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What yacht charter are you looking for?
Bahamas Yacht Charter
The Bahamas is synonymous with motor yacht charters because of the geography of this iconic cruising area – long distances and shallow waters. Motor yachts also offer the ultimate luxury, often including amenities such as Jacuzzis, fully equipped gyms, spa rooms, Jet skis, and we could go on!
Catamaran charters are not as common as in the Caribbean, as they move relatively slowly and cannot cover the distances expected in a Bahamas yacht charter itinerary. We have, however, in recent years, seen catamarans evolve significantly, with larger catamarans, especially in the 60-foot + range, now more comparable to motor yachts.
Sailing yachts generally have deep keels and, especially larger sailing yachts, have significant issues navigating the shallow waters, which greatly limits their cruising range in the Bahamas.
Bahamas Yacht Charter Types
"We recommend either chartering a motor yacht or catamaran for your crewed yacht charter vacation in the Bahamas. Why? The water in the Bahamas is very shallow, which greatly limits accessibility for deep-drafted yachts."
- Louis Lamprell, Charter Expert
Last-Minute Christmas and New Year Charters 2024
LIVE MONITOR: We stay updated with last-minute yacht availability for great holiday destinations all over the world, such as the Bahamas, Virgin Islands, St Martin, Thailand, and Seychelles. Book Now to secure your 2024 holiday yacht charter before it is too late.
Why Charter in the Bahamas?
Top SCUBA Diving Destination
Crystal-clear water, thriving reefs, and many fantastic marine species, such as manta rays and sea turtles!
Diverse Cruising Grounds
From exclusive Grand Bahama Island and the historical sights in Nassau to the secluded underwater wonders of the Exumas.
Ideal for Water Sports
Enjoy kite surfing, Efoiling, wakeboarding, Jet skiing, and more in warm, protected waters.
Secluded Islands
Despite the many tourist hot spots, you can find secluded islands like Cat Island, Ragged Island, and Iguana.
Proximity to Florida
Convenient public and private air travel makes this an easy-to-get-to yacht charter destination.
World-Class Game Fishing Ground
Fly fishing, bone fishing, bottom fishing, and deep-sea fishing. Catch marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo, barracuda, and tuna.
Talk to a Yacht Charter Expert
Luxury Amenities
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Did You Know?
The Bahamas boasts over 700 islands and 2,000 cays! From the swimming pigs of Big Major Cay to the pink beaches of Harbour Island, the Bahamas offers breathtaking sights and unique experiences. You can even dive to explore an old drug plane at Norman’s Cay!
Other highlights include Green Turtle Cay, Andros Barrier Reef, and the underwater wonders of the Exumas.
Nassau
Nassau is the capital and largest city of the Bahamas. It is also where most crewed yacht charters in the Bahamas depart from, since it makes it easier for travelers arriving by plane. Often described as crowded and bustling, Nassau offers a glimpse into everyday life and can be enjoyed either before or after your trip for a few extra days.
Spend some time indulging in the luxuries of the city before or after your Bahamas yacht charter. Visit Nassau’s historic fortresses and explore the city’s bustling downtown. For an extra drop of extravagance, visit the luxurious Atlantis Hotel and Baha Mar Casino.
The Exumas
Probably the second most well-known spot in the Bahamas (after Nassau), the Exumas is what comes to mind when you think of a luxurious Bahamas yacht charter – The Exumas is synonymous with uber-luxe private islands, turquoise water, and swimming pigs.
Most yacht charters head to the Exumas after Nassau, entering through Highborne Cay. To avoid spoiling this paradise with mass tourism and retain a calm and relaxing atmosphere, no big ferries and cruise ships are allowed in the Exumas.
Don’t miss a visit to the Austin Smith shipwreck, 60 feet below. Once a Bahamian Defense Force patrol vehicle, it is now teeming with marine life.
Berry Islands
North of Nassau, the small cluster of cays known as Berry Islands counts more than 30 unique spots to explore on a yacht charter.
