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Bahamas Yacht Charter

Discover the Bahamas’ crystal-clear waters with High Tide Yacht Charters. Sail the Exumas, visit pristine beaches, and book your bespoke luxury yacht charter today.

Bahamas Yacht Charter

In the Bahamas, luxury is defined by the absence of boundaries. To charter a yacht here is to claim a rare form of liberty—the freedom to navigate into hidden lagoons, glide over translucent shallows, and drop anchor in remote cays that remain invisible to the land-bound traveler. Your morning might begin immersed in the vibrant architecture of a coral reef, while your afternoon is spent drifting past islands that have remained unchanged for centuries. As the sun dips below the horizon, the day concludes not at a crowded resort, but on your own private deck, surrounded by the profound silence of the Atlantic.

The archipelago offers a sophisticated duality found nowhere else on Earth. Whether you are charting a course through the legendary Exumas, feeling the velvet sands of Harbour Island beneath your feet, or testing your skill against the elusive bonefish in the flats, every sunrise unveils a new possibility. Yachting in the Bahamas is an art form where the voyage is the destination; it is an invitation to create a bespoke itinerary that reflects your rhythm, curated by a crew that understands the heartbeat of the Out Islands.

Destinations in Bahamas

Abaco Islands Yacht Charter

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.

Exumas Yacht Charter

Exploring the Exumas reveals a pristine archipelago in the Bahamas, where turquoise waters cradle secluded cays, playful swimming pigs frolic on pristine beaches, and hidden caves beckon adventurers to discover a paradise unlike any other.

What advantages does a luxury yacht charter offer for exploring Bahamas

The Bahamas: 700 Islands, Infinite Sapphire

The Bahamas is a realm of shifting sandbars and sapphire shallows that demands to be explored by sea. While the archipelago is famous for its neon-blue waters and powder-soft sands, its true magic lies in the places unreachable by land. A private yacht charter with High Tide transforms this spectacular destination into your own personal odyssey, offering the absolute freedom to navigate both the legendary landmarks and the untouched secrets of the Out Islands.

Set your course for the Exumas, a pristine chain of 365 cays where the water is so clear it defies depth. Here, your days are defined by natural wonders: swimming with the famous residents of Big Major Cay, diving into the cinematic depths of Thunderball Grotto, or drifting through serene mangrove creeks on a paddleboard. With a shallow-draft vessel curated for these "skinny waters," you can anchor on ephemeral sandbars that vanish at high tide and wake up to a new, breathtaking horizon every morning.

Onboard, your journey is a masterclass in Philoxenia—the art of hospitality. Your expert crew curates every moment to your group’s rhythm, from sea-to-table lobster feasts on the flybridge to finding the perfect, footprint-free bay for sunset cocktails. Whether you are navigating the colonial charm of the Abacos or seeking the chic seclusion of Eleuthera’s pink sands, a High Tide charter is more than a holiday; it is a bespoke adventure where the voyage itself is the ultimate destination.

Types of Bahamas Yacht Charters

In the Bahamas, the transition from the vibrant energy of Nassau to the profound silence of the Out Islands is a journey best measured in shades of blue. Whether you choose the independent command of a bareboat or the five-star service of a fully crewed yacht, the archipelago offers a rare luxury: the ability to disappear. Here, the schedule is written by the tides, and your only obligation is to decide which deserted sandbar to claim for the afternoon.

Bahamas Bareboat
Shallow Water Freedom

Bareboat

Set your own course through the Exumas or Abacos. For experienced sailors, the Bahamas offers pristine line-of-sight navigation and endless white-sand anchorages.

View Bareboats
Bahamas Skippered
Expert Out-Island Guiding

Skippered

Relax as a local captain navigates the shifting sandbars. Gain an expert guide who knows the secret blue holes and the best times to visit the Swimming Pigs.

View Skippered Yachts
Bahamas Crewed
The Floating Resort

Fully Crewed

Total sapphire immersion. A dedicated chef and crew handle every detail—from beach BBQs to snorkeling Thunderball Grotto—on our luxury catamarans.

View Crewed Fleet

Choosing Your Bahamas Experience

A bareboat charter in the Bahamas offers the ultimate freedom to explore shifting sandbars at your own pace.

