Bahamas Yacht Charter
10 Best Things to Do on a Luxury Yacht Charter in the Bahamas
In this article, we unveil the ‘top 10 best things to do‘ that will take your luxury yacht charter to the next level. From exploring the depths alongside the world’s largest underwater statue to embarking on a private helicopter tour taking in the stunning views of the Bahamas’ 700 islands, this itinerary will give you a look at the Bahamas from every perspective.
1. Encounter the Ocean's Great Predators on a Shark Dive
Hammerhead Sharks
Tiger Sharks
Nurse Sharks
- One of the most iconic encounters is with the Caribbean Reef Shark. These sleek predators are commonly found patrolling the coral reefs, and experienced dive operators can guide enthusiasts to prime locations for up-close interactions. The Bahamas’ warm waters and excellent visibility enhance the thrill of diving with these mesmerizing creatures.
- For those seeking a more intense experience, Tiger Sharks are another species prevalent in Bahamian waters. Known for their distinctive stripes and formidable presence, Tiger Sharks inhabit both shallow and deep waters. Daring divers can venture to sites such as Tiger Beach, where they may encounter these impressive creatures in their natural environment.
- The Bahamas is also home to Hammerhead Sharks, which can be found in deeper offshore waters. These uniquely shaped sharks are a captivating sight for underwater enthusiasts, and certain dive sites cater to those eager to witness the grace of Hammerhead Sharks gliding through the depths.
- Nurse Sharks, known for their docile nature, are often encountered during shark dives in the Bahamas. These encounters provide a more relaxed experience, allowing divers to appreciate the beauty and grace of these creatures up close.
2. Embark on a Luxury Fishing Charter
Embarking on a luxury fishing yacht charter is the ideal way to explore the 700 Islands of the Bahamas. Renowned for its world-class fishing facilities and exclusive marine life, the Bahamas ranks among the world’s premier fishing charter destinations.
Most of the fishing in the Bahamas archipelago consists of fly fishing, bone fishing, bottom fishing, and deep-sea fishing which would also include the major, exciting pelagic trophies such as marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo, barracuda, and tuna.
Contrary to standard boat rentals that typically provide single-day fishing excursions, a luxury fishing yacht charter redefines the experience by offering a full charter revolving around fishing.
Larger motor yachts in this category are outfitted with “chase boats,” essentially smaller, shallow-drafted vessels designed to detach from the main yacht. These chase boats are perfect for high-end fishing easily and swiftly navigating shallower waters. They come equipped with outriggers and all the necessary fishing gear. Non-fishing guests can indulge in water toys and onboard amenities.
Bahamas Luxury Fishing Yacht Charters
Read More3. Swim in the World's Second Deepest Blue Hole
Dean’s Blue Hole, located on Long Island, is a must destination for anyone embarking on a yacht charter in the Bahamas. This natural wonder is the world’s second-deepest saltwater blue hole, plunging 663 feet into the ocean’s depths. The intense blue color of the water, contrasting with the turquoise surroundings, creates a mesmerizing sight.
Surrounded by the rich marine life of the Bahamas, Dean’s Blue Hole offers an immersive underwater experience for snorkelers and divers. Yacht charters often include this unique site in their itineraries, allowing guests to anchor nearby and explore the vibrant ecosystem teeming with fish and intricate coral formations.
For more adventurous souls, the vertical walls of Dean’s Blue Hole attract experienced divers seeking a challenging and rewarding underwater experience. The site has also become a popular destination for freediving enthusiasts, drawn to its depth and the allure of the mysterious underwater world.
Dean’s Blue Hole, a true natural wonder, is an underwater sinkhole located near Clarence Town on Long Island, Bahamas. It is renowned for being the world’s second deepest known underwater blue hole with a depth of approximately 663 feet (202 meters).
Dean’s Blue Hole is not only a captivating natural wonder but also the esteemed location for the Vertical Blue Freedive Competition. Renowned as the world’s second deepest known saltwater blue hole, Dean’s Blue Hole plunges to depths of around 663 feet (202 meters), making it an ideal setting for freedivers to test the limits of their abilities.
