Abaco Islands
Explore the Abaco Islands in the Bahamas by yacht. Discover white-sand beaches, charming colonial towns, and island-hop between hidden cays and vibrant coral reefs on a relaxed and unforgettable yacht charter adventure.

The Abaco Islands are a sailor’s dream—an island chain stretching over 120 miles of protected waters, sandy anchorages, pastel-hued villages, and friendly locals. Unlike the bustling hubs of Nassau or Paradise Island, the Abacos offer a laid-back, authentic Bahamas yacht charter experience, perfect for families, couples, or groups looking to island-hop in peace.
With shallow draft-friendly cruising grounds, consistent trade winds, and countless sheltered harbours, a yacht charter in the Abacos is both accessible and adventurous. Set your pace to island time and explore hidden beaches, reef-filled lagoons, and quaint colonial settlements that feel like a step back in time.
Featured Yachts for Charter
When to Visit the Abaco Islands for a Yacht Charter
The best time to visit the Abacos is between November and May, when the weather is dry, breezy, and comfortably warm. December to April sees the most sunshine and ideal sailing conditions, with trade winds typically blowing 10–20 knots.
June to November marks the Atlantic hurricane season, but late spring and early summer can still be calm and rewarding for experienced sailors.
Cruising Highlights – Why Charter in the Abacos
- Hopetown, Elbow Cay
Famous for its candy-striped lighthouse, colourful colonial cottages, and scenic harbour. Moor up and explore the charming village by foot or bike. - Green Turtle Cay
Steeped in Loyalist history, this is one of the most picturesque stops, with great beaches and lively beach bars. - Great Guana Cay
A great party spot with the iconic Nipper’s Beach Bar perched on a bluff above a seven-mile beach—ideal for snorkelling or sundowners. - Man-O-War Cay
A traditional boatbuilding town where time moves slow and craftsmanship is alive and well. Quiet, clean, and wonderfully local. - Tahiti Beach
A stunning sandbar at low tide near Elbow Cay, perfect for a swim or paddleboard session in shallow turquoise water.
Must-See – The Hopetown Lighthouse
One of the last hand-wound, kerosene-lit lighthouses in the world, Hopetown’s lighthouse is a shining beacon of Bahamian heritage. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Sea of Abaco, pastel houses, and bobbing sailboats.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Firefly Sunset Resort, Elbow Cay – Refined island dining with unforgettable sunset views and seafood-focused menus.
- Nipper’s, Great Guana Cay – A lively beachfront party spot with rum punches and conch fritters.
- Pineapples Bar & Grill, Green Turtle Cay – Casual waterside hangout serving Bahamian staples and cold Kalik beers.
- Wally’s, Marsh Harbour – A longstanding local favourite with fresh grouper, coconut rice, and signature cocktails.

Featured Yachts for Charter
Flavours of the Abacos
Sample Bahamian conch salad, grilled lobster tails, and baked mac and cheese—local staples full of flavour. Wash it down with a Goombay Smash or a classic Bahama Mama, and don’t miss a breakfast of johnnycakes and guava duff for a sweet start to your day.
Art & Culture
The Abacos are rich in Loyalist heritage—British settlers who remained loyal to the Crown after the American Revolution. You’ll see this legacy in the gingerbread architecture of towns like New Plymouth and Hopetown. Visit the Wyannie Malone Historical Museum or check out local art galleries and straw markets for handmade souvenirs.
Iconic Swim Spot – Tahiti Beach, Elbow Cay
This sandbar emerges at low tide and offers calm, clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or beachcombing. Bring your dinghy or paddleboard, and don’t forget a picnic—this is barefoot paradise at its finest.
High Tide Recommends
- Plan a sunset anchorage at Little Harbour and dine at Pete’s Pub for a quintessential beach shack experience.
- Kayak or snorkel around Fowl Cay National Reserve for vibrant reef life and colourful parrotfish.
- Walk through Man-O-War Cay to see traditional boatbuilding in action and shop for handmade bags or sails.
- Visit Green Turtle Cay’s Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden, then grab a drink at Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar—the birthplace of the Goombay Smash.
Choose Your Itinerary
The main gateway is Marsh Harbour International Airport (MHH) on Great Abaco Island, with direct flights from Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach). Your yacht charter will typically begin from Marsh Harbour Marina, where provisioning is easy and most charter boats are based.
Hopetown, Green Turtle Cay, and Elbow Cay are all accessible by short hops and make perfect stops on a week-long or 10-day itinerary.
Best For:
- Shallow-draft cruising and family-friendly adventures
- Charming island towns and colonial culture
- Snorkelling, sandbars, and reef exploration
- Stress-free sailing with reliable conditions
Marinas & Anchorages:
- Marsh Harbour Marina (main base)
- Hopetown Harbour (mooring buoys)
- Man-O-War Harbour (quiet, secure anchorage)
- Green Turtle Cay (mooring & shore access)
- Great Guana Cay (anchoring off Nipper’s)
Sailing Conditions:
Calm, protected sailing inside the Sea of Abaco—perfect for first-time charter guests or relaxed cruising. Shallow waters require careful navigation but reward with secluded spots and minimal swell.