The Vibe: Self-sufficient and private. You manage the navigation across the shallow banks and handle your own mooring in the cays.
Requirement: A comprehensive sailing resume or an ICC/ASA certification. Many operators also require a "Chart Briefing" to ensure you understand Bahamian tides. Best For: Skilled sailors who want a private, hands-on "Out Island" adventure.
Bahamian waters are famous for "Skinny Water" navigation. A professional local skipper handles the stress of reading water depths and dodging coral heads while you enjoy the sapphire views.

The Vibe: Secure and educational. Your skipper acts as an insider guide to the best hidden snorkeling spots and beach bars that aren't on the charts. Best For: Groups who want to relax and avoid the technical stress of shallow-water navigation.
This is the Boutique Island Resort experience. A dedicated Captain and Gourmet Chef curate every moment, from bespoke sunset cocktails to private beach BBQs on deserted cays.

The Vibe: Absolute decompression. Your crew manages all logistics, water toys, and sea-to-table dining while you focus on the wildlife and the water. Best For: Families and luxury travelers seeking five-star service in remote locations.
In the Bahamas, your "draft" (how deep the boat sits) is everything.

Catamarans: Their shallow draft allows them to glide over sandbars and anchor in turquoise lagoons that are off-limits to deep-keel monohulls. Plus, the stable, non-tilting platform is perfect for social groups.
Monohulls: While classic, they are less common here as they limit where you can safely anchor in the Out Islands. Catamarans are highly recommended for the Exumas and Abacos.
If you want to see the Best of the Bahamas in a single week. Power Catamarans and Motor Yachts can cover the distance from Nassau to the far Exumas in half the time of a sailing vessel.

The Vibe: High-speed luxury and full air-conditioning. Ideal for hopping between Nassau’s nightlife and the seclusion of Staniel Cay. Best For: Guests wanting to maximize "island time" and minimize travel time between chains.
We don't just book boats; we curate experiences. We know which Bahamas-based yachts have the best "shallow-water" toys (like Seabobs) and which crews have the best local reputations for high-end service.

By understanding your group’s adventure level, we match you with a vessel and crew that excels in the specific island chain you wish to explore. Our broker expertise ensures you get the right crew for the right water.

Best Time to Charter in the Bahamas

The Bahamas is best sailed between December and April, when temperatures are pleasant, seas are calm, and tropical storms are rare. Peak season brings lively marinas and busy anchorages, while the shoulder months of November and May offer quieter experiences without compromising weather conditions.

Best Time to Charter in the Bahamas

Season Climate & Sea State Strategic Insight
NOV – APRIL
The Peak Escapism
Warm air (24-28°C) and consistent easterly trade winds. The water is crisp and visibility is at its absolute peak. The High Season. Perfect for escaping the northern winter. Popular spots like Staniel Cay are vibrant. Tactical Tip: The best yachts for Christmas and Spring Break book 8-10 months in advance.
MAY & JUNE
The Glass Window
Hotter air (29-31°C) and exceptionally calm, "greasy" seas. The winds drop, leaving the water like a mirror. The Insider’s Choice. This is the best time for sandbar hopping and snorkeling Thunderball Grotto. Calm seas allow for easy crossings between Nassau and the Exumas.
JULY – OCT
The Quiet Tropics
Humid and hot (31-33°C) with occasional tropical rain showers. This window coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season. The Off-Peak. Many crewed yachts migrate to the US East Coast or Mediterranean. High Tide Advice: While lower rates may be available, we generally recommend avoiding August/September for safety.

High Tide Regional Strategy

For the quintessential Bahamas experience—think swimming pigs and neon sandbars—aim for May. The water is warm enough for all-day diving, and the lack of wind ensures the shallows remain crystal clear. If you are chartering in the Abacos, the winter months offer brisk, exhilarating sailing that is world-renowned among enthusiasts.

Featured Yachts for Charter

DATE NIGHT - Feretti 920 - 2018

Starting from:
$84,000

DATE NIGHT is a sleek Italian-designed yacht with 5 cabins for 10 guests, featuring a full-beam master suite, family-friendly layout, expansive flybridge, and zero-speed stabilizers. Available in The Bahamas and Caribbean.

