Top 7 Islands to Visit by Private Yacht from Nassau
Introduction
When people come to Nassau, they think the adventure starts here. It doesn’t—it starts offshore. You haven’t really seen the Bahamas until you’ve seen it from the water, on your own schedule, with the freedom to move. That’s what a private yacht gives you.
Most of the best islands can’t be reached by ferry. Some don’t even have docks. They’re quiet, unspoiled, and waiting for the few who know how to get there. I’ve spent years navigating these waters, and I can tell you exactly where to go, how far it is, and what’s worth your time—whether you’ve got one day or three.
This guide covers seven of my top picks. Some are perfect for a half-day getaway. Others are made for multi-day cruises, where you’ll sleep aboard, wake up to glassy water, and explore at your own pace.
Why Yacht Island-Hopping Is the Best Way to Explore the Bahamas
I’ve had guests who’ve done it all—big cruise ships, resort day trips, and crowded snorkeling tours. They all say the same thing after stepping onto our yacht: “We should’ve done this sooner.”
Here’s why private island-hopping works better:
- No crowds. Most of the spots I take guests to are empty. No lines, no noise—just clear water and quiet beaches.
- No rushing. Want to stay longer on a sandbar? Or skip one stop because you love where you are? You decide.
- Access to real Bahamas. You won’t find turtles, iguanas, or untouched coral in the middle of a tourist harbor.
- Comfort. You’re not bouncing around in a rented skiff. You’re on a 55-foot Sea Ray with food, shade, A/C, drinks, and a full crew.
This isn’t sightseeing. It’s exploring—with the kind of access only a private yacht can give you.
Map Overview
When guests ask me how far these islands are, I don’t give vague answers. I give miles. And more importantly, I tell you what that feels like in real time on the water.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the islands we’ll cover:
| Island | Distance from Nassau (NM) | Travel Time by Yacht | Trip Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rose Island | 5 NM | ~15 minutes | Half-Day or Full-Day |
| Green Cay | 7 NM | ~20 minutes | Half-Day |
| Allen’s Cay | 38 NM | ~2.5 hours | Multi-Day |
| Highbourne Cay | 50 NM | ~3.5 hours | Overnight |
| Norman’s Cay | 55 NM | ~4 hours | Multi-Day |
| Harbour Island | 60 NM | ~4.5 hours | Multi-Day |
| Shroud Cay | 65 NM | ~5 hours | Multi-Day |
The Top 7 Islands
1. Rose Island
Distance from Nassau: 5 NM
Travel Time: ~15 minutes
Trip Type: Half-Day or Full-Day
This is the closest stop—and still one of the best. I take guests here when they want something easy, scenic, and crowd-free. Calm waters, white sand, and a few quiet spots that even most locals overlook. You can snorkel, float, or just set up a chair in the shallows. Great for families, couples, or anyone looking for a quick escape without a long ride.
2. Green Cay
Distance from Nassau: 7 NM
Travel Time: ~20 minutes
Trip Type: Half-Day
Green Cay is all about turtles. They glide right under the paddle boards, and you can usually see five or six just snorkeling around the seagrass. It’s a small, quiet island—no buildings, no buzz, just clean water and marine life. I usually pair this stop with Rose Island on a full-day charter. It’s the best of both: swimming and sunning.
3. Allen’s Cay (Exumas)
Distance from Nassau: 38 NM
Travel Time: ~2.5 hours
Trip Type: Multi-Day
This is where things start to feel wild. Allen’s Cay is known for its iguanas—big, prehistoric-looking reptiles that hang out right on the beach. They’re used to visitors and not afraid to come close, especially if you’ve got fruit. The beach here is untouched, and the water clarity is unbelievable. We anchor offshore and dinghy in. It’s too far for a day trip, but perfect for a two-night island-hopping loop.
