10-Day Bahamas Out Islands Sampler Itinerary
This comprehensive 10-day voyage ventures beyond the popular northern Exumas to explore the full breadth of Bahamas Out Island cruising. Beginning with the iconic attractions north of Staniel Cay, the itinerary continues south to George Town's legendary Elizabeth Harbour before making the offshore passage to Conception Island National Park.
With extra time to linger at each destination, you will experience both the famous highlights and hidden gems that shorter charters miss. Swim with pigs, explore Thunderball Grotto, and anchor at Stocking Island before sailing to uninhabited Conception Island, where pristine beaches and protected reefs await in complete isolation.
Nassau to Highbourne Cay
Depart Nassau for the 38-nautical-mile Yellow Bank crossing to Highbourne Cay. Navigate the shallow waters with good overhead light to spot coral heads. Arrive at Highbourne Cay Marina by mid-afternoon for fuel, customs clearance, and provisioning before anchoring in the protected harbor.
Overnight: Highbourne Cay
Norman's Cay and Shroud Cay
Sail 15 miles south through Allen's Cay to Norman's Cay, where the infamous drug plane wreck lies in 15 feet of crystal water. Continue into Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park at Shroud Cay. Explore the mangrove creeks by dinghy and hike to the blowhole on the Atlantic side.
Overnight: Shroud Cay
Warderick Wells
Sail 7 nautical miles to Warderick Wells, headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Pick up a mooring ball and check in at the park office. Hike to Boo Boo Hill and explore the nature trails. Snorkel the protected reefs where fishing is prohibited, resulting in abundant marine life.
Overnight: Warderick Wells
Staniel Cay and Swimming Pigs
Exit the park and sail 15 miles to Staniel Cay, the social hub of the central Exumas. Visit Big Major Cay early morning to swim with the famous pigs before crowds arrive. Snorkel Thunderball Grotto at slack tide, then enjoy lunch at Staniel Cay Yacht Club.
Overnight: Staniel Cay
Compass Cay and Pipe Creek
Sail 3 miles north to Compass Cay Marina for the nurse shark experience. These gentle 8-foot sharks gather at the dock awaiting food. Continue to Pipe Creek, one of the Exumas' most scenic anchorages with its maze of small cays and sandbars. The snorkeling here rivals anywhere in the Bahamas.
Overnight: Pipe Creek
Black Point to Farmer's Cay
Sail 12 miles south past Black Point Settlement to Farmer's Cay. Visit the Ocean Cabin restaurant and the island's small salt pond where locals harvest sea salt. This authentic Out Island community offers a glimpse into traditional Bahamian life far from tourist development.
Overnight: Farmer's Cay
George Town and Elizabeth Harbour
Continue 25 nautical miles south to George Town, capital of the Exumas. Anchor in legendary Elizabeth Harbour, protected by Stocking Island. Dinghy to Chat 'N' Chill beach bar on Volleyball Beach, climb Stocking Island's sand dunes, and explore George Town's waterfront shops and restaurants.
Overnight: Elizabeth Harbour
Stocking Island Exploration
Spend a full day exploring Stocking Island's beaches from Monument Beach to Sand Dollar Beach. Snorkel the reef system on the Exuma Sound side. Hike the nature trails through the island's interior. Return to Chat 'N' Chill for sunset drinks and the famous grilled burgers.
Overnight: Elizabeth Harbour
Conception Island National Park
Depart early for the 45-nautical-mile offshore passage to Conception Island National Park. This uninhabited island hasn't had permanent residents for over 100 years. Anchor in West Bay and claim your own stretch of pristine white sand beach. Snorkel the protected reefs surrounding the island.
Overnight: Conception Island
Return to Nassau
Begin the long return voyage, sailing 80 nautical miles northwest to Nassau. This full-day passage follows the deep water of Exuma Sound before crossing the Yellow Bank in afternoon light. Arrive Nassau Harbour by evening, completing an epic 300-nautical-mile Out Islands adventure.
Overnight: Nassau Harbour
Trip highlights
- Explore the full length of the Exuma Cays from north to south
- Anchor at legendary Elizabeth Harbour and Stocking Island
- Sail to uninhabited Conception Island National Park
- Swim with pigs, nurse sharks, and through Thunderball Grotto
- Experience authentic Out Island communities at Farmer's Cay
Frequently asked questions
- How far is the passage to Conception Island?
- Conception Island lies 45 nautical miles northeast of George Town across Exuma Sound. This open water passage takes 6-8 hours depending on conditions. Your captain selects a weather window with winds under 15 knots and following seas for comfortable sailing.
- Is there cell phone service in the Out Islands?
- Cell coverage is limited to George Town and major settlements. Conception Island and most anchorages have no service. Your yacht is equipped with satellite communication for emergencies. Consider this an opportunity to truly disconnect and enjoy the remote beauty.
- Can we extend the stay at any location?
- Absolutely. This itinerary provides flexibility to extend time at favorite destinations. Elizabeth Harbour and Conception Island are popular choices for additional days. Your captain adjusts the schedule based on weather, group preferences, and sailing conditions.
Make this trip yours
Every charter is private and tailored — we'll adapt this route to your dates, pace and interests.
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