WHISPERS II - Lagoon 560 - 2016

Starting from:
$22,000

Sail the Bahamas in style aboard WHISPERS II, a 56’ Lagoon luxury sailing catamaran. Offering spacious living areas, alfresco dining, a panoramic flybridge, and four ensuite cabins, WHISPERS II is the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure.

PENNY JO - Bali 4.4 - 2022

Starting from:
$23,000

Sail the Bahamas in luxury aboard PENNY JO, a 2023 Bali 4.4 crewed catamaran. Featuring spacious open-plan living, a panoramic flybridge, and queen en-suite cabins, she offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for up to 6 guests.

NAUTI DOGS - Bali 5.4 - 2022

Starting from:
$31,000

NAUTI DOGS is a brand-new 2023 Bali 5.4 luxury crewed catamaran, designed for comfort and adventure in the Bahamas. Featuring spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, a panoramic flybridge, and queen en-suite cabins, she offers the perfect setting for relaxation, dining, and sunset cocktails.

Highlights of the Bahamas

While the Bahamas spans over 700 islands, the heart of the yachting experience is found in two distinct island chains: The Exumas and The Abacos. Whether you are seeking the social atmosphere of colonial harbors or the absolute seclusion of "skinny water" sandbars, your destination defines the rhythm of your journey. Explore our primary cruising grounds below to find the chain that matches your vision of paradise.

Exumas Yacht Charter
Sapphire Wilderness

The Exumas (via Nassau)

The crown jewel of the Bahamas. 365 cays of neon-blue water, home to the swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, and the Land & Sea Park. A realm of "skinny water" and total seclusion.

Explore Exumas
Abaco Yacht Charter
Social Sailing Hub

The Abaco Islands

Famous for the candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse and charming colonial towns like Hope Town. Calm, protected waters make this the premier choice for easy island-hopping and social vibes.

Explore Abacos

The Bahamas Fleet: Choosing Your Vessel

Navigating the Bahamas is a specialized art. Unlike the deep-water passages of the Mediterranean, Bahamian cruising revolves around "skinny water"—the vast, shallow banks that characterize the Exumas and Abacos. Our fleet is hand-selected for these specific conditions, featuring shallow-draft designs that allow for safe, intimate access to the cays. When we help you choose a vessel, we aren't just looking at the cabin count; we are ensuring your yacht can glide over sandbars to reach the most exclusive anchorages in the Atlantic

Bahamas Sailing Catamaran
The Shallow Water Standard
Sailing Catamarans

The premier choice for the Bahamas. With a draft as shallow as 4 feet, these "floating villas" allow you to anchor directly over white sandbars and reach secluded cays that others simply cannot access.

Bahamas Power Catamaran
Efficiency & Range
Power Catamarans

Perfect for seeing more of the archipelago. Combine the massive living space and stability of a catamaran with high-speed engines to bridge the gap between Nassau and the far reaches of the Exumas.

Bahamas Motor Yacht
Luxury In Motion
Motor Yachts

The pinnacle of Bahamian prestige. High-performance vessels featuring elite crews, extensive water toy collections (Seabobs/Jet Skis), and air-conditioned luxury for the ultimate island-hopping gala.

Ready for Sapphire Water & Secluded Cays?

Our Bahamas specialists are ready to help you navigate the Exumas and Abacos. Let's find your perfect shallow-draft vessel for your 2026 adventure.

Why choose Bahamas for your next yacht charter?

The Bahamas: An Unrivaled Yachting Odyssey

The Kaleidoscope of the Out IslandsThe Bahamas is a realm of shifting sapphire and 700 islands that defy comparison. From the legendary pink sands of Eleuthera to the mystical, deep-blue holes of Andros, this archipelago is a visual masterpiece. Navigating by private yacht allows you to pierce the veil of the "Out Islands," where the Exuma Cays offer a snorkeler’s sanctuary amidst neon-blue shallows and thriving coral cathedrals. Here, the freedom of a yacht means you don't just visit the Bahamas—you inhabit its most secluded corners.

