The Bahamas, a premier luxury yacht charter haven, stands as a pinnacle destination for those seeking an unparalleled private yacht journey. Encompassing over 700 enchanting islands, this archipelago invites charter yachts to traverse its waters, particularly the mesmerizing Exuma Cays and the captivating allure of Paradise Island and Nassau.
Merely 50 miles off Florida’s coast, it presents a myriad of sailing yacht charter and motor yacht charter opportunities, making it a quintessential locale for Bahamas yacht charters. Whether it’s the serene escape to secluded coral cays or the dynamic allure of luxury yachts cruising through New Providence Island, a Bahamas yacht charter holiday promises an eclectic blend of adventure and tranquility.
Some of the bluest waters on Earth, ideal for enjoying your yacht’s tenders and toys
Hundreds of paradisiacal islands to explore, many uninhabited, offering unparalleled escapism
Pristine white sandy beaches fringed by palm trees, many of which you will have to yourself
Superb diving and snorkeling with healthy coral reefs and vibrant marine life to explore
Exclusive resorts, fine-dining restaurants, world-class golf courses, and casinos
Vibrant nightlife in Nassau and Freeport
Wonderful year-round climate means you can enjoy The Bahamas at any time of the year
A popular superyacht destination with excellent yachting infrastructure, world-class service providers, and marinas
Dive into the captivating world of The Bahamas with Northrop & Johnson’s charter expert Jessica Engelmann. In this interview-style video, Jessica shares her extensive knowledge and deep passion for this stunning cruising destination. As our leading authority on The Bahamas, she provides expert answers to key questions about the best times to visit, ideal yachts for charter and top activities both on-shore and aboard. Get ready to explore The Bahamas like never before.
Nestled in The Bahamas, just southeast of Nassau, the Exuma Cays form a chain of over 360 islands, widely acclaimed as one of the most stunning Caribbean paradises. With its famed swimming pigs and pristine, powdery white sand beaches, the Exumas are an idyllic destination that deserve a top spot on any traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re a water enthusiast or simply seeking unparalleled natural beauty and solidarity, the Exumas beckon you to immerse yourself.
Hailed as the boating capital of The Bahamas, the Abacos Islands are primed for the waterborne. With breathtaking turquoise waters, delightful colonial villages, world-class golf courses, and exquisite culinary offerings, the Abacos Islands embrace all types of travelers.
Nestled just off the untamed shores of Eleuthera, Harbour Island may be small in size, but looms large in allure. Spanning a mere dot on the map, this enchanting destination measures approximately 0.5 miles in width from east to west and stretches 3.25 miles from north to south. Here, the temperature always strikes a perfect balance, never veering too hot or too cold, creating an idyllic haven for those seeking pure paradise.
Eleuthera beckons to those who cherish the serene and unspoiled ambiance of a rural island, where friendly locals embrace visitors with open arms. This slender island, measuring a mere two miles in width, offers a captivating blend of pink and white sand beaches, each blessed with breathtaking turquoise waters of crystal-clear clarity.
When you venture to the Out Islands of The Bahamas, you will be transported into a world of sporting paradise. Far removed from the glitz and glamor of Freeport and Nassau, these untamed and untouched islands offer a haven for adventure enthusiasts and avid explorers. Get ready to answer the call of thrilling escapades and discovery in this captivating destination.
Nassau and Paradise Island serve as the vibrant gateway to your yacht charter adventure. With an international airport and convenient accessibility, it is the ideal starting and ending point for your journey. While it may not be a destination for cruising itself, it offers an array of exciting experiences to enjoy before and after your charter.
Choose from a stunning selection of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and multi-hull boats, including catamarans. Northrop & Johnson has access to the best luxury charter yachts in The Bahamas, including spectacular expedition vessels, superyachts, and elegant sailing vessels by the world’s most iconic pedigree shipbuilders. Our fleet of charter yachts are fully crewed and boast refined onboard amenities and luxury interiors. Charter a luxury yacht in The Bahamas and enjoy an incredible vacation on the water. Contact the charter specialists at Northrop & Johnson and let us connect you with your ideal charter yacht in The Bahamas.
