Nassau to Exumas Islands sailing itinerary - 7 days
Duration:7 days
Distance:135 nm
Difficulty level:—
Best season:—
Off Season:—
2
Sailing itinerary overview
Set sail from Nassau towards the Exumas on a journey that marries the thrill of open-water sailing with the serene beauty of sheltered cays. This itinerary is a navigator’s dream, offering challenging passages, unparalleled opportunities for anchorages in crystal-clear waters, and a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the Bahamas. Ideal for sailors seeking adventure, tranquility, and the pure joy of the sea.
Day 1Nassau
Arrive at Nassau and head to Palm Cay Marina in the afternoon to provision and acquaint yourself with the boat. The marina has five-star facilities and is a great base to start your charter.
Day 2Highborne Cay
30 nm8 hours
Sail to Allen Cays to see the rare Northern Bahamian Rock Iguanas, which are only found in the Exumas. You can feed these gentle creatures with grapes but beware that the iguanas can grow to a large size and can jump! Sail onwards to Highbourne Cay to snorkel the Octopus Garden reef at Horseshoe Bay.
You can see stromatolite reefs on the east coast, dating back 3.5 billion years, and if the weather is calm, you can also snorkel the Elkhorn and Staghorn reefs. Also spend the night at the Highborne Cay Marina, where you can enjoy the beach, hike the island path and trails and relax during happy hour at the marina restaurant overlooking the gorgeous bay.
Day 3Wardewick wells
27 nm7 hours
Explore the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park at Warderick Wells Cay, an area of outstanding beauty with sand dunes, mangroves and wonderful beaches. Hike the seven miles of trails ashore, wander among the remains of 18th-century loyalist settlements and enjoy bird watching.
Walk up Boo Boo Hill and leave your boat’s name on a piece of driftwood at the top as an offering to Neptune, taking care to avoid the blowholes. Or you can relax on white-sand beaches, snorkel the coral reefs and spot hawksbill turtles, lemon sharks and vibrant fish.
There’s even a sperm whale skeleton to examine on Powerful Beach and stromatolites to the south-west of the island, the world’s oldest living reefs. There are three mooring fields, which can be found at the natural harbor, Emerald Rock south of the visitor centre and Hog Cay in the south-west. Tune to VHF Channel 16 at 9am for updates and to request a mooring. For mooring fees, take a look at the guide. Please respect that the park forbids removal of any coral, shells or plants.
Day 4Compass Cay
10 nm3 hours
Make for Compass Cay, where you can get into the water with friendly nurse sharks and swim with them. You can also feed the sharks with fish if you have any to spare. On the north coast you’ll find the famous natural whirlpool called “Rachel’s Bubble Bath”, which is at its best at high tide. Take care of the sea urchins nearby and wear good quality sea shoes.
Or, you can head to Staniel Cay and provision from the local grocery stores. Near the yacht club, you’ll find the amazing Thunderball Grotto on a nearby outcrop, where the James Bond film Thunderball was filmed. Snorkel this marine cave at low tide and marvel at the shafts of sunlight that illuminate the cavern. Opposite is Big Major Cay, where you can swim with the Exumas pigs on Pig Beach.
Day 5Shroud Cay
25 nm6 hours
Sail onwards towards Shroud Cay, which is part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Don’t forget your paddleboard or kayaks so you can explore the shallow mangroves and creeks that meander across the island. You’ll be able to spot turtles, rays and nurse sharks. Once you reach the east side of the island, you will enter a vibrant blue lagoon and set foot on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. If you want to stroll Driftwood Beach and take the steep walk to Camp Driftwood, be aware that you can no longer leave mementos, only rocks. It was from this lookout point that the US authorities spied on Norman’s Cay and its drug trafficking activities.
Day 6Norman’s Cay
4 nm1 hours
Norman’s Cay is an abandoned former drug trafficking island and run by Carlos Lehder, which explains its runway. You can snorkel the smuggler’s plane wreck, which rests in just 10ft of water on the south-west coast of the island. Or how about a barefoot walk on Twinkie Beach to forage among the seashells and then dine at Norman’s Cay Beach Club to watch the sunset.
Day 7Wax Cay
1 nm1 hours
Snorkel around Wax Cay and bring your Hawaiian sling to catch lobsters or Nassau groupers. Late morning, head back to Nassau and enjoy the pool, beach and restaurants on the marina site.
Day 8Nassau
38 nm10 hours
Return back to the marina for the check-out procedure.
Optional Stops Along the Route
Palm Cay
marina
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
This port is a practical stop with generally good impressions from sailors thanks to recently renovated facilities and friendly staff. However, several sailors note high prices for both berthing and groceries, which tempers enthusiasm. The marina's proximity to a shopping center and local attractions is appreciated, as is the safety for leaving boats unattended.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
This anchorage offers beautiful surroundings, excellent water quality, and convenient proximity to the marina. Sailors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, abundant marine life including nurse sharks and turtles, and easy access to the marina. The private island caters mainly to superyachts, which means limited onshore activities, but it is still worth considering for short stays.
Feedback on this marina is mixed. High prices are a common complaint, especially in relation to the services available during the off-season or while the resort is under construction. Skippers should also note the limited dining and activity options nearby.
This anchorage is an outstanding, beautiful, and memorable location. The bay and surrounding area offer their clear water and natural scenery, excellent beaches, sightseeing opportunities, abundant marine life (such as leopard rays), and excellent snorkeling at Emerald Rocks. Shore walks are well regarded, and the scenery both from the boat and on the island is considered striking.
This anchorage is valued for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear water, and diverse marine life, including snorkeling and occasional nurse shark sightings. Island walks, marked trails, and easy access to quiet beaches add to the experience. Sailors often consider it one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Exumas, appreciated for its protected natural setting and immersive park atmosphere.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
Sailors describe this anchorage as one of the most beautiful in the Exumas and among their top choices in the Caribbean. There are numerous activities, such as hiking and exploring trails ashore, although some trails may be poorly marked. This is a natural reserve, valued for its tranquility and natural beauty.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Sailors highlight the excellent beauty of this anchorage, with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and close proximity to renowned snorkeling sites such as the aquarium and the airplane wreck. The environment is often paradise, especially at low tide and under the midday sun. Reported experiences consistently appreciate the location’s quality, easy access to natural attractions, and suitability for water activities.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Sailors are very positive about this anchorage’s natural beauty, highlighting the mangrove lagoons, idyllic beaches, and turquoise water. Dinghy and kayak trips through the mangroves are a highlight, with chances to spot turtles and rays. The protected Exumas Park setting makes it a standout for nature lovers.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Snorkeling and island walks provide unique experiences, while a quality onsite restaurant enhances the stay. Access from the anchorage is generally good, fostering a safe, welcoming atmosphere valued by the boating sailors.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Share your thoughts & ideas about sailing from Nassau
We’d love to hear your comments and suggestions! Share with fellow sailors recommended marinas or coordinates of anchorages to stay for the night or even your favorite restaurant, winery or oyster farm.
Share your comments
Grigory
United States
“Fishing in the Bahamas”
Fishing regulations must be followed carefully to protect the marine environment. A fishing permit, valid for three months, is automatically included in the cruising permit fee and issued during inbound clearance.
Only Hawaiian slings are allowed for spearfishing. The use of spears, fish traps, nets (except for landing nets), and spearguns is strictly prohibited. Additionally, no marine life may be collected in national marine parks or reserve areas.
Visiting sailors should strive to preserve the environment both on land and at sea. Avoid anchoring on coral, as it is easily damaged. Whenever possible, use mooring buoys provided at certain locations instead of anchors.
