Luxury Yacht Charter Exumas, Bahamas – Crewed Motor Yachts & Superyachts
The Exumas form a 365-island chain in the Bahamas' central waters to create a perfect sailing destination which appeals to both novice boaters and repeat visitors. Your luxury yacht charter in the Exumas enables you to choose from an assortment of crewed motor yachts (55’–99’) and superyachts (100’) and promises an extravagant getaway that includes exciting experiences and luxury amenities. A luxury yacht charter Exumas experience will let you glide through tranquil crystal-clear waters while discovering secret beaches before witnessing breathtaking sunsets over emerald islands. The world-class service and modern amenities of this luxury yacht charter Exumas experience will combine with the Exumas' stunning surroundings to deliver an unforgettable vacation.
Exumas Charter Highlights
When you choose a private yacht charter in the Exumas you will experience numerous exceptional opportunities. Exumas charter visitors can experience these special highlights which await them:
The stunning marine surroundings will amaze you because each location features turquoise waters together with vibrant coral reefs and pristine white-sand beaches. The Exumas show natural beauty at its most striking level because their waters are known as the bluest in the world. Each island presents beautiful scenes that range from hidden sandbars that surface at low tide to ocean-fringed green cays with clear blue waters. A piece of heaven awaits visitors including both new arrivals and international travelers.
Vibrant Snorkeling & Marine Life: Dive into an underwater wonderland teeming with life. The famous Thunderball Grotto lets you snorkel through its underwater cave system which appears in James Bond movies and is full of vibrant coral heads alongside numerous reef fish. Explore shallow reefs teeming with tropical fish, experience gentle nurse sharks while snorkeling at Compass Cay and find a sunken airplane wreck floating in clear water. The plane wreck resting beneath 10 feet of water at Norman’s Cay provides an excellent snorkeling opportunity for all skill levels and serves as a colorful fish and coral habitat. The ocean provides daily chances to spot exotic sea life including turtles and rays together with vibrant coral gardens.
Your private beach picnics and sandbar adventures will lead you to complete solitude on uninhabited islands. The crew will take you to either an abandoned island cay or a large sandbar that reveals itself when tides drop down — both locations are ideal for champagne toasts or casual beach barbecues. Your personal chef will cook on a sandy beach while you relax under the sun with breathtaking views of powder white sand and complete solitude from people. Search for seashells on deserted beaches while you remain the sole person to walk on these shores and explore quiet shallow areas. The secluded moments create a deep bond between you and nature while maintaining complete privacy and peacefulness.
The Exumas provide visitors with authentic Bahamian cultural experiences while they explore its natural beauty. Friendly island settlements such as Staniel Cay welcome visitors through their yacht club or casual beach bar. Experience Bahamian cultural heritage through the taste of local food including conch fritters and rum punch while you meet friendly Exumians. The Staniel Cay Yacht Club lets you meet other travelers while dining onshore with their fresh daily catch. Your luxurious getaway gains cultural depth when you feed the rock iguanas of Allen’s Cay or explore the historic salt beacon on Great Exuma. These activities enhance your vacation while showing you the authentic Bahamian way of life.
Gourmet Dining & Five-Star Service: Indulge in gourmet dining experiences at sea. The onboard chef will prepare custom-made meals using fresh Bahamian produce to make lobster, conch and other fine dining options available with vintage wine pairings. Your dining events will transform every meal into a special occasion because you can enjoy breakfast on the sun deck with ocean views then have a beach picnic lunch followed by an evening dinner on your aft deck under candlelight and tropical wind. You have access to exclusive island restaurants through shore visits at Xuma restaurant in Highbourne Cay and Norman’s Cay chef's table. The professional crew provides top-class service while delivering luxury amenities including silver-service dining and creative cocktails that match the standards of any high-end resort.
3-Day Exumas Yacht Charter Itinerary
For those short on time or looking to sample the Exumas on a long weekend, a 3 day yacht charter Exumas itinerary offers a thrilling taste of this island paradise. Below is a sample 3-day itinerary showcasing what you can experience on a crewed motor yacht charter. (Every Boatcrowd itinerary is bespoke – our team will tailor the route to your preferences – but this gives an idea of a popular route through the Exumas for three days.)