The Bahamas, renowned for their stellar sailing conditions due to consistent trade winds, stand as a premier destination in the Caribbean for enthusiasts seeking a luxury sailing yacht charter experience. Recognized widely as the national pastime, sailing embodies the spirit of the Bahamian lifestyle. Optimal sailing ventures are typically pursued from late November through May, aligning with the Bahamas’ dry season and ensuring favorable weather for yacht charters. Among the archipelago’s jewels, the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park emerges as a pinnacle sailing destination, offering over 11,000 acres of protected waters, replete with safe mooring areas and secluded beaches, ideal for private yacht explorations and motor yacht charters seeking serene anchorages amidst the Bahamas’ pristine marine environment. Book today your Bahamas sailing vacations, choosing from Northrop & Johnson’s yachts selection: from smaller sailing boats to larger sailing yachts for a luxurious and comfortable sailing experience. If you want to sail in the Bahamas but with additional privacy, opt for a catamaran charter and enjoy your private boat.
There are several key events in The Bahamas, including festivals and sailing regattas. Some of the best things to enjoy during a boat rental in The Bahamas include:
A four-day sailing extravaganza held annually, typically over the holiday weekend in October.
Explore The Bahamas rich heritage and culture with live music, dance performances, art displays, and authentic Bahamian cuisine across multiple islands. Most events take place in August.
Experience one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated festivals, with an extravagant street parade and parties. The Summer Festival takes place in August, with Junkanoo also being celebrated on Boxing Day (the day after Christmas Day), on New Year’s Day, and Independence Day.
Held every October, this gourmet event is not-to-be-missed for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy bespoke events with celebrated chefs, exclusive dinners, and tastings, hosted by Baha Mar resort.
A Bahamas yacht charter experience can be tailored to match your desired holiday, whether you want pure escapism or non-stop adventure. Northrop & Johnson boasts a spectacular fleet of luxury yachts for charter in The Bahamas, including refined motor yachts and elegant sailing yachts. Our charter specialists are experts on The Bahamas and can craft an incredible charter itinerary tailored to meet your precise wishes. Contact our team today and experience the luxury of a Bahamas superyacht charter.
Tides permitting, swim and snorkel through the waters of Thunderball Grotto, made famous by the iconic 007 James Bond film, Thunderball and Never Say Never.
Dive the relics of an old DC-3 airplane on Norman’s Cay. This large twin-engine plane is commonly known to have been a drug-running plane that crashed just off the coast due to mechanical issues. It sits in shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it one of the world’s most accessible wrecks. Surrounding the site, you’ll find many species of coral and tropical reefs.
The Staniel Cay Yacht Club is where the Exumas social scene converges. The pretty marina offers a wide range of services and amenities, including a selection of elegant dining options serving up international and traditional Bahamian cuisine. Enjoy a candle-lit dinner at the Sea Level, a refined restaurant that boasts breathtaking sea views of the Exuma Park; the ideal way to end a day cruising The Bahamas.
Enjoy a thrilling experience and swim with the nurse sharks in the shallow waters of Compass Cay. The docile nurse sharks are acclimatized to visitors, with local Bahamians even having names for each of the sharks who reside in the shallow waters of Compass Cay. Beyond the sharks, explore Compass Cay’s striking white sand beaches. The surrounding waters are also excellent for deep-sea fishing.
For artisans and authentic Bahamian crafts, head to the Straw Market in George Town, Great Exuma. Popular keepsakes include coconut and sand jewelry, woven straw hats, handcrafted bags, and artwork by local artists.
MacDuffs at Norman’s Cay Beach Club is the perfect spot to stop for lunch. Indulge in traditional cuisine, such as curry conch chowder, conch ceviche, and fresh catch of the day, as well as a varied rum cocktail menu.
The Exumas are most certainly worth exploring during a luxury yacht vacation in The Bahamas. This stunning archipelago is the most popular cruising area during a Bahamas yacht charter, but don’t let the moniker “popular” make you think they are crowded, as they are anything but. Comprising 365 islands, islets, and cays with anchorages from an hour to seven hours apart, there is plenty of space to find privacy, even during the peak cruising season, so where you go depends on how many islands you want to visit. Once you experience a boat charter in The Bahamas, you’ll see why people come back again and again.
A crewed luxury motor yacht is a great way to cruise the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas. Motor yachts offer great interior volume and superb onboard amenities. Motor yachts are also more accessible than sailing vessels, with many boasting elevators that ensure easy access to all decks. Large motor yachts often include a large garage, enabling them to carry a tender, or in some cases, several tenders, as well as a superb selection of water toys. On larger motor yachts and superyachts, expect to find amenities such as a cinema, swimming pool, hot tub, a spa, gym, beach club, and multiple deck areas for sunbathing, relaxation, and entertaining. Superyachts may also include a helipad and submersibles. The wide range of amenities and voluminous interior spaces of a motor yacht make them a popular choice with families and large groups of friends. For the best choice of motor yacht charters in The Bahamas, contact Northrop & Johnson.
