Set in the glorious Caribbean, The Bahamas is a wonderful holiday destination that attracts around 6.6 million visitors annually. It’s easy to see why:
- Amazing sea life such as turtles, stingrays and nurse sharks
- Natural phenomena such as the deepest blue hole on earth
- Gorgeous beaches, even some with pink sand
- Friendly locals, who are always quick with a smile
The best way to see this island nation is on a catamaran charter around the Bahamas. With digital platforms such as BorrowaBoat make this an easy prospect with hundreds of different options.
With over 700 islands, there is so much to see. You can tailor an itinerary to your own interests, with plenty of nature or lots of partying.
What makes the Bahamas such a popular holiday destination?
The Bahamas has been popular with US holidaymakers for over two decades. The country is just 180 miles from Florida and most US cities have non-stop direct flights.
It almost feels like it’s on the doorstep!
The lack of long-haul isn’t the only reason US people like to visit. Here are some other good reasons:
- The climate
The Bahamas enjoys a wonderful Caribbean climate, which means it is warm all year round. That makes it perfect to visit any time.
- Deserted beaches
Some beaches are more popular than others, but with the sheer number of beaches, you can find one for yourself.
- Fun diversions
It’s not just a sleepy holiday destination. You can find casinos, comedy clubs and plenty of local festivals to take part in.
- The food
Imagine a combination of spicy Caribbean and smoky South American flavors. The seafood here is unmissable, especially the lobster.
Which are the best islands in the Bahamas?
There are plenty of beautiful islands in the Bahamas for you to sail to on a catamaran.
With so many islands to choose from in the Bahamas, it can be difficult to plan an itinerary. Luckily many skippers are familiar with the area and can help you tailor a journey.
Here are some suggestions:
Harbour Island
Visitors vote this place as the number 1 island in the Bahamas time after time. Perhaps it’s because it is a dreamy destination with pretty cottages that dot the magnificent coastline.
It may also be the quaint Dunmore Town that you can get around on a golf cart. Or the pink sands, actually made of tiny foraminifera, that make for excellent insta snaps.
Only 2,000 people actually live on this island, and there’s a wonderful laid-back atmosphere. Even though it’s popular, you’ll usually find a relaxed air here and it’s perfect for romance.
Crooked Island
Perfect for days when you want to get away from the busy spots, Crooked Island is practically deserted. Christopher Columbus sailed by here on his journey, and little has changed since then.
You’ll find miles and miles of tidy beaches, limestone caves and fascinating wildlife. Keep an eye out for flamingos and see hundreds of bats lining the caves.
There are also remainders of ancient cotton and slave plantations to explore. See old church ruins and walk along the cliff tops for great views.
There aren’t many facilities for tourists on the island. Perhaps try some fishing and have your catch cooked fresh onboard?
Long Island
The Bahamas is a great place for beginner or experienced divers. There’s an extraordinary aquatic underworld, as well as several great shipwrecks to swim around.
The 80-mile Long Island is the base for one of the oldest dive companies in the country. There are dozens of shallow deep sites, along with much deeper ones.
The main draw is Dean’s Blue Hole, which is over 600 feet deep, and certainly the deepest in the archipelago. Teeming with sea life, you’ll make friends with turtles and spot tiny seahorses who frequent the warm waters.
Long Island also has picturesque green mangroves where kayaking is popular. If you like fishing, the east Atlantic side is a bountiful paradise.
Eleuthera
History buffs will like Eleuthera as it has rich stories that stretch back hundreds of years. The first English settlers came to the island in 1648, which is reflected in the architecture.
The fourth most populated island in the Bahamas, there are still only 11,000 inhabitants here. Farming and fishing are the main industries, and pineapple plantations stretch as far as the eye can see.
Enormous coral reefs are home to plenty of marine life and there are endless beaches to enjoy on Eleuthera. Often you can find a remote spot to drop anchor and simply bask in the tranquility.
Andros
This is the largest island in the Bahamas, but it doesn’t have the number of people to match. It is famous for its bonefishing, as the low wind conditions and tidal paths create perfect conditions for bonefish.
Andros also has numerous blue holes and the second biggest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. If you want to add some diving to your sailing itinerary, then this island should go on the list.
While you wander around the island, you will see locals hard at work. The crafts here include woven straw baskets and batik, so it’s a good place to buy some pretty souvenirs.
Chartering a boat in the Bahamas
Boat charter is extremely popular in the Bahamas, as you can see so much from the sea. It’s your chance to live like a celebrity with your own crew and skipper.
The convenience of being able to sunbathe while enroute to the next island is a huge bonus. Luxury hotel resorts are great, but it doesn’t give you the chance to explore as much.
You’re also guaranteed to find remote coves that offer privacy, and stunning places to drop anchor for a swim. With BorrowaBoat, you have so many choices of boats too.
Whether traveling with friends or family, a yacht charter in the Bahamas is the ideal holiday.