Day 1: Nassau to Highbourne Cay – Welcome to Paradise
Your adventure begins in Nassau, New Providence (the convenient gateway to the Exumas). After a VIP welcome aboard your modern yacht and a safety briefing, set sail (or rather, cruise in style) toward the Exumas. Feel the ocean breeze as you leave the city behind and watch the water transform into that luminous Exumas blue. In just a few hours, you arrive at Highbourne Cay, an idyllic private island known as the gateway to the Exumas.
Drop anchor in Highbourne’s calm harbor and take in the scenery – sugar-white beaches and vibrant reefs beckon. In the afternoon, take the tender to nearby Allen’s Cay to meet the famous Bahamian rock iguanas. These friendly three-foot iguanas lounge on the beach and eagerly greet visitors, providing a great photo op (they love veggies, which your crew can bring for you to feed them). After mingling with these prehistoric island residents, enjoy a snorkel at Highbourne’s Horseshoe Bay reef, nicknamed the “Octopus Garden” for its brilliant marine life. The reef’s shallow coral gardens are perfect for first-time snorkelers and kids, yet impressive enough to wow experienced divers.
As evening sets in, indulge in your first Exumas sunset. Highbourne Cay offers a hilltop restaurant with 360-degree views of unspoiled paradise – an excellent spot if you’d like an island dinner reservation. Alternatively, stay onboard for a gourmet dinner prepared by your chef: perhaps grilled mahi-mahi caught that day, paired with tropical fruit salsa and a chilled wine. Dine al fresco on the yacht’s aft deck as the sky turns pink and gold. With the gentle rocking of the boat and the Milky Way emerging overhead, you’ll truly feel that you’ve arrived in paradise.
Day 2: Exuma Cays Exploration – Pigs, Grottoes & Reefs
Awake to the sound of gentle waves lapping the hull and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view. Today is your Exumas explorer day, packed with iconic stops. After breakfast, cruise south to Staniel Cay, in the heart of the Exumas. En route, you pass countless islets and sandbars – your captain may stop at a particularly beautiful sandbar so you can hop off and wade in ankle-deep turquoise water as far as the eye can see. It’s a perfect spot for a mid-morning swim and some drone-worthy photos.
By late morning, arrive at Big Major Cay, better known as Pig Island, home to the world-famous Swimming Pigs. These adorable pigs roam the beach and swim out to your tender to be fed. Go ahead and wade in – soon you’ll be surrounded by snorting, paddling pigs looking for treats and a photoshoot. It’s a light-hearted, unforgettable experience for guests of all ages. (Your crew will have veggies or approved snacks for the pigs; feeding these friendly creatures and snapping selfies with them is a must-do!)
After you’ve had your fill of piggy playtime, it’s a short cruise to the Thunderball Grotto, located just off Staniel Cay. This famed cave, featured in the James Bond movie “Thunderball”, offers spectacular snorkeling. Don your mask and explore the grotto’s interior at slack tide. Sunlight beams through holes in the cave’s ceiling, illuminating a school of colorful fish swirling around you. The grotto is riddled with vibrant coral and abundant marine life – you might feel as if you’re inside a natural aquarium. It’s an awe-inspiring snorkel spot that often becomes the highlight of the whole trip.
Come afternoon, head ashore at Staniel Cay. Stroll around this quaint village or zip around by golf cart (available for rent) to explore. A favorite stop is the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a charming gathering spot for yachties. Enjoy a cold rum punch or a Goombay Smash (a local cocktail) at the bar as you swap stories. For thrill-seekers, your crew can organize a dive or fishing excursion, or you can take out the yacht’s wave runners for a spin around the bay.
In the evening, the choices are yours: dine onshore at Staniel Cay Yacht Club for some local flavor and fresh Bahamian seafood, or savor a private dinner aboard under the stars. (If you caught any fish today, your chef can prepare a “catch of the day” feast just for you.) As night falls, perhaps relax in the deck jacuzzi (if on a superyacht) or enjoy a movie under the open sky in the outdoor lounge. The yacht’s gentle sway and the distant sound of waves on the shore will lull you into sweet island dreams.
