The Bahamas are an absolute haven for sailors thanks to their crystal-clear waters, calm breezes, and unending sunshine. It is understandable why sailors from all over the world travel to the Bahamas, one of the most popular sailing destinations. The Sailing Destinations in Bahamas are best to explore the numerous islands and cays, anchor in quiet bays, or simply unwind on the deck of their sailboat or yacht.
There are countless Sailing Destinations in Bahamas that are ideal for sailing enthusiasts, from Long Island to the Bimini Islands. There are numerous boats, including sailboats, yachts, and cruisers, that are available for charter, giving those looking to experience the excitement of sailing in the Bahamas plenty of choices. The Bahamas offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime, whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice.
To discover more about various sailboats, yachts, and catamaran types you can check out this Sailboat Data page. You may discover comprehensive details on different sailboat models and their performance here, making it easy for you how to pick the best boat for your requirements.
6 MOST POPULAR Sailing destinations in the Bahamas
Sailing in the Abacos
A collection of islands known as the Abacos can be found in the Bahamas’ northernmost region. Its turquoise waters, beautiful cays, and safe anchorages make it one of the top sailing locations in the world. The inhabitants are renowned for being welcoming to sailors and for being warm and kind.
The Abacos have a lot to offer sailors. The Sea of Abaco, a length of calm and safe seas between Great Abaco Island and the chain of cays to the east, is one of the most well-liked. Sailboating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are excellent in this area. Elbow Cay and Green Turtle Cay are two of the more well-known cays, but there are many others. These cays feature quaint towns with restaurants, boutiques, and pastel-colored residences.
Marinas and Anchorages
- Marsh Harbour Marina: Marsh Harbour, the largest town in the region, is home to the largest marina in the Abacos. The marina provides all the amenities that sailors would require and has more than 100 spaces.
- Hopetown Harbour Marina is a popular marina because of its lovely surroundings and welcoming employees. It is situated in Hopetown on Elbow Cay. It provides fuel, water, and electricity and has 25 slips.
- In Green Turtle Cay, there is a marina called Green Turtle Club and Marina, which has 35 spots with fuel, water, and power. The Green Turtle Club, which contains a restaurant and bar, is connected to the marina.
Sailing in the Exumas
A group of islands known as The Exumas can be found in the Bahamas’ center. It is renowned for its stunning marine life, isolated beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The region is well-liked by sailors since it has some of the most stunning and unpolluted sailing waterways in the entire globe.
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is one of the Exumas’ most well-known attractions. The 176-square-mile marine reserve that houses a diversity of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, is a protected area. There are numerous uninhabited cays in the park that are great for exploration. Staniel Cay, which is where the well-known swimming pigs live, is another noteworthy location. Both sailors and visitors have come to enjoy these pigs as a popular attraction.
Marinas and Anchorages
- In Staniel Cay, there is a marina called the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, which has 14 spaces with fuel, water, and power. A restaurant and bar can be found at the marina.
- 42 spots with fuel, water, and power are available at the Highbourne Cay Marina, which is situated there. There is a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool at the marina as well.
- 20 mooring balls with water are available at the Warderick Wells Marina, which is housed within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. The marina features a small store and is close to the park’s administrative building.
Sailing on Eleuthera and Cat Island
Two islands in the eastern Bahamas are called Eleuthera and Cat Island. They are renowned for their tranquil ambiance, blue waters, and pink sand beaches. Sailors seeking a more secluded and genuine experience are drawn to the region.
The Glass Window Bridge is one of Eleuthera and Cat Island’s most well-known attractions. A thin bridge connecting the two islands, this natural wonder provides breathtaking views of both the Atlantic and Caribbean Seas. The Preacher’s Cave, a historical location that was used by Eleutheran Adventurers as a place of worship in the 1600s, is another noteworthy attraction.
Marinas and Anchorages
- 14 spots with fuel, water, and electricity are available at the Governor’s Harbour Marina, which is situated in Governor’s Harbour on Eleuthera. A restaurant and bar can be found at the marina.
