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Nassau to Highbourne Cay

Nassau to Highbourne Cay
200 Nautical Miles /Round Trip
Visiting: Nassau, Compass Cay, Staniel Cay, Little Bells Cay, Highbourne Cay

5 days in the Bahamas

These breathtaking cruising grounds include a dizzying array of 700 islands and many cays to choose from. This island-strewn archipelago will not dissapoint whether you are wanting to dive into the stunning blue depths or eat “catch of the day” for lunch at a nearby beach cafe. People who love history, carnivals, or total leisure will all find what they’re seeking for in this multifaceted paradise. This route combines all the essential elements for a memorable cruise: brief distances between ports, peaceful tranquilly, breathtaking scenery, delicious seafood, and fantastic chances for watersports. This is a winning combination, especially when you add in the sun, breeze, and the Bahamas’ distinctive personality.

Nassau
Distance: 0 Nautical Miles
Approximate Travel Time: 0 min

Traveling about 70 nautical miles from Nassau, Compass Cay offers swimming with nurse sharks directly in the marina or isolated beach access via charming natural trails. This promenade is decorated with vibrant buoys and signage to give you a genuine local experience. You can anchor off close to Rocky Dundas Caves from here. These two caves are tucked away inside a big rock and have skylights on above. You must swim into a small opening in the cave to get inside, where you will find a cavern filled with stalactites and stalagmites. It really does inspire awe. The sea life surrounding this rock is incredibly vibrant when viewed via a mask, snorkel, and fins.

Known as the gateway to the tropical isles of the Bahamas, Nassau offers everything from family-friendly resorts, stunning coral reefs and striking beaches. The capital of the Bahamas is most famous for Paradise Island, a small islet attached by a bridge that houses the Atlantis Bahamas resort; which needs at least a day to explore. Start your morning with breakfast at the port’s Via Caffe and then cruise the private yacht charter over to Salt Cay – a remote isle with sun-soaked shores and a few eateries. Work up an appetite for a night at the famed restaurant strip, The Fish Fry.

Compass Cay
Distance: 66 Nautical Miles
Approximate Travel Time: 30 min

Onward to Staniel Cay, where you can anchor close by or dock at the marina in one of the area’s many well-protected harbours. The small but cosy Yacht Club draws travellers from all over the world with its attractive stone building, delicious food, and welcoming bar. The local wild pigs live next door at Sampson and Big Major and frequently swim out to see you. “Thunderball Cave,” where the fish feed directly out of your hand, is a must-see. You could choose to eat at Royal Plantation Island, a private resort island near Fowl Cay that is run by former sailors.

The stunning private island is a popular destination for yachters in search of seclusion and luxury. Pure, white sands line the island’s shores, and the water is clear enough for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Discover the island’s natural beauty, including lush tropical vegetation and breathtaking ocean vistas, by hiking the island’s many trails. The nurse sharks of Compass Cay are a popular draw for visitors because they swim right up to the docks and swim right up to you. The opportunity to swim alongside these docile creatures and snap unforgettable photos is not to be missed. Indulge in local fare at one of the island’s beachside restaurants or simply anchor your yacht and take in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

Staniel Cay
Distance: 7 Nautical Miles
Approximate Travel Time: 0 min

Take a nighttime cruise from Staniel Cay back to Little Bells Cay or Cambridge Cay. Between the two lengthy stretches of sand, there is a hidden, shallow cut where no boat would go because it does dry out at low tide. Take a swim and ride the stream like you would a little rapid. A few tiny sting rays can be seen swimming past on a beach with white sand and crystalline blue water. You can get a breathtaking vantage point of the neighbouring islands after a quick climb to the overlook.

Having been the film location of the ‘Never Say Never Again’ and ‘Thunderball’ James Bond films; it’s no surprise that Staniel Cay exudes an alluring beauty not to be missed. Join the resident yachters and visiting celebrities for a sun-soaked lunch at Staniel Cay Yacht Club and discover the magic of Thunderball Grotto; a hollowed out grotto with a natural sun roof that is home to a colourful underwater nirvana. If relaxing on a beach with a book appeals to you; head straight to Town Beach for pristine waters that are a little more secluded.

Little Bells Cay
Distance: 9 Nautical Miles
Approximate Travel Time: 0 min

To observe the well-known iguanas wandering the beach and to travel through this rocky but stunning cut, head from Little Bells to Highbourne Cay and Allan’s Cay. You could choose to take a quick snorkel around the sunken plane off the coast of Norman’s Cay, which is located in shallow water not far from this northern Exuma chain location. At Highbourne, there is a marina, or you can decide to anchor lower down in a safer area. After leaving Highbourne, return to Nassau by boat and, if time permits, take a brief plunge off Rose Island.

With its unspoiled natural beauty, sparkling turquoise seas and palm-fringed beaches, it’s no wonder that this private island is a popular destination for an exclusive and luxurious yachting escape. The early bird does get the worm at Little Bells, as this natural watercourse is at its most picturesque in the morning light. With its warm, tropical climate, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, this island paradise is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun in luxury.

Highbourne Cay
Distance: 30 Nautical Miles
Approximate Travel Time: 0 min

To observe the well-known iguanas wandering the beach and to travel through this rocky but stunning cut, head from Little Bells to Highbourne Cay and Allan’s Cay. You could choose to take a quick snorkel around the sunken plane off the coast of Norman’s Cay, which is located in shallow water not far from this northern Exuma chain location. At Highbourne, there is a marina, or you can decide to anchor lower down in a safer area. After leaving Highbourne, return to Nassau by boat and, if time permits, take a brief plunge off Rose Island.

This private island is a popular destination for yachting, offering a serene and exclusive getaway with beautiful natural surroundings and endless opportunities for water sports. On a one-day yacht visit you can enjoy the island’s stunning beaches, snorkel in its crystal-clear waters, and explore the surrounding islands such as South Allan’s Cay and Iguana Beach, which is home to the endangered Bahamian iguana. Enjoy include fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding before putting your feet up and watching a stunning sunset with a cocktail in hand.