Day 3: Norman’s Cay & Picnic Finale – Farewell to the Exumas
This morning, bid farewell to Staniel Cay and begin your journey northwards through the cays. On a 3-day charter, Day 3 is a grand finale of adventure before returning to port. After breakfast, cruise to Norman’s Cay, a storied isle with a fascinating history. Once a haven for 1980s island smugglers, Norman’s Cay today is a peaceful tropical playground known for one thing in particular – a famous submerged plane wreck just off its beach. Jump in for an exhilarating snorkel on the sunken WWII-era plane (often associated with cartel lore) that rests in shallow water. The crystal-clear conditions make it easy to see the outline of the wreck, now home to a kaleidoscope of reef fish and corals . It’s both an eerie and beautiful snorkel, and a unique piece of Exumas history you can literally dive into.
Back on deck, dry off and get ready for an ultimate private island experience. Just north of Norman’s is a sublime hidden gem: a deserted sandbar stretching across electric-blue shallows. Your captain drops anchor and your crew whisks you to this pristine sandbank for a luxurious beach picnic. While you explore or swim, the chef and steward prepare a gourmet spread right on the sand – perhaps a surf-and-turf grill, chilled lobster tails, tropical salads, and a bottle of champagne on ice. Bask in the sunshine as your chef sets up a delightful beach BBQ on the Mile-Long Sandbar , toasting to your final day in the Exumas. With not another soul in sight, this private beach lunch is a moment of pure bliss that encapsulates the exclusivity of a yacht charter.
After lunch and one last swim in those legendary turquoise waters, it’s time to cruise back toward Nassau. You might stop at Rose Island (just off Nassau’s coast) for one last dip – this secluded island has vibrant reefs and a lovely beach to stretch your legs before the journey’s end. Arrive back in Nassau by late afternoon. As you reluctantly disembark, you’re refreshed, sun-kissed, and filled with amazing memories – all in just three days.
Optional: If you have the flexibility, extend your charter by a day or two to further explore (perhaps adding a stop at Shroud Cay’s mangrove creek or Warderick Wells Land & Sea Park). Boatcrowd can seamlessly arrange extra days or custom stops to turn a short escape into a full luxury yacht charter Exumas vacation. Even on a quick 3-day charter, you’ve experienced the essence of the Exumas – but there’s always more to discover.
5-Day Exumas Yacht Charter Itinerary
For a more leisurely pace and deeper exploration, consider a 5-day luxury yacht charter in the Exumas. Five days allows you to venture further into the island chain, enjoy longer stays at favorite spots, and truly soak up the Exumas’ magic. Here’s a sample 5-day itinerary blending adventure, relaxation, and all the iconic Exumas attractions:
Day 1: Nassau to Norman’s Cay – Adventure Awaits
Your 5-day voyage launches from Nassau, where you’ll board a modern motor yacht or superyacht from Boatcrowd’s fleet – fully stocked and crewed, ready for adventure. As you cruise into the Exuma Cays, feel free to lounge on deck or by the flybridge bar – the crew will pamper you with welcome cocktails and gourmet snacks as the Bahamas’ beauty unfolds around you.
After a pleasant cruise, arrive at Norman’s Cay for your first taste of Exumas adventure. Spend the afternoon immersed in Norman’s Cay’s offerings: snorkel the famous sunken plane wreck (now encrusted with coral and swarming with tropical fish, a snorkeler’s dream) , or explore Twinkie Beach on the island’s shore – a quiet stretch of sand notable for its lone iconic palm tree and abundant seashells scattered along the tide line . The waters around Norman’s Cay are incredibly clear and calm, perfect for a swim or trying out the yacht’s paddleboards and kayaks. If you’re an angler, this area is known for bonefishing – your captain can arrange a guided flats fishing excursion for a chance to catch (and release) the elusive bonefish.
