Island Hopping in the Bahamas by Private Yacht: Where You Can Go from Nassau

Introduction

Most people think of the Bahamas as one place. One island. One vacation. But the truth is, the magic happens when you go beyond Nassau—when you start hopping across the out islands by private yacht.

I’ve spent years guiding guests to these hidden pockets of paradise. Some are just minutes away. Others require a longer run. But every island has its own story, its own beauty, and its own reason to drop anchor.

If you want to see the real Bahamas—the untouched beaches, the wild iguanas, the sandbars no ferry will ever reach—you need a boat and a captain who knows the route.

Here’s where you can go and what you can expect.

What Is Island Hopping—And Why It’s Better by Private Yacht

Island hopping is exactly what it sounds like—cruising from one island to the next, stopping wherever the water looks good and the beaches look better.

In the Bahamas, there are over 700 islands and cays, and most visitors never see more than one or two. But from Nassau, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the Exuma chain, Rose Island, Green Cay, and other gems—all within reach on a full-day or multi-day private yacht charter.

Unlike big group tours or ferries, private yacht charters let you:

• Choose where you want to go
• Stay longer at the places you love
• Avoid crowds completely
• Access shallow anchorages and remote beaches most boats skip
• Travel in comfort with drinks, gear, and a real crew

We’ll cover where you can go next—but first, if you’re serious about exploring, start here with our island hopping page and see how we structure the experience.

The Best Islands You Can Reach from Nassau (Full-Day or Overnight)

Island hopping from Nassau opens up a string of unforgettable stops. Some are perfect for a quick swim and photo. Others invite you to stay longer, snorkel, eat, and explore. Here are my top picks—places I take guests all the time, depending on how much time we have.

Rose Island

Only 25 minutes from Nassau. Calm water, white sand, and a great first stop. You can snorkel, paddleboard, or even stop at a casual beach bar.

Green Cay

Known for its sea turtle population. Shallow, clear water makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Just a short run from Rose Island.

Allen’s Cay

A bit farther into the Exumas, famous for its population of wild iguanas that roam the beach. This one’s a hit with families and photographers.

Norman’s Cay

A remote cay with clear lagoons and a sunken drug plane wreck that’s become a snorkeling hotspot. You’ll need a multi-day charter for this one, but it’s worth the extra time.

Highbourne Cay

A little farther into the Exumas, with marina access, snorkeling reefs, and a peaceful private beach vibe. A great overnight destination.

Some of these can be reached on a full-day charter, while others require a multi-day yacht adventure. Either way, you won’t be following a tourist crowd—you’ll be charting your own course.

Choosing Between a Full-Day vs. Multi-Day Island Hopping Charter

Not every guest wants—or needs—a multi-day yacht charter. It depends on what you want to see and how much time you have. Here’s how to choose between a full-day escape or a full-on overnight adventure.

Full-Day Charter

A full-day gives you 6–8 hours to explore close-by destinations like Rose Island, Green Cay, and sometimes Allen’s Cay, depending on weather and pace. It’s ideal if:

• You’re staying in Nassau and want a single-day experience
• You want to snorkel, swim, and visit 1–2 cays without an overnight commitment
• You have kids or a group looking for a balance of activity and relaxation

Multi-Day Charter

This is where things open up. With a multi-day yacht charter, you can reach the more remote parts of the Exumas—Norman’s Cay, Highbourne, Shroud Cay, and beyond. Multi-day is best if:

• You want to sleep aboard and wake up in a new place each morning
• You’re looking to disconnect from land and stay immersed in the islands
• You want a full itinerary with time to explore beaches, reefs, and hidden anchorages

You don’t have to decide today. Many guests start with a full-day trip and come back for a longer one. Either way, you’ll see more of the Bahamas than most visitors ever will.

Conclusion — The Best Way to See the Real Bahamas

Island hopping isn’t about ticking off locations—it’s about finding your own pace out on the water. Whether it’s a half-day hop to Rose Island or a multi-day run through the Exumas, the freedom to explore is what sets private charters apart.

When you travel with Pura Vida, you don’t just rent a boat. You get a captain who knows every shortcut, every sandbar, and every cove that’s worth your time. You get cold drinks, ready-to-go gear, and a trip that moves with you—not a script.

I’ve guided everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned travelers across these waters. And I can tell you, once you see the out islands this way, there’s no going back.

👉 Book Your Dates Now and let’s plan your island hopping adventure the right way.

—
Captain Dian
Pura Vida Yacht Charters

FAQs

What is island hopping in the Bahamas?

Island hopping is cruising between multiple islands or cays in one trip, often stopping to snorkel, swim, explore beaches, or anchor overnight.

How far can I go on a full-day yacht charter from Nassau?

You can reach islands like Rose Island, Green Cay, and Allen’s Cay. Farther islands like Norman’s or Highbourne Cay require a multi-day charter.

What’s the benefit of a private island hopping charter vs. a group tour?

Private charters give you full control over the route, timing, and activities—with better gear, more privacy, and no fixed itinerary.