Sailing yachts offer a thrilling way to explore The Bahamas and are a great choice for those seeking an eco-friendly way to cruise. Hoist up the sails and harness the power of Mother Nature; nothing matches the thrill of sailing and the deeper connection that it fosters with the ocean and the environment. Modern luxury sailing yachts boast clever and flexible layouts and fantastic onboard amenities coupled with stunning interiors. Of course, on a crewed sailing yacht charter, you will also benefit from incredible service levels courtesy of a dedicated and highly professional, and knowledgeable crew. Contact Northrop & Johnson if you want to enjoy a luxury Bahamas sailing vacation.
With a year-round warm climate and sun-drenched days, a yacht charter in The Bahamas can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The best weather is typically from November to April when you will enjoy wonderfully warm temperatures and a limited chance of rain. Average temperatures hover around 75.2F (25C) during these months. In the summer, there is a higher chance of rain, while higher humidity can make it feel hotter. Expect average temperatures of around 88F (31C). June to November is hurricane season in The Bahamas, and your charter specialists will keep a close eye on any hurricanes that may impact your charter. A bonus of traveling in the summer is that popular hotspots are likely to be less crowded, ensuring a more intimate experience.
The weather in The Bahamas is generally warm and tropical, with mild variations throughout the year. The climate is influenced by its location in the Caribbean region, and it’s characterized by consistent temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons.
The turquoise waters around The Bahamas are warm and inviting throughout the year, making it a great destination to make the most of your private yacht’s many water toys and tenders, including jet skis, wakeboards, kayaks, inflatables, scuba and snorkeling equipment.
Water temperatures typically range from the mid-70sF (around 24C) in the winter to the mid-80sF (around 29C) in the summer months.
Marine habitat abounds in The Bahamas with unspoiled reefs. Every island group has countless snorkeling and diving sites beckoning you to explore the underwater world. Marine life you can expect to see on a Bahamas yacht charter holiday include:
Yes, The Bahamas offer world-class fishing opportunities. From offshore deep-sea fishing and sports fishing to inshore fishing, The Bahamas is ideally suited for all types of fishing. A note; lobster season in The Bahamas typically runs from August 1 to March 31 (although the exact date can vary slightly from year to year.) It’s a great time to fish for these tasty crustaceans! Don’t forget to pass your fresh catch of the day to your yacht’s private chef, who will prepare an incredible feast.
If you want to enjoy a fishing experience in The Bahamas, then Northrop & Johnson can help. We boast a wonderful collection of superyacht charters, including sport fishers and yachts with fantastic fishing equipment. Our yachts are crewed by experienced captains who will be able to take you to the best fishing destinations in The Bahamas.
Beach lovers will be in paradise on a Bahamas yacht charter. From the uninhabited, pristine beaches of the Exumas to the pink sand beaches of Eleuthera and the luxury resort beaches of Nassau, there is a beach for every type of person in The Bahamas. Beaches in The Bahamas are typically fringed by palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters. Many are ideal for families too, with shallow and calm waters that are ideal for swimming.
Some of the best beaches in The Bahamas include:
Most private yacht charters in The Bahamas start and end in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. Nassau offers a wealth of attractions to explore, so it’s well worth setting aside a day at the start or end of your luxury yacht charter experience to explore this destination. Paradise Islands is a must-visit, home to the iconic Atlantis resort boasting gourmet restaurants, a lavish spa, a casino, a golf course, and the Aquaventure water park, which will delight youngsters as well as adults who are young at heart.
The primary airport in The Bahamas is Nassau International Airport (NAS), which is also known as Lynden Pindling International Airport. The NAS airport accommodates international commercial flights from across the globe as well as private jets, with a dedicated private jet terminal offering clients the utmost discretion and exclusivity. Many individuals embarking on a Bahamas yacht charter will fly into NAS. Other smaller airports in The Bahamas include:
When you book a luxury yacht charter with Northrop & Johnson, you will enjoy a shore-to-deck service, which means we will help manage your travel arrangements to and from your yacht charter. Contact our team today and start your yacht charter vacation in The Bahamas.
Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas and is an ideal place to begin your Bahamas yacht charter. This vibrant capital city offers an abundance of gourmet restaurants, world-class golf courses, shopping, and the famed Atlantis resort on Paradise Island. Nassau is a great place to spend a day or two before cruising onto other islands during your luxury yacht charter.
The currency in The Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD). However, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. The Bahamian dollar is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a rate of 1 BSD to 1 USD.
The official language of The Bahamas is English, with many people speaking an English-based Creole language called Bahamian English or Bahamian Creole. Much of the terminology in The Bahamas is derived from British English, West African languages, and Spanish due to the nation’s colonial past. Additionally, Haitian Creole is spoken by around 25% of the population.
