Bahamas Yacht Charter
Cruise the Exumas and Abacos aboard a private superyacht. Ocean Alliance designs bespoke itineraries with clear costs, seamless logistics, and concierge-level service.
Why Charter the Bahamas with Ocean Alliance
With more than 700 islands, the Bahamas is made for superyachts: clear shallows, white-sand anchorages, protected marine parks, and well-serviced marinas. Ocean Alliance applies MYBA-standard charter management and local know-how to deliver a refined, guest-first experience—whether you want quiet beaches, signature dive sites, or vibrant evenings in Nassau & New Providence.Learn more about the Ocean Alliance team and charter philosophy on our Who We Are page.
Where to Cruise in the Bahamas
New Providence & Nassau
Gateway to the islands with luxury resorts, fine dining, historic sites, and well-provisioned marinas for smooth embarkation and customs.
The Exumas
Shallow-draft paradise including the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park, sandbars, Thunderball Grotto, and anchorages that are ideal for family charter cruising.
Abacos & Harbour Island
Relaxed island hopping, pastel-colored towns, and sheltered seas—perfect for a slower pace and frequent beach stops.
San Salvador & Out Islands
Quiet and remote, with historic wrecks and pristine reefs—excellent for divers seeking less-visited underwater sites.
Best Time to Charter the Bahamas
Season |
Conditions |
Charter Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dec – Apr (High) | Dry, sunny, calm seas, cool evenings | High demand and premium pricing—early bookings recommended. |
| May – Jun (Shoulder) | Warming waters and occasional brief showers | A good balance of weather, price, and fewer yachts. |
| Jul – Oct (Hurricane Belt) | Storm risk and tropical disturbance potential | Requires flexible dates and contingency planning. |
| Nov (Shoulder) | Transitioning season, warm water, fewer storms | Great value, quieter anchorages, some weather risk. |
Costs, VAT & Charter Fees
- 10% VAT applies to most charter contracts in the Bahamas.
- Cruising/Anchorage Fee (~4%) commonly applies when visiting multiple islands.
- APA (~30%) of the charter fee covers fuel, provisioning, dockage, communications, and local charges. Any balance is reconciled post-charter.
- Fuel & Dockage vary by yacht type, cruising speed, and marina selection—an estimate will be provided upfront by your charter manager.
Start / End Ports & Airport Access
Port or Marina |
Nearby Airport |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nassau (Albany, Paradise Island, Nassau Harbour) | NAS – Lynden Pindling International | Main charter entry point, customs and provisioning available. |
| Marsh Harbour (Abacos) | MHH – Marsh Harbour International | Preferred for Abacos-focused routes and shallow-draft charters. |
| George Town (Great Exuma) | GGT – Exuma International | Popular gateway to the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. |
| San Salvador | ZSA – San Salvador International | Quiet staging point for wreck diving and secluded anchorages. |
Sample 7-Day Exumas Itinerary
Day |
Morning |
Afternoon / Evening |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – Nassau | Embark at Albany; yacht briefing and short cruise | Sunset sail and dinner onboard or in Nassau |
| 2 – Highbourne Cay | Snorkelling and sandbar walks | Beach picnic and relaxing paddleboarding |
| 3 – Shroud Cay | Mangrove creek tender ride to “Washing Machine” | Kayaking or swimming, lazy afternoon |
| 4 – Warderick Wells | Hike to Boo Boo Hill; snorkel Land & Sea Park | Evening cocktails at Pirate’s Lair, dinner onboard |
| 5 – Compass Cay | Optional nurse shark swim; Rachel’s Bubble Bath | Sunset cruise south and deckside relaxation |
| 6 – Big Major Cay & Thunderball Grotto | Swimming pigs and snorkelling in Thunderball Grotto | Dinner at Staniel Cay Yacht Club or onboard |
| 7 – Return to Nassau | Easy morning and leisurely cruise back | Disembark at Albany or Paradise Island; private transfer to airport |
Top Experiences
Swimming Pigs at Big Major Cay
Historic wreck and reef dives around San Salvador
Thunderball Grotto snorkelling & dives
Guided shark encounters at Compass Cay or Nassau
Exuma Cays marine life excursions
Junkanoo parades (late December & early January)
FAQs
Do I need a visa for the Bahamas?
Many guests from Australia, the USA, Canada and the EU can stay visa-free for short visits. We’ll confirm entry requirements based on your nationality and itinerary.
What is APA and how does it work?
APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) is an up-front payment—typically around 30% of the charter fee—covering fuel, food, beverages, dockage, and other expenses. Any unused funds are returned after the charter.
Is chartering in hurricane season possible?
Yes — with flexible scheduling and contingency planning. Ocean Alliance adapts the route and dates as conditions evolve.
Are marinas widely available?
Nassau and the Abacos are well-serviced. Many Exuma stops are anchorages; sometimes a shallow-draft yacht or tender landing is required.
How We Work
- Consultation: Select dates, guests, yacht options, and experience style.
- Transparent proposal: Charter fee, 10% VAT, cruising fee, APA, and sample itinerary are all outlined.
- Itinerary & permits: Route design, marina bookings, provisioning, and island clearances are handled in advance.
- Onboard concierge service: From provisioning to dining, water sports and shore excursions—Ocean Alliance manages it all.
- Post-charter wrap-up: Expense reconciliation, logistical support, and guest feedback ensure a smooth finish and guide improvements.
Ready to plan your Bahamas charter?
CONTACT OCEAN ALLIANCE TO START PLANNING YOUR BAHAMAS SUPERYACHT CHARTER!
