveling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents so make sure to check with the consulate of the countries you plan to visit before you travel. Visit travel.state.gov(link sends e-mail) for the latest information.

Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are best, as luggage storage space on your yacht may be limited. We have no facilities for holding luggage at the base. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Light-colored, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/ointments
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**)
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices

*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

A Certificate of Registration must first be secured from the Civil Aviation Department in order to import a drone. The Customs Department will detain drones at the border if a Certificate of Registration has not been obtained. To register your drone online visit the Bahamas Civil Aviation page. Further details on the Special Regulations may be obtained from the Civil Aviation Department, at 242-397-4700 or email hadderley.fsi@gmail.com.

You might incur some costs while on charter such as mooring and docking fees or cruising taxes. We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards.

A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.

This destination is generally risk-free of contagious disease. Visit cdc.gov(link sends e-mail) for the latest information.

A travel advisory is in place for Nassau/Exumas. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov(link sends e-mail)

Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However local rules, flag systems, currents and where swimming may be permitted, can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets and Diver Down flags are all available on board. 

Children

• Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.
• Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by, or in the water.
• Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended. Keep an eye on them and do not get distracted in and around the water. 
• Get in the water with them, it is easier to keep an eye on them as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children but are not a substitute for supervision.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted. 
• Beware of dangerous currents, these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.
• Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth and marine life. Although shark attacks in the Bahamas are very rare the Bahamian authorities issued advice urging the public to exercise extreme caution in and around the waters of New Providence, adjacent islands, and cays.
• Never swim where a sign says not to e.g. in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.
• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

Look out for others

• Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party and use the snorkel vests provided.
• Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty; raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.

Do not overestimate your ability

Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.

Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.

All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat on boarding – If you have any questions feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing. 

We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base so highly recommend that if you are travelling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them.  

Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck. 

Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.

The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

Palm Cay Marina
Yamacraw Hill Rd
Nassau, The Bahamas

The base is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week (evening staff to cover until all flights have arrived).

• Laundry 
• Restaurant 
• Hotel 
• Boutique 
• Dive shop 
• Showers & Bathrooms 
• Telephones 
• Fuel & Ice 
• Shopping

Use of pool, pool bar, and private beach available for an additional fee ($12/person).

Travelers who want access to all base amenities will have to purchase a wristband on arrival. The cost is $12 per person, payable in cash at the check-in desk. Travelers will need to hold onto the band(s) for the duration of their charter if they wish to use the facilities post-charter as well, without being asked to pay again.

The band provides access to:

• Beach 
• Pool
• Pool bar

Facilities that don’t require a band & are free to all guests:

• Laundry 
• Showers
• Bathrooms   

Dock space can be reserved (credit card requested) at most harbors prior to arrival by calling ahead on VHF channel 16 or by requesting confirmation via The Moorings office on VHF channel 16.

View the sailing requirements in the Bahamas.

To charter a sailing yacht in the Bahamas, there must be at least one certified skipper over 18 years old. The skipper should be competent at handling a yacht in close quarters, navigating in shallow waters, anchoring, and mooring in varying conditions. The skipper must be able to use navigation and piloting skills to plan the day’s sailing and know your position at any time.

As a yacht skipper, you are required to hold an official sailing license or certificate, as detailed here.

To charter a power yacht in the Bahamas, there must be at least one certified skipper over 18 years old. The skipper should be competent at handling a yacht in close quarters, navigating in shallow waters, anchoring and mooring in varying conditions. The skipper must be able to use navigation and piloting skills to plan the day’s sailing and know your position at any time.

As a yacht skipper, you are required to hold an official recognized Motor/Power Boat license from a recognized association AND/OR an IPC/ICC/USCG License. Learn more about the Power requirements for The Bahamas.

Level 3

At least 20 days or 400 miles as skipper on an equivalent size yacht

Level 3 destinations are our most challenging. Suitable only for confident, experienced sailors, Level 3 destinations offer long spells of open water sailing, broad tidal ranges, strong winds, and remote anchorages.

The cruising area stretches from Nassau in the north to Great Guana Cay in the South East. In and around Nassau we recommend anchoring in Nassau Harbour and at Green Cay.

Permission from the base manager is needed to go outside the Exumas. 

It is strictly forbidden to sail alone, we require two persons minimum on board.

All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing.

Night Sailing is not permitted; you must be moored at least one hour before sunset.

Within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, headquartered at Warderick Wells Cay,  there is a cost of $10 USD per person to go on land. All fishing is prohibited in the park

Mooring and dock fees are based on the size of your vessel. Moorings fees range between $30 and $50 USD. The dock fee schedule ranges from $2.50 to $3.50 per foot.

• Comfort Suites Paradise Island 
• The Ocean Club 
• The Cove at Atlantis 
• Harborside Resort 
• Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas 
• Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant 
• Courtyard Nassau Marriott

Nearby ATMs can be found at Scotiabank and First Caribbean International Bank

The Post office is situated on the main island in Nassau.

Onsite tiki bar restaurant named Green Parrot.  

Nearby restaurants include Margaritaville and Anthony’s. The Atlantis resort offers many restaurants.

Convenience Store and Dunkin’ Donuts nearby.

