Bahamas yacht charters cost $25,000–$350,000 (€23,000–€325,000) per week. Season runs November–May. Best destinations: Exumas, Nassau, Eleuthera, Abacos. Only 50nm from Miami. Budget 30% APA.
Bahamas Yacht Charter Guide 2025
Prices shown in USD and EUR. EUR figures are approximate at $1 ≈ €0.93.
The Bahamas archipelago — 700 islands and 2,400 cays spread across 100,000 square miles of ocean — offers some of the world's most spectacular superyacht sailing. Crystal-clear turquoise water over white sand, wild pigs that swim out to greet you, pristine reef diving, and total privacy in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Just 50 nautical miles from Miami, the Bahamas is the easiest international yacht charter destination from the US East Coast.
Nov–May
Season
$25k–$350k/wk
Base rate
30–35%
APA
~50nm
From Miami
Bahamas charter destinations
Exuma Cays
George Town · Staniel Cay · Big Major Spot · Warderick Wells
The jewel of the Bahamas. Pig Beach (swimming pigs), Thunderball Grotto, and the Exuma Land and Sea Park — 176 square miles of protected waters. The sandbars off Staniel Cay are the most photographed in the Caribbean. Total seclusion possible; plan to spend 4–5 nights here.
Highlight: Pig Beach, Thunderball Grotto, sandbars
Nassau & New Providence
Nassau · Paradise Island · Rose Island · Atlantis
The Bahamas capital has the best provisioning and largest marina infrastructure. Atlantis resort on Paradise Island is a day trip option. Rose Island and the nearby uninhabited cays provide privacy just 30 minutes by tender from Nassau. The best base for larger vessels requiring deeper draft.
Best for: arrival base, provisioning, nightlife
Eleuthera & Harbour Island
Harbour Island · Governor's Harbour · Glass Window Bridge
Harbour Island ("Briland") has Dunmore Town — one of the most charming colonial villages in the Bahamas — and the famous Pink Sand Beach. The Glass Window Bridge is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the calm Bahamian Sea. Eleuthera is increasingly popular with privacy-focused charterers.
Best for: pink sand beaches, seclusion, boutique dining
Abacos
Marsh Harbour · Hope Town · Green Turtle Cay · Man-O-War
The sailing capital of the Bahamas. Hope Town's candy-striped lighthouse is an icon. Green Turtle Cay preserves New England colonial architecture. The Sea of Abaco is well-protected for sailing. Closer to Florida than the Exumas — an excellent starting or ending point for Fort Lauderdale–based charters.
Best for: sailing, colonial history, US market
Bahamas charter rates by vessel size
USD is contract currency. EUR shown at $1 ≈ €0.93 for reference.
| Vessel size | Type | Rate/week (USD / EUR) | Total inc. 30% APA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35–40m | Sailing | $25k–$50k / €23k–€47k | $33k–$65k / €30k–€60k |
| 35–45m | Motor | $32k–$75k / €30k–€70k | $42k–$98k / €39k–€91k |
| 45–55m | Motor | $75k–$150k / €70k–€140k | $98k–$195k / €91k–€181k |
| 55–65m | Motor | $130k–$240k / €121k–€223k | $169k–$312k / €157k–€290k |
| 65m+ | Motor | $220k–$350k+ / €205k–€325k+ | $286k–$455k+ / €266k–€423k+ |
Bahamas charter — FAQ
What is the best time to charter a yacht in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas charter season runs November through May. Winter months (December–April) offer the most reliable weather: trade wind conditions (15–20kts), low humidity, and minimal rainfall. May can be excellent and slightly cheaper. June–October is hurricane season — most charter yachts relocate or are withdrawn from service.
How much does a yacht charter in the Bahamas cost?
Bahamas charter rates range from $25,000 (~€23,000) per week for a 35m sailing yacht to $350,000 (~€325,000) per week for a 70m+ motor yacht. A mid-range 45–55m motor yacht typically runs $80,000–$160,000 (~€74,000–€149,000) per week plus APA of 30–35%. The Exumas are in high demand — book 6–12 months ahead for peak season.
What are the best destinations in the Bahamas for a superyacht?
The Exuma Cays are the highlight — 365 islands including the famous Pig Beach (swimming pigs at Big Major Spot), Thunderball Grotto, and the Exuma Land and Sea Park. Nassau has excellent marina facilities and the Atlantis resort. Eleuthera offers pink sand beaches and total seclusion. The Abacos (northern Bahamas) have a charming New England-style sailing community.
Is the Bahamas or the BVI better for a yacht charter?
Both are exceptional. The Bahamas has the most dramatic sandbar and shallow-water scenery — stunning turquoise flats, swimming pigs, and privacy. The BVI has more sailing variety, better wind, and more social anchorages (beach bars, sailing community). The Bahamas suits clients who want privacy and photographic scenery; the BVI suits those who want a more social, sailing-focused experience.
What are Bahamas cruising permits and how do I get one?
All foreign vessels visiting the Bahamas must obtain a cruising permit at the first port of entry (typically Nassau, Bimini, or Exuma). The permit costs $300 for yachts under 35 feet; larger vessels pay additional fees. Your captain handles all customs and cruising permit administration. The permit covers the entire Bahamas archipelago for the duration of the visit.
Is the Bahamas close enough to Florida for a charter?
Yes — the Bahamas is only 50nm from Miami, making it one of the easiest international charter destinations to reach from the US East Coast. Many charters originate from Fort Lauderdale or Miami. A 50m motor yacht can be at Nassau in 4–5 hours from Fort Lauderdale. Day deliveries are standard from the Florida departure.