The Bahamas: Nassau to Staniel Cay through the Exuma Cays

Leave Nassau in the morning for the longest passage of the itinerary, crossing toward Highbourne Cay at the northern end of the Exumas. An early departure keeps the day comfortable and allows enough time to arrive, secure the yacht and enjoy the surrounding coast before evening.

Highbourne Cay is a practical first stop because its marina sits within a naturally sheltered harbour and offers fuel, water and other yacht services. Once settled, guests can spend the afternoon swimming, walking along the shore or simply enjoying a quieter first night in the cays.

Continue south on a much shorter passage to Shroud Cay, allowing the pace of the itinerary to slow after the previous day’s crossing. The surrounding shallow banks and protected coastline make this a day focused more on exploring from the yacht and tender than on covering distance.

Take the tender through the cay’s mangrove channels when tide and conditions permit, or spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing at anchor. Shroud Cay also brings the yacht into the wider Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park cruising area, where marine and coastal habitats are protected.

Cruise farther south through the Exuma Cays to Warderick Wells, keeping the day’s movement short enough to leave most of the afternoon available for activities ashore and around the anchorage. Navigation through this section should remain flexible around local depths, tide and the yacht’s draft.

Warderick Wells serves as the headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park, a protected area covering 176 square miles. Guests can follow island trails, snorkel from designated areas or spend the afternoon aboard, while the captain arranges an appropriate mooring or anchorage in accordance with park requirements.

Complete the charter with a moderate southbound passage toward Staniel Cay. The relatively short final leg leaves time for a swim stop along the way or for exploring the nearby cays before entering the Staniel Cay area.

Once anchored or secured at the marina, guests can visit the settlement, explore nearby Thunderball Grotto when conditions are suitable or make the short tender trip toward Big Major Cay. Staniel Cay has a full-service yacht club and marina, making it a practical finishing point for a one-way Exumas charter.