Cheryl’s Taxis is very reliable: 1-242-423-4982 (also on WhatsApp)

The Moorings Provisioning

Online Provisioning is available. Provisioning must be ordered 6 days prior to the start date of the charter for this destination 

Visit our Provisioning Page to learn more about delivery direct to your yacht.

Supermarkets 

Supervalue Quality Market, a large supermarket, is situated 15 minutes drive by taxi from base. Open Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 7 am to 5 pm. 

Solomon Fresh Market, a large Supermarket is situated 15 minutes by taxi from the base. Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m to 5 p.m. Solomon’s also delivers, free of charge – arrange delivery through their website.

Small provisioning stores can also be found while sailing at Highbourne Cay Marina and Staniel Cay Yacht Club Marina.

Tours

We recommend you visit the Exumas Itinerary Page or consult your chart briefer and cruising guides for the best places to visit, but among our favorites – Highborne Cay, Allan’s Cay, Norman Cay, Shroud Cay and Warderick Well Cay. A must do is Staniel Cay with the famous swimming pigs.

Golf  

Visit the One and Only Ocean Club for a round of golf.

Water Toys & Sports

For your convenience, you can add water toys to your charter prior to arrival at the base. They will be waiting on your boat upon arrival. You are able to rent these at the base; please keep in mind that we have limited availability. For more information, please view our Water Sports Options.

Diving and Snorkelling

The Exumas waters are world renowned for its clarity and abundant marine life. This beauty is evident throughout all the cays but highlighted in The Exuma Land & Sea Park. Whether exploring the natural waterways of Shroud Cay to snorkeling the “Aquarium” at Wardrick Wells, you will continually find yourself in awe by the natural beauty abound. You would also want to be sure to dive the world-famous plane wreck at Normans Cay and don’t miss out on the shark feeding experience at Compass Cay Marina.

Do not miss out on one of the best snorkeling spots in the world!

For bareboat charters (where no staff from The Moorings are onboard the yacht) charterers are permitted to dive from the yacht. The Moorings does not provide such activities so you should ensure that any third parties that you engage with in order to dive should be through reputable third-party operators. Any diving activities are fully undertaken at your own risk and The Moorings shall have no responsibility or liability in connection with your participation in any diving activities, irrespective of whether this takes place from the yacht or an alternative location during your charter. Diving is not permitted under any circumstances whereby there is any skipper or other crew onboard the yacht which is provided by The Moorings.

Please contact some diving centres in advance:

• Stuarts Cove, New Providence
• Staniel Cay Adventures, Staniel Cay, Exuma
• Dive Exuma, Georgetown, Great Exuma

Collie at Bahamas Scuba Services: 1-242-535-8396 (also WhatsApp). Tanks $15/day (other places $25 or $35). Pick up/drop off – $20

We have a range of fins available in various different sizes. You will find them in cockpit lockers in each yacht. We do have limited children’s sizes therefore we recommend bringing your own to avoid disappointment. Please note that we do not provide snorkelling masks or snorkels onboard.

Diving and Snorkel Equipment

Dive Exuma – Dive Shop
Open 24 hours · (242) 357-0313

Staniel Cay Adventures – Tour Operator
7:30AM – 5:30PM · (242) 524-8062

Bahamas Scuba Diving Services
Open 24 hours · (242) 535-8396

When snorkeling, the diving flag and buoy should be deployed and visible to all passing nearby

Swim vests should be worn at all times whilst snorkeling

One person should remain out of the water, keeping watch of the others in the water

Fishing

Fishing is allowed and a licence is not required for charterers. To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spear guns are illegal in The Bahamas. This area is protected and fishing is not permitted: Within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, from Shroud Cay to Cambridge Cay, all fishing is prohibited.

Spiny Lobster season is from August 1 – March 31. Minimum size is a 5 1/2 inches tail length or 3 1/4 inch carapace length (measured from the base of the horns to the end of the jacket). Unlike Florida, lobster may be taken by spear. It is illegal to take or possess female lobster with eggs. The vessel bag limit is six per person at any one time.

There is no closed season on conch, but it’s illegal to take or possess immature conch. In order to be legal, conch must have a well formed lip (or flared-lip). The vessel bag limit is ten per person at any one time.

The vessel bag limit for scale fish is 20 pounds per person. The minimum size for any member of the grouper family is three pounds.

Stone Crabs may be taken if the claw length is four inches or greater. The season is closed from June 1 – October 15. It is illegal to harvest female stone crabs.

For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list here for Bareboat Charters or here for Crewed Charters.

The trade winds that blow almost continually throughout The Bahamas give the islands a warm agreeable climate, which varies little year round. The temperature hovers around an average of 83°F. 

The summer is a bit warmer with temperatures around 85°F (27-29°C) and higher humidity.

The tidal range in The Bahamas is up to 3.5 feet.  

Due to the shallow nature of these waters it is extremely important that close attention is paid to the tide while underway as well as entering and departing harbours. 

The base provides clients with daily weather forecasts.

Historical Weather (Averages by month):

At The Moorings, we’re passionate about preserving the beauty of the oceans we explore. Through Our OCEAN Promise, we’re working to reduce our environmental footprint and support the communities that make each destination so special. From more responsible operations to cleaner cruising practices, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.

You can make a difference too. Before you depart, pack a reusable water bottle, choose to support local businesses, and anchor mindfully to help protect the waters we all enjoy. Small choices make a big impact.

Learn more about Our OCEAN Promise