Come evening, enjoy an island chic atmosphere at Norman’s Cay. Perhaps drop by the island’s rustic beach club, or host your own sunset happy hour on board. As dusk paints the sky, your yacht remains anchored in the tranquil bay. Dine under the stars on the top deck – tonight’s menu might feature Bahamian lobster tails grilled to perfection, with the gentle sounds of the sea as your dinner music. With a million stars overhead and only the silhouette of palm-lined islands around, you’ll understand why a private yacht charter in the Exumas, Bahamas is truly unparalleled.
Day 2: Shroud Cay & Warderick Wells – Natural Wonders of the Exuma Park
This morning, cruise into the protected boundaries of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, one of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas of the Bahamas (and a no-take marine reserve). Shroud Cay is your first stop – an uninhabited archipelago of small cays and mangrove forests. Kick off the day with an exciting tender ride or guided kayak trip through Shroud Cay’s winding mangrove creek. Drift through a shallow tidal creek surrounded by mangroves, watching turtles and rays glide beneath you in the clear water. At the end of the creek, you’ll emerge at the “washing machine” – a natural lazy river out at a stunning beach on Shroud’s ocean side, where a gentle current can carry you floating down to the sea. Hike up to the lookout at Camp Driftwood for a panoramic view of Shroud Cay’s mangrove nurseries and the Exuma Sound beyond – a picture-perfect vista and a great spot for a few photos. It truly feels like you have a deserted island all to yourself here.
After a refreshing morning at Shroud Cay, hop back on board for a short cruise deeper into the Land and Sea Park to Warderick Wells Cay. As the park’s headquarters, Warderick Wells offers 20-plus nature trails and secluded beachesto explore . Upon arrival, take a mooring ball in the park’s celestial-blue North Mooring Field – the anchorage itself is famously shaped like a horseshoe and you might spot eagle rays and nurse sharks gliding around the boat. Spend the afternoon hiking to Boo Boo Hill, the highest point on the cay. At the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping 360° views of the Exumas and a chance to see the legendary whale skeleton laid out along the trail . Back at sea level, snorkel the coral gardens off Warderick’s west side or visit a sandbar where lemon sharks often school in the shallow waters. With fishing prohibited here, the marine life is amazingly plentiful and tame.
For dinner, you could enjoy a beach picnic BBQ (the crew can ferry everything ashore for a park-approved cookout on the beach), or dine aboard in air-conditioned comfort – the choice is yours. This night, the stargazing in Warderick Wells is second to none, thanks to zero light pollution. Relax on the sun deck with a cocktail and gaze up – you might even see the Milky Way band streaking across the sky. Surrounded by nature’s tranquility, you’ll feel a million miles from civilization.
Day 3: Staniel Cay & Big Major Spot – Iconic Exumas Encounters
After two days of serenity, Day 3 adds a dash of lively island culture and bucket-list encounters. Cruise south to the Staniel Cay area (about a 2-hour cruise from Warderick Wells on a motor yacht). En route, you can troll a fishing line – who knows, you might catch a wahoo or mahi to grill later! By late morning, Staniel Cay comes into view, along with neighboring Big Major Spot – home of the beloved Swimming Pigs.
Start with a visit to Pig Beach on Big Major Spot. Your crew will escort you ashore to interact with the adorable Exuma pigs. Snap photos, feed them approved snacks, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. These pigs are surprisingly good swimmers and will paddle out to your tender to say hello – a memory your family will talk about for years. After some laughs and oinks, rinse off the salt and sand and get ready for more adventure.
Next up is snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto, just a stone’s throw away. If you didn’t get to this site on your 3-day itinerary, now’s your chance. At low or slack tide, swim into the cave and be amazed by the ethereal lighting and abundant fish. The grotto is often described as a “natural fish bowl” – schools of sergeant majors and snapper will swim right up to you, especially if you bring along some bread or peas (ask the crew; local guides often feed fish here to create a cyclone of marine life for visitors). It’s an unforgettable snorkel that perfectly showcases Exuma’s underwater beauty.
