Planning a Bahamas yacht charter but unsure how long you need?
Here’s what you should know: 5 nights is the absolute minimum, but for most travelers, 1 week is the sweet spot — and if you want to see more than just the basics, 2 weeks or more is worth considering.
This guide breaks down the best trip lengths, what you can realistically see in that time, and how to plan an itinerary that actually works.
| Trip Length | What You Can See & Do | Pros / Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| 5 nights | Focus on Exumas: Nassau → Highbourne Cay → Big Major Cay (swimming pigs) → Stocking Island → Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park | Very doable; enough rest & exploration without feeling rushed. But won’t reach southern or northern extremes. |
| 7 nights (1 week) | More leisurely pace in Exumas, do the full stretch or possible detour to Eleuthera if your yacht speed allows. Also a good length for exploring Andros nd the Berry Islands to the north. | Great balance: feels like vacation, not transit. Some moving days though. |
| 10‑14 nights (2 weeks) | Deeper itinerary: Exumas + Eleuthera + Harbour Island + Inagua (southern Bahamas) or Grand Bahama / Andros / Abaco (northern). More remote, less crowded spots. | More time costs money, but reward in remote & less touristed destinations. |
Why 7 Nights Often Hit the Sweet Spot
The Bahamas span over 400 nautical miles from Grand Bahama in the north to the Inagua Islands in the south, so you’ll quickly waste time if trying to cover too much.
Sailing times matter: from Nassau to the start of Exumas:
- On a motor yacht, about 2‑3 hours (depending on size/power).
- On a catamaran, more like 5 hours.
For most clients, a week gives enough latitude to sail, relax, explore lagoons/islands, enjoy water activities, and still return without rushed legs.
How Far Can You Go on a 1-Week Bahamas Yacht Charter?
If you’ve got one week for your Bahamas yacht charter, the Exumas are your best choice — not just for their beauty, but for practical sailing reasons.
With over 365 islands and cays, the Exumas give you variety without the need for long passages. From Nassau to Highbourne Cay, you’re looking at roughly 35 nautical miles. On a catamaran, that’s about 5 hours; motor yachts can do it in 2–3 hours, depending on the vessel.
You’ll have enough time to hit highlights like:
- Big Major Cay – home of the famous swimming pigs
- Thunderball Grotto – James Bond filming location with epic snorkeling
- Norman’s Cay – Pablo Escobar’s infamous drug-smuggling runway and plane wreck
- Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park – protected marine reserve, no fishing, just nature
- Stocking Island – great beaches, beach bars, and relaxed atmosphere
Is a 2-Week Bahamas Yacht Charter Worth it?
If you can swing 10 to 14 days, you open up an entirely different Bahamas charter experience — beyond the usual stops and into less-visited, more authentic areas.
Yes, it’s worth it — here’s why:
- You get slower travel and more down days at anchor
- You can mix the Exumas with places like Eleuthera, Harbour Island, or The Berries
- You’re not rushing the experience — you’re living it
Sample 2-Week Route (Split North & South)
Week 1 – Exumas Highlights
Nassau → Highbourne Cay → Norman’s Cay → Big Major → Staniel Cay → Compass Cay → Warderick Wells
Week 2 – Eleuthera & Harbour Island Extension
Sail north via Shroud Cay → Eleuthera → Glass Window Bridge → Pink Sands Beach → Harbour Island → back to Nassau
Alternative routes could include:
- Berry Islands – quiet, uninhabited, great for fishing
- Inagua – in the far south, home to 80,000+ flamingos
- Andros or Abaco – for diving, blue holes, and culture
A longer trip is best suited for those who want to unplug, see the less touristy side of the Bahamas, and have time to spare.
What Type of Yacht & Speed Matters
- A faster motor yacht allows more mileage in shorter time — good if you want to cover more islands.
- A catamaran is more relaxed and stable, great for leisure, significantly cheaper in fuel, but you’ll spend more hours sailing.
Who is Louis?
With over 186 charters across 13 countries, Louis Lamprell has built an impeccable reputation for delivering unforgettable yacht experiences. His consistent 5-star reviews on Trustpilot and TripAdvisor reflect the dedication, precision, and personal touch he brings to every journey.
A proud CYBA member, Louis meets the industry’s highest standards: over four years’ professional experience, excellent references from leading figures, and regular attendance at major international yacht shows. This first-hand knowledge of the latest yachts, crews, and managers allows him to make perfectly tailored recommendations and secure clients exclusive privileges.
When you work with Louis, you’re not just booking a yacht—you’re gaining a trusted advisor with deep industry insight, global connections, and a genuine passion for creating your perfect voyage.