- On Cat Island, there is a marina called Fernandez Bay Village, which has ten berths with fuel, water, and power. The Fernandez Bay Village resort, which contains a restaurant and bar, is connected to the marina.
- Spanish Wells Yacht Haven is a marina that provides 12 berths of fuel, water, and electricity. It is situated on Spanish Wells on Eleuthera. The town’s eateries and food stores are close to the marina.
Sailing in the Berry Islands
A collection of islands known as the Berry Islands can be found in the Bahamas’ northwest. They are renowned for having stunning beaches, pristine waters, and an abundance of marine life. Sailors seeking a more secluded and tranquil experience are drawn to the region.
The Great Stirrup Cay is one of the Berry Islands’ most well-known attractions. Norwegian Cruise Line owns this cay, which serves as a private island for their visitors. Yet, boaters are welcome to anchor off the cay and take advantage of its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Chub Cay, which is renowned for its top-notch marina and fishing prospects, is another noteworthy location.
Marinas and Anchorages
- Chub Cay Club: 106 berths with fuel, water, and electricity are available at this marina on Chub Cay. The marina is renowned for its top-notch amenities and excellent fishing.
- The 65 slips at the Great Harbour Cay Marina, which is situated there, come with fuel, water, and electricity. The town’s eateries and food stores are close to the marina.
- Bullocks Harbour Marina is a marina on the island of Andros.
Sailing in the Long Island
One of the most beautiful islands in the Bahamas is Long Island, which has an 80-mile-long shoreline. The island is a favorite sailing destination due to its gorgeous beaches, clear waters, and favorable sailing conditions. Long Island offers simple access to other Bahamas islands because it is situated between the Exuma Cays and the Crooked Island Passage.
Sail Long Island for a variety of sailing adventures, from discovering secluded cays and beaches to taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Clarence Town. A number of natural landmarks can be found on the island, including Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the deepest blue holes in the world, and the Columbus Monument, which commemorates Christopher Columbus’ first landing in the New World. The beautiful waters of Long Island are home to an abundance of marine life, providing opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
Marinas and Anchorages
Prominent anchorages and marinas in Long Island: Salt Pond, Thompson Bay, and Stella Maris are just a few of the area’s anchorages and marinas.
- On the west coast of Long Island, Salt Pond is a well-liked anchorage with calm waters and a lovely beach.
- Clarence Town, the largest settlement on the island, is situated in Thompson Bay on the east side of Long Island.
- Long Island’s northernmost marina, Stella Maris, provides quick access to some of the best diving and fishing locations on the island.
Sailing in the Andros Island
The largest of the Bahamas’ islands, Andros Island, is renowned for its huge coral reefs, blue holes, and underwater caverns. The island is a well-liked vacation spot for divers and anglers, and it provides some of the best prospects for bonefishing in the entire world. Access to other Bahamas islands, such as Nassau and the Berry Islands, is made simple by sailing from Andros Island.
With a range of environments, including pine woods, wetlands, and mangroves, Andros Island is a nature lover’s heaven. Many bird and animal species, including the critically endangered West Indian manatee, can be found on the island. Andros Island is renowned for its preserved traditional Bahamian culture, which includes year-round celebrations and events like the Crab Fest.
Marinas and Anchorages
Andros Island has a number of marinas and anchorages, including Fresh Creek, the island’s principal port, and the Little Hope Bay Resort, a well-liked spot for sailors and divers.
- On Andros Island’s east shore, Fresh Creek offers straightforward access to the interior of the island.
- On Andros Island’s northwest shore, the Little Hope Bay Lodge offers a variety of services, such as a restaurant and dive shop.
In conclusion, the Sailing Destinations in Bahamas are stunning and well-liked with a wide variety of islands and cays to discover. From the busy city of Nassau to the far-off and tranquil Berry Islands, each location offers sailors special features and adventures. The Bahamas is a must-visit location for anybody who enjoys the ocean and adventure because of its clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundance of marine life.
Visit our sailing destinations page for some incredible ideas and places to explore if you’re feeling motivated to organize your own sailing holiday. Start preparing for your upcoming sailing excursion right away with Ocean Wave Sail!