The Vertical Blue Freedive Competition, held annually at Dean’s Blue Hole, attracts top athletes from around the globe who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of human capability in the art of freediving. Participants descend into the sapphire depths without the assistance of scuba gear, relying solely on their skill, training, and mental fortitude.
4. Enjoy Water Sports in Ideal Weather Conditions
The Bahamas is the ideal destination for various water sports, especially those that rely on a good breeze. Water sports enthusiasts of all skill levels can indulge in a myriad of thrilling activities, such as surfing, kite surfing and sailing. Whether you’re a novice eager to try a new sport or a seasoned pro seeking an exhilarating challenge, the Bahamas offer endless opportunities for awesome aquatic adventure.
Talk to your charter broker about what water sports you want incorporated into your itinerary. By communicating your preferences, desires, and skill level, your charter experience can be meticulously tailored to suit your chosen activities. Charter brokers adeptly factor in destination choices and prevailing weather conditions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience on the water.
Surfing in the Bahamas offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, with the potential to discover hidden gems along its coastlines. While the Bahamas is not traditionally renowned for its consistent surf, local insights can unveil some authentic and lesser-known surfing spots that may surprise enthusiasts.
Exploring the eastern and northern shores with guidance from locals reveals sporadic yet enjoyable waves that add a thrilling dimension to your surfing experience. The warmth of the crystal-clear Bahamian waters, combined with the picturesque surroundings, creates a backdrop unlike any other.
5. Enjoy a game of Golf on one of the Bahamass World-Class Golf Courses
For those seeking a luxurious and diversified experience during a yacht charter in the Bahamas, taking a break from water activities to enjoy world-class golf courses is a splendid option. The Bahamas offer a selection of top-tier golf courses that cater to enthusiasts of the sport. Taking advantage of these courses not only provides a refreshing change of pace but also allows charter guests to revel in the stunning landscapes that the Bahamas are renowned for.
Top Golf Courses
1. Ocean Club Golf Course: Among the premier golf courses in the Bahamas is the Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island. Designed by renowned architect Tom Weiskopf, this 18-hole championship course offers challenging play against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views. The course’s lush greenery and strategically placed bunkers make it a favorite among both seasoned golfers and those new to the game.
2. The Albany Golf Course: Located on the southwest coast of New Providence Island. Designed by golf legend Ernie Els, this meticulously crafted course features an 18-hole championship layout. Surrounded by pristine beaches and clear blue waters, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a challenging round in a truly picturesque setting.
3. Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course: On the island of Great Exuma, the Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course stands out as an exquisite golfing destination. Designed by Greg Norman, this 18-hole, par-72 championship course features stunning seaside holes, providing an unmatched golfing experience. With the turquoise waters of the Exuma Sound as a backdrop, golfers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Bahamas.
6. Dive on Pablo Escobar's old Drug Smuggling Plane at Norman's Cay
Diving at the plane wreck of Pablo Escobar’s plane, located off Norman’s Cay, provides a unique opportunity to explore a piece of historical intrigue submerged beneath the ocean’s surface.
The wreck is that of a Fairchild C-123 cargo plane, which belonged to the notorious Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Norman’s Cay served as a key smuggling hub for Escobar’s drug trafficking operations. The crashed plane is believed to have been abandoned after running into mechanical issues or during a pursuit by law enforcement.
The underwater wreckage, lying in relatively shallow waters, serves as a captivating dive site. Divers can explore the remnants of the plane, which include the fuselage, wings, and various components scattered across the sandy ocean floor. The site has become an artificial reef, attracting marine life, including colorful coral formations and schools of fish.
7. Take in the Breathtaking Views of the Bahamas' from a above on a Private Helicopter Tour
Elevate your luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas by taking to the skies on a helicopter tour and see the islands from a different perspective. This exclusive experience provides a unique vantage point, allowing you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the islands from above. Soar over crystal-clear turquoise waters, secluded cays, and pristine beaches, capturing memorable moments and unparalleled views, that will give you a whole new understanding of the region’s geography and marine life.