Also known as “The Fish Bowl of the Bahamas,” Berry Islands are known for their billfish population and stunning beaches. You will definitely want to make a stop at Shelling Beach, Sand Dollar Hill, Sugar Beach, and Shark Creek, which, true to its name, is a prime location for baby shark spotting.
Don’t miss a visit to the Austin Smith shipwreck, 60 feet below, once a Bahamian Defense Force patrol vehicle, and now teeming with marine life.
Most of these islands are privately owned and unspoiled—so if you’re looking for a serene getaway where you can go fishing in paradise, then check out this little slice of heaven.
Abaco Island
A visit to this beautiful Abac, located northwest of Eleuthera, is sure to please anyone on a yacht charter —and with more than a dozen marinas scattered around the region, it is a dream come true for yacht charters.
The highlights of the region include Elbow Reef Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse built in 1862 and one of the last standing kerosene-fueled lighthouses in the world.
Take a break from your charter yacht and take walk (or golf cart drive) around the scenic settlement of Hope Town.
Eleuthera
Eleuthera Island, located about 50nm east of Nassau, offers a range of unique attractions for yacht charterers. Renowned for its pristine pink sand beaches, particularly on the eastern Atlantic side, Eleuthera offers some of the most visually striking coastlines in the region.
One of the island’s notable landmarks is the Glass Window Bridge, a natural bridge that separates the dark blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean from the calm turquoise of the Exuma Sound.
FAQ
When is the Best Time for a Bahamas Yacht Charter Vacation?
The optimal time to charter a motor yacht in the Bahamas aligns with the region’s peak season, spanning from late November to early May. During these months, the Bahamas experience mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and favorable sea conditions, creating an ideal setting for a seamless and enjoyable yachting experience. This timeframe ensures that charter clients can fully appreciate the stunning beauty of the Bahamas, explore its diverse islands, and indulge in the pleasures of cruising in optimal weather conditions.
Make sure to book your Bahamas yacht charter well in advance. Ideally, you would inquire about your coming charter 12 months in advance. WHY? The best motor yachts are often fully booked long in advance and it’s not unusual to see popular dates booked 2 summers ahead for a Bahamas yacht charter. Inquiring less than 6 months ahead often means that your first choice is unavailable for charter.
Where Will My Bahamas Yacht Charter Begin From?
Most of our charters start and end in Nassau, The Capital city of The Bahamas. This is where the airport is located, and it is here you will find the best provisioning to get ready for your Bahamas yacht charter.
After leaving Nassau most of our clients choose a route heading south along the Exumas, stopping at locations such as Highborne Cay, Norman’s Cay, Warderick Wells Cay, and Staniel Cay, and then doing an anticlockwise loop up to Eleuthera before ending in Nassau again at the end of their Bahamas yacht charter.
Also, check out our 7-day Bahamas Yacht Charter Itinerary as well as our article about the top 5 yacht charter destinations in the Bahamas.
How Much Does a Bahamas Crewed Yacht Charter Cost?
For crewed luxury yacht charters in the Bahamas, prices range from about $30,000 to $350,000 weekly, plus expenses. The cost depends on factors like the type of yacht, its size, and whether you’re going for an all-inclusive package or not.
To make it easier for you to browse the charter yachts that match your needs, we have organized them into the following categories:
Luxury Yachts
Motor Yachts
Catamarans
Power Catamarans
Sailboats
Feel free to inquire if you have questions about yacht charter types and price ranges. Our brokers, available on chat 24/7 are there to help you understand how you can make the most of your budget. Just click on the chat in the bottom right corner!
What is the APA?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a budget additional to the base yacht charter fee set aside in a separate APA account. The APA covers costs like fuel, food, port fees, and any other miscellaneous expenses that occur during the yacht charter.
APA is a standard practice in Mediterranean crewed luxury yacht charters as well as in high-end destinations in the Caribbean. On all yachts operating under MYBA terms, the APA amount is outlined in the charter agreement and is usually set at around 35% of the base charter fee.
💡 The Advantage of an APA Yacht Charter:
For clients seeking a customized, high-end experience, the Advance Provisioning Allowance allows for expenditures beyond what an all-inclusive charter would cover. Additionally, it provides budget-conscious travelers more control over their spending, ensuring they can manage costs effectively during their charter.