After working up an appetite, head into Staniel Cay for lunch. You might choose the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, famous for its waterfront restaurant. Enjoy conch fritters, fresh grouper, or a juicy burger with an ice-cold Kalik (the Bahamian beer) while overlooking the marina – you might even see nurse sharks cruising around the docks waiting for fish scraps. This is island life at its finest!
Spend the afternoon exploring Staniel Cay: visit the quaint village church and the few local shops, or perhaps zip over to nearby Bitter Guana Cay to feed iguanas or snorkel off its quiet beach (another off-the-beaten-path spot known for pretty coral heads and lots of friendly iguanas). If you’re up for more sea time, try snorkeling the Sea Aquarium at nearby O’Brien’s Cay – a shallow snorkel site where fish are so plentiful it’s like swimming in an aquarium. Your crew can also break out the water toys in the area – think jetski rides around the island, tubing for the kids, or stand-up paddleboarding in calm bays.
This evening, enjoy a bit of the social scene. Staniel Cay Yacht Club often attracts an international mix of yacht charter guests – a fun chance to mingle. Or, if you prefer solitude, the captain can find a quiet anchorage off one of the nearby cays (such as a calm cove at Fowl Cay or Thomas Cay). As the sun sets on Day 3, perhaps indulge in a themed dinner party onboard – a “tropical chic” night with tiki torches on deck and island music playing. With three days down, you’re fully immersed in the Exumas’ rhythm of adventure by day and indulgence by night.
Day 4: Compass Cay & Surroundings – Swim with Sharks and Explore
Day 4 brings a mix of thrill and relaxation. A short hop from Staniel is Compass Cay, a favorite among yacht charters for its friendly nurse sharks and laid-back vibe. Tie up at Compass Cay Marina or anchor just outside, and prepare for a truly unique swim. At the marina’s dock, dozens of nurse sharks congregate in the shallow water. These docile creatures are like big catfish – totally safe to swim with under the marina staff’s guidance. Wade into the water and feel the sandpapery skin of a nurse shark as it glides by – an adrenaline rush that makes for amazing photos! Many guests rate this as a highlight of their trip, conquering any initial fear to end up petting a 5-foot shark like it’s a puppy.
After your shark encounter, hike along the island’s trails to Rachel’s Bubble Bath, a natural tidal pool on Compass Cay’s north end. When the ocean swells break over the rocks at high tide, the pool foams like a jacuzzi – hence the name. Take a dip in this crystal-clear lagoon and enjoy nature’s hot tub with sweeping views of the sea. If you crave more snorkeling, nearby Rocky Dundas cave (off adjacent Fowl Cay) offers a hidden grotto akin to Thunderball Grotto but lesser-known – it features stalactites and beams of light in a collapsed cave, accessible by a short swim. Or simply kick back on Compass Cay’s pristine beaches, feeling the powdery sand between your toes.
For lunch today, perhaps have a casual beach picnic. The crew can set up a spread on Compass Cay’s beach or even arrange a dinghy ride to the private beach at Fowl Cay (a luxury resort island) for a secluded picnic under palm trees. In the afternoon, take advantage of your yacht’s water sports arsenal – Day 4 is a great time to play. Zoom around on jet skis, try wakeboarding behind the tender, or deploy the inflatable water slide (a fun feature on some superyachts). The calm, shallow waters of the Exumas are perfect for water sports, and with the sun shining high, it’s the ultimate playground. Nature lovers might opt for a guided kayaking excursion through mangrove creeks around nearby cays, spotting sea turtles and exotic birdlife. There’s no rush – on a 5-day charter, this day is flexible to do as much or as little as you please.
By late afternoon, relocate a short distance to a quiet anchorage at nearby Cambridge Cay (Little Bell Island) or back to a favorite spot you passed earlier. Cambridge Cay offers a serene overnight stop with beautiful sunset views and great protection. Toast to your penultimate night with a round of the yacht’s signature cocktails (your stewardess will remember your favorites by now). Over dinner – perhaps a sumptuous three-course meal featuring filet mignon and lobster bisque – share laughs about the week’s adventures. With the gentle glow of deck lights reflecting on the water, relish the comfort of your yacht’s five-star service and amenities one more leisurely evening.