Helicopter tours offer more than just stunning views and a fashionable mode of transportation; they provide a versatile experience that extends beyond the ordinary. These helicopters are equipped for a range of Specialty Flights, making them suitable for diverse purposes. From aerial photography and video shoots to crop dusting, realtor and surveyor flights, birthday celebrations, wedding proposals, and even Easter egg drops, these helicopters are designed to transform any occasion into an extraordinary adventure.
For those hosting VIP events, such as weddings or Bar Mitzvahs, incorporating helicopter services adds an unmatched level of sophistication. Providing seamless entrances and exits for VIP guests, the helicopter becomes a symbol of exclusivity and style, enhancing the overall luxury experience.
8. Discover the most Diverse Underwater Cave Systems in the World
What really sets the underwater caves in the Bahamas apart from any other location is their remarkable diversity. The cave systems in the Bahamas are teeming with marine life, showcasing a vibrant community of sponges, lobsters, crabs, and shrimp. Many of the entrances to the ocean blue holes resemble overflowing aquariums, bursting with an abundance of aquatic wonders. On the inland front, the caves range from deep fracture caves and sinkholes to shallower passages adorned with breathtaking formations, where the water is as translucent as the air. Whether you’re drawn to the depths, the expanses, the beauty, or the incredibly varied ecosystems found in the world’s underwater caves, the Bahamas is guaranteed to satisfy your every exploration desire.
Top Spots for Cave Diving in the Bahamas
- Andros Island
- Eleuthera
- Long Island
- Great Exuma
- Grand Bahama Island
Type of Cave Dives in the Bahamas
- Boat cave diving – many of our amazing marine caves are accessible by boat or shore.
- Inland, “bush diving” – our vans are set up for safe, efficient cave diving on any part of the island.
- Cave Training for beginners
- Deep Cave Penetration Dives for Experienced Cave Divers
*Talk to your broker before starting your charter, so the necessary equipment and instructors can be arranged.
9. Swim with the Wild Pigs at Famous Pig Beach
However rediculous this may sound, swimming with the wild pigs at Big Major Spot has become one of the Bahamas’ top attractions. Maybe it is for the aburdity of the scenario, or maybe it is because the pigs are just that cute. Either way there is no way this can be left of the list of ‘best things to do in the Bahamas’.
The exact origin of the wild pigs on Big Major Cay is a bit unclear. Some believe that they were brought to the island by sailors who intended to return and cook them, while others think they may have survived a shipwreck. Regardless of their origin, the pigs have adapted to their island habitat.
One of the most distinctive features of these pigs is their remarkable ability to swim. They are often seen paddling in the clear turquoise waters surrounding the island, creating a surreal and captivating sight for visitors.
10. Pay a visit to the Worlds largest Underwater Sculpture, the iconic 'Ocean Atlas'
Dive into the unparalleled depths of artistry and underwater exploration with a visit to the ‘Ocean Atlas‘ Sculpture, the world’s largest underwater sculpture, and an absolute must-see on your luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas. Submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters near Nassau, this awe-inspiring masterpiece is not just a symbol of artistic ingenuity but also a testament to the harmony between human creativity and the ocean’s depths.
Crafted by renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the ‘Ocean Atlas’ Statue stands at an impressive 18 feet tall and weighs over 60 tons. Placed on the ocean floor off the coast of New Providence, it serves as both an ecological attraction and a striking visual spectacle. The statue portrays a young Bahamian girl holding the weight of the ocean on her shoulders, symbolizing the interconnectedness between humanity and the marine environment.
Jason deCaires Taylor has several underwater projects around the world, including a display at Museo Atlantico in Lanzarote in the Canaries, which is believed to be the first underwater museum in Europe. His statues are made from Ph-neutral materials. This allows them to gradually transform into an artificial reef and morph with the marine environment.
Talk to our Brokers and Start Planning your Yacht Charter Now
Understanding the complex financial side of yacht charters can be a bit overwhelming. That is why we are here to make it all smoother for you. Our commitment is to guide you through the whole process, from selecting a yacht to the moment you step off it, and making sure you get the most out of your budget guaranteeing an unforgettable charter experience.