4. Highbourne Cay
Distance from Nassau: 50 NM
Travel Time: ~3.5 hours
Trip Type: Overnight
Highbourne has a proper marina, which makes it a good base for overnight stays. There’s an upscale restaurant here, a private beach, and a fuel dock—which is helpful for longer runs south. Guests love the peace here. It’s not overrun with tourists. Great for couples looking for a quiet night with all the comforts still intact.
5. Norman’s Cay
Distance from Nassau: 55 NM
Travel Time: ~4 hours
Trip Type: Multi-Day
Norman’s has history. It used to be a drug smuggler’s hub in the 1980s—there’s still a crashed plane under the water you can snorkel. It’s eerie and beautiful all at once. There are also hidden beaches and quiet lagoons you can only reach by dinghy. This stop is best for adventure-minded guests and definitely a highlight on any 3-day itinerary.
6. Harbour Island
Distance from Nassau: 60 NM
Travel Time: ~4.5 hours
Trip Type: Multi-Day
Harbour Island feels like a completely different country. You dock and hop in a golf cart. That’s how the whole town moves. The beaches are pink, the restaurants are top-notch, and it’s a great place to unwind in style. This one needs at least two nights to be worth it. I’ve had guests stay longer and never want to leave.
7. Shroud Cay
Distance from Nassau: 65 NM
Travel Time: ~5 hours
Trip Type: Multi-Day
This is the quietest stop on this list, and one of my favorites. No buildings. No people. Just mangrove creeks you can explore by paddle board or dinghy. It’s part of the Exuma Land & Sea Park, so it’s protected—no fishing, no loud engines, just nature. It’s a great anchor spot if you want to feel like the only people in the world.
What to Pack for an Island-Hopping Charter
I’ve seen guests show up with three suitcases—and use none of it. You don’t need much out here. The Bahamas rewards light packing, especially when you’re moving from one island to the next by yacht.
Here’s what I tell every guest before we leave the dock:
Essentials You’ll Actually Use
- Light, breathable clothing – It’s hot. Think moisture-wicking shirts, swimwear, and something to cover up after a dip.
- Reef-safe sunscreen – Regular sunscreen damages the coral. Bring something ocean-friendly.
- Polarized sunglasses – They cut the glare on the water and help you spot fish and reefs.
- Dry bag – For phones, wallets, and anything you want to keep safe on beach runs.
- Water shoes or sandals – You’ll be getting in and out of the tender on sand, rock, and dock.
- Light jacket or cover-up – Nights on the water can get cool, especially with the breeze.
- GoPro or waterproof camera – You’ll want proof of that sea turtle or plane wreck dive.
Optional, But Smart
- Hat with strap – It gets windy, and I’ve lost more hats than I can count.
- Books or Kindle – Good for quiet anchorages or lazy afternoons.
- Snorkel mask – We have gear on board, but if you like your own fit, bring it.
- Motion relief bands or patches – Most guests don’t get seasick, but it’s better to have it and not need it.
What to Skip
- Hard luggage – Soft duffels pack easier and don’t take up cabin space.
- Heavy clothes or dress shoes – You won’t wear them. Trust me.
- Multiple outfits per day – You’ll live in your swimwear and maybe a cover-up.
I always say this: pack like you’re going to live in the sun, play in the water, and relax without a schedule. Because that’s exactly what’s waiting for you.
Choosing the Right Charter for This Adventure
Here’s what I’ve learned after years at the helm—your trip is only as good as the match between your plan and your charter type. I’ve seen guests try to cram five islands into four hours and others book an overnight when they only wanted a swim and a sunset. My job is to help you get it right.