Day 5: Exuma Farewell – Hidden Gems & Return Sail
On your final full day, soak up every last bit of the Exumas’ magic. After breakfast, you might choose to visit one last hidden gem. Hawksbill Cay, for example, is an uninhabited cay within the Exuma Park known for its spectacular beaches and Loyalist ruins from the 1700s. It’s a quiet stop where you can swim in lagoon-like waters or explore the ruins of old stone structures overtaken by jungle – a bit of history with your beach time. Alternatively, cruise north toward the Exuma Sound and stop at Allen’s Cay (if you didn’t on Day 1) to feed the iguanas or do a final snorkel.
Midday, as you reluctantly point the yacht back toward Nassau, the crew will ensure your last hours are as enjoyable as the first. Perhaps a farewell gourmet lunch on the sun deck – imagine freshly caught ceviche, a spread of tropical fruits, and a chilled glass of wine as you lounge and savor the views one last time. The crew might surprise you with a slideshow of photos they’ve taken during your trip, or a goodbye cake to celebrate a successful voyage.
On the cruise back, keep your eyes out for marine life – dolphins often love to play in a yacht’s wake. There’s also time to simply relax in the jacuzzi or sunbathe on the bow one last time, enjoying the warm Bahamian breeze. If you’d like, your captain can stop at Rose Island (just outside Nassau) for a final swim or snorkel stop. Rose Island’s reef is vibrant and its beaches photogenic – a nice coda to your Exumas itinerary and conveniently close to home port.
By late afternoon, arrive back in Nassau or your chosen drop-off point. Your crew will handle all the details of docking and customs while you exchange heartfelt goodbyes. In just five days, you’ve experienced countless wonders: remote cays, underwater treasures, thrilling wildlife encounters, and the unmatched luxury of life on a superyacht. Stepping ashore, you carry priceless memories and perhaps a promise to yourself to return to the Exumas soon.
This sample itinerary is just the beginning. With Boatcrowd, every Exumas yacht charter is fully customizable – whether you want to dive every day, seek out the quietest anchorages, or pack in as many hotspots as possible, our team will craft the perfect route. Luxury yacht charter Exumas adventures of 5 days or longer allow you to truly live the yachting lifestyle and discover new favorite corners of this 365-island paradise at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions about Exumas Yacht Charters
What is the best time for a yacht charter in the Exumas?
The best time to charter a yacht in the Exumas is generally during the dry season, late November through mid-April. During these winter and spring months, the weather is sunny and warm (daytime temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s °F) with low humidity and very little rainfall – ideal conditions for boating . The seas are typically calm and clear, which means excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving, and comfortable cruising between islands. This period is considered the peak season for the Bahamas, offering the most enjoyable experience for yacht charters . You’ll also find lively events like the National Family Island Regatta in April, adding a cultural bonus to your trip.
It’s certainly possible to charter outside this window – the summer months (May through August) bring hotter weather (upper 80s to 90°F) and warmer water temperatures, great for swimming, but also higher humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Many experienced charterers also enjoy May and early June in the Exumas, which are slightly less busy but still generally nice. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in September and October; during that period, many large yachts leave the region or have very flexible rescheduling policies . If you do consider an off-season charter (for instance, a September trip), be aware of weather risks and ensure you have cancellation options. Overall, for calm seas and blissful sunshine, the winter/spring months are the best time for an Exumas yacht charter – plan early, as yachts get booked up fast during holidays and spring break.
How much does it cost to charter a superyacht in the Exumas?
The cost to charter a superyacht in the Exumas can vary widely depending on the yacht size, model, season, and inclusions. As a general ballpark, luxury crewed yacht charters in the Exumas start around $50,000 per week for smaller superyachts (around the 100-foot range) and can run into the hundreds of thousands (even millions) per week for the largest, most opulent mega yachts . For example, a modern 120-foot motor yacht might charter for roughly $80,000–$120,000 per week plus expenses in the winter season. An ultra-luxury 200-foot superyacht with a famous name could be $250,000–$500,000+ per week. These rates typically cover the yacht, crew, and use of onboard amenities.