Legendary Trade Winds & "Skinny Water" MasteryThe Bahamas offers some of the most consistent and inviting sailing conditions on the planet. Gentle, predictable trade winds provide an effortless cruising experience, while the archipelago’s famous "skinny waters"—protected by an intricate web of reefs—ensure stable, glass-like anchorages for a peaceful night’s rest. Whether you are an offshore veteran or a first-time guest, the short distances between cays allow for a leisurely pace, ensuring your holiday is defined by the rhythm of the tides rather than the tick of a clock.

Bahamas Crewed Catamaran PENNY JO - Bali 4.4 dining area with view of the Exumas

A Cultural Tapestry of the AtlanticBeyond the shoreline, the Bahamas is rich with the pulse of Philoxenia—a warm, deep-seated hospitality. The islands offer a vibrant fusion of African, European, and Caribbean heritage, visible in the neoclassical charm of Hope Town and the rhythmic energy of Junkanoo. A private charter provides the unique luxury of "island-hopping" through time—from the sophisticated colonial history of Nassau to the barefoot, sea-to-table simplicity of the family-run tavernas in the Berry Islands.

Bespoke Adventures Without BoundariesA High Tide charter is a blank canvas for the extraordinary. For the adrenaline seeker, the Bahamas is a playground of high-speed water sports and drift diving; for the nature enthusiast, it is an intimate theater for encounters with wild dolphins and nurse sharks. With your own vessel, the schedule is yours to dictate. Explore hidden underwater grottos at dawn, or spend a quiet afternoon on a sandbar that only exists for a few hours at low tide. This is yachting that transcends the ordinary—a journey where every horizon holds a new promise, and every cay is a hidden gem waiting to be unveiled.

Private Chef onboard a Crewed Catamaran SOUL MATES preparing lunch
Private Chef onboard a Crewed Catamaran SOUL MATES preparing lunch

Essential Information:

Currency

USD / BSD (1:1 Peg)

Language

English

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5)

Tipping Protocol

15% - 20% Base Fee

Sailing License

Resume / ASA 104 (Bareboat)

Primary Gateways & Airport Codes

Nassau NAS

Marsh Harbour MHH

North Eleuthera ELH

George Town GGT

Staniel Cay TYM

FAQ:

The Bahamas operates in US Dollars (USD). Below are 2026 weekly baseline estimates for the peak Winter/Spring season.
Type Vessel Example Weekly Base Rate
Bareboat45ft Catamaran$8,000 – $14,000
SkipperedLagoon 50 + Skipper$15,000 – $22,000
Full Crewed60ft Luxury Catamaran$35,000 – $55,000
Motor Yacht100ft+ Superyacht$80,000 – $150,000+
Additional Costs:
• 4% Bahamas Charter Tax (Mandatory)
• 10% VAT (Value Added Tax)
• APA: Typically between 20-35% for large crewed vessels.
The Bahamas is world-famous for "Skinny Water"—vast areas of sapphire shallows and shifting sandbars.

The Advantage: Catamarans have a very shallow draft, often allowing you to anchor in just 4–5 feet of water. This lets you get right up to the "Swimming Pigs" or private sandbars where deep-keel monohulls simply cannot reach. Essential for Exuma itineraries.
Absolutely. Many of our high-end clients prefer to take a private charter or a local carrier (like Makers Air) directly into Staniel Cay (TYM) or Marsh Harbour (MHH).

This saves you a 4–5 hour "crossing" across the Yellow Bank from Nassau, allowing you to wake up and be on your yacht in the heart of the islands immediately. Recommended for 5-day or shorter trips.
The peak season runs from December to April. However, the "sweet spot" is often May and June, when the winds die down, the water is glass-calm, and the crowds have thinned.

We generally advise against chartering in August and September due to the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season.
Unlike Greece, the Bahamas is more flexible. A formal license like an ICC or RYA Day Skipper is preferred, but a comprehensive Sailing Resume detailing your experience on similar-sized vessels is often sufficient for most insurance providers.

Note: You will still need to demonstrate your skills during a brief "check-out" sail with the base manager upon arrival.
Yes. Flexibility is the hallmark of a High Tide charter. Your Captain will review the weather charts with you every morning over breakfast. If a certain cay is too windy, they will suggest a sheltered alternative that offers the same sapphire water and white sand experience. Maximizes guest comfort and safety.