The cost of a Bahamas yacht charter holiday will depend on several factors, including your choice of vessel, cruising itinerary, length of charter, and desired experiences. Expect to pay a minimum of U.S. $50,000 per week for a luxury yacht charter in The Bahamas. Contact Northrop & Johnson’s charter specialists; we boast an enviable selection of yachts to charter from U.S. $50,000 per week to more than $1 million.
When you choose to book a Bahamas yacht charter with Northrop & Johnson, you will enjoy a service that is second to none. As a global yacht brokerage and recognized industry leader, we excel at creating extraordinary yachting experiences that surpass all expectations at every opportunity. We will listen to your needs, provide a handpicked selection of yachts for you to choose from, and then craft an incredible charter itinerary. For our international team, no request is too big or small. We are experts in Bahamas yacht charters, ensuring an incredible vacation on the water. Contact our team of luxury charter brokers today.
Embarking on a mega yacht charter in the Bahamas is an exhilarating experience, offering a blend of beaches, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Begin by deciding whether you prefer a sailing yacht charter or a motor yacht experience. Consider including Paradise Island, known for its world-class resorts like the Atlantis Resort and Exuma Cays, home to the famous swimming pigs. For a more intimate experience, private islands offer secluded beaches away from the typical cruise ship routes.
Absolutely! Charter yachts in the Bahamas are well-equipped for an array of water activities. The shallow waters around Exumas or Andros Barrier Reef are perfect for snorkeling, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine animals. For an adventurous day, consider using jet skis around New Providence Island or exploring the underwater mysteries of Thunderball Grotto. Additionally, catamaran charters are ideal for accessing more remote areas, offering a stable platform for both relaxation and activities.
Harbour Island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, especially the pink sand beaches that offer a unique backdrop to this charming destination. On your luxury yacht charter, you can enjoy the island’s laid-back atmosphere, explore the chic boutiques, and dine at exquisite restaurants. Harbor Island also serves as a perfect anchorage for sailing yachts and motor yachts, allowing you to experience both the land and sea aspects of the Bahamas. Don’t forget to visit the Green Turtle Cay nearby, known for its friendly nurse sharks and picturesque settings.
The Cays offer an unparalleled yacht charter experience with their exotic marine inhabitants and deserted islands. When chartering a motor yacht, you have the flexibility to explore far-flung locations such as Staniel Cay, Compass Cay, and the Land and Sea Park. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim with the world-famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, snorkel in the pristine waters of Thunderball Grotto, or simply relax on the sand beaches. For a truly immersive experience, consider a day charter to Norman’s Cay to discover its underwater plane wreck and historical allure.
New Providence Island, home to the capital city, Nassau, is a vibrant hub for those on a Bahamas sailing vacation. A sailing yacht provides the perfect platform to explore the bustling markets, historical forts, and the luxurious Palm Cay Marina. For a touch of nature, the nearby Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island presents caves and mangroves to explore. Sailors can also enjoy the shallow draught motor yachts’ advantage, allowing access to hidden coves and private beaches around Paradise Island and the Rose Island area, known for its tranquility away from the main tourist spots.
A boat charter in the Bahamas offers an array of destinations, each with its unique charm. Treasure Cay in the Abacos is renowned for one of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful beaches, perfect for those seeking relaxation on their luxury yacht charter. Adventure seekers can head to Andros Barrier Reef for world-class diving, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life. Don’t overlook the serene Cays Land and Sea Park, the first of its kind, offering pristine secluded beaches, untouched marine habitat, and protected waters ideal for sailing yachts and motor yachts alike. For a mix of luxury and natural beauty, Palm Cay Marina on New Providence Island provides top-notch amenities and easy access to both Nassau’s vibrant culture and nearby private beaches.
Personalizing your private yacht experience in the Bahamas is all about balancing leisure with adventure. Opt for a luxury yacht equipped with all the amenities for relaxation, including spacious decks, jacuzzis, and fine dining options. Incorporate destinations like The Exuma Islands for a mix of relaxation on white beaches and adventure with activities like swimming with the swimming pigs or snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto. Adventure enthusiasts might enjoy catamaran charters for a stable and spacious option, ideal for water sports and exploring secluded beaches. Include stops at Green Turtle Cay for a quaint island experience and Norman’s Cay for snorkeling around the intriguing plane wreck. Tailor your itinerary to include both wild and untouched islands for privacy and iconic spots like Harbour Island for a taste of local culture and history.
Experience the ultimate luxury getaway in the Bahamas.
