CHARTER BAHAMAS EXUMAS GUIDE
THE EXUMAS With 365 individual cays and islands, lose yourself in a tropical escape without the bustling tourist crowd Best known for the captivating turquoise waters that surround them, the Exuma Islands offer endless quiet anchorages, sweeping sandbars, and white sand beaches that seemingly transport you to another world. This chain of 365 islands is part of the Out Islands of the Bahamas, but collectively they hold a much more laid-back vibe, and there’s something unique to be experienced on each of them.
Local attractions of the Exuma Cays won’t disappoint. Visit the famed Thunderball Grotto, a cave seen in the James Bond film of the same name, and swim with the now-famous swimming pigs at Big Major’s Spot. Wildlife in the Exumas is plentiful, from the photogenic and surprisingly social nurse sharks at Compass Cay to the Allen’s Cay giant iguanas, fearsome-looking yet gentle creatures that welcome visitors who bring them gifts of vegetables. An elite offering of restaurants and famous nightlife hot-spots can be found hidden among the islands, but these gems are few and far between. Many of the Exuma Cays are private, some functioning as luxurious private-island resorts and others the ultra-exclusive homes to stars such as Johnny Depp, Tyler Perry, David Copperfield, and country singers Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Whether you’re seeking adventure, seclusion, luxury, or relaxation, or a sampling of each, the Exumas offer unequaled possibilities to satisfy your every desire.
ADVENTURE TO THE BAHAMAS
Here you’ll enjoy nature in its simplest form. With flawless coastlines, pristine reefs, and exclusive island surroundings, it’s a dream destination for those seeking the ultimate escape, from boaters and fishermen, to divers, snorkelers, and kayakers.
PARADISE ISLAND, NASSAU Your journey begins when you board your yacht at the gorgeous Atlantis Marina in Paradise Island, Nassau. Get acquainted with your captain and crew, enjoy a quick bite and a celebratory cocktail on board, and then head over to the fabulous Atlantis Resort for a tour of all the amenities available to you during your sojourn. From exhilarating water slides and fast-paced casino action, to sunbathing on white sand beaches and snorkeling or diving in underwater paradise, there’s no shortage of adventures and experiences to suit every taste.
HIGHBOURNE CAY Acquaint yourself with your captain and crew, and prepare for your cruise to Highbourne Cay, known around the world as the gateway to the Exuma Cays. Upon arrival, take the tender to Allen’s Cay, home to the welcoming Rock Iguanas that wait on the beach for treats from visitors. Enjoy a hike to The Spring for far-reaching sunset views
SHROUD CAY The waters here are a diver’s dream: crystal clear, abundant with fish, and thought by many to be the bluest of all the waters in the world. Take an adrenalinecharged plunge at the Exuma Wall, a 75-foot drop-off facing the Exuma Sound, or simply snorkel in the tranquil shallow spots. Make your way to Norman’s Cay, the notorious headquarters for Carlos Lehder’s drug smuggling operation back in his prime. For a naturalist’s paradise, cruise to uninhabited Shroud Cay, where the only footprints on the sandy beaches will be your own.
WARDERICK WELLS Take an up-close and personal tour of a nearby tidal pool, a tropical haven for birds, sea turtles and fish like you’ve never seen. Then set course for Warderick Wells, home to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, where explorers of all ages can revel in more than seven miles of coastal trails. One in particular, leading to Boo Boo Hill, is a favored path that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the island, the anchorage, and Exuma Sound.
STANIEL CAY From the splendid surrounding coves and beaches to vibrant over-the-water cottages that line its shore, Staniel Cay is a picturesque island filled with adventure. Tour Thunderball Grotto, the famous cave featured in several James Bond movies, visit Big Major’s Spot and swim with the popular swimming pigs, or take the tender to explore smaller cays unreachable by yachts and picnic on a sweeping sandbar. After a day of adventure, slow down and enjoy a cocktail and a bite at the new Staniel Cay Yacht Club restaurant. The options are virtually limitless.
HARBOUR ISLAND Your journey continues as your captain makes way towards Harbour Island, cruising around the outlying coral reef of “Devil’s Backbone” as part of the adventure. Famous for its pink sand beaches, pastel colonial cottages, exceptionally clear waters, and leisurely atmosphere, Harbour Island is rated as one of the best beaches in the Bahamas, enticing travelers from around the world to its tropical shores. Favorable water temperatures and crystal clear visibility offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities either right off shore, or further out in the stretch of more than three miles of pristine reef. Onshore, the island is friendly and welcoming, and home to some of the best restaurants the Bahamas has to offer. From fine dining at The Rock House and The Landing, to the casual local fare of Ma Ruby’s or Sip Sip, you’ll experience authentic Bahamian atmosphere and captivating views of the island.
GEORGETOWN, GREAT EXUMA Today you’ll make way to Georgetown, the capital of Great Exuma, where you can take advantage of the upscale amenities at Emerald Bay Resort, part of the Sandals Resorts. Anchor in the well-appointed marina and then head to the resort’s spa to pamper yourself with an indulgent massage, facial, or body scrub. Check out the golf course, and if you just can’t wait, take in the back nine to hold you over. We will stay overnight at the marina, with a full day of adventure awaiting you tomorrow.
SANDALS RESORT Today, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a full round at the Emerald Reef Golf Club, a championship 18-hole course designed by golf legend, Greg Norman. The lush green course features a series of dramatic fairways along the oceanfront that wind through coastal dunes, ending on a rocky peninsula with a sweeping view of the tropical waters. Whatever your inclination for activity, the resort can meet your desire, from yoga or Pilates at the fitness center to a tennis match in tropical paradise. After a full day of adventure, the serenity of your yacht is a welcome respite for the night.
THE EXUMAS
OVERVIEW TIME ZONE:
Eastern Time Zone
CURRENCY:
Currency in the Bahamas: Bahimian Dollar, which is
equivalent in value to the U.S. Dollar
CLIMATE:
In the Summer: Maximum: 91°F/33°C.;
Minimum: 75°F/24°C. The water temperature
in the Bahamas hardly ever drops below 72° F
(equivalent to 22° Celsius) near the shorelines.
THE EXUMAS, BAHAMAS