Half-Day Charter
Best for:
- Rose Island
- Green Cay
- Short, close-range trips with one or two quick stops
What to Expect:
- ~4 hours on the water
- Light snacks and drinks
- Plenty of time for a beach walk, a snorkel, and a cold drink before heading back
Who it’s for:
- First-timers
- Families with small kids
- Travelers on a tight schedule
Full-Day Charter
Best for:
- Combining 2–3 nearby stops (e.g., Rose + Green Cay + a lunch break)
- Relaxed, no-rush days with time to explore and unwind
What to Expect:
- 6–8 hours on the water
- Meals on board
- Room to stretch the itinerary, nap on deck, or stay longer somewhere beautiful
Who it’s for:
- Couples
- Day-trippers wanting real variety
- Guests wanting to see more but sleep ashore
Multi-Day / Sleep-Aboard Charter
Best for:
- Exumas, Harbour Island, Shroud Cay, and all remote destinations
- Full island-hopping adventures with time to anchor, explore, and wake up to peace
What to Expect:
- Private staterooms, full galley service, crewed experience
- Flexible routing depending on weather and your priorities
- Sunset dinners, overnight anchorages, no repacking or hotel switching
Who it’s for:
- Couples seeking a private getaway
- Small groups or families who want to explore the Out Islands
- Guests ready for more than a quick taste—this is the full plate
Every trip includes:
- Captain and crew
- Fuel, towels, water gear
- Safety checks, route planning, and on-the-fly adjustments if needed
When guests ask me what they should book, I ask what they want to remember. A quick ride? A quiet cove? A few days where the world disappears? Once I know that, I can point them to the right trip—and make sure they don’t waste a minute.
👉 Book Your Dates Now and we’ll build your route the way we always do—one guest, one plan, no cookie-cutter trips.
FAQs and Pro Tips
I get a lot of the same questions before we leave the dock. These answers are based on real trips, real guests, and what you actually need to know—not brochure fluff.
Do I need a passport to visit these islands?
If you’re already in Nassau, you’re within The Bahamas, so no need to bring a passport to visit other islands. But you’ll need one to enter the country, so keep it somewhere secure during your trip.
Captain’s Tip: You won’t be clearing customs on island-hopping routes, but I recommend keeping a photo of your passport on your phone just in case.
Can we sleep on the yacht?
Yes. Our sleep-aboard yacht is built for comfort—air-conditioned cabins, a full galley, clean linens, and space to relax. Multi-day trips are how you unlock the real Bahamas. We anchor in quiet coves where you’ll wake up to nothing but the sound of water.
Captain’s Tip: If you’re not sure about sleeping aboard, try a 1-night charter to start. Most guests end up asking for a second.
Can we customize the route?
Absolutely. I don’t run preset loops. We plan based on weather, preferences, and timing. Want to skip a stop? Stay longer somewhere? Change your mind mid-cruise? No problem—as long as it’s safe, I’ll make it happen.
Captain’s Tip: Let me know early if you want something specific—turtles, iguanas, remote beaches. I’ll build the route to fit your priorities.
Is it safe to anchor overnight?
Yes. I’ve spent years navigating these waters and know the best anchorages by season, wind, and tide. We avoid exposed spots and check conditions before every stop. Safety isn’t optional—it’s built into every decision I make.
Captain’s Tip: Good anchorages are quiet, protected, and scenic. The best sleep you’ll get is 50 miles from anywhere, under a sky full of stars.
Will I get seasick?
Most guests don’t. The yacht is stable, and we stick to protected waters when possible. But if you’re sensitive, bring motion bands or Dramamine. We also plan routes to avoid rough water.
Captain’s Tip: If you ever feel off, lie flat, look at the horizon, and drink water. We’ve got ginger candies and cold towels on board too—they help more than you’d think.
Conclusion
Most visitors to Nassau stay too close to shore. They miss the wild parts. The quiet parts. The best parts.
I’ve taken hundreds of guests out into the islands, and the moment they step off the boat and onto one of these remote beaches, something changes. It’s not a tour anymore—it’s a memory they’ll talk about for the rest of their life.
If you’re planning a trip and want more than just a few hours on the water, let’s build it right. Whether it’s a short escape to Rose Island or a sleep-aboard run to the Exumas, I’ll get you there safe, comfortable, and far from the crowds.
👉 Book Your Dates Now and let’s make your Bahamas trip the one you actually remember.
—
Captain Dian
Pura Vida Yacht Charters