Why Charter the Bahamas with High Tide Yacht Charters

High Tide Yacht Charters specialises in crafting bespoke experiences in the Bahamas. We’ll match you with the perfect yacht — sailing, catamaran, or motor yacht — and help design an itinerary that balances adventure and relaxation. From arranging private snorkeling excursions in the Exumas to sunset dinners on untouched beaches, our team ensures every detail is covered. With provisioning, crew introductions, and guidance on the best anchorages, we make your Bahamas yacht charter effortless and unforgettable.

Team
Fleet
Atmosphere
The Broker Advantage

Bespoke Guidance.
Total Financial Security.

Unbiased Market Access

We cross-reference thousands of vetted hulls to find the specific yacht and crew that matches your group's unique profile.

Bespoke Routes

From Santorini sunsets to hidden Ionian coves, we handle the logistics that define a luxury Mediterranean odyssey.

Financial Integrity

Utilizing industry-standard MYBA contracts and secure escrow for complete legal and financial peace of mind.

Expert Advocacy

Our expert services are paid by the operators, ensuring you get professional representation at no added cost.

M
★★★★★ Google Review

"High Tide were excellent. We had a number of preferences for bedroom numbers, arrangement, and dining setups—James found us a boat that satisfied them all. He was always easy to contact and checked up on us throughout our holiday to make sure everything was perfect."

Michael B. • Verified Client

Destinations in Bahamas

Check out some of the destinations to explore.

Top Available Yachts for Charter

SQUALO - Sanlorenzo SL86 - 2018

Starting from:
€58,000

SQUALO is a like-new Sanlorenzo SL86 accommodating 8 guests in 4 cabins. Featuring versatile layout, expansive flybridge, aft and forward decks, zero-speed stabilizers, and a full suite of water toys. Perfect for Bahamas charters.

DATE NIGHT - Feretti 920 - 2018

Starting from:
$84,000

DATE NIGHT is a sleek Italian-designed yacht with 5 cabins for 10 guests, featuring a full-beam master suite, family-friendly layout, expansive flybridge, and zero-speed stabilizers. Available in The Bahamas and Caribbean.

KALTO - Bali 5.4 - 2023

Starting from:
$31,000

KATLO, a 2023 Bali 5.4 Catamaran in the BVI, accommodates 6 guests in 3 luxurious cabins with an owner’s suite, offering a flybridge, foredeck lounge, top-tier water toys, and all modern amenities for an unforgettable Caribbean charter.

FULL MOON - Moon Yacht 60 - 2024

Starting from:
$50,000

FULL MOON is a brand-new Moon Yacht 60, offering luxury and performance in equal measure. Accommodating 10 guests in 5 cabins, including an Owner’s Suite and VIP cabin, this yacht offers exceptional indoor and outdoor spaces, a full premium entertainment system, and exquisite service.

WHISPERS II - Lagoon 560 - 2016

Starting from:
$22,000

Sail the Bahamas in style aboard WHISPERS II, a 56’ Lagoon luxury sailing catamaran. Offering spacious living areas, alfresco dining, a panoramic flybridge, and four ensuite cabins, WHISPERS II is the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure.

PENNY JO - Bali 4.4 - 2022

Starting from:
$23,000

Sail the Bahamas in luxury aboard PENNY JO, a 2023 Bali 4.4 crewed catamaran. Featuring spacious open-plan living, a panoramic flybridge, and queen en-suite cabins, she offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for up to 6 guests.

NAUTI DOGS - Bali 5.4 - 2022

Starting from:
$31,000

NAUTI DOGS is a brand-new 2023 Bali 5.4 luxury crewed catamaran, designed for comfort and adventure in the Bahamas. Featuring spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, a panoramic flybridge, and queen en-suite cabins, she offers the perfect setting for relaxation, dining, and sunset cocktails.

LOCATION 5.4 - Bali 5.4 - 2022

Starting from:
$33,000

Step aboard LOCATION 5.4, a stunning 2022 Bali 5.4 luxury crewed catamaran, and explore the Bahamas in style. With spacious cabins, panoramic views, and top-tier amenities, she promises an unforgettable yachting experience.

Start planning your yacht charter adventure with High Tide Yacht Charters, today!