What is the Yacht Charter Tax in the Bahamas?
There is a 10% yacht charter VAT (Value added tax) on yacht charters in the Bahamas. Note that this is only added to the base charter fee, NOT the APA.
This is very standard practice in the yacht charter industry, with destinations in the Mediterranean seeing a much higher VAT rate.
On top of that, there is a 4% tourist cruising tax.
Yacht Charter Price Calculator
When chartering a luxury yacht in the Bahamas, keep in mind the following extra fees and taxes:
- 4% Cruising Tax
- 10% VAT (Value Added Tax)
- 35% APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance)
These fees total around 50%, meaning a $100,000 charter becomes $150,000 after fees. Compared to Greece’s 25% VAT + 35% APA, the Bahamas offers a more budget-friendly luxury experience.
Looking for all-inclusive charters and no taxes? Check out mybvicharter.com.
Best Superyacht Marinas in The bahamas
Atlantis Marina (Paradise Island, Nassau)
Atlantis Marina is an iconic destination with a protected harbor, perfect for a luxurious break on a yacht charter. Dock in one of the 63 berths for vessels up to 67m and immerse yourself in luxury. From the golf course and casino to the spa and water park, Atlantis offers a playground of indulgence. Arrange a unique swimming-with-dolphins excursion for an extra touch of fun.
Emerald Bay Marina (The Exumas)
Emerald Bay Marina is a sprawling haven for luxury yachts with a berth capacity of 150. Located in The Exumas, this marina offers easy access to enchanting cays like Cave Cay and Staniel Cay. Revel in the serenity and luxury, exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the Exumas from the comfort of your luxury yacht.
Lyford Cay Marina (New Providence)
Situated in a private and exclusive community, Lyford Cay Marina is known for its high-end services. The marina provides premium facilities, upscale dining, world-class retail outlets, and designer stores. Lyford Cay Marina provides access to the prestigious Lyford Cay Club.
Treasure Cay Beach, Marina and Golf Resort (The Abacos)
Sail to Treasure Cay for a lavish escape. This well-protected marina offers deep water berths and excellent provisioning. Beyond the pristine waters, indulge in an outstanding golf course and spa facilities. Arrange exclusive excursions, including encounters with the famous swimming pigs, making every moment aboard your luxury yacht unforgettable.
Highbourne Cay Marina (Exumas)
Indulge in exclusivity at Highbourne Cay Marina, an oasis on a privately owned island, renowned as the gateway to the Exumas. With 26 berths, this marina offers seclusion and pristine beauty, ensuring an intimate and luxurious experience for those seeking the epitome of yacht charters.
Harbour Island Marina (Eleuthera Island)
Immerse yourself in luxury at Harbour Island Marina, nestled on the shores of Eleuthera. Surrounded by the famous pink sand beaches, this marina is a sublime choice for those seeking a perfect blend of upscale tranquility and natural beauty during their luxury yacht charter.
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Talk to a Yacht Charter Expert
MR
Chris
Jan 8, 2024
This was our first time ever booking a charter. We were fortunate enough to work with Marcelle who was fantastic from the beginning. We booked our trip 18 months out and can’t believe how responsive and helpful she was even though our trip was so far away. She was very helpful in helping us find the right boat for our trip, answering questions about crew, and provisioning. Any questions we had were answered right away and her experience and knowledge was comforting when we didn’t know what exactly to expect. I don’t have a bad thing to say about DMA or Marcelle and absolutely look forward to using them for our next charter. Thank you!
RC
R Durahm
Sep 18, 2023
DMA Yachting didn’t disappoint
DMA Yachting didn’t disappoint! Marcelle was timely in every correspondence. We were well informed and all questions were always addressed in a consistently courteous and kind manner. Everything was done in order to help us plan a wonderful vacation. It was great, start to finish!!
What Our Clients Say
Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a seamless booking process, highlighting the excellence of their Bahamas charter experiences.