It’s important to note that most luxury charters are quoted as a base price plus expenses. In the Exumas (and worldwide), the standard is MYBA terms: you pay the weekly charter fee, and then an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) – usually an extra ~30% of the charter fee – to cover variable expenses like fuel, food and drinks, dockage, and incidentals. For instance, on a $100,000 charter, the APA might be $30,000 (you’re charged only what you actually use, and any unused APA is returned). Taxes/VAT may apply as well (the Bahamas has a 4% charter tax as of this writing, plus possible cruising permit fees).
If you opt for a slightly smaller crewed motor yacht (say 60–80ft), some operate on all-inclusive or half-board packages in the Bahamas, which might range from $25,000–$40,000 per week for 6-8 guests, including meals and basic bar. These can be great value for families. However, for the true superyacht charter Exumas experience with a 100ft+ yacht, expect the base price and APA structure. The upside of the plus-expenses model is total flexibility – the menu, itinerary, and fuel use are tailored to you. Our Boatcrowd team will be transparent about all costs upfront. Tip: Booking well in advance for peak season or considering shoulder-season dates can sometimes secure better rates or discounts. No matter your budget, we’ll help find the best option and ensure you know exactly what’s included in the price.
What’s included in a private yacht charter in the Bahamas?
A private yacht charter in the Bahamas generally comes with a lot of inclusions to make your trip effortless. At the core, the charter fee includes the yacht itself and its dedicated professional crew (captain, chef, and additional crew depending on yacht size). You’ll have exclusive use of the entire yacht and all its onboard amenities and water toys – think snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, paddleboards, jet skis (if the yacht carries them and local regulations allow), jacuzzi, tender boats, etc., all at your disposal. The crew handles all cooking, cleaning, navigation, and service, so you can fully relax. Gourmet meals and beverages are typically included or provisioned according to your preferences; on all-inclusive charters, all meals, snacks, and standard bar drinks are covered, whereas on plus-expenses charters, the food and drink are purchased on your behalf from your APA (meaning you get to customize everything to your tastes). Either way, you can expect chef-prepared cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with menus tailored to you – from fresh local seafood to your favorite international dishes.
Most charters also include a range of water activities and equipment. For example, your charter might come with snorkeling gear for all guests, fishing rods, kayaks, tubing inflatables, etc. – all included in the experience. Many larger yachts feature onboard amenities like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, movie libraries, game consoles, and even Jacuzzis or gyms, which are of course part of your package. In short, everything on the yacht is yours to enjoy. As one charter broker puts it: “Most charters include a professional crew, meals, water activities, and amenities like Wi-Fi, a jacuzzi, and entertainment systems.” Essentially, your private yacht is a floating luxury villa with a full staff.
What might not be included? Typically, expenses like fuel, off-yacht excursions, specialty alcohol, or dockage fees at marinas can be additional (unless you booked an all-inclusive charter or a package). For instance, if you request premium Champagne every night or decide to do an impromptu scuba dive with a local guide, those would be extra costs settled from the APA or billed separately. Crew gratuity is also not included in the base price – it’s customary to tip the crew (usually 10-20% of the charter fee, given at the end, subject to your satisfaction). But there are no surprise fees: Boatcrowd will clarify your charter terms. Many Bahamas charters are all-inclusive (especially with smaller yachts or catamarans), meaning the rate covers most everything except gratuity and maybe taxes. On larger superyachts (plus-expense charters), inclusion means the crew, yacht, and toys, while you cover consumables. Rest assured, our team will outline exactly what’s included for your chosen yacht. No matter which you choose, you’ll enjoy a private yacht with top-notch service, personalized meals, open bar options, and a suite of activities – truly a comprehensive luxury vacation on the water.
Contact Boatcrowd today to start planning your Exumas yacht charter – and let the journey of a lifetime begin. Paradise is just a yacht ride away, and your private crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Embark on the ultimate Exumas escape and create memories you’ll treasure forever. Your luxurious adventure in the Exumas starts with Boatcrowd – where impeccable service, extraordinary yachts, and the Exumas’ beauty come together. Step aboard and experience the difference.
