Bahamas Catamaran Charter

Bahamas catamaran charters are on the rise as new luxury models join the fleet. While the Bahamas has long been dominated by motor yachts due to long distances, modern catamarans are changing the game.

Brands like Sunreef and Lagoon are leading the way, offering 69-80-foot luxury catamarans capable of speeds up to 15 knots. A crewed catamaran charter is perfect for 1-week itineraries around the Exuma Cays.

Here, highlights include snorkeling Pablo Escobar’s drug smuggling plane at Norman’s Cay, exploring the James Bond Thunderball Grotto at Staniel Cay, and swimming with the pigs at Major Spot.

Why Charter a Catamaran in the Bahamas?

• Shallow Draft: Catamarans can access areas motor yachts can’t. Ideal for the Bahamas’ shallow waters.

• More Space per Foot: A 70-foot catamaran easily feels roomier than an 85-foot motor yacht.

• Easy Water Access: Wide swim platforms and low decks make it simple to get in and out of the water.

• Water Toys: Seabobs, SUPs, kayaks, wakeboards. Larger catamarans: jet skis, efoils, and water slides.

• Lower APA: Catamarans are fuel-efficient. You’ll spend much less on fuel compared to motor yachts.

Top Crewed Catamaran Charters in the Bahamas

Best Itinerary for Catamarans in the Bahamas

We’ve guided many clients along this route—they consistently tell us it’s the perfect mix of iconic sights and private anchorage time.

• Starts and ends in Nassau – easy access and provisioning.

• Focuses on the Exumas – the best cruising grounds in the Bahamas.

• Calm, protected waters – ideal for catamarans and water sports.

• 365 cays to explore – plenty of variety without long travel days.

• One-week route – balanced pace, no need to rush.

Here is a breakdown of our Exuma Cay Itinerary:

Day 1: Nassau to Highbourne Cay

Set sail after boarding in Nassau. Enjoy an upwind afternoon to Highbourne, with early evening swim, sundowners, and a chef-prepared dinner.

Day 2: Highbourne to Norman’s Cay

Start with fishing, snorkeling, or kayaking at Highbourne. Then cruise to Norman’s Cay to explore the sunken plane wreck and dine at MacDuff’s.

Day 3: Norman’s to Hawksbill Cay

Head to untouched Hawksbill for exclusive snorkeling and water-ski fun, capped off with sunset cocktails on deck.

Day 4: Hawksbill to Compass Cay

Morning hike or beach kayak, then sail to Compass Cay. You can swim with nurse sharks and discover Rachel’s Bubblebath.

Day 5: Compass to Staniel Cay

Meet the famous swimming pigs at Big Major’s Spot, then head to Staniel Cay for snorkeling in Thunderball Grotto and dinner with live music.

Day 6: Staniel Cay to Exuma Park

Explore Exuma Park’s turquoise shallows, land on Iguana Beach, and enjoy all the catamaran toys at your pace.

Day 7: Exuma Park to Shroud Cay

Tender through mangrove channels at Shroud Cay and spot turtles and rays, then finish with a celebratory onboard dinner.

Day 8: Shroud Cay to Nassau

Relax on deck over breakfast as you sail back to Nassau to disembark.

Also Read: Top 5 Exuma Islands You Must Visit on Your Bahamas Catamaran Charter

How Much Does a Bahamas Catamaran Charter Cost?

Bahamas catamaran charters range from $15,000 to $100,000 for a one-week charter, with most operating on a plus-expense basis.

Here is a breakdown of costs:

• Base Rate: $15,000–$90,000 per week

• APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): 25–35% of base rate (covers fuel, food, drinks, etc.)

• Bahamas Yacht Charter Tax: 10% VAT (lower than Greece’s 25% VAT) + 4% Cruising Tax

• Pro Tip: For zero tax, consider a catamaran charter in the BVI instead

Also Read: Bahamas Yacht Charter Costs and Hidden Fees Explained

$15k – $40/week Bahamas Catamaran Charters

The Bahamas is a high-end destination, and we do not recommend you set a budget under $30,000 with APA and taxes included. In this price range, you can expect to get a luxurious 50-68 foot catamaran with 4-5 cabins, 2-3 crew, good food and a good selection of water toys.

See All Bahamas Catamaran Charters Under $40k/week

$40k – $60/week Bahamas Catamaran Charters

Once you exceed the $40,000 mark, you get a lot more for your buck. 60-78 foot catamaran, 5-star service, Michelin-worthy food, big selections of water toys. It is well worth spending the extra on a Bahamas yacht charter vacation you will remember for life.

See All Bahamas Catamaran Charters Under $60k/week

$60k – $100/week Bahamas Catamaran Charters

In this price range, you get the absolute cream of the crop; the newest, largest, luxury catamarans. The largest in the Bahamas currently are Bella Vita, a 105-foot C.M.N, and Cartouche, a 98-foot Blue Coast. But our personal favorite is the 80-foot Sunreef, Sol. The massive catamarans easily compare to luxury motor yachts, they are like floating luxury resorts with everything you could possibly dream of for your Bahamas catamaran charter.

See All Bahamas Catamaran Charters Under $100k/week

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