Exumas Cruising Itinerary

Highborne Cay is an idyllic location for an overnight stay. Spend the day kayaking or snorkelling at Horseshoe Bay’s uninhabited beach, which also harbours the splendid “Octopus Garden” reef below the surface. Take the dinghy about one mile north-west to nearby Allan’s Cay where you’ll be welcomed ashore by the friendly three-foot iguanas at Leaf Cay beach, a superb spot for snorkelling. Back at Highborne Cay, enjoy a cocktail or have dinner at the hilltop restaurant for breathtaking 360-degree views of unspoilt paradise against the backdrop of a radiant Caribbean sunset.

The pristine coral reef that surrounds Norman’s Cay and its neighbouring islets make it one of the most incredible places in the Exumas that you simply must see for yourself. The conditions are impeccable for all your favourite saltwater activities, or, if you’re in the mood for maximum relaxation, this prime location is also perfect for sun-drenched leisure. The remains of a plane crash can be found on the south-west point of Norman’s Cay, where you can explore the sunken ruins that are now a natural habitat for an array of colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral. Only 10 feet deep, this is a first-rate snorkelling spot. Nearby, there are plenty of seashells to collect as you stroll along Twinkie Beach, home of the lone palm tree. 

Even though Great Guana Cay is without moorings, it is one of the largest anchorages in the Exumas. Well-protected and easy to approach, Great Guana Cay offers a genuine “Out Islands” experience. The locals at Black Point Settlement will make you feel right at home in their quaint little town. Immerse yourself in the friendly island culture, feast on traditional Bahamian cuisine, and admire the handwoven palm-leaf baskets made by the settlement women. You can even order home-made bread from Lorraine’s Café and pick it up the next morning.

Staniel Cay earned its claim to fame after providing the splendid backdrop for two James Bond movies. In fact, the spectacular underwater cave system located just west of Staniel Cay was named “Thunderball Grotto” based on its feature-film debut. This must-see snorkelling and diving site is riddled with vibrant corals and abundant marine populations. In the evening, make reservations at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club to enjoy an elegant dinner ashore at this charming harbour full of life and island flair. Golf carts are available for rent at the marina if you wish to explore by vehicle. 

As the headquarters of the 176-square-mile Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, and the largest underwater sea park in the Caribbean, Warderick Wells Cay is a premier anchorage in protected waters. There are 20 marked nature trails to explore on land and 20 secluded beaches located within the island’s border. The hiking and snorkelling are unmatched at Warderick Wells Cay, where the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and the natural environment flourishes, thanks to the highly-protected Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.

Also part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park territory, Shroud Cay is an uninhabited archipelago of rocks and white-sand beaches that boasts an enchanting channel of mangroves. The sheltered coves serve as an idyllic home for conch, lobster, sea turtles, and other various marine creatures. There are numerous sandy-bottom creeks and estuaries to explore by dinghy and Camp Driftwood Beach offers a lovely lookout point with a unique story. Being at Shroud Cay feels like having a deserted island all to yourself. 

Not too far off the eastern coast of the main port of Nassau lies the little Bahamian hideaway of Rose Island. This 11-mile-long piece of boater’s paradise boasts snorkeling conditions, secluded coves, and four beaches—First Beach, MacTaggart’s Beach, Footprints Beach, and Sandy Toes, which serves up a vibrant party scene on Sundays at the seaside bar and grill. But for those who prefer something more low-key, like palm trees swaying in the wind and the peaceful sounds of waves crashing on the shore, there is a grove of hammocks on the hilltop at Sandy Toes Beach. Spend your final night on board in the serene anchorage located on the northern side of the island. Bask in the breathtaking views as you reminisce about your unforgettable Exumas vacation and take in one more radiant Bahamas sunset.